THE Phantom Of The Opera, produced by The York Orchard Musical Theatre Company, opened to an almost sold out Joseph Rowntree Theatre on Wednesday.

Directed by Justine Hughes, the talented cast deliver the famed Lloyd Webber musical with both professionalism and emotion. Despite this only being the second production for this musical theatre company, it doesn’t show. The show has been well rehearsed and runs smoothly with excellent use of set design and transitions, great effects, and disciplined actors and actresses to bring the opera to York.

The show is stolen by the outstanding voices of the three lead characters. Ria Williams, who plays Christine Daaé, has a flawless voice which allows the audience to empathise with The Phantom’s obsession. Sam Lightfoot-Loftus’s Raoul, the new patron of the opera, offers a strong voice to accompany her.

York Press:

Ria Williams as Christine and Scott Goncalves as The Phantom. Picture: Chris Midgley

Scott Goncalves’s Phantom is captivating. His amazing voice is not only technically accurate but conveys the multi-dimensional character of The Phantom, powerful and commanding yet also gentle. The dynamic between William and Gonclaves is gripping and drives the romance superbly.

The supporting cast is also very good. The rapport between the opera’s new owners, Matthew Dangerfield’ Monsieur Firmin and Sam Lightwing’s Monsieur Andre at times offers subtle humour, which works well in contrast to the darker and deeper tones elsewhere.

The young company are very talented and it will be great to see their future productions. The best advice is book your Phantom tickets now to avoid disappointment.

The Phantom Of The Opera (Youth Group Production), The York Orchard Musical Theatre Company, Joseph Rowntree Theatre, York, 7.30pm tonight and tomorrow; 2.30pm, 7.30pm Saturday. Box office: ticketsource.co.uk