In a new staging made famous by an impressive chandelier and significant pyrotechnics, the star of the Phantom of the Opera is still the organ-laced, dramatic score. Andrew Lloyd Weber's most famous work is restaged by Cameron Mackintosh (also responsible for the Les Mis restaging) and all the darkness and heavy-handed romance is still there for your viewing pleasure, and I say that with nothing but affection.
Mark Campbell's Phantom is perfectly oppressed and oppressive, making him not only a pitiable "creature" but an overbearing villain master-minding his ingenue's rise to fame out of a quasi-creepy obsession. Julia Udine is a sweetly powerful Christine, bringing the audience to a series of "Bravas" after several of the famous songs, including "The Phantom of the Opera" and "Think of Me." Supported by an Ben Jacoby's excellently devoted lover, Raoul, and a perfect diva in Jacquelynne Fontaine's Carlotta, Campbell and Udine are given all the necessary support they need to soar through Weber's masterpiece.
The set seems to be a magical music box of its own, opening this way and that to reveal the nooks and crannies of the opera house. I was most impressed by the appearance of stairs leading to the Phantom's lair, which immediately reminded me of Harry Potter's Hogwarts staircases. The use of shadow and statues set in relief against twilight skies provided the perfect backdrop for the Phantom's sad but beautiful story.
Phantom plays at the Orpheum through January 5th. And students/educators, don't forget your chance to score $25 rush seats 2 hours before every performance!
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