If you're a theatre kid, chances are you sang the title of this blog post in your head (or if you're like me, you sang it out loud). And if you're not a theatre kid, you probably think I'm insane for saying so.
Well without further ado, here's my review of the infamous Phantom of the Opera.
Phantom explores the ever so intangible love triangle that never fails to bring audiences to tears. When the Phantom of the Opera suddenly captures performer Christine Daae, her partner, Raoul is determined to save her. The show follows an operetta structure; however, is not considered to be an opera and is deemed as a musical. It is widely known to be the most popular musical on Broadway at the moment and currently holds the title for Broadway's longest running musical (27 years).
I hate to be the bearer of bad news but this show wasn't my favorite. I know, I know. It's an extraordinarily unpopular opinion. Phantom has beautiful songs and amazing actors, but it's just the story that doesn't really touch me too much. It's a lovely story, but watching it for two hours kind of bored me. If it wasn't for being in the presence of Norm Lewis and being incredibly familiar with the music, I probably would've really disliked it. You'll learn from me that my favorite types of musicals are the ones where there's a big dance number, a large ensemble, and a quirky leading couple. Phantom had none of those. That doesn't make it a bad musical, though. In fact, I would recommend Phantom to anyone. I really think that Phantom is a show for everyone- it just wasn't my favorite.
However, Norm Lewis was incredible. I mean I've heard him sing before (Les Mis anniversary, Porgy and Bess, etc), but hearing the man sing in the same room as me is a dream. I'm serious, if you get the chance to see Norm Lewis live- take it. It's an unforgettable experience. Lewis was better than the cast recording and holds the title of the first "African American Phantom". I've seen a lot of videos of other Phantoms and I think it is safe for me to say Norm Lewis is my favorite and probably the best one out there. Lewis came to my school for a Q&A not too long ago and said that the Phantom was his dream role and he can't believe he's living his dream (Lewis). It is so visible through his performance that Norm Lewis is doing what he loves with people that he loves. He also made sure to tell us that it is not all rainbows and butterflies playing the Phantom. Doing it eight times a week is physically and emotionally draining and it's hard not to call out for a day and let the understudy go on. For me as an aspiring Broadway actress, that was like fuel. I love hearing about the challenges of the show on and offstage. That is what inspires me to keep going. Even with all of the challenges of being the Phantom, you can tell Norm Lewis truly loves his job which is wonderful to hear as both an audience member and an actor.
The music, of course, was outstanding. Majority of you are probably familiar with at least one of the songs. And if you're not, then familiarize yourself! You don't have to love theatre to appreciate beautiful music. Just like I don't have to absolutely love the show to appreciate it's quality. The band was amazing. I used to be a band kid back in middle school and ever since then I've been obsessed with hearing Broadway cast bands. If a band can give me the chills, it's a good band. I clearly remember getting the chills more than once during Phantom (and rightfully so).
In context what I'm trying to say is that Phantom really was wonderful, it just wasn't my favorite. However, I strongly recommend it to you all. It's a beautiful piece of theatre that let's you appreciate a different type of show tunes as well as witness a beautiful love story.
3 out of 5 rikdastars
Until next time!
-Rikki
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