North Shore Music Theatre's "Phantom": An Exquisite Production

Be careful - the phantom lives down there. 

North Shore Music Theatre presents Yeston and Kopit’s “Phantom.” The story follows Erik, a mysterious, disfigured musical genius who lives in the Paris Opera House cellar. As he secretly trains Christine Daaé, Erik falls in love with the singer, but it leads to clashes and revenge.

I still have yet to see a staged version of “Phantom of the Opera,” and North Shore Music Theatre’s “Phantom” is an excellent intro. I sat entranced in my seat, uttering “wow.” NSMT’s Yeston and Kopit’s “Phantom” is a visually captivating musical with enriching vocals and a moral about accepting everyone, no matter their appearance. 

Sean Seamus Thompson and Madison Claire Parks play Erik (The Phantom) and Christine Daaé. Both are splendid in their portrayals. They learn more than they expected in their short time together. 

After being labeled as a monster because of his disfigurement, Erik has retreated from society into the shows. Thompson brings remarkable depth to the role, balancing Erik’s musical brilliance and his resentment toward the world. The loneliness has affected him, making him forget what love is.  

Christine’s character is more than a woman finding her voice. As she discovers her musical abilities, Christine finds the confidence to make her own choices. Her songs are beautifully expressed through Parks’ rich operatic vocals, which echo throughout the auditorium 

 The talents in this production are extraordinary. Victoria Huston-Elem is memorable as La Carlotta, an opera diva, especially in her song, “This Place is Mine.” Christian Probst plays Count Philippe de Chandon, a confident nobleman, who tries to win Christine’s heart.

Gregory North brings humble vulnerability as Gerard Carriere. He shares a beautiful moment in the song, “You Are My Own.”

“Phantom” welcomes a familiar NSMT face seen around the holidays. David Coffee plays Jean-Claude, who is always getting everyone ready before performances start. 

No small part exists in the theater. An ensemble plays various roles and dances elegantly around the stage. Alex Syiek (Alain Cholet), Billy Goldstein (Joseph Buquet), and Justin R.G. Holcomb play Inspector Ledoux. Quinn Murphy, who has played Tiny Tim in previous “Christmas Carol” productions, plays Young Erik. He splits the role with Aidan Rystrom. 

NSMT’s production is stunning. The NSMT technical team enhances the storytelling, transporting audiences to the  Paris Opera House through striking lighting, beautiful costumes, and set designs. 

Jack Mehler’s scenic and lighting design creates an atmospheric world that shifts between the grandeur of the opera house and the shadows of Erik’s hidden existence. The lighting encapsulates both worlds, illuminating the elegance while plunging into moments of darkness. 

It may feel like a small moment, but I was entranced by a staircase lifting into the air, becoming a balcony. Theater magic is real. 

Rachel Padula-Shufelt’s wig & hair design adds to the production’s theater aesthetic. Rebecca Glick’s costumes are beautiful, capturing the extravagance of the period. I always love seeing period gowns across the stage as the actresses dance.

Speaking of dancing, Briana Fallon choreographed several dance sequences. The dance sequences complement the music conducted by Dale Reiling and a live orchestra. Songs include “Dressing for the Night,” “Without Your Music,” and “You Are Music.”

Director Robert W. Schneider brings the story’s romance, mystery, and tragedy together in a compelling theatrical experience. At its center, “Phantom” is a poignant reminder to look beyond appearances and recognize everyone’s ambitions. 

North Shore Music Theatre’s “Phantom” is a remarkable achievement. The final image is resonating. This show is a terrific way to introduce anyone who hasn’t seen “Phantom of the Opera.” “Phantom” plays at North Shore Music Theatre until Sunday, Nov. 1.