The Glorious Cast of 1986: A Look Back at the Original Production of The Phantom of the Opera

Andrew Lloyd Webber's iconic musical, The Phantom of the Opera, has been enchanting audiences for decades with its captivating story, memorable music, and stunning set design. Since its opening night on October 9, 1986, the show has become one of the most successful pieces of entertainment in history, grossing over $5.6 billion worldwide.

The original cast of The Phantom of the Opera was led by Michael Crawford as the titular character, accompanied by Sarah Brightman as Christine Daaé and Steve Barton as Raoul, Vicomte de Chagny. The production, which began previews at Her Majesty's Theatre in London on September 27, 1986, went on to become a massive hit, drawing audiences from all over the world.

To date, The Phantom of the Opera has been seen by over 130 million people in 145 cities across 27 countries, making it one of the most widely seen musicals of all time. Its success can be attributed not only to its timeless story and memorable music but also to the original set design, costumes, and special effects that have been preserved and updated over the years.

The Phantom of the Opera is currently running at Her Majesty's Theatre in London's West End, with tickets available through London Theatre. The show continues to feature some of Lloyd Webber's most iconic songs, including 'Music of the Night,' 'All I Ask of You,' and 'Masquerade.'

In addition to its impressive box office numbers, The Phantom of the Opera has also won numerous awards, including seven Tony Awards and three Olivier Awards. Its success has also spawned a sequel musical, Love Never Dies, as well as a successful film adaptation starring Gerard Butler.

As the show continues to captivate audiences around the world, it's a testament to the enduring power of Andrew Lloyd Webber's music and the timeless story of The Phantom of the Opera. If you haven't had the chance to experience this iconic musical yet, be sure to grab your tickets to Her Majesty's Theatre in London and immerse yourself in the magic of the opera house.

1986 phantom of the opera cast