The story of the Phantom of the Opera is one that is well known. The musical or operetta was written by the well known Andrew Lloyd Webber and is even currently on Broadway. However this review is of the production at Great Neck South High School, one of the first schools to receive the rights to use the script in a high school performance. This show is known for its intense music: high soprano and powerful singing in general.
Karen Notovitz, a sophomore, played the role of Christine Daae. This part requires a 
strong soprano voice, as is heard in the song “The Phantom of the Opera”, a duet between Christine and the Phantom. She replaces Carlotta Giudicelli (Jane Coons) as the head soprano of the opera house. Jane was amazing as Carlotta. The role required comedic acting and Jane (my childhood friend since the age of 10 months!) was perfect for the job. Her use of a strong Italian accent and strong Italian personality was spot on. The phantom was played by Aaron Mor, who I have written about before in the last GNSHS performance of Gianni Schicchi. Though his voice was amplified for effect, his voice was magnificent for his part. His speaking voice was deep and mysterious, a perfect fit for his character. Michael Levinson played Raoul, the love interest of Christine Daae. He too had a lovely voice and pulled off his character amazingly.
Being a high school performance, one would allow the production a couple mistakes but this production was practically flawless. The stage included the infamous falling chandelier that ends Act One. Though it was sort of anti-climactic in its slow descent, it brought the feel of a real Phantom performance. Along with the chandelier, there was also the boat that the Phantom takes Christine on down to his labyrinth. As the boat glided across the stage the audience erupted into thunderous applause, due to the power of Aaron’s voice as well as the amazing quality of the set. Costumes were lovely and bright, especially at the beginning of Act 2 in the song “Masquerade”. Also, the first scene at the dress rehearsal of Hannibal included very colorful costumes.
Overall, I can’t say I was surprised by the quality of South High School’s performance because I always expect top notch quality from them and they always deliver. It is amazing, though, how professionally the students were able to pull off the Phantom of the Opera, a musical well known to almost everyone and with high standards. The orchestra may have been lacking a little bit in its horn section, but other than that, it was an unforgettable performance!
The Phantom of the Opera
William A. Shine Great Neck South High School
November 19, 2010
Marina B. Nebro
