The Phantom of the Opera | Bord Gais Energy Theatre

Star Rating: 5/5

Title The Phantom of the Opera
Venue The Bord Gais Energy Theatre
Dates Until the 4th of August
Music Andrew Lloyd Webber
Cast John Owen-Jones, Katie Hall, Simon Bailey, Angela M Caesar, Andy Hockley, Simon Green, Elizabeth Marsh, Vincent Pirillo.

The term "classic musical" can be thrown around with abandon at times - in the case of The Phantom of the Opera however, it couldn't be more apt. Now in its twenty-fifth year, Phantom is the quintessential classic, much loved by hoards of followers for its gothic charm, romantic score and the enigmatic anti-hero that is the phantom himself. Often with a long-running show such as this there is a reluctance to tamper with its successful formula, the theory being, if it aint broke don't fix it. Thus it is a relief to learn that Cameron Mackintosh's new production stays appropriately faithful to the original, while enhancing the already inherent theatricality of the show with innovative set and sound design. It is this powerful mix of the old and new which makes Mackintosh's version of The Phantom of the Opera a truly incredible experience.

Phantom is the age old tale of unrequited love with a supernatural twist. John Owen-Jones plays the mysterious figure who stalks through the wings of the Opera House; having fallen in love with lowly dancer Christine, he is determined to win her over and elevate her to a lead role in one fell swoop. The Phantom's motives may be pure but his means of pursuit are as unnatural as the deformed visage he conceals beneath his iconic white mask. At first Christine, played by the beautiful and talented Katie Hall, is drawn to this lost soul that resides in darkness in the bowels of the theatre, the two joining in a mesmeric candlelit duet of "The Music of the Night" early in the first act. However, the more Christine's head is turned by theatre newcomer Raoul, the more wary she is of the increasingly possessive phantom. Desperate to keep Christine in his control the phantom resorts to murderous threats in his quest for love, leaving a trail of blood in his wake.

Andrew Lloyd Webber's music is, as ever, enchanting and is performed by the three leads with the conviction and passion necessary to deliver such a moving story. While these key elements - performance, narrative and music - of course contribute to the success of this production, the starring feature is, without a doubt, the stunning design. Paul Brown's set constantly transforms throughout the show drawing you into this gothic world so convincingly that your disbelief will be well and truly suspended for the two and a half hours required. With magically appearing staircases, exploding chandeliers and eerie lagoons conjured before our eyes, the audience cannot help but be impressed - the audible gasps that abounded throughout the auditorium a sure sign of appreciation.
This is one not to be missed - immerse yourself in the music of the night.

Review by: Lauren O'Toole

Story by EI Team | 09:00 | Wednesday 11th July 2012 | Theatre

1743

Comments

• xoxo

  I went to see this on Saturday night, and I agree with every single thing in this review. The sets and costumes were creative, the cast was flawless, the singling was spellbinding and I came out of the theatre in such a good mood. It was all I could talk about for days after. I'd honestly insist that if you haven't seen it yet, go before it's gone!

  Posted 15:01 | Wed 11th Jul 2012

• Heidi

  I saw this last night and it is everything that the review says. The set is Amazing and some of the effects are mind boggling. The Phantom and Christine deserve special mention for their flawless performance and I had goosebumps like never before. Every single moment of the show had everything put into it and does not disappoint in any way. If you haven't got a ticket, get one. And if you have a ticket, well, you certainly won't be disappointed. Agree 5/5

  Posted 23:49 | Wed 11th Jul 2012

• LuckyMe

  saw it last night - terrific

  Posted 10:37 | Sun 22nd Jul 2012

• jay

  went to see this yesterday, all that can be said was, absolutley fabulous, if you haven't seen it your missing out

  Posted 20:42 | Sun 29th Jul 2012

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