Readers Appreciate ‘Phantom’ Magic

As the Times staff writer assigned to review the opening-night performance of “The Phantom of the Opera” at the Pantages Theatre, Daryl H. Miller is, of course, entitled to his opinion and, indeed, obligated to relay that opinion to his readers (“ ‘Phantom’ Returns, but Without the Old Magic,” Sept. 1).

But he moves beyond critical opinion and into another area altogether when he states that the production is “scaled down.” This is simply not true. The audiences who are packing the Pantages every night are seeing all of the Tony Award-winning sets, lights and costumes and they are gasping at the same dazzling special effects that nightly delight audiences in New York, San Francisco, St. Louis, Toronto and around the world.

PETER VON MAYRHAUSER

Production Supervisor

“Phantom of the Opera”--USA

New York

*

No magic? Daryl Miller needs to take some classes in theater and music appreciation, as he was the only person in the entire theater that didn’t feel the magic.

After nearly 2,000 performances as the Phantom, I’d say that Davis Gaines knows how to please his audience by now.

SUSAN VOGT

Oceanside

*

I attended this show for one reason only: to make a final determination on whether or not to utilize Davis Gaines’ acting talents in an upcoming film. Based on what I experienced, I will be offering Mr. Gaines one of the lead roles in my film.

As a professional in this industry, my review of Daryl Miller’s review is “two thumbs down.”

VERNE NOBLES

Monument Entertainment LLC

Calabasas

*

I saw Davis Gaines in the role of the Phantom 11 times at the Ahmanson and his performance at the Pantages was even more compelling, more mesmerizing, more magical than ever. His voice is deeper and richer than ever, his stage presence is phenomenal. Apologies to Michael Crawford fans, but, in my opinion, there is no sexier, more sensual Phantom on the face of the planet than Davis Gaines.

MRS. W. BAKER

Whittier