Andrew Llyod Webber's - Love Never Dies

In Concert - London Palladium

Jamie Muscato is the most powerful 'Phantom ', and this concert needs to be a fully staged show. The drama, the emotion, the power and the music is utterly divine.

Did you know there is a sequel to 'Phantom of the Opera'? Is it what you expect? No, it is not! It's better. What a beauty. I won't go fully into the plot, because I feel that to experience the full power and drama of the show, you need to go in blind. Don't get me wrong, nothing will beat the 'Phantom of the Opera' original. This is such a great addition, and for those who are fans of the original, it takes them a little further into the story. It almost feels like a love letter to the fans, because it gives the characters more depth.

Can you believe this year is Phantom's 40th anniversary? This was a great way to celebrate. The performers are a brilliant selection: West End stars, new up-and-coming performers and those who have been in Lloyd Webber shows, some including 'Phantom of the Opera'.

Christine Daaé, the starlet of the story, is played by Celinde Schoenmaker, and this is not her first time playing Christine, as she played the role at Her Majesty's Theatre in 'Phantom of the Opera'. What an opportunity to go deeper into the character, and for it to be played by someone who knows the character so well. Her voice is ethereal, and the way she charms the audience with her vocals is so fitting. The audience can see why Phantom is so enamoured with her and Raoul. Her acting and singing skills are truly magical. Jamie Muscato is at his finest; how can he get better than this? As soon as he takes the stage, the audience is stuck to their seats, leaning in, hungry for the power he radiates. He has this ability to keep the audience on their toes and build his performance to the highest point; he savours his abilities for the perfect moment. You sit there thinking, 'He's going to reach that beautiful high note' and then it's not time... until, when it is, you are blown away. The work that he has put into his vocals and ability to embody a character is inspirational. Him as the 'Phantom' is something the West End needs more of; he has the mystery, the charm and the power. The whole cast are just exquisite, and being able to witness such talent all on one stage is a delicious treat.

The full orchestra and chorus intensify the power of the show; it is very on brand for Lloyd Webber to have the full orchestra, and it gives the audience the quality they came hungry for. It would be mad for his composition not to be shown with a full orchestra; it deserves every addition to ensure each intricate note is delivered to the audience's ears in a way that gives its quality justice. Each person and instrument on that stage is important and gives the music that Lloyd Webber POWER. Come on, you know he's a musical magician. The lyrics by Glenn Slater tear your heart out; they perfectly lay the story for the audience on a golden platter, leaving space for your imagination and observations to make their own way. You can follow the story, or you can even look a little deeper if you are a big fan of 'The Phantom of the Opera'. There is something for everyone.

Whilst this is a staged concert, the design elements were not stripped back. They were minimal, but what they had did the job exceedingly well. Costume and set by Rebecca Brower set the audience's imagination alight. It does enough to make the audience do a bit of the work, but it creates the path. The characters have the most divine costumes; there are elements of drama, such as a massive falling curtain, and with Shaun Kerrison's direction, it is a great recipe for a delicious staged concert.

It's no wonder this staged concert has been so successful and is well received by audiences. 'Phantom of the Opera' is a show that has such a massive, loyal following, and this is a treat for them and those who love Lloyd Webber's work. Whilst the story is a great sequel, some moments do feel predictable and questionable. It is such a great sequel, and it would be great to see it as a fully staged show, to see the art that this could create. However, the story isn't as strong as the songs, and it is a very long show. It is powerful; it is great for the fans, but if you want to delve into the 'Phantom' world, then you'd go see the original, of course. You couldn't watch this as a standalone; if you haven't seen the first show, then you will be a little lost and not be able to appreciate this for its full glory. That doesn't diminish the fact that this is a powerful show, with that opera drama, incredible composition and glorious performers. It is a strong concert that the West End have been spoilt with the opportunity to see in its glory! Love for 'The Phantom of the Opera' will NEVER die indeed.