Greetings, all! After an eventful few months away, it’s good to be back!

For my topic this evening, I will be offering my view(s) on the prime character of my favorite musical, the Phantom of the Opera!

He has taken many forms and faces since before Gaston Leroux wrote the novel; a popular story is that he was one of the architects of the Paris Opera House who, after the building was completed, asked if he could remain within. As a character, I find him fascinating – a genius in music, engineering, and illusion whose deformities (physical and within) make him a reclusive outcast who hides away in the bowels of the Opera Populaire.

At times, he is viewed alternately as a monster and a sympathetic figure. Gifted with an extraordinary mind and ruled by a ruthless passion, he seems an almost contradictory personality, gentle yet vicious, overpowering strength blended with soothing persuasion. What is it about the Phantom that makes him so appealing? Is it his music, his character, his quest for love and acceptance and power, or some combination of them all?

The reason the subject came to mind is this: just two days ago, I had the golden opportunity to see the Phantom (the musical, anyway) when it came to San Jose. Due to the lateness of the hour, I’ll continue in my analysis of the story another day. Let me know what you think of the play/character!