Phantom
Ye Olde Rose and Crown Theatre
Reviewed on Friday 17th May 2013
I was rather excited as I took my seat at the Ye Olde Rose and Crown Theatre as it suddenly dawned on me that I was about to witness the UK professional premiere of a very interesting production - Phantom, an alternative (and the original) musical version of The Phantom of the Opera. The cast are strong and the production is mostly good but I found the writing a littler underwhelming in places.
Maury Yeston's score has moments of genius. The ballads feature the most beautiful melodies and incredibly moving lyrics. With the exception of Melody De Paris (the show's delightful opening number) the company numbers are a little dull. The lyrics are unimaginative and the melodies lack the necessary 'oomph' which is required to carry a show.
Jenny Gamble's set design is a little weak. I am aware that the director, Dawn Kalani Cowle, was keen to ensure her production focused on the characters and story instead of it being a big spectacle so therefore I think more should have been left to the imagination. There are too many clumsy scene changes and pointless, cheap-looking pieces of set. Sometimes less can be more.
It is impossible not to compare Phantom to Andrew Lloyd Webber's musical version. Phantom is written in such a way which makes the characters feel far more relatable. The show also delves into the back story of The Phantom which is an extremely interesting and captivating section of the show. However, Andrew Lloyd Webber's Phantom of the Opera has a stronger score which makes the production a magical, timeless classic. I saw the show last year for the first time and found myself lost in the music and story.
Kira Morsley gives a stunning portrayal of Christine. Her voice is so pure and there is something incredibly special about hearing a soprano perform in such an intimate space as the sound is so raw. Not only does Kira appear to sing the score effortlessly but she really grows as the character develops and she connects deeply with the lyrics. Kieran Brown is astoundingly brilliant as The Phantom. His portrayal is intriguing as he performs with such depth. Kieran's vocals are haunting and utterly breathtaking, he thoroughly deserves to go on to lead many more companies in the future.
Pippa Winslow is marvellous at playing the villain of the piece, Carlotta. While I am sure she has a lovely voice I couldn't hear most of her solo number as she was drowned out by the small orchestra. The choreography is predicable and unadventurous. More stylised choreography would be far more effective and would compliment the eeriness of the piece
An element of excitement surrounds this long overdue UK professional premiere of Phantom. Whether you are familiar with The Phantom of the Opera or not I would recommend this show if you want to see something a little different to the usual glittery, colourful musical.
Reviewed by Andrew Tomlins (Editor)
andrew@westendframe.com
Phantom runs at the Ye Olde Rose and Crown Theatre until 31st May 2013.
Visit www.allstarproductions.co.uk for further information and tickets.
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Written by a child, perhaps?
ReplyDeleteAs a Phan I knew I had to see this show. Cast perform to west end standard but the cardboard set made everyone laughter when it was not funny!! I felt embarrassed and it felt like a school play with west end performers.
ReplyDelete