Birmingham Hippodrome - Wednesday 4th April, 7:30pm
Phantom of the opera is now performing at Birmingham Hippodrome on its final leg of its UK tour. I had been in eager anticipation to see the reworked version of the original classic after visiting Her Majesty's Theatre in January. I have always been a Phantom 'Phan' after being introduced to Andrew Lloyd Webber's spectacular score at a young age, and was intrigued to see how the classic production would be remodeled for the road.This production did not by any means disappoint. The scenery and set were unlike any touring show I had seen before. Every set change moved so efficiently and almost noticeably that it was easy to forget you weren't watching a West End or Broadway production. The introduction to the Phantom's lair was so imaginative that it created the illusion you were travelling deep, dark, underground to the hidden depths of the Paris Opera House. The scenery was lavish with no expenses spared for this production and the technical and lighting effects worked extraordinarily.
Unlike the London production the Chandelier doesn't dramatically fall during the performance, yet has been adapted suitably to suit the restraints of the touring venues. It is however a beautifully illuminated piece of set and Phantom would really not be 'Phantom' without it. Other noticeable changes included the Masquerade Ball and although in this touring production there wasn't a grand staircase, Scott Ambler's eye catching Choreography cleverly enhanced the utilization of the stage space.
At this production Olivia Brereton played the role of Christine Daaé due to Katie Hall's absence and performed the role with ease and elegance, whilst charming the audience with her astounding vocals. She was suitably matched with Simon Bailey's Raoul. Earl Carpenter was haunting in the title role of The Phantom and showed much experience in the complex character after having played the iconic role on the West End for over one thousand performances. Angela M Ceasar was comical as Carlotta and delivered crystal clear vocals worthy of any Opera House. At this performance Sarah Joyce performed the role of Madame Giry and Rachael Crocker provided a beautiful understudy performance as Meg.
The Phantom Haunts Birmingham Hippodrome until the 4th May!
