Cameron Mackintosh’s new production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera has been heralded as the re-invention of The Phantom for a whole new generation; bringing together a perfect mix of the classic production we know and love, with a new and exciting staging and scenic design. The 37-person cast and 27-piece orchestra make this one of the largest musical productions ever seen in Australia. After a record-breaking season at the Sydney Opera House, Phantom has now arrived at Melbourne’s State Theatre.
Based on the novel Le Fantôme de l’Opéra by Gaston Leroux, the phenomenon of Phantom cannot be understated, with over 30 years on a global stage. Whether you are familiar with the story, the music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Charles Hart, or if it is your first time experiencing the magic onstage, the re-imagination brings new light to the dark story of a disfigured musical genius’ obsession with a talented and beautiful young soprano.
The talented Australian cast is led by Josh Piterman in the lead role as the Phantom, and Amy Manford as Christine Daaé – both experienced in the lead roles from their time on West End – as well as Blake Bowden as Raoul Vicomte de Chagny. The trio’s chemistry is unparalleled and exceptional, and is supported by an entertaining cast. This includes the hilarious co-managers of the Opera House Monsieur André (Andy Morton) and Monsieur Firmin (David Whitney), leading soprano Carlotta Giudicelli (Giuseppina Grech) and tenor Ubaldo Piangi (Paul Tabone), loyal servant to the Phantom, Madame Giry (Jayde Westaby) and her daughter Meg Giry (Mietta White).
Easily one of the biggest reasons that Phantom has had such popularity over the past three decades is the number of incredible ballads performed throughout. In the first act you have Think of Me, Angel of Music, The Phantom of the Opera, The Music of the Night and All I Ask of You, while in the second act there is Masquerade, Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again and The Point of No Return. While the music is what draws you in, the new set design and special effects were fantastic – including the updated take on the show’s chandelier. We were quite happy to see the original costume designs from Maria Björnson retained in the new production, bringing the old and new together in perfect harmony.
The Phantom of the Opera continues to be a classic from start to end, and is a story that will be told for many years to come. We are excited to welcome the production to Melbourne for what is sure to be a very successful season ahead.
The Phantom of the Opera will play at State Theatre, Arts Centre Melbourne until 5 February.
Tickets available at Phantomoftheopera.com.au Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePhantomOfTheOpera Twitter: https://twitter.com/PhantomOpera Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phantomopera/
Photo Credit: Sam Dagostino – SDP Media