The Phantom of the Opera - West End Review (2025) | Robbie's Backstage Bants

Well… It finally happened. I saw ‘The Phantom of the Opera’ for the first time!

I don’t usually write reviews of shows I haven’t been officially invited to review, but I feel incredibly passionate about this one and wanted to share my thoughts here on my blog.

Firstly, this was my first visit to His Majesty’s Theatre in the West End, and I had the most wonderful experience. All the staff were so friendly and helpful—from the lovely person who took a photo of my grandparents and me, to the one who sold me my programme and chatted about it being my first visit. I want to say a huge thank you to the entire Front of House team at His Majesty’s Theatre for making our afternoon feel even more magical!

Set in the Paris Opera House, Phantom follows a masked genius obsessed with a rising soprano, Christine Daaé. He will stop at nothing to win her… but how far will he go? Well, I won’t spoil it—you’ll have to see the show!

From the very beginning, this production spoke to me. The first powerful chord from the orchestra brought a lump to my throat, as the iconic chandelier rose dramatically from the stage to the roof of the auditorium. This breathtaking moment (which I won’t spoil!) left me teary-eyed—just the first of many emotional moments throughout the show.

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s music, paired with Charles Hart’s lyrics, creates a powerful and memorable score. Every song earns its place in the story. And if you’re hesitant because of the word “opera” in the title—please don’t be. While it has operatic elements, The Phantom of the Opera is a musical at heart, it is simply set in an Opera House and has some operatic qualities. 

Dean Chisnall stars as the dark and haunting Phantom. His performance was nothing short of immense—his vocals were phenomenal, and his portrayal brought both power and vulnerability to this complex character. His Phantom had a unique charisma that I really enjoyed.

Opposite him, Lily Kerhoas shone as Christine Daaé. I’m struggling to put into words how moving her performance was. Not only does she have one of the most beautiful voices I’ve ever heard live, but she also portrayed Christine with such honesty and emotional depth. Her rendition of Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again was especially powerful. She and Chisnall made for an electric leading duo.

On the other side of the love triangle is Raoul, Vicomte de Chagny, played by Joe Griffiths-Brown, who brought a suave and endearing energy to the role. His voice was smooth and rich, and his portrayal was a refreshing take on the character.

The final standout i’d like to mention, though I really could go on and speak about each cast member singularly, was Joanna Ampil as opera diva Carlotta. Her vocal prowess was second to none, and she brought so much humour and presence to the stage with her larger-than-life character. 

The ensemble was incredibly strong, delivering elegant ballet sequences and soaring harmonies, especially during ensemble numbers like Masquerade. It’s clear this was a cast full of talent and dedication.

The set, originally designed by Maria Björnson, was absolutely breathtaking. Lavish, intricate, and atmospheric, it completely transported you into the world of the Paris Opera House. I had to buy the souvenir brochure just so I could admire the designs again. The costumes were equally spectacular—visually stunning from head to toe.

Gillian Lynne’s choreography remains elegant and flowing, and was performed with grace and emotion by the talented cast.

Overall, The Phantom of the Opera remains as powerful and poignant as ever. It has been a short while since i have felt so moved and passionate about a musical as I did yesterday at His Majesty’s Theatre. If you’re looking for a true spectacle, with an outstanding cast and moments that will leave you with tears filling your eyes (bring tissues!) - Then ‘The Phantom of the Opera’ is the show for you. I recommend it to any theatre fan, or anyone looking for something new to see. This will not be my final time hearing ‘The Music of the Night’, I will absolutely be paying the famous Opera ghost another visit in the future.

Tickets for the show can be bought directly from the venue, here.

11th May 2025

Robbie Davies | Robbie’s Backstage Bants