The Phantom of the Opera - Youth Group Production

Okay, so I know I’m in for a treat when I visit RTSA, however nothing prepared for the spectacle, yes that is the right word, the spectacle that I witnessed at their latest production, The Phantom of the Opera. Every single part of this production was mind blowing. The costumes looked  fabulous and right for the era. Well done Kath Wall and team. Any advice where I can get a cape like the Phantoms for the Bridlington weekend would be appreciated. The lighting was spot on and created the right atmosphere for the many scenes. Talking about scenes, Matthew Roberts, Stage Manager, take a bow. Matthew and his team must be exhausted after each performance, as they manoeuvre organs, statues, tables, head stones and set off pyrotechnics in double quick time. A masterclass of stage management. 

Having seen every RTSA production since 2002, I have to say that this the best sung show out of them all. Matthew Symonds, Musical Director, has obviously spent many hours with the extremely talented cast to tackle this difficult score. Matthew also conducted a brilliant orchestra which sent tingles down the spine. Dee Bennie- Marshall, Director and Choreographer, is a theatrical legend and this production once again shows why she is still at the top of the craft. 

But what of the cast? What made this show so special, was that it was cast to perfection. The ensemble worked hard portraying the different characters in and around the Opera Populaire, with the dancing, as one as come to expect with Dee being the Choreographer, especially the opening routine being mind blowing. I must mention that the dancing talents of Samuel Berry didn’t go unnoticed and I’m sure he will be able to show off his skills even more in the academy’s next production, West Side Story. Brooke Green, yet again showed what a force of nature she is as the Diva, Carlotta. Her vocals were insane and her characterisation on point. Another audience favourite was Louis Parker as Piangi, who got every bit of comedy from this role. Josef Summerscales and Charlie Fields played the managers, Firmin and Andre respectively and were a delight to watch. Sofia Summerscales portrayed Meg Giry , and was so elegant as she danced her way t around the stage. Claudia Brown - Vasilescu, commanded the stage as the ballet mistress Madame Giry, and showed maturity beyond her years. Theo Cutts  was a strong Raoul and treated us to some great vocals. One word can describe Christine, portrayed by Sophie Antcliff. Sublime. Great poise, excellent acting and a voice like the angel of music. Her Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again, captured all the emotion for one that we have loved and lost. Watch out Sarah Brightman, there’s a new Christine in town! 

Of course, where would The Phantom of the Opera be without the man himself? William Openshaw brought this iconic character to life with such believability that I honestly forgot I was watching a 15 year old performer. My heart broke as out of love, The Phantom let Christine go.  William was exceptional, with clear diction and an outstanding voice. William could grace any stage anywhere in the world and the show would sell out. A performance that I won’t forget in a hurry, and a true leading man. 

RTSA, long may you bring professional standard shows to the Rotherham Civic Theatre, we appreciate you more than you will ever know. 
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