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Vegas' Arts & Entertainment Corner ~~ Our Review July 7, 2006
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Anthony Crivello as the Phantom Photo by: Joan Marcus
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Once again I was propelled back to Paris of the late 1800s.
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I returned to “Phantom Las Vegas” to see the other leads in the show. The second set of actors that are double cast for the show included: Anthony Crivello (Phantom), Elizabeth Loyacano (Christine) and Geena Jeffries (Carlotta). I am not going to compare the dual-cast lead actors, but only review what I liked about this cast.
The chandelier again became an object of amazement. This time I was not directly under it so could enjoy seeing it from a different seat when it again is put in its place at the top of the domed ceiling of the theatre. From my seat I could also get a better view of the show and actors. This was marvelous as I saw things I missed the first time around. I also got to see the emotions of the actors better.
Crivello was amazing. What a talented actor/singer. He gave the Phantom such emotion. It was overpowering to see Crivello in the show. He did not just play the part he becomes the Phantom. His singing was wonderful and he has truly become one of my favorite Phantoms out of the 9 actors I have seen in the role.
He gave me chills with his rendition of “Music of the Night,” it was overwhelming due to the emotions he put into the role. One of my favorite scenes (the rooftop) did not disappoint, as with every part of the show he put such power into his acting. “Point of No Return” in the final lair scene is just brutal to watch, you cry and think this poor man what he has gone through. It was more emotional and overwhelming than I was used to seeing from previous actors doing this role. Now I must return to see Anthony Crivello in the show again.
Loyacano as "Christine" is very good, and she is a good match for Crivello. I do not know how they decided which pair of Phantom’s and Christine’s would sing together; the pairing is very good.
Jeffries as "Carlotta" was excellent and funny. She towered above Larry Wayne Morbitt (Piangi), which made it even funnier. Morbitt is one of the best Piangi’s I have seen. He is very funny in the scenes that need humor.
I noticed that the cast that plays every performance had blossomed since I saw it 15 days ago. They are all getting into their roles and doing so much better. I noticed a few changes in actions more than anything else. I also had a chance to see Gillian Lynne’s choreography up close and it appeared there were some changes to the original production.
The orchestra is also sounding even better. We stayed until they finished to applaud them, as they are a vital part of the production. Without the music there is no musical, and you do not hear the soaring songs by the composer and lyricists.
If you see this new version of “Phantom” in Las Vegas, try and see both Phantom’s and Christine’s. Each duo adds something different to the show they are doing. Plus the two Carlotta’s are both good. It is kind of like seeing two different shows. We are lucky here in Las Vegas to have two sets dynamic actors in these roles.
Don’t miss the “Phantom” when you visit Las Vegas!
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Photos of the inside and/or outside "Phantom" banners, and the marquee at the Venetian Resort
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Phantom Las Vegas
Anthony Crivello Phantom Las Vegas
Anthony Crivello
Vegas' Arts & Entertainment Corner
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