Quote of the Day: The Phantom of the Opera holds the record for the longest running show in Broadway history, opening on January 26, 1988, and closing on April 16, 2023.  

I think this was my fifth time seeing Andrew Lloyd Webber’s most famous work The Phantom of the Opera. I’ve been a fan of the music ever since it came out. Each time I watch it, I’m surprised by something new, unexpected, or maybe even forgotten. The current Broadway tour, on stage at the historic Orpheum Theatre in Minneapolis, MN through Dec. 7, 2025, is just as magical as ever. Some new staging, a tremendously talented cast, and a set that is filled with many magical moments. 

Isaiah Bailey as The Phantom and Jordan Lee Gilbert as Christine in The Phantom of the Opera North American Tour. Photo: Mathew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman

Jordan Lee Gilbert as Christine is absolutely stunning. Her vocal skills and range are impeccable. Just when you think she’s hit the top, she gives a little more, and the whole auditorium goes quiet, then erupts in applause. A man in front of me gave her a standing ovation after her solo in the graveyard scene “Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again.” Daniel Lopez brings in the sweet voice of Raoul and tenderness of character as he’s reacquainted with Christine.

Jordan Lee Gilbert as Christine in the National Tour of The Phantom of the Opera. Photo: Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman

Isaiah Bailey as The Phantom is mesmerizing. He has such strength as an actor, a singer, and command of this role and the stage. The audience, like Christine, fall under his spell. “The Music of the Night” is one of my favorite songs, and Bailey kept me spellbound. The entire performance was pure excellence. 

Daniel Lopez as Raoul, Vicomte de Chagny and Jordan Lee Gilbert as Christine Daaé in The Phantom of the Opera North American Tour. Photo: Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman

Melo Ludwig is an adorable Meg Giry, and Lisa Vroman was wonderful as Madame Giry. All the the ballerinas were lovely. The choreography and musical staging by Gillian Lynne is gorgeous. Sometimes light and dreamy when the ballerinas are in the background. Sometimes sharp and dynamic as they’re performing the show within a show. And, the costumes by Jill Parker and Hunter Kaczorowski are gorgeous. I especially liked all the theatrical effects during the “Masquerade” scene.  

Cast of the National Tour of The Phantom of the Opera. Photo: Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman

The Phantom of the Opera is technically complex, with so many surprises in each scene, from falling chandeliers to fire shooting out of canes, a mystical river, atmosphere created through expert lighting. Lighting design by Andrew Bridge. Sound design by Mick Potter. Music Director is Isaac Hayward. The live orchestra was superb. 

I love The Phantom of the Opera and this production hit all the marks and exceeded expectations. Considering that performances are already selling out, it’s safe to say that this is still a tremendously popular show. You can see it at the Orpheum Theatre in Minneapolis through Dec. 7, 2025.

Go. Create. Inspire!

Journaling Prompt: Do you know any other stories of old buildings being haunted, or legends of an outcast living in secret?