Posted: 6/28/15 at 8:16pm
I saw the new Phantom of the Opera tour at the Pantages Theatre in Hollywood.
It's not bad, even rises to good, but ultimately reminds you how great the original was. Phantom of the Opera is the one show I've seen more than any other and this one doesn't rank. (the Los Angeles company used to have a student rush ticket for something like ten bucks when I was going to college)
Started poorly, you didn't realize how long the overture actually is until it seems like it's going on forever since nothing is happening. (I realize nothing happens during most overtures, but most shows don't start the show and then go into it)
The actors are all great. No one is going to confuse the lead of being Michael Crawford, (here in LA, a lot of people saw MC in the role) but there were no weak links.
I personally even liked the Masquerade scene staging better than the original. However, generally, it looked like a budget version of Phantom designed to be easier and cheaper to tour. (which I think was the general idea)
The other thing the new tour made me realize is I REALLY need to see Phantom on Broadway sooner rather than later as who knows how long it will be around. NYC Phantom never makes the cut of limited show slots to see during a fixed time trip. I've seen it before and it will "always be there." Always" might not be as "Now and Forever" as I once thought.
When it comes to your town, should you see it. If it's on Goldstar, or a discount code, sure. Full Priced Tickets? I'd save those for the full priced Phantom in NYC or London.
