The Phantom of the Opera is one of the most beloved musicals of all time. Since it first premiered in London’s West End in 1986, it has been seen by millions of people around the world.
One of the most iconic roles in the show is, of course, the Phantom himself. Over the years, many talented actors have taken on this challenging and rewarding role. Let’s take a closer look at some of the actors who have played the Phantom in London.
Michael Crawford
The original London production of The Phantom of the Opera starred Michael Crawford as the Phantom. Crawford had already made a name for himself as an actor and singer, with roles in films like A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum and Hello, Dolly! He won critical acclaim for his portrayal of the Phantom, earning an Olivier Award for Best Actor in a Musical.
Sarah Brightman
Another key figure in The Phantom of the Opera’s early days was Sarah Brightman. Brightman played Christine Daaé, the object of the Phantom’s obsession and a talented soprano in her own right. She was also married to Andrew Lloyd Webber at the time, which added an extra layer of intrigue to their collaboration on this show.
John Owen-Jones
In more recent years, John Owen-Jones has become one of London’s most celebrated Phantoms. He first took on the role in 2001 and has since played it over 1,800 times. Owen-Jones is known for his powerful voice and commanding stage presence, which make him a natural fit for this challenging role.
Ramin Karimloo
Another contemporary actor who has made his mark on The Phantom of the Opera is Ramin Karimloo. Karimloo first played Raoul, Christine’s love interest, before taking on the role of the Phantom himself. He has also played other iconic roles in musical theatre, including Jean Valjean in Les Misérables and the title character in The Prince of Broadway.
Ben Forster
Ben Forster is another actor who has made a name for himself as the Phantom. He first played the role in 2011, and his performance was praised for its intensity and emotional depth. Forster has also appeared on television shows like Superstar and Evita, showcasing his versatility as a performer.
Peter Jöback
Finally, we come to Peter Jöback, who currently plays the Phantom in London’s West End. Jöback is a Swedish singer and actor who has appeared in numerous musicals over the years. He has earned rave reviews for his performance as the Phantom, bringing a new level of nuance and complexity to this iconic role.
- Michael Crawford
- Sarah Brightman
- John Owen-Jones
- Ramin Karimloo
- Ben Forster
- Peter Jöback
As you can see, many talented actors have taken on the role of the Phantom over the years. Each one brings their own unique interpretation to this complex character, making each production of The Phantom of the Opera a must-see event. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or seeing it for the first time, there’s no denying that this show continues to captivate audiences around the world.