Tragic Love! (LAArtsOnline.com)

^{The Phantom of the Opera (starring Cooper Grodin and Julia Udine) runs June 11–August 2 at the Pantages Theatre (Photo: Matthew Murphy)}

Tragic Love!

By Ken Werther

The Phantom of the Opera began its life in London in 1986 and is currently in its history-making 29th year. Opening in New York in 1988, it has become the longest running musical in Broadway history with 11,375 performances and counting. Phantom has been the Broadway musical against which all others are measured.

The Phantom of the Opera is a timeless story about undeniable obsession that could never die. Far beneath the majesty and splendor of the Paris Opera House hides the Phantom. Shamed by his physical appearance and feared by all, the love he holds for the beautiful Christine Daaé is so strong that ultimately even her heart cannot resist. Andrew Lloyd Webber’s mesmerizing score, Harold Prince’s now legendary direction, jaw-dropping scenery, and breathtaking special effects magically combine to bring this tragic love story to life.

Opening in Los Angeles in 1989, The Phantom of the Opera played at the Ahmanson Theatre for four-and-a-half years. It has since returned to LA multiple times at both the Ahmanson and Pantages Theatres, and this time around the show will also be making a stop at Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa in August. It is estimated that Phantom has been seen by more than 140 million people. Wherever you are, the Phantom awaits!

For tickets at the Pantages Theatre in Hollywood (June 11-Aug 2), click here. For tickets at Segerstrom Center in Costa Mesa (August 5-16), click here.