"Dreams in a Drawer"

I had a unique opportunity yesterday afternoon. The “Phantom of the Opera” North American Tour was in its final day of performances in Minneapolis and I was invited by my friend and house guest Elaine Davidson, one of the road warrior keyboardists, to see “Phantom” from the pit. Strike that ... to hear the show from the orchestra pit. It was an extraordinary experience as I saw things the audience never gets to see!

My history with “Phantom” is just that now - history. I performed in the Music Box Company from 1994-1998, ultimately completing 1528 shows, 101 of them as Ubaldo Piangi. (Yes, I counted.) It was a magical time in my life. I remember much of the tour in detail; many of my colleagues from that time remain friends two decades after the fact. But, not once did I have the opportunity to sit in the orchestra pit for the production ... until yesterday ...

I had forgotten how lush and lovely the music is; the sensory experience of sitting between two of the keyboards was astonishing... watching the musicians’ expressions as they played the score ... observing the moments they’ve created between themselves to keep the music engaging after months or years on the road. Playing the show 8 times a week is demanding; keeping it fresh and alive requires focus and commitment beyond the norm, especially under the circumstances of a six pack of shows over the holiday weekend. (A six pack = 6 shows in three days.)

These days, Phantom tours with three computer-programed keyboards, a Concert Master (violinist extraordinaire) and two conductors. The touring musicians are supplemented by five locals on string instruments plus four woodwinds and a french horn player. My only surprise was a lack of a live percussionist.

I can’t tell you anything about the visuals of the performance I attended yesterday; I can only tell you what I heard. The tour’s current Phantom, Derrick Davis is phenomenal. It’s been a long time since I’ve heard such an expressive voice ... rich and warm from high to low ... nuanced, yet powerful. Derrick’s diction was superlative, his singing like butter melted in sunshine. Davis was well-matched by Caitlyn Davis as the matinee Christine whose shimmering soprano was delightful to hear. La Carlotta, the opera diva, portrayed by Trista Moldavan, thrillingly tossed off the most demanding vocal role in the show with style and panache. David Benoit as Monsieur Richard Firman made a strong impression with his distinctive baritone, often used to comic effect.

Thanks to these artists and the balance of the talented cast, crew and orchestra for their outstanding work. You made this old “Phantom” Veteran very happy. I didn’t see your performances; but, I most definitely heard the quality of your voices and managed a glimpse of you during the BC/EFA appeal; What a treat to experience “Phantom” from the pit!