The Phantom of the Opera will have two new leads in the show beginning May 12. At that time, Tony Award winner Norm Lewis will take on the role of the Phantom in the show which holds the distinction of being the longest running show on Broadway.
Joining Mr. Lewis will be Sierra Boggess who will take the role of one of my favorite heroines of musical theater, Christine.
Mr. Lewis will make history as first African American Phantom on Broadway. He absolutely wowed me in “Porgy and Bess” so I know I will be returning to the Majestic Theatre very soon to see him in this part. Ms. Boggess did a beautiful job singing the role in the 25th Anniversary celebrations in London and New York so I’m sure she will be remarkable to see also.
Norm Lewis succeeds the current Phantom, Hugh Panaro who has done this role over 2,100 times. I’m so glad I got to see him do this role several times over the years.
Hedwig and the Angry Inch
For all you Hedwig fans out there, the Lottery and Standing Room policy was announced for this show which is due to start previews this month.
A minimum of 20 tickets will be sold via lottery for each performance. According to press notes: “Beginning two-and-a-half hours before every performance, patrons are invited to enter the lottery at the Belasco Theatre (111 West 44th Street). Winners will be drawn two hours before each performance. Each person will print their name and the number of tickets (1 or 2) they wish to purchase on a card that is provided. Entries will be collected and names will be drawn at random. Winners will then be able to purchase tickets at $37 each. All cards are checked for duplication prior to drawing. Winners must be present at the time of the drawing and show valid ID to purchase tickets. Tickets may be purchased in cash or with a valid credit card. Limit one entry per person and two tickets per winner. Subject to availability. Seat locations may be partial view.”
The Standing Room Policy is as follows according to press notes:
“Standing room tickets are available on the day of the performance when the Belasco Theatre box office opens. Standing room tickets are only available when the performance is sold out. Limit 2 tickets per person.”
Ticket prices for “Hedwig and the Angry Inch” as scheduled to range from $142 – $47.
The performance schedule for this show will only include 7 shows a week and once the show is past the first few weeks, it will play on the following days and times:
Wednesday through Friday at 8 PM; Saturday at 7 PM and 10 PM; Sunday at 3 PM and 7 PM.