Vox Lumiere-The Phantom of the Opera Reviews
LA Weekly- Somewhat Recommended
"...But Vox Lumiere does raise the question of whether James Lynch (as the Phantom), Marisa Johnson and Victoria Levy (sharing the role of Christine, the object of the Phantom's obsession) and Julie Brody (as the diva Carlotta) echoing the onscreen narrative in song and dance represents a value-added enhancement of the film or merely an annoying sightline obstruction. The answer probably hinges on the radically different expectations one brings to a Las Vegas showroom, American Idol and an evening at the cinematheque."
Broadway World- Recommended
"...Most of the time, when you go to the theater you pretty much know what to expect. Though the subject matter and delivery style varies, when you buy a ticket to a play or musical you basically know what kind of show you're going to see. Well here's one for those of you who want something that is truly different, incredibly exciting, and definitely the ticket for one of the coolest theatrical events to be found in LA right now. But it's only happening one weekend a month through the end of the year. Next available dates are October 10 & 11."
Examiner- Recommended
"...This is one magical, exciting, original theatre experience you do not want to miss."
ArtsInLA- Somewhat Recommended
"...The peculiar original score is problematic. The opera numbers are piercing, effectively melding with the visions on the screen. They are exquisitely sung by Danielle Skalsky as the Grand Dame, Julie Brody as Carlotta, and Marisa Johnson as the onstage version of Christine. The pop songs, many with an industrial sound that were utilized by '80s bands like Styx, are less successful. The melodies are loud and monotonous."
Neon Tommy- Recommended
"...Attempting to reinterpret any established work of art is daunting, especially with a tale as iconic as "The Phantom of the Opera." However, "Vox Lumiere's The Phantom of the Opera," now playing at the Los Angeles Theatre Center, does this in a way that is both exhilarating and mystifying. This show features captivating song and dance, with music and lyrics by Kevin Saunders Hayes, set against the 1925 silent film directed by Rupert Julian. The synthesis of these varying elements, combined with imaginative and mesmerizing lighting designed by William Kirkham, creates an experience that is hauntingly beautiful."
Working Authur- Not Recommended
"...Besides the opportunity of seeing a magnificent failure (always an excellent learning experience), and despite all that I've said here, there are reasons one might subject themselves to this evening which could be sub-titled "Adventures in the Artist's Ego". As already mentioned, the singers and dancers can not be faulted, and it is to Hayes' credit that he recognizes such talent. But what one leaves singing the praises of is the choreography by Natalie Willes, which is dynamic beyond measure. It was the only element of the evening which fought, forlorn hope that it was, at bestowing cohesion on the overall production."
Creepy LA- Recommended
"...Those who come to the theater expecting Lloyd Weber's turgid soap opera (with cheeseball drum machine) are sure to be disappointed, and anyone that thinks it will simply be a screening of the classic silent film will be bothered by all the distractions. But if you recognize the possibilities inherent in opening up a silent movie into new dimensions, or even old dimensions (multimedia spectaculars weren't invented yesterday, after all), then this show might be for you. Vox Lumiere's intriguing production of THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA runs through December 13 in Downtown Los Angeles at the Los Angeles Theater Center."