Review, FAQ and Synopsis

‘Broadway’s Biggest Hit.’

Daily News, USA.

Iconic

In the world of musical theatre, there are very few productions that are iconic enough to represent the art in itself.  The Phantom of the Opera is undoubtedly one.

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s repertoire in musicals spans across generations.  With songs and tunes that, hold their own (think ‘Memory’ from Cats’, ‘Don’t Cry for me Argentina’ from Evita among others) Riding over all these is The Phantom of the Opera, his most famous musical and the most successful in entertainment history. It is the longest running show on Broadway and playing to packed theatres to over 145 million people in 150 cities across 30 countries. The musical recently celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2018, with its 130,000^th performance and still packs in the crowds at theatres worldwide.

Singapore 2019

Singapore is privileged to be among the Phantom’s stops in its World Tour. The current production boasts of 130 cast and crew along with a live orchestra. Leading the cast are seasoned theatre thespians from Broadway and West End Jonathan Roxmouth (Phantom), Meghan Picerno (Christine) and Matt Leisy (Raoul)

Review:

Whether you are catching this for the first time or thinking of re-watching it again, we share 3 reasons why we think this season’s production is worth that trip to the Marina Bay Sands Theatre.

• Acting:

There is palpable chemistry among the leading cast members.  In fact, the energy exuded by the entire cast during mass scenes such as ‘Masquerade’ could be felt in the entire theatre, making us feel like we are part of the revelry hosted by the Vicomte De Chagny, Raoul.

Notable was the chemistry between Meghan and Matt (Christine and Raoul). For example, during their rendition of “All of I ask of you” made this reviewer feel like an intruder and bystander in a lover’s duet.

Roxmouth’s Phantom holds a commanding presence.  His versatile tenor voice not only amplifies the emotions of the songs, it effortlessly galvanizes the Phantom’s presence, making his vibes felt throughout each scene. Roxmouth’s versatile singing also saw him take charge of the swaying emotions effectively with the orchestral accompaniment as the ensemble swung between dissonance and melodic harmony.

• The Music and Songs:

The songs need no introduction.  In fact, any songs BY Andrew Lloyd Webber need no introduction! Period.

Each is worthy to hold its own and have been the feather in the cap for many an aspiring musical actor.

Right from the opening stanza of the Overture to the many unforgettable tunes such as  ‘Music of the Night’, and the list goes on, the singing by the cast retains its emotive appeal. With LIVE rendition, performed and accompanied LIVE by a sizeable ensemble, is in itself worthy of the trip down to this theatre!

• The Costume and Set.

With a large chandelier, elaborate costumes, ornate staircases to boot, the set elevated seamlessly in between scenes is an experience that this review cannot replicate. On a personal level, seeing the Phantom bringing Christine into his lair through the misty river is something that we look forward to and in this production, it did not disappoint at all. In fact, seeing the entire set has always been a jaw-dropping experience embellished by the costumes designed by the late Maria Bjornson, an award-winning international designer.

Conclusion:

You can’t go wrong with an international production of this classic Andrew Lloyd Webber musical.  The Singapore season is a worthy watch with its talented cast and crew delivering the much-loved musical with much aplomb.

Bravo!

FAQs:

What is the storyline?

The musical is based on the classic novel, Le Fantome de LÓpera by Gaston Leroux. The Phantom of the Opera tells the tale of a disfigured musical genius who lives and haunts the Paris Opera House. Enamoured by the beauty of Christine, a young soprano, the Phantom sets out to win her heart with an attempt to bring her under his wings as his protégé.  The Phantom eventually finds out that Christine and Raoul are very much in love and his obsession with Christine then takes a turn meandering through passion, jealousy and eventually, madness.

How long does it last?

The show starts at 8pm and ended around 1040pm with a short interval.

Is it suitable for young children?

The musical addresses some dark themes of passion and jealousy. It may be more suited for older children, perhaps upper primary school and above. If you have young kids, this would be perfect for a couple night-out.

For more info:

https://www.marinabaysands.com/entertainment/shows/the-phantom-of-the-opera.html