One of Broadway's longest-running and most legendary musicals is making its grand debut in the hostess city. Fans should prepare to be captivated by the "Music of the Night" as Savannah Children's Theatre (SCT) presents "The Phantom of the Opera" comes to the historic Savannah Theatre July 7-16.
"We are incredibly honored to showcase this iconic piece of musical theatre in such a breathtaking and historic venue," said Jenn Doubleday, Associate Director of SCT.
"The Phantom of the Opera," a mesmerizing musical composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber, originally premiered at London's Her Majesty's Theatre on October 9, 1986.
While the chandelier has fallen for the final time on Broadway, the enchanting "music of the night" continues to echo. The Junior Company of SCT will be the first group of talented actors to bring this spellbinding show to life in Savannah.
"It's the premiere in town, and it promises to be a wild, exhilarating performance. Audiences familiar with the Broadway production won't be disappointed," said David I. L. Poole, the show's production designer.
Having completed over 35 years and nearly 14,000 performances, "The Phantom of the Opera" bid farewell to Broadway, leaving an indelible mark on more than 20 million captivated viewers and grossing over $1.3 billion. With the conclusion of its Broadway run, the rights are now open for schools and community theaters to produce the play.
"Phantom of the Opera" debuted on Broadway two years after its successful run on the West End. Tickets were sold out months in advance of its opening in January 1988, with shows fully booked until September of the same year.
"We have meticulously recreated everything that 'Phantom of the Opera' offers on Broadway, and we're injecting our unique flair into it within the historic Savannah Theatre. We're piecing together all the elements to make the magic happen," said Poole.
Poole's passion for theater runs deep. He fondly recalls being 7 years old when the show premiered, witnessing its megahit status at the time. He also cherishes memories of his father, who served in the Army Band and played "The Phantom of the Opera."
At the 42nd annual Tony Awards, "The Phantom of the Opera" triumphed over a formidable lineup of nominees including "Dreamgirls," "Anything Goes," and "Into the Woods," securing the coveted title of Best Musical.
Based on Gaston Leroux's renowned 1910 French novel of the same name, the musical weaves a tale of fascination between a beautiful soprano, Christine Daaé, and a mysterious, masked musical genius residing beneath the Paris Opéra House.
The young performers taking part in the Savannah production are ecstatic to be a part of this extraordinary experience. For many of them, it is a dream come true to perform in this illustrious show.
"These exceptional high school students are living their dreams. Many of them have witnessed the show and are now portraying their dream roles, and it's nothing short of amazing. The rehearsal process has been a true delight," said Poole, who has actively observed many of the rehearsals as the production designer.
The show is under the direction of Kelie Miley, with Galen Schneider producing choreography and Keena Charbonneau as musical director. The talented team also includes stage manager Cynthia Holmen, dramaturg Dani Vazquez, technical director Mike Prow, and scenic and sculptural artist Jodi Waters.
An integral part of the show's spectacle lies in its technical effects, which Poole promises will be delivered in full force.
"There's an abundance of magic within this production. From mesmerizing mirrors to a soaring chandelier that descends and crashes, from a colossal elephant to enchanted chairs and other awe-inspiring elements, the audience will be transported into a realm of sheer disbelief," expressed Poole.
The chandelier itself remains one of the most memorable features of the show. The one being used by SCT has a remarkable history—it was originally crafted for a "Phantom of the Opera" production in New York. Constructed by a high school during the brief period when the show was licensed for high school performances in the early 2000s, the chandelier now belongs to the Children's Theater.
"We acquired this magnificent chandelier, and it has become a prized possession of the Children's Theater. Its exquisite beauty perfectly complements the lavish production design, complete with fog, fire effects, and other wonders," Poole proudly revealed.
While the SCT regularly hosts shows at their own space, "The Phantom of the Opera" will unfold at the Historic Savannah Theatre. The two groups have collaborated in the past, and the historic venue is equipped to meet the technical production demands of the show. With more seats available, this provides a greater opportunity for people to witness the spectacle firsthand.
"The historic Savannah Theatre offers the ideal stage height for the chandelier to ascend majestically into the sky. It provides a fitting home for the chandelier and offers a prestigious location," Poole explained.
In addition to the lavish production design, the costumes are equally stunning. Most of them have been rented from a reputable company in Chicago, having previously graced the national tour or various productions of "The Phantom of the Opera" over the years. And of course, the enchanting music completes the sensory experience.
"The music in this show is undeniably unforgettable. From the haunting melodies of 'Music of the Night' to the heartfelt 'All I Ask of You,' every iconic piece from 'Phantom' is featured in this production. It's a musical journey from start to finish," Poole praised, acknowledging the cast for their exceptional dedication to the challenging roles and their ability to truly evoke emotions through their performances.
With numerous phantoms, Christines, and Raouls, and countless productions over the course of 35 years, the grandeur, the music, and the spectacle of "The Phantom of the Opera" continue to enthrall audiences. What is it that keeps people returning to experience this timeless tale?
"At the heart of it all, there's always a story. It's a love triangle that resonates with us on some level, despite its distance from our reality. A magical phantom dwelling beneath the catacombs, traversing the river by gondola to haunt the opera house—this tale captivates us because of its compelling narrative," Poole mused.
Poole believes that the relatability of the story is what draws audiences back time and again, making each encounter with "The Phantom of the Opera" as enchanting as the first.
Performances for "The Phantom of the Opera" are scheduled on Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., with Sunday matinees at 3 p.m. A special Thursday performance will also take place on July 13 at 8 p.m. Tickets can be purchased through the official Savannah Theatre website at savannahtheatre.com.
