the phantom of the opera

Last night I went to see The Phantom of the Opera musical. In one word: brilliant. After getting myself in the mood for it in the lead up to the night by watching the movie and repeatedly listening to the original recording at work, I wasn't let down.

I can't really think of anything bad about it. I was in the front row on the first balcony, so had a great seat. It was way better than the movie. So many times I just wanted to sing along but quickly realised that it would be inappropriate.

The special effects were just truly amazing. The things they can achieve with smoke, lights and who knows what else... there were some things that I just couldn't figure out how they did it. The way they made it look like they were floating along on a boat while candles rose up from the "water" below, the realism of the settings (and the way they seamlessly changed the set with the blink of an eye) that made you feel like you were really there, the blasts of fire coming up from the stage, The falling (and rising) chandelier... I loved it all.

Anthony Warlow played the Phantom so well, portrayed the mood swings so well - passionate one moment, insane with rage the next - sent shivers down my spine. You could physically see the rage within him, as well as in his voice. Also, the way they made his character just appear where and when you least expect him, whether it be up high above the stage or out from behind a prop...

Was definitely worth every cent. Would even consider going again. If you haven't been, you should go, an event you just can't miss. Way better than the movie.

Oh and I bought a cool Phantom mug too, its got the mask on it which is black, and when you put hot water in the mug, the mask goes white, and then back to black again when my tea goes cold or when you're finished. Very cool. Also helps me tell if my tea is still warm or not.