Cue the Music. It’s the Phantom of the Opera like you’ve never seen him. Our favorite Phantom is back, and he’s playing at the Gaslight Theatre in Tucson. My family and I were invited to see a performance of The Gaslight Theatre Presents The Phantom of the Opera in exchange for a review and as always all opinions are my own. While guests of the performance won’t hear songs like Masquerade by Andrew Lloyd Webber, they will see the Phantom perform some Elvis moves and the cast perform a catchy song/dance to music similar to The Addams Family theme song. So without further ado, here’s my review of The Gaslight Theatre’s The Phantom of the Opera!
A Review of The Gaslight Theatre Presents The Phantom of the Opera!
A Review of The Gaslight Theatre’s The Phantom of the Opera
This ranks up there as one of my favorite performances. I know, I know. You’re probably thinking that I say that about every performance. But The Gaslight Theatre, and its performers, are always raising the bar high. The performers not only excel at singing, but they are also quick with the one-liners.
First, though, meet the Phantom. Fans of The Gaslight Theatre will be excited to see alum, Armen Dirtadian, portraying the Phantom of the Opera until October 1st. After that, another favorite alum, David Fanning, will be taking over the role. And another fan favorite, Joe Cooper, also returns for some of the performances, playing the role of Madame Giry.
Armen Dirtadian plays a wickedly funny Phantom of the Opera. Photo provided by The Gaslight Theatre.
The lighting really stood out for this particular performance, setting the mood for the various scenes. For example, the lighting becomes dark when the Phantom of the Opera speaks to the audience. And the lighting becomes brighter when the rest of the performers come on stage.
Some of my favorite scenes are when Madame Giry is speaking to Christine, the Phantom’s protégé. For example, when Madame Giry asks Christine the name of her favorite performer, Christine responds with “Verdi.” This leads to a play on words with “Tanque Verde.” Those of you living in Tucson will get the inside joke. And when Madame Giry breaks out singing Que Sera, Sera, I knew the audience was in for a treat.
The Phantom of the Opera is definitely entertaining and is a performance that shouldn’t be missed. In fact, you and your family should have the time of your life!
One of the many hilarious scenes from the Phantom of the Opera, Gaslight Theatre style.
Here’s a little more about The Gaslight Theatre presents Phantom of the Opera:
“Will the chorus girl Christine rise to the occasion after Diva Soprano, Carlotta, storms off the stage during dress rehearsal? Who will be seated in the mysterious Box #5…where programs disappear and ghoulish laughter echoes? Join the Gaslight artists as they transform the stage back to the post-Revolution Paris to revive The Phantom Of The Opera - a love story of musical inspiration and hidden longing, along with a palate-pleasing portion of goofy song and dance!”
JOHNNY CARSON’S OLIO
You’ll want to stick around for the olio at the end. It’s just as good as the main performance and one of my favorite olios. Mike Yarema plays Johnny Carson and Todd Thompson does a great impersonation of Tom Jones. Because it’s not unusual….
And that doesn’t even include all the other performers who also do a great job with their impersonations. Julio Iglesias and Willie Nelson are just a few of the other characters that make an appearance!
THE FOOD
One of the many things I like about the Gaslight Theatre is that guests can order food while watching the performance. The food never disappoints but I ordered the mini chimis this time around, and they are delicious, so I’ll definitely be ordering that again! Along with my usual milkshake. My husband also ordered the hot wings and chili cheese fries and gave it a thumbs up. There are also plenty of kids options available - for example, my son loves the corndogs.
IS IT KID FRIENDLY?
I was concerned that this version of The Phantom of the Opera would be too dark for my son. He was apprehensive for the first couple of minutes. However, as soon as the jokes started, so did the laughter. We were sitting next to other families with younger children and they all seemed to be having a great time, even interacting with the performers at times.
SHOWTIMES?
Tuesday through Sunday, August 31, 2017 through November 5, 2017
LOCATION?
The Gaslight Theatre, 7010 E. Broadway Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85710
TICKET PRICES?
- Adults: $20.95
- Students, Seniors, Military: $18.95
- Children ages 2-12: $10.95
*Prices above do not include tax
**Tickets can be purchased by calling the box office at (520) 886-9428 or by visiting the box office in person. The box office is open daily from 10 am to 9 pm.
***Reservations are required. The performances sell out months in advance, especially the weekend performances.
SHOWTIMES?
- Tuesday through Thursday: 7 pm
- Friday: 6 pm and 8:30 pm
- Saturday: 3 pm (on select Saturdays), 6 pm, and 8:30 pm
- Sunday: 3 pm and 6 pm
- Closing show on Sunday, November 5, 2017 at 12:30 pm.