Three Phantoms is the concert creation of Earl Carpenter that brings together three previous Phantoms of the Opera. For the second leg of the 2013 tour Matthew Cammelle, Stephen John Davis and Glyn Kerslake take to the stage. Previous Phantoms have included Carpenter himself, John Owen Jones and Simon Bowman.
The show doesn't take itself too seriously, beginning with a Glee rendition of Don't Stop Believing. A pre-show announcement joking that photography is encouraged as good exposure for the ex-Phantom's careers was immediately followed by ushers dashing around the auditorium telling patrons to put away their cameras... There were stories from each Phantom's time in the production, coupled with jokes that linked the early songs together.
The first act was an exciting array of show tunes from hit musicals such as Chicago, The Scarlet Pimpernel, Wicked, Miss Saigon, Martin Guerre, The Book Of Mormon and an act 1 finale of Les Misérables. Highlights being One Day More and an a cappella version of I Dreamed A Dream featuring Rebecca Caine - the original Canadian Phantom cast Christine. Also included were three songs from Spamalot - perhaps the audience didn't fully get the humour in the songs out of context but they were a welcome break between some of the more classical musical theatre performances - a perfect mix.
The second act was largely devoted to the musical of which the performers have in common - The Phantom Of The Opera. Not only the famous Lloyd Webber tunes but a selection from a few of the lesser known productions such as the simply named Phantom - hailed an American masterpiece that premiered in 1991 and received it's British premiere early this year at the Ye Olde Rose and Crown Theatre Pub, Walhamstow. Til I Hear You Sing from Love Never Dies was a highlight as was Rebecca Caine who brought the audience to rapturous applause with her rendition of Think Of Me.
For this production the previous large orchestras are replaced by a pianist and a solo cellist. It gave for an intimate experience but in some of the larger numbers the lack of orchestra was a little underwhelming. Expertly and beautifully played however by Anthony Gabrielle and Laura Anstee. Three other performers Alistair Barron, Anette Yeo and Mandy Watsham Dunstall were an excellent addition to the cast.
Three Phantoms is stunning, a beautiful, sophisticated set up with a variety of musical styles to keep all theatre fans delighted. Humorous at times and seriously sensational throughout. With only one more chance to see in Wolverhampton on Sunday 15th September click here to book.
Just had the five minute call before our first performance in Wolverhampton @WolvesGrand. Lovely theatre. pic.twitter.com/vKbHPl0rIw
— Three Phantoms (@Three_Phantoms) September 14, 2013
If you follow my updates from the Wyvern Theatre in Swindon you may be interested in booking to see the show there from 24th - 26th September 2013. Click here for more information and to book.
Cast List: Matthew Cammelle, Stephen John Davis, Glyn Kerslake, Alistair Barron, Anette Yeo, Mandy Watsham Dunstall, Anthony Gabrielle and Laura Anstee
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