The Phantom Of The Opera coming to Manila

MANILA, Philippines - The world’s most successful and popular musical, and the longest-running show on Broadway, The Phantom Of The Opera, will be staged in Manila for a strictly limited season from Aug. 25 to Oct. 14, at the CCP Main Theater.

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s critically-acclaimed masterpiece celebrated its 25th anniversary on the West End stage last year, and continues to play to full houses nightly in London, New York and around the world. The Phantom Of The Opera has been seen by over 130 million people worldwide, in more than 27 countries, has won over 50 major theater awards, and has grossed more than $5.6B.

Producer Tim McFarlane, managing director of The Really Useful Company Asia Pacific, said The Phantom Of The Opera is an exceptionally unique musical for so many reasons, and sits in a class of its own. It has received incredible acclaim over the years, and to this day remains unrivalled by other musicals in its worldwide successes.

“This touring production of The Phantom Of The Opera is as fine as any version you might see on the West End or Broadway — it is the same superb design, and we invest a great deal to ensure it is of the highest standards. Our stellar cast assembles the industry’s best performers, with members coming from the UK, USA, Australia and South Africa to join forces. The Phantom Of The Opera has enjoyed huge success throughout the Asia-Pacific region, having experienced sold-out seasons in cities such as Tokyo, Singapore, Shanghai and Seoul, and I am confident that audiences in Manila will welcome the production with equal enthusiasm.”

The chief executive of Lunchbox Theatrical Productions, James Cundall, who is presenting The Phantom Of The Opera in Manila, said, “To bring the world’s most popular musical to such a musically-gifted nation as the Philippines has been a long-term dream. It is a superb show which epitomizes all that is great about musical theater — unbelievable music, a powerfully moving story, lavish sets and costumes, and most importantly, superb audience entertainment. The musical is a worldwide sensation which will take Philippine audiences on an unforgettable musical theater journey.”

Francis Lumen, chief executive of presenting partner Hi-Definition Radio Inc., said, “As a promoter for the past 30 years of various top-name concerts in the Philippines, being a part of the greatest Broadway musical in the world is a dream come true.”

Julie Carceller, Smart Infinity department head, shared, “As Infinity celebrates its eighth year, we continue to delight our customers with award-winning Broadway shows such as Phantom of the Opera with Smart Infinity… Live More!”

Sergio Zanatti, consumer business manager of Citibank Philippines announced their credit cardholders and bank clients will once again receive exclusive offers that include access to a preview sale where they can choose the best seats on their preferred dates ahead of the general public, and a 10-percent discount on tickets. “We are pleased to once again open the way for a world-class production to come to Manila and perform to local audiences. This early, the news of the Phantom of the Opera being staged in Manila has received wide support and the positive feedback from our clients has been encouraging.”

The Phantom Of The Opera tells the story of a disfigured musical genius known only as The Phantom who haunts the depths of the Paris Opera House. Mesmerized by the talents and beauty of a young soprano — Christine, the Phantom lures her as his protégé and falls fiercely in love with her. Unaware of Christine’s love for Raoul, The Phantom’s obsession sets the scene for a dramatic turn of events where jealousy, madness and passions collide.

With 130 cast, crew and orchestra members, jaw-dropping scenery, breathtaking special effects and more than 230 costumes by international designer, the late Maria Björnson, The Phantom Of The Opera contains some of Webber’s most famous and stirring music, including The Phantom of the Opera and Music of the Night.

The timeless, romantic and much-loved musical has been honored with seven prestigious New York Tony Awards, among them the Tony for Best Musical, seven Drama Desk Awards and three Olivier Awards.

The film of The Phantom Of The Opera was released in 2004 and has thrilled cinema-goers around the world, and a Las Vegas spectacular now in its sixth year continues to enthral audiences.

Tickets will go on sale on May 1. Book now at Ticketworld 891-9999 or log onto www.ticketworld.com.ph