#raphael wong

Raphael Wong (u/s) Phantom of the current Australian Tour of Cameron Mackintosh’s production. I was ‘meh’ on the new choreography, staging and overall direction of this production (and I’m never one to compare anything to the original...).

Some good Phantom moments from 2022:

Phantom anniversaries! Broadway’s 34th anniversary also marked Emilie Kouatchou’s first official principal Christine show (which also made her the first black principal Christine on Broadway).

Sydney Harbour! The first outdoor production of Phantom, complete with a chariot, fire, and ‘Point of No Return’ in the rain.

Unofficial photos! Melanie Gowie (London Phantom dresser and former Carlotta) and Greg Mills (Broadway swing) continue to stun with their unofficial backstage/onstage photos.

Live performances! Probably the biggest one was at the Queen’s Jubilee.

Raoul’s, Raoul’s, and more Raoul’s! While John Riddle killed it in Titanique, Jordan Donica, Paul Schaefer, and Jason Forbach all took turns as principal Raoul. Jordan’s return also marked the first time more than one black actor was in the trio at the same time on Broadway.

Restaged Tour! After being put off for a year, the Australian Restaged Tour finally opened featuring former London cast members Josh Piterman, Amy Manford, and Bridget Costello.

Non-replicas! Several non-replicas had performances this year, including Hungary. Budapest also had (or eventually will have) their first big cast change since the production opened over 20 years ago. 

Korean production! Cast was officially announced for Phantom’s return to Korea.

Chinese production! The first production to actually be performed in Mandarin.

charmer

2/9 POTO AUS 16/02/23 - Carlotta TOM + Extra

Being in the front row (brag) it was really cool to clearly see the performer’s expressions. You can’t see it in the video but Giuseppina has incredible control of her eyebrows. At particular beats she would raise one of them so high with a sour face and it was amazing.

POTO Melbourne - December 22 2022