Legendary Broadway Show ‘Phantom of the Opera’ Concludes 35-Year Run with 14,000 Performances
After captivating audiences for 35 years, “Phantom of the Opera” finally took its final bow at the Majestic Theatre on Broadway on March 11, 2020. The record-breaking show, which has been running since 1988, has played over 14,000 performances and welcomed more than 17 million theater-goers from around the world. So, what made “Phantom of the Opera” such a legendary Broadway show?
The Story and Music of ‘Phantom of the Opera’
“Phantom of the Opera” is a story that combines romance, mystery, and horror. It was based on French novelist Gaston Leroux’s book, “Le Fantôme de l’Opéra.” The musical follows the story of Christine – a young soprano who becomes the obsession of a mysterious and disfigured musical genius known as the Phantom, who haunts the Paris Opera House. The captivating story is accompanied by an undeniable musical score composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber that features iconic numbers like “The Phantom of the Opera,” “Music of the Night,” and “All I Ask of You.”
Record-Breaking Performances and Legacy
Since its Broadway debut, “Phantom of the Opera” has broken numerous records, including being the longest-running show in Broadway history, grossing over $1 billion worldwide, and currently holds the title of the highest-grossing entertainment product of all-time. The show has also seen various sequels, adaptations, and spin-offs, including a major motion picture, a sequel musical called “Love Never Dies,” and numerous touring productions that have played theatres all over the world.
Closing the Curtain
Fans of the legendary show now have to say goodbye to the beloved story and memorable music after 35 remarkable years. The decision to close the production was announced in 2019, with the producers describing it as a temporary closure for renovations at the Majestic Theatre. However, the coronavirus pandemic which hit New York in March 2020 fast-forwarded the closing of the worldwide phenomenon.
Summary:
“Phantom of the Opera” has been a legendary Broadway show for 35 years with over 14,000 performances and 17 million theatre-goers. The show combines romance, mystery, and horror and is accompanied by an unforgettable musical score composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber. The show broke numerous records, including being the longest-running show in Broadway history, grossing over $1 billion worldwide, and currently holds the title of the highest-grossing entertainment product of all-time. The show closed its curtains due to the coronavirus pandemic, ending the remarkable run of the worldwide phenomenon. #PhantomOfTheOpera #BroadwayLegend #MajesticTheatre #AndrewLloydWebber. #ENTERTAINMENT