Phantom of the Opera

Wow. That's all I have to say. This was my third time seeing Phantom of the Opera (fourth if you count the movie) and it was different than every other production. The staging may have been the same, the special effects may have been the same, but the production was different. I really enjoyed the uniqueness every character gave to the show. Some people who stood out:

Ramin Karimloo- Phantom. No vocal training. Who knew? Originally from Toronto he was in rock bands for awhile. Pretty sweet. He's genuinely a good guy. I talked to him after the show and he's very supportive and encouraging. This was a dream role of his, and he thinks that if he can do it, than anyone can do it. He worked at it is all. And it showed onstage. I liked the rock/pop style he brought to the role, as it was not overdone and actually gave it a more powerful feel. His range was flawless and his connection to his fellow actors was solid. What also impressed me was how far he went with his character- he gave it his all, and at the end had me completely wrapped in what the Phantom was experiencing.

Leila Benn Harris- Christine. Whenever I initially hear Christine come in during "Think of Me" I'm always a little hesitant. I like Carlotta and the operatic style of singing, so when the little chorus girl comes in with her weak voice, it's a little disheartening. But it was acting, because she certainly didn't have a weak voice. Also adding more of a modern twist on a classical vocal style, Leila was not only an amazing singer, but also an amazing actress. She was always engaged, even when the focus wasn't on her.

Alex Rathgeber- Raoul. Definately how I see Raoul, but not the same as I've seen it done. Up to this point, the movie version of Raoul is the one I've liked best. Not anymore- Alex did a phenominal job in making Raoul not seem like a wuss, but still loving Christine. Brilliant.

Wendy Ferguson- Carlotta. I loved her. She was perfect. Her expressions, her timing, and above all her singing were amazing. Truly spectacular.

Heather Jackson- Madame Giry. I liked how Heather played a stronger, more commanding Madame Giry. Whenever she was onstage, I couldn't take my eyes off of her. Even when she was in the middle of the entire ensemble. She gave her part everything and I liked it. She didn't play a frail old woman and she could actually sing the part. And the dynamics she gave her character were incredible.

These are just some of the performers that stood out. It was really a good show. I know it's a little more in depth than my previous show posts, but I've seen Phantom a few times and could actually think about how the actors were doing (though the show was still incredibly engaging. I was moved to tears on occasion.) I had a seat 4 rows back on the end, so I was close enough to actually experience everything (and occasionally see how some of the tricks were done. But don't ask- cause I won't tell).

I think that if anyone ever gets a chance to see this show, they should take it- regardless of who's performing it where. And if you don't get the opportunity, create the opportunity.