'Phantom' delivers haunting, beautiful performance in Haugh
Andrew Vasquez
Issue date: 3/5/08 Section: A&E
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"Phantom" was written by Arthur Kopit with music and lyrics by Maury Yeston and is based on the novel "The Phantom of the Opera" by Gaston Leroux.
The Citrus production, which opened Feb. 29, was directed by Douglas Austin, with musical direction by Martin Green.
"Phantom" tells the story of a man with a disfigured face, who lives in the catacombs beneath the Paris Opera House. He scares away anyone who threatens to disturb the Opera House, which he considers his home.
One day the Phantom (Isaac James) hears the voice of street singer Christine Daeé (Ashley Green) when she is brought to the Opera House by its beneficiary Count Philippe De Chandon (Cameron Lanier).
The Phantom, whose name is revealed to be Erik, entices Christine to become his pupil to train for the opera. He says he cannot exist without hearing her beautiful singing and eventually falls in love with her.
The head of the Opera House, Gérard Carriere (Roger Cobian), who is later revealed to be Erik's father, is fired by the new owners, the wealthy Alain Cholet (Danny Munguia) and his snobbish wife Carlotta (Heather Lundstedt).
He can no longer protect the Phantom from the authorities after he takes Christine to his lair. A dark series of events soon follow.
First off, this production of "Phantom" is not an interpretation of Andrew Lloyd Webber's musical, "Phantom of the Opera."
This performance has a different plot, different songs, and features different characters from Lloyd Webber's production.
The biggest difference between Lloyd Webber's "Phantom of the Opera" and "Phantom" is in the title role. This Phantom can be compared to Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. He does not revel in killing.
When he does kill someone, almost instinctually, he later feels remorse. This approach made his character that much more complex and sympathetic.
James' performance was frightening yet beautiful. He transitioned flawlessly from Erik's kindhearted, almost childlike, state of mind to the Phantom's twisted urges. From his appearance on stage until the cast takes its final bow, he is the Phantom.
Green as Christine is as talented as she is beautiful. Her character is so innocent that when she is sorrowful or joyful, everyone in the audience can feel her emotions. From her first performance of the play in "Melodie De Paris," it was apparent that she has talent not only as an actress, but also as a singer.
Their duets together, especially in "You Are Music," are magical expressions of love. Both actors put their all into every second they are on stage.
Cobian is another standout performer. His character is endearing and kind. When he and James joined voices in the song "You Are My Own" after they acknowledge each other as father and son, you can see him bring out the human side of the Phantom. Cobian also has an amazing vocal range and a powerful voice that makes him all the more memorable.
The "Phantom" production staff should also take a bow. The stage design transports the audience into the Opera House and below.
The visual effects, the scenery, and the hair and makeup, all done by students in the performing arts and cosmetology departments, demonstrate student talent and quality of instruction.
Southern California theatergoers go to the Pantages and the Ahmanson to see professionals at their best. But if they only knew that the same quality is brought to every production at Citrus College, then they would line up for such spectacular shows as "Phantom."
Andrew Vasquez can be reached at ccclarion@hotmail.com
Viewing Comments 1 - 1 of 1
Courtney Reyes
posted 3/09/08 @ 10:17 AM PST
A very well written article. I whole heartedly agree with the last paragraph especially.
I was surprised to see that your article on the website has the proper character and actor's name for Carlotta's husband. (Continued…)
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