The Phantom of the Opera played in Toronto for about 10 years and so, I’d already seen this show more times than necessary. Once - and I fell asleep. It was one of my first theatre going experiences. Luckily I went back and gave live theatre another go.
When the bus tours from Buffalo dried up after Toronto SARS epedemic and the music died, I thought we were in the clear. Nobody told me touring companies would show up now and then to taunt me.
Taunt me it did last night. It was one of the shows in our Mirvish subscription series so go I went. Two of our group had never seen it before so I promised that I wouldn't be cranky about it so that it wasn't spolied for them. I can see how some people love the show and can accept that they do. I'm not one of them though. Paul was though.
The best part about the whole evening was getting to watch his reaction. I’m not so jaded that I don’t remember how electric and emotional a live performance can be. I was really glad he seemed to like it and hummed the music all the way home. The touring company did a decent job of bringing the original production back to life although I don’t think I ever need to see it again.
Yes, this is basically the same Phantom of the Opera that held Toronto in thrall from 1989 to 1999.
You must all know the story by now: deformed man lives in the basement of the Paris Opera, teaches pretty girl to sing; he loves her; she chooses a pretty young man instead and trouble – as they say – ensues.
But although the work itself remains untouched, there are still several differences in what's now on the stage. Because this is a touring show, rather than one meant to stay put for a decade, the physical production is, overall, a touch less sumptuous. The actors aren't as refined, their voices carry less of a range, their actions tend to play to the crowd rather than the story.
If your a Phantom virgin, you will enjoy the joy. If you have seen the show as many times as I have you may want to skip this one.
It would appear that Toronto theatre goers are in-love again. This show has been extended three times and has now added 9 weeks to the run. We truly are an easily pleased lot.
In fairness, I did notice that many in the audience were not the sort of folk I generally see at the theatre. There were more tourists that normal (which is good for the economy), there were more prople for whom this was obviously a very special night - a big date night (nice to see romance is back), and there were people who obviously don't go to the theatre but came because it was, well, the Phantom. To the latter group I say - come back - next time though leave your jeans, T-shirts, and thongs at home - and experience some real quality at the theatre!
Performances run from February 21 - June 3, 2007 at the Princess of Wales Theatre.
Tuesday - Saturday at 8:00 p.m.
Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday at 2:00 p.m.
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