Phantom of the Opera Review

Decorative masks and colorful feathers were scattered among the spectators who gathered to watch Cameron Mackintosh’s new production of The Phantom of the Opera. “Broadway in Portland” is currently putting on the show.

Chris Mann leads the cast in the central role of the Phantom of The Opera. Many might know Chris when he rose to stardom as Christina Aguilera’s finalist on NBC’s The Voice. Subsequently, Chris has performed in many other shows and specials, along with hitting #1 on Billboard’s Heatseekers Chart with his debut album. Needless to say, Chris does a wonderful job of portraying the distorted, yet pitiful character.

The central synopsis of this classic is the love triangle involving a masked ghost haunting the Paris Opera, the handsome Vicomte Raoul de Chagny played by Storm Lineberger, and the budding diva Christine Daae, who is torn with choosing between them. Katie Travis, who boasts her own impressive list of theater credits, plays the role of Christine. The display of acting intertwined with powerful singing is sure to impress all who attend, as the cast is both entertaining and highly talented.

Along with the notable cast performing in this play, the presentation on stage is also an eye-opener. All throughout the first and second acts, the play boasts a wide variety of overwhelmingly beautiful and detailed backdrops that take you through the story vividly. Each scene takes you to a different place, and makes you feel as though you are truly there. On top of that, the production introduces effective and sometimes surprising special effects that keep the audience on the edge of their seats. The large and dazzling chandelier is a can’t miss prop used in the show.

If romance, drama, mystery, and a little fantasy are what you are looking for, look no further than this classic by Andrew Lloyd Webber, now playing at the Keller Auditorium through May 23rd. Just about any seat is good in this theatre setting, and for a truly special night, make sure to also catch the live orchestra in action. Get there early and enjoy a truly timeless night!.