Gothic Romance is a genre with holds us all in its velvet gloved grip every October. There is no story better for exulting in gothic glories than Phantom of the Opera by Gaston Leroux. Many will know of the 80s musical of the same name currently running at His Majesty’s theatre. However, if this is not enough phantom for you, in Paris there is a new musical based on Gaston Leroux’s original novel entitled Le Fantome de l'Opera.
Le Fantome de l'Opera is a stunning reimagining of the Phantom of the Opera by Benoît Solès which follows the storyline incredibly closely, and is likely the most book faithful adaptation you will ever see. The centre of the story and this production is the beautiful music. Composer Marc Demais has created haunting songs which have lived in my mind on repeat since this show. I fervently hope they release a cast album of this production. The songs range from heartfelt ballads, heartbreaking solos, hilarious character breaks and powerful rising ensemble crescendos. It is one of the best strengths of the production and the fantastic voices of the cast make this production feel truly sung by Angels of Music. Pierre-Yves Lebert’s lyrics were powerful, thought provoking and live in your mind for a long time to come. The show is also accessible to English and Mandarin speakers with subtitles at the top of the stage curtains.
It is fabulous in its exploring the rich themes of love, romance, music, the universal desire for acceptance, the othering of disabled individuals and how seduction of women for the furthering of men’s goals is repeated in society. I adored how this production explored its female characters’ agency, dreams and fears to make them fully rounded and sympathetic to the audience. Its showcasing of Christine’s voice and choices, especially at the end was moving and profound. There is a change in the ending of this story but it is meticulously planned and presented in such a smooth manner that if feels more appropriate than the original novel.
The show is one act running 1 hour and 20m. This works very well at streamlining the highlights of the plot into a manageable plot on stage. For the majority of the show this works well to keep the pace high but at times can feel slightly rough. The set is simple but effective and uses special effects impressively, such as showing the kidnapping of Christine. The costuming is also beautiful and detailed.
The cast are the shining jewel in this production that truly make it feel a magical experience. They have incredible chemistry together and are vivid and layered in their very realistic imaginings of the characters. Bastien Jacquemart was a profound and tormented Phantom who had the audience spellbound. Maélie Zaffran is an angelic yet strong Christine and vividly creates her as a strong woman building her independence. Argus Maël was phenomenal as the youthful and optimistic yearning Raoul. Julie Denn was deeply charismatic and charming as the diva Carlotta. Fabian Richard was hilarious and subtle brilliance as the stage manager Firmin. Cathy Arondel stole the show as Madame Giry. She was tender, witty and had a captivating singing voice. Victor Marichal as the Persan and tenor Gaby was elegant and fantastic in his dual roles. I was throughly impressed by them all and look forward to seeing them in future productions.
With the recent 40th anniversary of the Phantom of the Opera, London is all abuzz with the tales of the masked man in His Majesty’s theatre. Le Fantome de l'Opera is a production filled with passion, sincerity and has created a powerful and beautiful production of this gothic tale. Out of the two it is Le Fantome de l'Opera which shines the most in obvious love for the story and the heartfelt message of love and acceptance throughout. I thoroughly recommend this show as a must see for all phantom lovers, whether veterans or new to the storyline. This is also a show which is highly rewatchable for multiple visits as once won’t be enough. If you enjoy stunning songs, fantastic casts, heartfelt adaptations and a brilliant night out at the theatre then this is the show for you!
Running until 7th January 2027 at Theatre Du Gymnase, Paris
As a note to viewers coming from London. Paris theatres operate very differently from the West End. The theatre opens only 20m before the show, the ushers are only paid by tips so please have some change to spare for them helping you to your seat and most critically, all the toilets bar one close in the theatre after the show so they can prepare for the following show so either prepare beforehand, or find a local toilet after if you don’t want to go through long queues.
★ ★ ★ ★
Written by Charlotte for Theatre and Tonic, October 2026.
Trigger warnings: smoke on stage, implied violence, flashing lights
