All You Need To Know About Phantom of The Opera in Melbourne

We may try to stay away from ghosts, but we won’t be running away from this Phantom, who is set to give a healthy amount of chills in Melbourne.

That’s right, one of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s most famous musicals—The Phantom of the Opera—is coming to Arts Centre Melbourne this 2022! With successful runs in Broadway and the West End since the late 80s, this beloved gothic musical will now enchant the Aussie audience. 

Just ask excited to see The Phantom of the Opera Melbourne as we are? As we anticipate its opening night in October, here’s everything you need to know about the production:

The Phantom of the Opera is a musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber, based on Gaston Leroux’s 1910 french novel Le Fantôme de l'Opéra. To date, it is the longest-running show on Broadway and has been running since 1988. In its English counterpart, the West End, it’s been in production since 1986, until its pause during the pandemic. 

In 2004, the film adaptation starring Gerard Butler, Emmy Rossum, and Patrick Wilson hit the cinemas, proving that the Phantom remains a hit across various adaptations. 

The musical follows the titular character, The Phantom of the Opera, as a mysterious, deformed “ghost” and composer who haunts the Paris Opera House and takes talented young opera-star Christine Daaé under his wing. As Christine’s career rises with his tutelage, she catches the attention of Raoul, a French nobleman, which riles the Phantom’s jealousy.

Curious as to what happens next? Or do you want to refresh your memory after watching other adaptations? Luckily, The Phantom of the Opera’s Melbourne production has all the answers!

It’s safe to say that The Phantom of the Opera in Melbourne will have every element that audiences love in the Broadway and West End stages.

The talented cast will be performing all the classic songs from The Phantom of the Opera, which you may know from other stage productions and the 2004 film. Get ready for favourites such as “Music of the Night,” “Angel of Music,” “All I Ask of You,” the iconic titular track “Phantom of the Opera” and its haunting organ accompaniment, and many more!

The musical is also known for its phenomenal staging and production value. For Melbourne, the masterful Cameron Mackintosh is taking the helm and will be including familiar set pieces, such as the iconic chandelier. 

Costumes also make the musical an icon, especially with its colourful ensemble in the number “Masquerade,” and Phantom’s signature mask. Maria Björnson will be gracing Aussie audiences with her original costume design. 

Witness the culmination of their collaboration and catch The Phantom of the Opera in Melbourne!

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The titular Phantom will be played by Australian Josh Piterman, who also played the role in the West End, prior to COVID shutdowns. Aussie soprano Amy Manford will play Christine Daaé, and Blake Bowden will play the Phantom’s rival, Raoul. 

Director Laurence Connor will guide everyone to an unforgettable production. 

The Phantom of the Opera in Melbourne will be staged at the State Theater of the Arts Centre Melbourne. It is located at 100 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne, Victoria, and is easily accessible by various modes of transport. 

Head to the nearest station to the venue, Flinders Street Station. Walk to Swanston Stree and cross Princes Bridge upon getting off the train.

Tram stop 14, also known as “Arts Precinct,” is directly in front of Arts Centre Melbourne. You can reach it by going on routes 1, 3, 3a, 5, 6, 16, 64, 67 and 72. 

Take the bike lanes along St Kilda Road

Go to the undercover car park in Theatres Building, where the State Theater is located. 

Similar to the Broadway production, the Phantom of the Opera Melbourne will run for two hours and 30 minutes, which includes an intermission so you can stretch your legs and prepare yourself for the epic second act. 

You can see the show starting October 2022 up to February 2023. 

You can book tickets to The Phantom of the Opera Melbourne quickly and easily on Klook!

After you book your ticket, you’ll receive a confirmation in your email, which will serve as the electronic ticket you’ll present to enter the theatre. Make sure to be there at least 30 minutes before the performance as latecomers will not be admitted. If something comes up 48 hours before your selected date, you can still cancel for free. 

To ensure your comfort during the entire performance, bring extra warm clothes!

After the play, you might want to extend your night out in the city. Here are our top picks of the best things to do in Melbourne at night:

Are you also in the area for a romantic escapade? Check out these romantic weekend getaways in Victoria: