It seems criminal that one of the most iconic musicals of all time hasn’t graced the Opera House until now. Thankfully Opera Australia has rectified this with a larger-than-life production of The Phantom of the Opera. If you saw the Handa Opera version earlier this year and are wondering if another production is worth your time and money — the answer is a resounding YES from us.
The long-awaited musical has finally made a roaring entry at the Joan Sutherland stage and it’s an entirely thrilling experience for theatre lovers. Although much smaller than the extravagant floating stage at Mrs Macquarie’s Steps, the Joan Sutherland stage works surprisingly well in making this production a more intimate, eerie experience.
The musical begins with that soaring classic melody that instantly transports you to a gothic 19th-century Paris. With ravishing set design by Paul Brown and Maria Björnson’s exemplary original costumes, the show takes off on a high note. Iconic symbols like the chandelier, the Phantom’s lair and the masquerade ball remain memorable as ever with Brown’s unique touch.
With many exceptional performers having taken on the role of the Phantom around the world, it’s a daunting task to step into the character’s shoes and evoke the audience’s sympathy for the psychotic, musical genius. Josh Piterman does this with great ease along with outstanding vocals and stage presence to boot.
Amy Manford encapsulates Christine Daaé’s innocence with great aplomb while Blake Bowden makes for an excellent Raoul. Manford’s rendition of Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again in particular is a thrill to watch.
Supported by a cast of over 65 performers, this is primed to be one of the largest stage productions in Australia with the costumes, set design and 27-piece orchestra keeping the audience riveted from the get-go.
Produced by Cameron Mackintosh, The Really Useful Group, and Opera Australia, the The Phantom of the Opera remains a striking visual feast and a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Tickets are on sale now and you can snag some here before they sell out.