The Fantastic Phantom

9 March 2011Rachel H

Awestruck is not a word thrown about much in the theater world. Most high school productions are entertaining, and exhibit the talents of the students. Brentwood’s The Phantom of the Opera was not your typical high school musical. It is safe to say that from the moment leads Maggie Davies, Davin Killy, and Daniel Hilhorst opened their mouths, the audience was inextricably pulled into the story and continually amazed by their voices and the narrative. From the ballet dancers, to the chorus, to the stunning solos of Maggie Davies’ Christine, this year’s musical was simply spectacular.

In terms of talent, Phantom was jam packed. Director Edna Widenmaier flawlessly fused the talents of Brentwood student actors, singers, and dancers to provide the community with a professional level performance. Noteworthy performances were made by Mike McCrossan and Toby Green who opened windows of light humor to the dramatic and intense show. The dancers also exhibited skill and precision, and peppered the show with graceful numbers in lovely degas tutus.

For a Brentwood student, one of the highlight of the year is the spring musical, and seeing which of your classmates has a hidden talent, or surprise passion for the stage. This year, many new faces appeared on stage, and students were amazed to see their otherwise modest acquaintances dominate the show. Hannah Wade for example, simply stole the show as Carlotta the diva. Complete with dramatic hair and dress, her operatic and clear voice collectively amazed the audience. Whenever Carlotta was on stage, you knew it. Maggie Davies as Christine could not have been better cast either. Her innocence in the first act fit the story wonderfully, and it was fascinating to watch her transformation throughout the show to the older and hardened version of her character in act two. Her superb acting abilities were beautifully complimented by her exquisite voice. Looking at the expressions on the audience members’ faces, one could clearly feel the awe in the air, as Maggie’s Christine sang her way through the story.
The male leads were equally wonderful. The strength and power of Davin Killy’s phantom was terrifying and incredible. His raw passion and aggressiveness as a performer was palpable throughout the show. Similarly, Dan Hilhorst as Raul, Christine’s love interest, swept the show with his gallant and brave character. Dan’s voice was smooth and passionate, providing the perfect offset to Christine’s heavenly tones.

"Phantom" was a tour de force. The combination of talented actors, singers, and dancers with high quality production and direction resulted in by the best musical I have seen Brentwood put on. It is not often that an audience leaves a show in stunned silence, but as the masses migrated out to their cars or houses, many were simply speechless.

Where Students Choose To Be