Longest running show on Broadway, 'Phantom of the Opera' to close

Cast members stand on the stage after performing on the re-opening night of "Phantom of the Opera" at the Majestic Theater in New York City, New York, U.S., October 22, 2021. Picture taken October 22, 2021. REUTERS/Caitlin OchsSept 16 - "The Phantom of the Opera,” the longest-running show on Broadway, is set to close on Feb. 18, 2023 due to a sharp drop in ticket sales even after New York theaters reopened following the pandemic lockdown.

“Phantom” is a staple within the Broadway world with over 70 major theater wins and 13,733 performances since its debut in 1988. Despite its legacy, the New York Post reported that the show was losing $1 million a month. Fans mourned the news across social media, reflecting on what the show has meant to thespians and audiences alike. In January, the show cast Emilie Kouatchou as its first Black American actress to portray the lead role of Christine. The decision broke racial barriers and made Broadway history but her performances will be short-lived.The musical will celebrate its 35th anniversary in January followed by a final Broadway performance on Feb. 18.

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “The Phantom of the Opera” is based on the classic novel by Gaston Leroux and was originally directed by Harold Prince. Broadway legends including Michael Crawford, who was the first to play the Phantom, Sarah Brightman, Judy Kaye and others have taken leading roles in the show.

“Phantom” tells the 19th century story of aspiring opera singer Christine Daae who is taught by the mysterious Phantom to hone her vocal skills. However, things take a dark turn when the Phantom chooses Christine as his muse, and she falls in love with an arts benefactor named Raoul.Reporting by Danielle Broadway; Editing by David Gregorio

Entertainment Entertainment Latest News, Entertainment Entertainment Headlines

Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.

‘The Phantom of the Opera’ to close on Broadway next year“The Phantom of the Opera” — Broadway’s longest-running show — is scheduled to close in February 2023.
Source: chicagotribune - 🏆 8. / 91 Read more »

Broadway's 'Phantom of the Opera' to close after 35 yearsFINAL CURTAIN CALL — 'The Phantom of the Opera,' Broadway’s longest-running show, will close in early 2023 after more than 35 years, the production has confirmed. A sad day for new york. Wow
Source: fox5ny - 🏆 587. / 51 Read more »

‘Phantom of the Opera,' Longest-Running Broadway Show, to Close After 35-Year Run“Phantom of the Opera,” a Broadway fixture for so long that it feels like part of the fabric of New York City, will close after a 35-year run. The beloved musical will take its final bow at the Majestic Theatre on Feb.18, 2023, soon after celebrating its 35th anniversary, a representative for the show confirmed to NBC News Friday. The… Not a huge fan I was one of the lucky ones to first see 'Phantom' in 1988 with Michael Crawford, Sarah Brightman, and the Original Cast..!! I've seen it many more times, and in different cities..But Nothing Beats The Original Cast..!! ALW, Thank You..!! 😥🌹💔
Source: NBCNewYork - 🏆 270. / 63 Read more »

'Phantom of the Opera,' Broadway's longest running show, set to close in 2023Just In: 'The Phantom of the Opera,' Broadway's longest running show, has set its closing. KimberlyTiff1 Seen it
Source: CBSNewYork - 🏆 268. / 63 Read more »

‘The Phantom of the Opera,’ Broadway’s longest-running show, to close next yearThe closing, set for Feb. 18, will come less than a month after its 35th anniversary.
Source: mercnews - 🏆 88. / 68 Read more »