The Phantom of the Opera is shrouded in mystery and intrigue, and the same can be said of its behind-the-scenes production. Here are 10 facts about the stage show that only hardcore fans know.
1) A Real Chandelier Accident Inspired The Novel
in 1896, a pair of counterweights supporting the glass chandelier of Palais Garnier fell through the ceiling and stuck one person dead. Gaston Leroux, the author of the iconic novel, took this event as inspiration. Because of this, the Phantom was created.
2) The Original Novel Wasn’t Very Popular
Nowadays, The Phantom novel is seen as a classic, easily standing toe to toe with the likes of Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” or Bram Stoker’s “Dracula”. At the time, though, audiences were less than impressed by the pulp mystery novel.
3) The Novel Was The Phantom’s Confession to Leroux
Though it is considered iconic in the horror scene, it is framed more like a murder mystery. In the ending, it is revealed that Leroux heard all of the plot as a confession from the Phantom himself! This helped to give the story a touch of realism.
4) Webber’s Version Wasn’t the First Broadway Show for Phantom
While Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical is considered the definitive Phantom, Ken Hill wrote one a full decade prior in 1976. Hill’s show is a more tongue-in-cheek comedy with melodramatic elements. Webber was present at its premiere, which inspired him to create his more popular version.
5) At First, It Was Only a Moderate Success
After the premiere are London’s West End in 1988, Webber’s Phantom of the Opera started gaining traction. The reviews were positive, but it only became a real hit thanks to New York’s tourism boom – with record-breaking performances and over 30 years of success.
6) Plans Were Made For an 80s Film
Following the success of the stage version, Webber wanted a faithful film adaptation. This included casting the theatre actors Michael Crawford and Sarah Brightman in the lead roles of Phantom and Christine. Webber’s divorce led to the film being put on hold until 2004.
7) Gerard Butler Was Not Phantom First Choice
Many fans disliked Gerard’s performance as Phantom. Other actors, including John Travolta and Hugh Jackman, were considered for the role. Antonio Banderas even made it to the recording studio, before being replaced by Gerard. Imagine a Hugh Jackman Phantom.
8) The Mask and Makeup Was Shaped By A Microphone
The Phantom’s iconic half-faced white mask was not actually the intended look. At one point, the mask was full-faced but it obstructed the stage mic and vision. Maria Bjornson designed a new mask, which helped to create the Phantom that we know today.
9) Paul Stanley Donned the Phantom’s Mask
In 1999, KISS frontman Paul Stanley portrayed the Phantom for the final showing of the musical. The role was quite personal to Stanley, as he grew up with microtia related to deformity. The experience changed his career as a musician and gave him a new perspective on life.
10) Phantom is the Longest-Running Show on Broadway
Most musical shows last a decade, if they are lucky. No other Broadway musical has reached the heights of Phantom. Over 30 years and thousands of performances cement its place in history. It is a beautifully haunting tale of love, murder, and passion.
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