All began in 1984 when Gaston Leroux's book was discovered by
Andrew Lloyd Webber, the musicals composer most acclaimed
worldwide. He immediately knew by intuition a secure success in a
story full of romance, mystery and revenge.
Andrew, contacted with Cameron Mackintosh, producer of the most
famous musicals in that time (and today), who seemed to be really
excited with the idea.
Curiously, Andrew hadn't the intention of composing the sheet
music of the show, but extract it from different operas by Gounod,
Verdi, Offenbach... Finally, he consented to his producer advises
("You're letting escape a fantastic story: you should compose the
music by yourself") and some months later, he achieved that Hal
Prince (director), Charles Hart (lyrics), and Maria Bjösnson
(designer, deceased in 2002) joined the project.
Everyone of them agreed it was the kind of musical they were
searching long time ago, and they were sure it would revolutionize
the West End of London as well as Broadway.
In 1985, Webber decided show the whole first act to some of his
collaborators, included some musical critics.
They created a small Theatre for 100 persons (more or less) in
Webber's house garden, including even a replica of the crystal
chandelier. Excited because the good reception of this little rehearsal,
Andrew decided dedicating all his time (he was composing Aspects
of Love too), and efforts to this project.
The main actors (who will achieve their most biggest international
success thanks to this musical) were Michael Crawford as the
Phantom, Sarah Brightman (by then Webber's wife) as Christine and
Steve Barton (deceased in 2001) as Raoul.
The premiere took place on Thursday 9, October 1986 at Her
Majesty's Theatre, London (this musical continues here today with
more than 7000 performances). The critic was amazed. There was no
doubt that the music, the voices and the show itself were united
perfectly creating one of the best musicals. 18 Months Later, this
musical achieved the same success in the Majestic Theatre, Brodway.
Since then, it has been in more than 110 cities of 20 countries over the
world, with a total audience of more than 70 millions of persons.
According to The Really Useful Group (producing company created
by Andrew Lloyd Webber), it has collected more than 3 billions of
dollars. It has more than 20 awards: 3 Olivier Awards (including Best
Musical), 1 Evening Standard, 7 Tonys, 7 Drama Disks, Outer Critic
Circles...And 30 Awards more in other countries.
The Music of The Phantom of the Opera has captivated millions of
spectators who has seen it in live and millions who has listened it in
CD.
It's a musical full of symbols which has a influence and importance
fundamental during some scene of the play.
Without any doubt, The Phantom of the Opera is and will be a
reference essential in the History of Musicals.
musical based in Frederick Forsyth book titled The Phantom of
Manhattan. Click Here to see to know everything
Do you want to see amazing Broadway Phantom backstage
photos? Enter here.
Phantom opens in Poland 15th March, click here to know more.
Read everything about the past 20th Phantom London anniversary
and see special photos Here!
Want to know more about the 21st Anniversary in London?
Don't wait and enter here!
do you want to read everything about it and see the spectacular photos of the
event? Enter Here.
To learn more about the Phantom opening in LasVegas, click here.
Or maybe you like to see Las Vegas backstage photos...Enter.
Phantom World Tour in Hong Kong : photos and info.
attention and signed photo!
