The Phantom of the Opera

The show is a five star event all around. It's stood the test of time, and despite some of it's effects being outdated, it all adds to what is essentially a campy thriller/romance. The book is similar in some respects of that, but that's not what we're talking about. The set design is gorgeous, unparalleled on the West End. The late Maria Björnson is to praise for it all. Her costumes are spectacular, and really add the the 18th century flair of the time, whilst maintaining the aesthetics of a musical production. Direct some of your awe towards the marvellous chandelier piece, gorgeous angel and the remarkable gondola moments. With Harold Prince and Gillian Lynne adding some very impressive choreography, and old-time illusions, the sets, actors and backstage staff really pull together an incredibly seamless production. Even without the sound of Webbers outstanding score, and the various lyricists involved with the writing, the show would be a feast for the eyes. The only gripe of it all is the underdevelopment of the character Raoul (played to the best ability by Nadim Naaman), who any theatregoer would find difficult to relate emotions towards. Small issue, not worth taking away a star. However; so comes the deducted star. The titular characters, played by Ben Forster (Phantom) and Celinde Schoenmaker (Christine) leave a lot to be desired for me. The roles so beautifully taken on by various actors/actresses throughout the years, don't seem to work well with what are two undoubtedly great talents. Seeing them in other works, I know they're both quite capable stars, but the layers, chemistry and vocal prowess required of these two characters is not taken on fully by either two performers. Ben Forster adds little individuality to separate his performance from a mere copy of others, beyond his natural campness that sneaks into his performance from time to time. I said earlier that the show is campy, but The Phantom's character is less so. He also adds more a creepy vibe than a seductive one, a trait pivotal to the character gaining sympathy and working it's charm. Celinde's portrayal is much the same issue, except in place of campyness in her role, there's little interest shown in playing Christine's dilemma. This hinders the chemistry towards both Phantom and Raoul that her character requires. Her voice is spectacular, but seems reaching at various points throughout the show. These are personal preferences however, and I resolved them by returning on another night with the standby cast, who were all phenomenal, particularly Matt Blaker (I believe that's his name) as Raoul, a real stand out. A majority seemed to enjoy the 16/17 cast, so don't take it all from me. The new cast are apparently spectacular and so I recommend people flock to see this incredible production and my personal favourite musical, Phantom Of The Opera.

It was great to go into this show and see if fresh and new, once again I can’t believe I waited so long. The show is so visibly stunning, with amazing moments that leave me moved, gasping, and awaiting to see what will happen next. Graham also enjoyed the production without knowing what he was going into, except for the two songs which I played to him on my new Vinyl of the original soundtrack (That I got for 2 pounds!). When we left the theatre we were both left pondering, at times we felt that some of the songs were lost but this was due to operatic style and many of which were a quartet however you still received the gist of the story, so didn’t ruin it. One thing we both debated on was whether the Phantom of the Opera was real, or a ghost. I for one feel as though he was a ghost – being a high believer in the afterlife. But the things he was able to achieve within the show could be that of super natural, to which was brilliant portrayed by amazing moments of special effects with such simplistic sets it worked very well. http://www.rosereview.co.uk/?p=1233

The Phantom is one of the best musicals out there. After 30 years you would expect the show to seem worn out but it is still crisp and exceptionally done. Ben Lewis was incredible as the Phantom - the best I've ever seen, and just had such finesse in the role. It's also so nice as a musician to see the size of the orchestra involved - it's so much bigger than your usual musical band and has gorgeous orchestrations that make the most of it. I also think that the humour of the show, which is so often lost in the straight-faced film, touring & concert versions, is being well preserved in Her Majesty's Theatre.

The Phantom of The Opera is a classic, must-see piece of theatre. The cast, set design and orchestration together is simply outstanding - there's no wonder why it has stayed in the West End for 30 years. The staging is exciting with huge moving set pieces and special effects that enhance every scene, plus the orchestra play ALW's famous score beautifully (I almost cried just hearing the overture!) I am so happy that I got to see the 2016/17 cast before their run finishes in September. Celinde Schoenmaker is magnificent in the role of Christine, and we are beyond lucky to have her in London ! I managed to book this ticket only the day before on the off chance that I would be passing through London that day and couldn't pass up an opportunity to see such a classic show.

On Feb 1st I took a trip once again to watch "Phantom of the opera". I have seen the show 232 time but this one was going to be something to remember as tonight a brand new Phantom would be donning the famous mask. I managed to get an amazing seat in the stalls and as soon as that overture hit I was immediately drawn into one of London's greatest love story and one if the most epic musicals in the West End. From my seat you could see all the facial expressions and Ben Forster managed to break my heart with a truly emotional final lair. This seat really did make you feel you was part of the show and all the beautiful costumes looked so gorgeous close up. An amazing show and I would totally sit in that seat again! It made you feel like you was part of the show. Luring you in to the epic story of the Paris opera house!

You can absolutely see why The Phantom of the Opera has continued for so long - it's absolutely mesmerising. I thoroughly enjoyed the performances from Christine and the Phantom, whose voices matched perfectly. There are several beautiful numbers; "Masquerade" is a particular favourite. It's a sensational show in terms of spectacle, and although very dated, you cannot help but fall in love with it. Also, this theatre gets the sound mixing so right - very rare in West End theatres. Any avid theatregoer MUST see this show!

Phantom of the Opera is a classic West End show and is definitely worth a watch. Despite being around for over thirty years, it still has elements that feel exciting and you can see why it is a possibly musical for visitors to London, managing to capture the spectacular roots of West End theatre, with its iconic costume and big musical numbers. That said, at times it does feel a bit dated, with an 80s synth rock score and elaborate staging that would feel cliched if it was done for a new musical now. Still highly enjoyable and a must watch for any theatre fan at some point in their lives.

Excellent show. This is the second time I've seen it this year and I could easily watch it again. The actor playing Phantom gives a wonderful performance and portrays him as a perfect blend of villain and victim. Beautiful singing from everyone. And to lighten the mood at times there is just the right amount of humour. Wonderful show and I can fully understand why it's still playing to packed theatres.

A classic. The 16/17 cast have made me fall in love with this show and continued to do so till their very last show. But i am 100% sure the current cast is amazing as well. Although at times dated and old-fashioned the show still stands strong having the most beautiful costumes and music. The authenticity from the theatre it self plays a vital part in the whole experience as you do feel like you're entering a slightly haunted space when going to Her Majesty's.