Last summer I learned that my all-time favorite musical was coming to Denver.  Three months ago I gobbled up tickets as soon as they went on sale.  Last night all my patience in waiting finally paid off.  It was almost hard to believe that the performance was here, already! What am I talking about (incase you could not tell from the subject line), none other than The Phantom of the Opera!

This was not the first time I have seen a live production of this wonderful masterpiece.  Eleven years ago I went with a friend to the Pantages in LA, a few years after that I saw a “version” called Phantom up in Santa Barbara (not the same).  But now, I’m older, more mature, I’ve fallen increasingly in love with Phantom and thus was able to better appreciate everything about the performance.  Plus, our exceptional seats didn’t hinder the experience either (dead center, about 20 rows back).  😉

As far as we know, this was Noah’s second professional live musical performance.  The first was in December when we went to see The Producers, however, this was his first musical put on by a national tour ensemble.

If I were to re-write the play, Christine would choose Phantom.  I just love his character so much more than Raoul.  But last night, it was Raoul’s baritone voice that enchanted my ears.  Plus, perhaps it was the fedora that donned Phantom’s head that continued to dissuade me.  I was almost rooting for Raoul…almost.  I still would prefer Christine to end up with the Phantom.  🙂

All in all, it was an amazing performance and an exhausting night (we got home quite late; I was asleep as soon as my head hit the pillow) that we thoroughly enjoyed, even though I had to turn and tell the woman behind me to be quiet during the beginning of Act II.

So which play will be next?  Wicked will be in Denver this autumn and my sister has demanded I go see that one.  Perhaps then Wicked will be the next Playbill to grace my palms.