The Phantom of the Opera

Mystery and mayhem abound in Hollywood this summer, where "The Phantom of the Opera" plays through July 6. Andrew Lloyd Webber's masterpiece (still on Broadway) returns to Los Angeles in a new touring production (produced by Cameron Mackintosh) that is full of enigmatic energy. Performed by a cast and orchestra of 52, this production of the beloved classic is one you won't want to miss.

The timeless story (based on the novel by Gaston Leroux, with music and lyrics by Webber and Charles Hart) is staged by director Laurence Conner (also responsible for the current touring versions of "Les Miz" and "Miss Saigon"). This production boasts a stellar cast, outstanding scenic design (more on this later), and magical special effects. An elaborate production within an even more elaborate production, "The Phantom of the Opera" will likely leave you in awe.

Aside from the prodigiously talented cast, its mesmerizing score, and timeless story, see this production for Paul Brown's scenic design. He brilliantly creates numerous stages within a stage that easily rival the Pantages' own beautiful interior. With each new set as elaborately impressive as the next, you'll not only be transported into the world of the Phantom, you'll want to stay and explore its many mysteries. Of course, the legendary chandelier is front and center and simply adds some extra sparkle to an already starlit stage.

This is emphasized by the Tony-award winning original costume design by Maria Bj�rnson, whose dazzling threads are put on full display by the actors practicing new choreography by Scott Ambler. With musical favorites like "Music of the Night," "All I Ask Of You," and "Masquerade," everything blends perfectly together to create a whimsical and memorable work of art.

Whether you love or hate the Phantom, you will fall in love with Derrick Davis' portrayal. His performance is dark and tormented and captures his character's anguish. Davis's Phantom will haunt you long after the curtain falls.

As Christine Daa�, the ing�nue the Phantom mentors, the lovely Eva Tavares delivers a powerful performance that bursts with passion. And while the nature of the story itself delves into the realm of nightmares, Tavares brings us back into the light with her beautiful vocals and strong onstage presence.

On June 18th, the Pantages Theatre hosted a special LGBTQ night welcoming community members to see the performance at a discounted rate of only $51. In addition, they hosted a pre-party at a local eatery where theatergoers could mingle before the show, enjoy drinks and free appetizers and meet some of the cast.

The Pantages plans to make this event a staple at every performance, with the next one scheduled for Miss Saigon on July 23rd. Make sure you check it out, it's guaranteed to make your evening of great theatre even greater! For information on the upcoming event visit: https://www.hollywoodpantages.com/LGBTQNight.

Whether you've seen it before or this will be your first time, make your way to the Pantages Theatre for a one-of-a-kind theatrical experience. So, grab your tickets to one of the most beautiful shows in town -- except for Box 5, those seats are taken.

"The Phantom of the Opera" runs through July 7th at The Pantages Theatre, 6233 Hollywood Blvd in Hollywood. For tickets and information visit https://www.hollywoodpantages.com/events/detail/thephantomoftheopera.