On the Phantom of Daegu

There are very few things in life that get me going as much as musical theater and ballet. From Rent to Into the Woods, musicals are my jam (pun intended). Naturally, when I heard The Phantom of the Opera's English speaking troupe was in South Korea, I jumped at the opportunity.

Actually, that's not the whole truth. When I found out about The Phantom of the Opera in Daegu I was excited, but unwilling to shell out $60 for a ticket. (I know, I know, cue tomato throwing)

However, with some much needed budgeting and extra shows added to the circuit, I was able to make plans to see the performance. I've never been so rewarded for money spent in my life.

I first watched The Phantom of the Opera when I was in highschool.I opposed watching it as our girls movie night feature, but ended up obsessed with it. Aside from the theatrics, jokes, and costumes, I loved the songs. From "the Music of the Night" to "Masquerade" The Phantom of the Opera has some of the best songs of any musical I've ever seen. Lord Lloyd-Webber knows how to write, and every score in Phantom is a hit. Did you know that The Phantom of the Opera's Broadway revenue is only surpassed by The Lion King's?

I booked the tickets online for myself and some friends, and then we picked them up the night of at the venue. Keimyung University's Art Center is a gallant building, and that night it was decked out in Phantom memorabilia, including a rhinestone covered replica mask. After getting some snacks and medicine (I had a headache), we headed into the show.

me and the infamous mask

The first half of the show flew by. By the time intermission came, every one in my group (except for my male co-teacher) was feeling sorry for the Phantom. I mean, he's just a guy, with a mask, standing there asking a girl to love him. It's hard not to empathize.

Deciding that we could really couldn't see that well from our *ahem* nosebleed seats, my friend B decided to rent us some golden viewing glasses. Subsequently, our collective classiness level went through the roof. We were real ladies (and gentlemen) of the the theater. If only I had some sparkling beverage to accompany me, it would've been perfect.

After intermission, the story line got a little darker, and the phantom changed from hopeless romantic to "man, there is something wrong with that guy". The phantom had reached creeper status, which was disappointing. In addition, when his mask was pulled off, he was hideous-a point emphasized by my male co-teacher, who was already anti-phantom. Whatever, he's still a sweetheart in my eyes.

Post show we went around the Keimyung Art Center taking pictures and discussing the actors involved. The phantom was a clear favorite. Overall everyone was satisfied the with the performance and had a great time! 

the PHANTOMOFTHEOPERAISTHERE

classy ladies

Have you seen a live musical before? Would you see one in South Korea? Let me know what you think.

Much love

xoxo

Imani