Moulin Rouge or Phantom?

[theatretenor2]

Posted: 3/16/22 at 10:14am

I'm ashamed to say that, in my 20 years of coming to New York I've never seen Phantom live.

Both my partner and I have never seen Phantom, and he's open to Phantom more so than MJ. So now asking if we keep Moulin Rouge tickets or see Phantom?

We both enjoy musical theatre.

[ShowBro]

Posted: 3/16/22 at 10:19am

Phantom bc it is iconic. MR is tired boots imo.

[bwayphreak234]

Posted: 3/16/22 at 10:35am

Phantom because it is a classic.

[Bigserver1]

Posted: 3/16/22 at 10:35am

IMO Phantom tours effectively, so I don't know how much cache there is to seeing it on Broadway vs a national tour. The staging of Moulin Rouge will not tour effectively, and I think there will be a big disparity in terms of the show on Broadway vs a tour. For that, and for Aaron Tveit, I'd stick with Moulin Rouge.

[Nolan LuPone]

Posted: 3/16/22 at 10:50am

See Phantom. The cast is stellar right now, there seriously hasn't been one like this in decades...

[windowwaving]

Posted: 3/16/22 at 11:00am

It depends on your mood. Both of these are spectacles but in different ways.

Phantom has that iconic classical Broadway feel with that lush orchestra (who knows for how long) and set.

MR is a lot more modern and fast-paced. Very upbeat and interactive. 

You won't go wrong either way. 

[bwayphreak234]

Posted: 3/16/22 at 11:08am

Bigserver1 said: "IMO Phantom tours effectively, so I don't know how much cache there is to seeing it on Broadway vs a national tour. The staging of Moulin Rouge will not tour effectively, and I think there will be a big disparity in terms of the show on Broadway vs a tour. For that, and for Aaron Tveit, I'd stick with Moulin Rouge."

Phantom is not even touring right now, and the last time it went out it was a completely redesigned production that pathetically paled in comparison to the original. The Broadway production is the only production of the show that is still completely the original production as the West End production was recently “updated”.

[BrodyFosse123]

Posted: 3/16/22 at 11:15am

Most definitely see PHANTOM.  It’s the last surviving archive of how opulent and lavish Broadway productions once were.  Nowadays staging is done to economize.  The Broadway production of PHANTOM is still intact unlike the National Tour version, which was extensively modified and scaled-back.  

[Scarywarhol]

Posted: 3/16/22 at 11:36am

Phantom, because it's a bit silly but still a far better show. And there's a reason that the production itself has been running for decades. We're lucky to have it in its original form here, and to have Hal Prince's legacy still present on Broadway. 

[Bigserver1]

Posted: 3/16/22 at 11:42am

bwayphreak234 said: "Bigserver1 said: "IMO Phantom tours effectively, so I don't know how much cache there is to seeing it on Broadway vs a national tour. The staging of Moulin Rouge will not tour effectively, and I think there will be a big disparity in terms of the show on Broadway vs a tour. For that, and for Aaron Tveit, I'd stick with Moulin Rouge."

Phantom is not even touring right now, and the last time it went out it was a completely redesigned production that pathetically paled in comparison to the original. The Broadway production is the only production of the show that is still completely the original production as the West End production was recently “updated”."

That is really good to know. I saw Phantom on Broadway almost 20 years ago so it's been a long time since I've seen it in New York. I've also seen it on the West End and in a touring setting, and I probably just didn't recognize the differences at 19-20 as much as I would now at 38. Thanks for the insight - it makes me want to see Phantom on Broadway again!

Updated On: 3/16/22 at 11:42 AM

[theatretenor2]

Posted: 3/16/22 at 11:56am

bwayphreak234 said: "Bigserver1 said: "IMO Phantom tours effectively, so I don't know how much cache there is to seeing it on Broadway vs a national tour. The staging of Moulin Rouge will not tour effectively, and I think there will be a big disparity in terms of the show on Broadway vs a tour. For that, and for Aaron Tveit, I'd stick with Moulin Rouge."

Phantom is not even touring right now, and the last time it went out it was a completely redesigned production that pathetically paled in comparison to the original. The Broadway production is the only production of the show that is still completely the original production as the West End production was recently “updated”."

SOLD... What are the best seats for Phantom?

[bwayphreak234]

Posted: 3/16/22 at 12:12pm

theatretenor2 said: "bwayphreak234 said: "Bigserver1 said: "IMO Phantom tours effectively, so I don't know how much cache there is to seeing it on Broadway vs a national tour. The staging of Moulin Rouge will not tour effectively, and I think there will be a big disparity in terms of the show on Broadway vs a tour. For that, and for Aaron Tveit, I'd stick with Moulin Rouge."

Phantom is not even touring right now, and the last time it went out it was a completely redesigned production that pathetically paled in comparison to the original. The Broadway production is the only production of the show that is still completely the original production as the West End production was recently “updated”."

SOLD... What are the best seats for Phantom?"

Front mezzanine center is the best place for Phantom IMO. Avoid orchestra seats that are under the mezz overhang as it blocks some of the set.

[TaffyDavenport]

Posted: 3/16/22 at 12:27pm

theatretenor2 said: "bwayphreak234 said: "Bigserver1 said: "IMO Phantom tours effectively, so I don't know how much cache there is to seeing it on Broadway vs a national tour. The staging of Moulin Rouge will not tour effectively, and I think there will be a big disparity in terms of the show on Broadway vs a tour. For that, and for Aaron Tveit, I'd stick with Moulin Rouge."

Phantom is not even touring right now, and the last time it went out it was a completely redesigned production that pathetically paled in comparison to the original. The Broadway production is the only production of the show that is still completely the original production as the West End production was recently “updated”."

SOLD... What are the best seats for Phantom?"

If you want to use the discount on Telecharge Offers, I'd go with front orchestra for $119. Looking at Saturday matinee, I'd say orchestra E 9-11, specifically. Nothing before row E in the mezzanine is discounted, so I think orchestra is a no-brainer. I sat in mezzanine E on reopening night in October, and, while giving a great overall view, it felt a little distant from the stage, to me. Also, I've heard that the mezzanine audience members tend to be less well-behaved, especially during matinees.

Updated On: 3/16/22 at 12:27 PM

[theatretenor2]

Posted: 3/16/22 at 12:35pm

TaffyDavenport said: "theatretenor2 said: "bwayphreak234 said: "Bigserver1 said: "IMO Phantom tours effectively, so I don't know how much cache there is to seeing it on Broadway vs a national tour. The staging of Moulin Rouge will not tour effectively, and I think there will be a big disparity in terms of the show on Broadway vs a tour. For that, and for Aaron Tveit, I'd stick with Moulin Rouge."

Phantom is not even touring right now, and the last time it went out it was a completely redesigned production that pathetically paled in comparison to the original. The Broadway production is the only production of the show that is still completely the original production as the West End production was recently “updated”."

SOLD... What are the best seats for Phantom?"

If you want to use the discount on Telecharge Offers, I'd go with front orchestra for $119. Looking at Saturday matinee, I'd say orchestra E 9-11, specifically."

How is Julia? Also, is there any obstruction?

[TaffyDavenport]

Posted: 3/16/22 at 12:49pm

theatretenor2 said: "TaffyDavenport said: "theatretenor2 said: "bwayphreak234 said: "Bigserver1 said: "IMO Phantom tours effectively, so I don't know how much cache there is to seeing it on Broadway vs a national tour. The staging of Moulin Rouge will not tour effectively, and I think there will be a big disparity in terms of the show on Broadway vs a tour. For that, and for Aaron Tveit, I'd stick with Moulin Rouge."

Phantom is not even touring right now, and the last time it went out it was a completely redesigned production that pathetically paled in comparison to the original. The Broadway production is the only production of the show that is still completely the original production as the West End production was recently “updated”."

SOLD... What are the best seats for Phantom?"

If you want to use the discount on Telecharge Offers, I'd go with front orchestra for $119. Looking at Saturday matinee, I'd say orchestra E 9-11, specifically."

How is Julia? Also, is there any obstruction?"

I haven't seen Julia. No obstruction, but obviously, if you want the view to be a little more centered, you can go back a row or 2. I think seats 9-11 in any row from E-H will be great. The reason I say house left is because I think the production favors that side. This is E 9:

[Lot666]

Posted: 3/17/22 at 8:00am

Having seen both shows, I highly recommend Phantom over Moulin Rouge. The Broadway version now has the distinction of being the only surviving production that still uses almost all of the original Prince-Bjornson-Lynne creative vision.

As for seating, I suggest that you go with orchestra center, somewhere between rows BB and K. As might be expected, most of this section is designated as "Premium Seating", so these seats can be pricey. The mezzanine overhang starts around row J, so if you go much further back than that you will miss half of the chandelier ascent/descent and all of the Phantom's appearances on the catwalk above the proscenium.

I've never had a good experience from the front or rear mezzanine at this theatre. It's a relatively large house and the upstairs seats feel very removed to me, as if I'm watching the show from outside, through a window. By contrast, the front orchestra feels incredibly immersive, as if you are part of the action rather than simply a spectator. If you cannot get seats in the center of a row and must choose to be more on the house left or house right, I recommend house left, if only for the blocking during "Stranger Than You Dreamt It".

[theatretenor2]

Posted: 3/17/22 at 8:58am

Lot666 said: "Having seen both shows, I highly recommend Phantom over Moulin Rouge. The Broadway version now has the distinction of being the only surviving production that still uses almost all of the original Prince-Bjornson-Lynne creative vision.

As for seating,I suggest that you go with orchestra center, somewhere between rows BB and K. As might be expected, most of this section is designated as "Premium Seating", so these seats can be pricey. The mezzanine overhang starts around row J, so if you go much further back than that you will miss half of the chandelier ascent/descent and all of the Phantom's appearances on the catwalk above the proscenium.

I've never had a good experience from the front or rear mezzanine at this theatre. It's a relatively large house and the upstairs seats feel very removed to me, as if I'm watching the show from outside, through a window. By contrast, the front orchestra feels incredibly immersive, as if you are part of the action rather than simply a spectator. If you cannot get seats in the center of a row and must choose to be more on the house left or house right, I recommend house left, if only for the blocking during "Stranger Than You Dreamt It"."

Would the chandelier moment be blocked if we are row K - two seats closest to wall on stage left? Otherwise, I'll probably call telecharge today to exchange tickets. We liked that it was the front of that section and a bit elevated, but definitely don't want to miss that iconic moment. Aside from the "Stranger Than You Dreamt It," would we miss anything in those seats?

Updated On: 3/17/22 at 08:58 AM

[bwayphreak234]

Posted: 3/17/22 at 9:27am

theatretenor2 said: "Lot666 said: "Having seen both shows, I highly recommend Phantom over Moulin Rouge. The Broadway version now has the distinction of being the only surviving production that still uses almost all of the original Prince-Bjornson-Lynne creative vision.

As for seating,I suggest that you go with orchestra center, somewhere between rows BB and K. As might be expected, most of this section is designated as "Premium Seating", so these seats can be pricey. The mezzanine overhang starts around row J, so if you go much further back than that you will miss half of the chandelier ascent/descent and all of the Phantom's appearances on the catwalk above the proscenium.

I've never had a good experience from the front or rear mezzanine at this theatre. It's a relatively large house and the upstairs seats feel very removed to me, as if I'm watching the show from outside, through a window. By contrast, the front orchestra feels incredibly immersive, as if you are part of the action rather than simply a spectator. If you cannot get seats in the center of a row and must choose to be more on the house left or house right, I recommend house left, if only for the blocking during "Stranger Than You Dreamt It"."

Would the chandelier moment be blocked if we are row K - two seats closest to wall on stage left? Otherwise, I'll probably call telecharge today to exchange tickets. We liked that it was the front of that section and a bit elevated, but definitely don't want to miss that iconic moment. Aside from the "Stranger Than You Dreamt It," would we miss anything in those seats?"

https://aviewfrommyseat.com/theater/The+Phantom+Of+The+Opera/

This site has a lot of pictures with various views, including several on the first page alone from row K. I think you should be good. Enjoy!

[MadsonMelo]

Posted: 3/17/22 at 10:33am

I’ve read that there are $29 tickets for Phantom and the comments about the production made me feel like I should go to the thursday matinee. Do You guys have any info about that and where those seats are?

[bwayphreak234]

Posted: 3/17/22 at 10:52am

MadsonMelo said: "I’ve read that there are $29 tickets for Phantom and the comments about the production made me feel like I should go to the thursday matinee. Do You guys have any info about that and where those seats are?"

ad.Full view, you are just very far away. Last row of of the rear mezzanine. I sat up there once, and, for the price, it's really not too bad. Full view, but very far.

[Lot666]

Posted: 3/17/22 at 11:34am

theatretenor2 said: "Would the chandelier moment be blocked if we are row K - two seats closest to wall on stage left? Otherwise, I'll probably call telecharge today to exchange tickets. We liked that it was the front of that section and a bit elevated, but definitely don't want to miss that iconic moment. Aside from the "Stranger Than You Dreamt It," would we miss anything in those seats?"

From left orchestra row K, I think you'll still be able to see the full chandelier journey. Also, those seats won't impair your view during "Stranger Than You Dreamt It"; my mention of that scene was just to advise that the blocking favors house left, which is where you'll be. All of that said, it would be better if you could get closer to the center (especially if anyone is seeing it for the first time).

[dadaguza]

Posted: 3/17/22 at 1:33pm

OP, do you have the time/budget to see both the time you are here? If so, definitely do it! 

[theatretenor2]

Posted: 3/17/22 at 11:35pm

dadaguza said: "OP, do you have the time/budget to see both the time you are here? If so, definitely do it!"

Budget, yes.

Time, no.

We leave Sunday afternoon, so no time for a Sunday show.

We see Music Man tomorrow, Phantom and Take Me Out Saturday. Saw Company Tuesday and Paradise Square last night.

 

 

[theatretenor2]

Posted: 3/19/22 at 5:28pm

Thank you for the recommendation. We loved Phantom. Would have loved to see Emilie, but Julia was great. The seats were incredible - we were in the furthest two seats on stage left after the break in the orchestra - where it turns into stadium seating. 

This cast was fantastic. 

[dangeresque49]

Posted: 3/20/22 at 12:31am

MadsonMelo said: "I’ve read that there are $29 tickets for Phantom and the comments about the production made me feel like I should go to the thursday matinee. Do You guys have any info about that and where those seats are?"

I personally would much rather sit in the partial view front orchestra seats than go for real mezz. I think they cost around $40. Most of the time a lot of these seats are left unsold unless its a really popular time and I think you have to go direct to the box office to ask.  You might get lucky in one of the rows and be able to move over a few seats as well. I also sat in one of the boxes as well another time I went that was a worse view but still really cool.