This is an in-depth exploration based on the Wikipedia article for Andrew Lloyd Webber's "The Phantom of the Opera" (1986 musical). Read the full source article here. (opens in new tab)

The Phantom's Enigma

A Scholarly Exploration of Andrew Lloyd Webber's Iconic Musical.

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Synopsis

Prologue: The Auction

The narrative commences in 1919 at the Paris Opéra House during an auction of theatre memorabilia. An elderly Raoul de Chagny identifies a papier-mâché music box, Lot 665, and reflects on its connection to a past tragedy. The auctioneer then presents Lot 666, a chandelier, noting its involvement in the mysterious affair of the Phantom of the Opera. As the chandelier is illuminated, it ascends, transitioning the scene back to 1881.

Act I: Obsession and Intrigue

In 1881, rehearsals for Hannibal are disrupted by a falling backdrop, attributed to the Phantom. The opera's managers, Firmin and André, are forced to allow chorus girl Christine Daaé to replace the disgruntled prima donna, Carlotta. Christine's debut is a triumph, recognized by her childhood friend, Raoul. Backstage, Christine speaks of her singing tutor, the "Angel of Music." Raoul dismisses this as fantasy, but the Phantom, a disfigured genius residing beneath the opera house, reveals himself to Christine, leading her to his subterranean lair. He reveals his desire for her to sing his compositions, showcasing his power and passion in the iconic song, "The Music of the Night." Christine's discovery of his face leads to his fury, but her pity allows her return. The Phantom's demands for Christine to replace Carlotta escalate, culminating in the dramatic chandelier crash during a performance of Il Muto.

Act II: Confrontation and Climax

Six months later, a masquerade ball is interrupted by the Phantom, who announces his opera, Don Juan Triumphant, and demands Christine star. Christine, now engaged to Raoul, visits her father's grave, where the Phantom appears. Raoul vows to protect Christine, but the Phantom, overhearing them, vows revenge. During the premiere of Don Juan Triumphant, the Phantom replaces Piangi, the lead tenor, and drags Christine to his lair. Raoul pursues them, only to be captured by the Phantom's Punjab lasso. Faced with a choice, Christine kisses the Phantom, showing him compassion. Moved, he frees Raoul and allows them to leave. As the mob closes in, the Phantom disappears, leaving only his mask behind.

Development

Genesis of an Idea

Andrew Lloyd Webber conceived the idea for a musical adaptation of Gaston Leroux's novel in 1984, seeking to create a grand romantic and tragic piece. After reviewing film adaptations, he found inspiration in the original novel itself, recognizing its potential for a stage production.

Crafting the Lyrics and Score

The initial lyrical contributions were sought from Jim Steinman and Alan Jay Lerner, but due to prior commitments and health issues, Charles Hart was eventually recruited. Hart, alongside Richard Stilgoe, refined the lyrics, with Stilgoe also contributing to the book. Lloyd Webber's score draws inspiration from operatic styles and musical theatre conventions, incorporating pastiches of various composers and creating a distinct sound for the Phantom's compositions.

Design, Direction, and Choreography

The production's visual and directorial aspects were crucial to its success. Maria Björnson's elaborate set and costume designs, including the iconic chandelier and staircase, earned critical acclaim. Hal Prince directed the original production, bringing his extensive experience to the staging, while Gillian Lynne provided the integral musical staging and choreography.

Productions

West End Origins

The musical premiered in London's West End at Her Majesty's Theatre on October 9, 1986. It quickly became a landmark production, celebrated for its longevity and impact on musical theatre. Despite a temporary closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a revised staging reopened in the same theatre, continuing its legacy.

Broadway Dominance

Opening on Broadway in January 1988, "The Phantom of the Opera" achieved unprecedented success, becoming the longest-running show in Broadway history. It played its final performance in April 2023 after over 35 years, cementing its status as a cultural phenomenon.

Global Reach and Tours

The musical has been staged worldwide in numerous languages and countries, often utilizing the original production's design concepts. Extensive international tours have brought the spectacle to diverse audiences, adapting the production for various venues and contexts. Notable productions include those in Australia, Germany, Canada, and various international tours, demonstrating its universal appeal.

Casting

Original Casts

The original West End production starred Michael Crawford as the Phantom and Sarah Brightman as Christine, with Steve Barton as Raoul. The Broadway production featured the same principal trio, establishing iconic portrayals that defined the characters for many.

Notable Replacements

Over its extensive runs, the production has seen a vast array of talented performers step into the principal roles. Many actors have achieved significant acclaim through their interpretations of the Phantom, Christine, and Raoul, contributing to the show's enduring appeal and artistic evolution.

The sheer number of performers who have graced the stage in major roles across various productions is extensive. For instance, notable West End replacements for Christine include Claire Moore, Rachel Barrell, and Celinde Schoenmaker, while the Phantom role has been famously portrayed by Ramin Karimloo, Earl Carpenter, and Peter Jöback. On Broadway, replacements like Norm Lewis (the first African American Phantom) and Hugh Panaro have left significant marks.

Casting Table

The following table highlights some of the principal cast members from key original productions:

Character West End (1986) Broadway (1988) First US Tour (1989) Australia (1990)
The Phantom Michael Crawford Michael Crawford Michael Crawford Anthony Warlow
Christine Daaé Sarah Brightman Sarah Brightman Dale Kristien Marina Prior
Raoul, Vicomte de Chagny Steve Barton Steve Barton Steve Barton Dale Burridge
Carlotta Guidicelli Rosemary Ashe Judy Kaye Leigh Munro Christa Leahmann
Monsieur Gilles André David Firth Cris Groenendaal Norman Large John O'May
Monsieur Richard Firmin John Savident Nicholas Wyman Calvin Remsberg Jon Ewing

Music

Score and Style

Andrew Lloyd Webber's score is characterized by its blend of musical theatre conventions with operatic elements. It features memorable melodies and dramatic orchestrations, often incorporating pastiches of various operatic styles for the fictional operas within the show, such as Hannibal and Don Juan Triumphant. The musical's structure is defined by its "show within a show" format.

Key Musical Numbers

The musical is structured into two acts, featuring a rich tapestry of songs that drive the narrative and explore the characters' emotions. Iconic numbers include the title song, "The Music of the Night," "All I Ask of You," and "Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again."

Act I

  • "Overture"
  • "Hannibal Rehearsal"
  • "Think of Me"
  • "Angel of Music"
  • "Little Lotte"
  • "The Mirror (Angel of Music Reprise)"
  • "The Phantom of the Opera"
  • "The Music of the Night"
  • "I Remember"
  • "Stranger Than You Dreamt It"
  • "Magical Lasso"
  • "Notes"
  • "Prima Donna"
  • "Il Muto / Poor Fool, He Makes Me Laugh"
  • "Why Have You Brought Me Here? / Raoul, I've Been There"
  • "All I Ask of You"
  • "All I Ask of You (Reprise)"

Act II

  • "Entr'acte"
  • "Masquerade"
  • "Why So Silent"
  • "Notes (Reprise)"
  • "Twisted Every Way"
  • "Don Juan Triumphant Rehearsal"
  • "Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again"
  • "Wandering Child"
  • "Bravo, Monsieur"
  • "Don Juan Triumphant"
  • "The Point of No Return"
  • "All I Ask of You (Reprise)"
  • "Down Once More"
  • "Track Down This Murderer"
  • "Finale"

Orchestration

The musical employs varied orchestrations, ranging from the original 29-piece Broadway ensemble to reduced 14-piece versions for tours and revivals. These orchestrations are meticulously arranged to capture the score's dramatic and romantic nuances.

The original Broadway orchestration featured a substantial 29-piece ensemble, including multiple woodwinds, French horns, trumpets, trombones, two percussionists, keyboards, and a large string section. Later versions, particularly the 14-piece orchestration, streamline these parts, often consolidating reed instruments, reducing brass, and adjusting the string complement while sometimes adding an extra keyboard part to maintain the richness of the score.

Recordings

Commercial Success

Cast recordings of "The Phantom of the Opera" have achieved significant commercial success globally. The original London cast recording, released in both highlights and complete versions, has garnered multi-platinum certifications in numerous countries, including the US and UK, underscoring its widespread popularity.

Certifications and Sales

The album's sales figures reflect its immense cultural impact. It has achieved multiple platinum certifications in countries like Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Switzerland, and the United States, with millions of units sold worldwide. These certifications attest to the recording's enduring appeal and its status as a best-selling cast album.

Sales and Certifications (Original London Production)
Region Certification Certified units/sales
Australia (ARIA) 5× Platinum 350,000^
Canada (Music Canada) 2× Platinum 200,000^
New Zealand (RMNZ) 12× Platinum 180,000^
Netherlands (NVPI) Platinum 100,000^
Poland (ZPAV) Gold 20,000*
Sweden (GLF) Gold 50,000^
United Kingdom (BPI) 3× Platinum 900,000^
United States (RIAA) 4× Platinum 4,000,000^
* Sales figures based on certification alone.
^ Shipments figures based on certification alone.

Awards & Accolades

Critical Acclaim

Upon its premiere, "The Phantom of the Opera" garnered significant critical acclaim, earning prestigious awards that underscored its artistic merit and theatrical innovation. The production received numerous accolades, including the Evening Standard Theatre Award for Best Musical in London and multiple Tony Awards on Broadway.

Major Awards

Key awards include the Laurence Olivier Award for Best New Musical (1986) and the Tony Award for Best Musical (1988). Michael Crawford received both the Olivier and Tony Awards for Best Actor in a Musical for his portrayal of the Phantom. The production's design elements were also highly recognized, with Maria Björnson winning awards for Best Scenic Design and Best Costume Design.

Year Award Ceremony Category Result
1986 Evening Standard Theatre Award Best Musical Won
Laurence Olivier Award Best New Musical Won
Best Actor in a Musical Michael Crawford Won
Designer of the Year Maria Björnson Nominated
2002 Laurence Olivier Award Most Popular Show Won
1988 Tony Award Best Musical Won
1988 Tony Award Best Actor in a Musical Michael Crawford Won
1988 Tony Award Best Featured Actress in a Musical Judy Kaye Won
1988 Tony Award Best Direction of a Musical Harold Prince Won
1988 Tony Award Best Scenic Design Maria Björnson Won
1988 Tony Award Best Costume Design Maria Björnson Won
1988 Tony Award Best Lighting Design Andrew Bridge Won

Sequel: Love Never Dies

Narrative Continuation

Andrew Lloyd Webber, along with collaborators Ben Elton, Frederick Forsyth, and Glenn Slater, developed a sequel titled "Love Never Dies." This musical continues the story, loosely adapted from Forsyth's novel "The Phantom of Manhattan."

Plot and Setting

Set in 1907, the sequel finds Christine Daaé invited to perform at Phantasma, a new attraction at Coney Island, by an anonymous impresario. Unbeknownst to her, this impresario is the Phantom, who has orchestrated her appearance at the popular resort. The narrative follows Christine's journey to Brooklyn with her husband Raoul and son Gustave.

Production History

The original production of "Love Never Dies" premiered in the West End in 2010, receiving mixed reviews. A revamped Australian production in 2011 garnered more favorable notices. While a Broadway transfer was planned, it was ultimately cancelled. The musical has since seen various productions and concert performances.

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References

References

  1.  Top 10 Longest-Running London Theatre Shows Londonist.com. Retrieved 11 February 2012
  2.  The A to Z of the Broadway Musical p.266. Scarecrow Press, 2009
  3.  Andrew Lloyd Webber, Martin Knowlden The Phantom of the Opera Companion Pavilion, 2007
  4.  Phantom of the Opera DVD (2004 film). Amazon.com Retrieved 3 April 2011.
  5.  Phantom of the Opera Internet Broadway Database, retrieved 31 January 2008
  6.  Cudia Will Succeed McGillin, World's Longest-Running Phantom, on Broadway
  7.  Norm Lewis Ends History-Making Engagement in Broadway's Phantom of the Opera
  8.  Broadway Playbill
  9.  Jeremy Stolle I will miss this
  10.  Jeremy Stolle Down Once More
  11.  Ted Keegan Playbill
  12.  Grateful to be the man behind the mask for our last matinee performance
  13.  Honored to step back in tonight as the Phantom
  14.  Last might…an unbelievable night performing for the Phans Laird Mackintosh
  15.  Phantom Sydney Opera House
  16.  "Phantom" To Close at Pantages. neontommy.com Retrieved 27 January 2011.
  17.  Casting: PhantomLasVegas.com Retrieved 8 September 2011
  18.  The Phantom of the Opera (2004) at IMDb
  19.  2012 UK Tour Cast
  20.  BWW INTERVIEWS: Rebecca Lock, London's Carlotta In PHANTOM
  21.  "Musical Numbers", thephantomoftheopera.com
  22.  "How the West Won the Met" (13 June 2010). San Jose Mercury News, California. Article ID: 1408078
  23.  "Let's Hear Girl of the Golden West Sing" (12 June 2010) San Jose Mercury News, California. Article ID: 1408152
  24.  Lloyd Webber Wins Phantom Battle. BBC News Retrieved 10 September 2010.
A full list of references for this article are available at the The Phantom of the Opera (1986 musical) Wikipedia page

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