The Phantom of the Opera is here, in(side) Dubai. Perhaps not everyone’s cup of tea, but musicals have always been my thing. This is the first professional musical production I ever saw and I still remember the awe and excitement. It rarely diminishes.
As soon as the tickets come on sale I’m logged in. I know at least two others that will welcome the prospect of a night at the theatre and fortuitously, both their birthdays are coming up. So tonight is a night for friends, birthdays and celebrations.
In reality, we all struggle to make it on time after work on a Thursday evening. Nevertheless, there’s time for a quick bite to eat at Din Tai Fung. Scallop Seafood XiaoLong Bao, Crispy Beef and Shrimp Chow Mein are accompanied by Garlic Rice, Sauteed Broccolini and a dish of Szechuan Chicken & Vegetable Wontons, my absolute favourite.
After enjoying our meal, we walk over to the Dubai Opera house. During the short walk, a light show is in progress on the Burj Khalifa and the waterfront around the fountains is quite crowded. I love this buzz around Dubai although we all agree that the increasingly worse traffic is an undesirable side effect.
At the Opera House we purchase a pre show drink and raise a glass to our friends. The Opera House building is my absolute favourite in this city of incredible buildings and I admire the large chandelier once again. I hope the theme of tonight’s show doesn’t rub off here!
Once seated, the show starts a little late. Given that tonight is opening night, I wonder what real life drama might be unfolding behind the curtains.
The opening bars from the orchestra send chills down my spine.
The Phantom of the Opera
Set in the Paris Opera house of the 19th century, The Phantom of the Opera is a tale about the phantom that haunts the depths of this famous landmark. Mesmerised by the talent and beauty of the company’s new soprano, the Phantom lures her in as his protégé and falls in love with her.
He coaches and mentors Christine whilst attacking the famous Carlotta, the company’s long standing soprano, to give Christine new opportunities at the theatre. All the while he dreams of his feelings being returned. When he inadvertently learns of Christine’s love for Raoul, her childhood sweetheart, the Phantom’s fierce love and devotion turn to jealousy, madness and passionate obsession.
The success of The Phantom of the Opera is apparent in the number of awards it has received including the Tony Award for Best Musical in 1988. It made its West End debut in 1986 and has been running for 37 years. The show is the longest running in Broadway history and the second longest running West End Musical.
Tonight the London based cast bring the Dubai Opera house crowd to a standing ovation. The musical really does deserve all the accolades it receives and this particular cast have done the production proud. The legacy of the Phantom of the Opera continues.
Post Production
After the show we walk the Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard looking for a taxi. The moon is almost full and it, along with the many fairy lights along the road, cast the Boulevard in an almost mystical light. With no taxis apparent, we end up on the metro. It’s full at 11:30pm and I wonder where everyone is going to and from at this time on a Thursday night.
Good To Know
The Dubai Opera hosts a wide range of local and world renowned productions. Some of its previous productions include:
- Les Miserables
- West Side Story
- Jersey Boys
Would I Return?
Yes.
