The Phantom of the Opera

By: Justin McGuire | Posted on: April 12th, 2010 | No Comments | Read 874 Times

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Even those who may not be avid readers must have heard of the Phantom of the Opera. It is one of the most popular books of its time and has been adapted into several movies as well. This horror novel is written by Gaston Leroux, and the Broadway production is among the longest running hits ever, having completed over two decades of popularity and adulation from the theater goers.

The story of the Phantom of the Opera is based in late nineteenth century Paris. It follows the life of a disfigured composer who haunts the grand Paris Opera House. This lonely and romantic genius lives in seclusion, away from the rest of the world in an underground cavern. But he is drawn out of hiding to tutor and compose operas for a beautiful young soprano star in the making, Christine. When a handsome suitor enters his protégé’s life, the Phantom becomes jealous and begins to terrorize the owners of the opera house in a mad and murderous fit.

The Phantom of the Opera recreates grand emotions on the stage, be it romance or fear. Andrew Lloyd Webber’s score for this production is mesmerizing and you may well find yourself humming some memorable scores, such as the “Music of the Night,” on your way back home. Everything on the stage sets the mood, from the period costumes to the simple yet grand backdrop. It is no wonder that Maria Bjornson won the award for the best Scenic Design and Costumes.

Speaking of awards, Phantom of the Opera won seven 1998 Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Best Direction, Best Actor in a Musical (Michael Crawford), and Best Featured Actress in a Musical (Judy Kaye). In addition, it also won seven 1998 Drama Desk Awards including Outstanding Music, and Outstanding Director of a Musical.

Phantom of the Opera is one of those productions that are a revelation each time you see it and no matter how many times you see it, you are never going to tire of it. In spite of over 22 years in Broadway, Phantom of the Opera captures the crispness of opening night, every night.

Details of the Show

Venue: Majestic Theatre (247 West 44th Street)

Opening: January 26, 1988

Closing: Open-ended run

Run Time: 2 hours, 30 minutes (including intermission)

Music: Andrew Lloyd Webber

Lyrics: Charles Hart

Choreographer: Gillian Lynne

Director: Harold Prince

Ticket Prices: $25.00 – $120.00

Timings:

Monday 8:00 PM