The unfortunate problem with something as iconic as The Phantom of the Opera is the expectations one carries when watching it–especially if for the umpteenth time. No matter the strength of the performers, it can still feel like a letdown when certain preconceived notions are built.
This, more or less, encapsulates much of how the current run of The Phantom of the Opera, now running at Sands Theatre, might feel to some. Of course, this doesn’t mean the performance is lacking per se–for many, especially to those for whom this will be their first chance at experiencing the magic of the play in theatres, this run of The Phantom of the Opera will remain an unforgettable performance.
Beyond being iconic of itself, The Phantom of the Opera has pretty much transcended into the poster child for theatre as a whole, and with this honour comes the unfair burden of upholding all that people have come to expect of the medium.
Where it counts, this take on The Phantom of the Opera certainly holds up the vaunted elements of the gothic-inspired romance and mysterious set pieces with ease. Every tune and motif, all now as much a part of pop culture as a Lady Gaga hit, is executed perfectly and always hits the emotional notes we associate with familiar music.
The perceived flaw in question applies largely to the portrayal of certain characters, primarily the Phantom himself. While more than capable of carrying the Phantom’s songs, there is a certain youthfulness with which the character has been imbued that just does not work. While not a particularly wizened character, the Phantom has always been one mired with a tortured gravitas (although still somewhat naive), and much of it is conveyed in his performance. While it’s arguable that, like with all interpretations, this simply portrays a different side of a relatively rounded character, it still feels a tad disconnected from the more recognisable iterations of the character.
Unfortunately, while the performance itself is a minor issue of contention, it’s largely symptomatic of a larger problem: the direction. Many beats and moments do not come through, and there is a sense of awkwardness throughout the play, which is often more emblematic of early performance hiccups–which doesn’t really apply in this case.
Of course, as with anything live, there’s always the possibility that the performance this review is based on was simply an off night. And, regardless, the opportunity to experience something as seminal as The Phantom of the Opera is one that any lover of theatre should seize!
The Phantom of the Opera is now LIVE at Sands Theatre, MBS.