Phantom – The Las Vegas Spectacular is aptly named. The story is the same as it's been since written in 1910 and the music is the same as it's been since the show debuted in London in 1986. But everything else is new, startling and very much in keeping with the kind of shows that have come to be the standard in Las Vegas.

It is a stunning production, with more special effects and razzle-dazzle than one walking into the theater could begin to imagine. Every one of the 75 million dollars spent on renovating the new theater at The Venetian and producing the show is apparent. The sets amaze, the costumes amuse and the chandelier—the centerpiece of the entire show—is breathtaking.

But the heart of the piece is in the performances and, as they should be, they are wonderful.

At the 10:00 p.m. preview on June 23, the Phantom was played by Anthony Crivello a Broadway veteran whose credentials include a Tony Award for his role in Kiss of the Spider Woman. His voice is beautiful and he manages to capture, to perfection, the odd mix of anger, poignancy and menace that the Phantom possesses.

Elizabeth Loyacano was a lovely Christine Daaé, the young ambitious opera singer who is the object of the Phantom's love. Her voice is thrilling and she can act, too. Hers was just a lovely performance.

The weakest performance was that of Tim Martin Gleason who played Raoul, Vicomte de Chagny. And, on reflection, it may be that he seemed weak in comparison to the very strong cast. They are all terrific.

The show was cut from its original length to a Vegas-sized 95 minutes with the result that, while all of the songs are retained, the story's exposition and dialogue are curtailed. But, here, the story isn't the point. The set, costumes and music are. And they don't disappoint.

There's lots of debate about the state of "Broadway on The Strip." After all, other hit shows imported from New York have quickly closed here. But I have no doubt whatsoever that Phantom – The Las Vegas Spectacular will defy the odds and be a smash. It was shrewdly repackaged for this city with the tourists in mind and, because it is so well done, it totally deserves to succeed.

    
In attendance that evening were VCO's publisher, Marleen Marino and Entertainment columnist, Michaelina Bellamy. They met some delightful children that evening and spent a little time with them.

Reviewed by Mystery Reviewer

Phantom – The Las Vegas Spectacular is performed nightly except Tuesday.
Monday, Thursday, Friday, Sunday: 7:00 p.m.
Wednesday & Saturday: 7:00 p.m. & 10:00 p.m.
Tuesday: Dark / No Show
Prices range from $82.00 to $157, including all taxes and fees.
For tickets, call 702-414-7469, toll free 866-641-7469 or visit www.venetiantickets.com.

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