The first visit to the country of the longest-running musical on Broadway left no question that Manila is all caught up in the enchantment judging from the packed theater and the standing ovation that came at the end.
Acclaimed as the world’s most successful musical, “The Phantom of the Opera,” is currently on extended performance from August 25 – September 30, 2012 at the CCP Main Theater.
The masterpiece of Andrew Lloyd Webber has been seen by more than 130 million people worldwide. Fort the Manila performance, the show boasts of 130 cast, crew and orchestra members, breathtaking scenery and special effects, and more than 230 costumes by the late international designer, Maria Björnson.
Some of Manila’s talented local musicians who have been specially selected by Musical Director Guy Simpson join the international cast and orchestra. Talented Filipino tenor Dondi Ong is also in the international touring cast for Manila and throughout Asia. Ong is a product of the UP College of Music graduating as Magna Cum Laude and class valedictorian.
Set in and around the Opera House in Paris in 1881, “The Phantom of the Opera” tells the story of a disfigured musical genius known only as ‘The Phantom’ who will stop at nothing to see his protégé, Christine Daaé, become the first lady of the stage and sing his works.
On the eve of Christine’s successful debut, the theater’s new patron, Raoul, realizes Christine is a childhood friend. Unaware of Christine’s love for Raoul, a fierce competition between “The Phantom’ and Raoul sets the scene for a dramatic turn of events where jealousy and passions collide.
