The announcement of new cast members breathes new life into the final run The Phantom of the Opera. Here’s everything we know about the iconic musical before the West End production takes its final bow.
The Legacy of The Phantom of the Opera
The Phantom of the Opera is one of the longest running productions in London’s West End. The story comes from the book of the same name written by Gaston Leroux. The musical as we know it was written by Andrew Lloyd Webber and has been a fixture of the West End since it first opened at Her Majesty’s Theatre in 1986. Soon after, the production made its way to Broadway in 1988, and the rest they say, is history.
The production has won the 1986 Olivier Award and the 1988 Tony Award for Best Musical. Since then, The Phantom of the Opera The musical has been translated into several languages. It has been played in over 183 cities across 41 countries.
The Phantom of the Opera tells the story of a disfigured musical genius who haunts the Paris Opera House, and becomes infatuated with Christine, a chorus member of the Opera House. Eventually, the talented and beautiful soprano becomes the obsession of the Phantom as he lures her to become his protege.
Cast Members Joining The Phantom of the Opera
On January 18th, the new cast members were announced on social media. Earl Carpenter will be returning as the Phantom from February 13th to April 1st. Then, Jon Robyns picks up as the Phantom April 3rd. Holly Ann-Hull will be Christine Daaé from January 23rd, and Paige Blankson joins as alternate Christine Daaé Feb 13th.
We’re thrilled to announce #PhantomLondon’s new casting 🌹@JRobyns joins as Phantom from 3 Apr@HollyAnneHull will be Christine Daaé from 23 Jan
Paige Blankson joins as alternate Christine Daaé from 13 Feb@EarlCarpenter will be returning as the Phantom from 13 Feb – 1 Apr pic.twitter.com/R69ivfzH6G
— The Phantom Of The Opera (@PhantomOpera) January 18, 2023
Well it’s been announced so it must be true! 💫 😭❤️ @PhantomOpera pic.twitter.com/JvY6VBdIOw
— 𝙷𝚘𝚕𝚕𝚢-𝙰𝚗𝚗𝚎 𝙷𝚞𝚕𝚕 ☼ (@HollyAnneHull) January 18, 2023
So after 10 years and never thinking I’d EVER return to this role, I am and I’m bowled over. Nestled sweetly between @killiandonnelly and @JRobyns I’ll be @PhantomOpera for an amazing 7 weeks. #👻 pic.twitter.com/d1lCWt4Bwv
— Earl Carpenter (@EarlCarpenter) January 18, 2023
Another Extended Run Also Announced
Back in September 2022, the the production was announced to end February 18th, 2023. However, the announcement of the shows ending increased ticket sales, social media spotlight, as theatre goers wanted to catch the show one last time. On November 29th, 2022, the show was extended once more to April 16th, 2023.
The Phantom of the Opera is a must-see for any musical theatre fan, and the new cast is sure to bring a fresh energy to the show. With its iconic music, stunning set design, and incredible special effects, the Phantom of the Opera continues to be one of the most spectacular productions in the West End.
