The following is a press release from the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District.
Samohi Performing Arts is thrilled to present The Phantom of the Opera, based on the French novel by Gaston Leroux, with a
haunting emotive score by Andrew Lloyd Webber.
Venture deep into the subterranean labyrinth below the famed Paris Opera House to witness the tortured Phantom, a disfigured musical genius, pining for the innocent young soprano Christine. Mesmerized by her talent and beauty, he falls in love, plotting
to make her his protégé, and separate her from her childhood friend and suitor Raoul.
With magic, romance, and drama, Webber’s sweeping score is unsurpassed. Romantic favorites “Think of Me” and “That’s All I Ask of You” illuminate the young love between Christine and Raoul. The opulence of “Hannibal”, with its breathtaking opera costumes, will enchant audiences. The beautiful production number “Masquerade/Why So Silent?” delves deeply into the intricate storyline, exploring the masks we wear in society, and the way we hide our true identities. And no one can forget the title song “The Phantom of The Opera”, which famously expresses the complex dynamic between Christine and the Phantom with passionate delivery.
Director Jeffery Huls declares, “Phantom is more than just the story of someone misunderstood and living as a recluse. It is more than a passionate love triangle. It is so big that it has to be presented as a spectacle that overwhelms the senses.” The world-acclaimed musical has won seven Tony awards, including Best Musical. The Phantom of The Opera holds the record for the longest running show on Broadway.
Samohi Performing Arts’ production features talented, energetic performers, an elaborate set, extravagant costumes, elegant choreography, and, of course, the iconic chandelier, bringing this classic to life in all its heartbreaking glory.
“I haven’t met a person who didn’t light up talking about Phantom. We wanted to create a production that the community would come out in droves to see. This show will appeal to families and we are thrilled to offer high-quality theatre at an affordable price,” says Director Jeffrey Huls.
There will be six performances in historic Barnum Hall at Santa Monica High School on February 23rd and 24th at 7:00 pm, February 25th at 3:00 pm, March 1st and 2nd at 7:00 pm, and March 3rd at 3:00 pm. More information and reserved seating is available at samohitheatre.org.
