The Broadway production + US tour

Raphael wrote:
Okay people, who do we know at the Majestic?

Well, there is a Labradoodle named Soot....

I totally agree. Operaphantomet is one of the biggest names among us! Soot will definitely help out...

MajesticPhantom wrote:I totally agree. Operaphantomet is one of the biggest names among us! Soot will definitely help out...

No doubt Soot will come to the rescue! Dogs aren't called 'phans' best friend for nothing.

OK, you guys are like THE sweetest. You really think of me as a.... name? I think of many others that way, but not myself. I'm flattered!

And I think Soot has done some magic, because it appears a backstage tour is to happen. I am SOOOO happy for this! I will tell a lot more when I've actually been there, I'm always so afraid to jinx stuff. But I'm super super super excited!!

Any advice on hotel near the Majestic? Someone suggested Millenium Broadway, but they appear to be fully booked. And their sister hotels rather pricy. So other suggestion on cheap/medium price range hotels not too far away would be greatly appreciated. I am just so clueless about NYC.

MasqPhan wrote:

Raphael wrote:

operafantomet wrote:
3. Remind me of the stagedoor situation, again. Around the whole block? Next to what? NYC alone is scary...

Stage door? You're one of the major players in the Phandom - you deserve a backstage tour!

Okay people, who do we know at the Majestic? C'mon, let's make this happen!

This definitely needs a "Like" button.

It needs a LOVE button.

That's awesome! Just don't stay at the Hotel Carter. Wish someone had given me that advice.

operafantomet wrote:OK, you guys are like THE sweetest. You really think of me as a.... name? I think of many others that way, but not myself. I'm flattered!

You are most definitely a name

And I think Soot has done some magic, because it appears a backstage tour is to happen. I am SOOOO happy for this! I will tell a lot more when I've actually been there, I'm always so afraid to jinx stuff. But I'm super super super excited!!

Awesome! Soot's very generous!!!

Any advice on hotel near the Majestic? Someone suggested Millenium Broadway, but they appear to be fully booked. And their sister hotels rather pricy. So other suggestion on cheap/medium price range hotels not too far away would be greatly appreciated. I am just so clueless about NYC.

When exactly will you be there? I assume you'll only need a room for one night based on what you said earlier. NYC (and Times Square in particular) is always expensive, but I'm looking around online so see what I can find that qualifies.

TAFKaR

operafantomet wrote:=And I think Soot has done some magic, because it appears a backstage tour is to happen. I am SOOOO happy for this! I will tell a lot more when I've actually been there, I'm always so afraid to jinx stuff. But I'm super super super excited!!

Awww, Soot is officially my favorite person (err... being?) of the day! He's not just adorable, but incredibly sweet!

Can we make Soot an honorary member of Deserted Phans?

Anéa I can't wait to hear how your NY adventure goes!!! Woo hoo!

SenorSwanky wrote:That's awesome! Just don't stay at the Hotel Carter. Wish someone had given me that advice.

Thanks for that, advices on which hotels to stay clear of is also helpful.

Any advice on hotel near the Majestic? Someone suggested Millenium Broadway, but they appear to be fully booked. And their sister hotels rather pricy. So other suggestion on cheap/medium price range hotels not too far away would be greatly appreciated. I am just so clueless about NYC.

When exactly will you be there? I assume you'll only need a room for one night based on what you said earlier. NYC (and Times Square in particular) is always expensive, but I'm looking around online so see what I can find that qualifies.

Yup, one night, from Tuesday to Wednesday next week. Open for suggestions, but around Majestic/fabric district-ish would be a good area. If you have suggestions and/or could take a look, I'd be eternally grateful. My internet connection here in the US is really random.

Oh, and Soot and friend(s) definitely deserve something.

Greetings from outer Minnesota bush AKA Red Wing.

Anea,

Could you please define cheap/medium Cost hotels? What range are we looking at? It'll help narrow the search.

phantomfett wrote:Anea,

Could you please define cheap/medium Cost hotels? What range are we looking at? It'll help narrow the search.

Well, as long as it's only one night, something between $100-$150?

Oh, and I HAVE MY TICKET FOR THE TUESDAY EVENING PERFORMANCE!!!

/crazy caps lock mode

Try Portland Square on West 47th. It's a short diagonal walk across Times Square. The prices might have gone up a little since they remodeled last year, but it's always been in the $100 to $150 range. It's clean, pretty quiet, and there's free internet. Check-in is fairly late...around 3:00 p.m., but they do have lockers to store your belongings if you're there before that. There's no room service or food IN the hotel, but there's two or three Starbucks within a block or two.

I just need to confirm your date with...y'know...Soot...now that you've got your ticket and it's all set.

ANEA! If you're going to be in NY, we should totally meet up!

Paula74 wrote:Try Portland Square on West 47th. It's a short diagonal walk across Times Square. The prices might have gone up a little since they remodeled last year, but it's always been in the $100 to $150 range. It's clean, pretty quiet, and there's free internet. Check-in is fairly late...around 3:00 p.m., but they do have lockers to store your belongings if you're there before that. There's no room service or food IN the hotel, but there's two or three Starbucks within a block or two.

I just need to confirm your date with...y'know...Soot...now that you've got your ticket and it's all set.

Soot rocks. And so do you.

As for Portland Square, when I'm trying their website portlandsquarehotel.com/ I'm automatically redirected to Sanctuary Hotel ( http://www.sanctuaryhotelnyc.com/ ), which range about $300 a night. That is a bit too expensive. Seems like their refurbishing was an extensive one. Alas, as it sounded good. Small, clean, good location, no facilities = perfect. Especially if there's a Starbucks closeby.

Viscountess, are you in NYC this coming Tuesday??

operafantomet wrote:
As for Portland Square, when I'm trying their website portlandsquarehotel.com/ I'm automatically redirected to Sanctuary Hotel ( http://www.sanctuaryhotelnyc.com/ ), which range about $300 a night. That is a bit too expensive. Seems like their refurbishing was an extensive one. Alas, as it sounded good. Small, clean, good location, no facilities = perfect. Especially if there's a Starbucks closeby.

Yeah it appears Portland's refurbishing included a name-change as well.

Tip-toeing through Expedia, Orbitz and Travelocity didn't have anything in the $100-$150 range that wasn't near the airports. Even Milford Plaza (next door to the Majestic) is $203/night according to their website (and that's a 15-hour sale at the moment). I think you might have to bite the bullet and spring for a little more than you planned

TAFKaR

I've been trying to search around my favorite sites for deals/codes and cannot find anything either within your range Anéa. Everything is starting around $200 for something that isn't dumpy.

operafantomet wrote:Viscountess, are you in NYC this coming Tuesday??

Yep, I'll probably be in the area all week.

Raphael wrote:Tip-toeing through Expedia, Orbitz and Travelocity didn't have anything in the $100-$150 range that wasn't near the airports. Even Milford Plaza (next door to the Majestic) is $203/night according to their website (and that's a 15-hour sale at the moment). I think you might have to bite the bullet and spring for a little more than you planned

You know what, Milford Plaza was a very good idea, it is now booked. Apparently with an "I love NYC" gift bag package, as it was the same rate as the room without it. And $220 is not bad at all, especially not for that location. My original price range was flexible.

Thank you so much for those looking and suggesting, it has been extremely helpful. My internet access has been so random, and it's long since I've felt so clueless. I don't know NYC is so overwhelming to me, I guess it's the slightly unplanned nature of the stay + me traveling alone. Everything just seems a bit chaotic right now. But I now have hotel + theatre tickets + a date with Soot. Life is good.

Viscountess, I'll PM you!

operafantomet wrote:You know what, Milford Plaza was a very good idea, it is now booked. Apparently with an "I love NYC" gift bag package, as it was the same rate as the room without it. And $220 is not bad at all, especially not for that location. My original price range was flexible.

Glad to hear that you've got a hotel secured - I was getting travel anxiety for you

Milford's not the most glamorous hotel, but if it's just for one night and basically just a place to sleep, then it's okay and the location is very convenient. If I remember correctly, on the side of the hotel next to the Majestic, the wall proudly states in big letters that the Milford's next door neighbor is the Phantom (or something like that).

Thank you so much for those looking and suggesting, it has been extremely helpful. My internet access has been so random, and it's long since I've felt so clueless. I don't know NYC is so overwhelming to me, I guess it's the slightly unplanned nature of the stay + me traveling alone. Everything just seems a bit chaotic right now. But I now have hotel + theatre tickets + a date with Soot. Life is good.

Now onto other issues Are you still flying into Newark? Hopefully you'll get in early enough for the cab ride into Manhattan, check in, and have a little relaxation time before the show. As far as restaurants, I highly recommend Angus McIndoe which is right across the street from the Majestic. Last time I ate there I had a window table on the second floor. I could watch the people queue up for the show while I ate

And since your entire Times Square experience encompasses spots within a dozen feet of each other so far, I'd recommend walking over a block to Duffy Square just to experience Times Square as you see it in the movies and television. Also, there's the Times Square Visitor/Information Center (@ 7th Avenue between 46th and 47th street) where you can get maps, lots of show flyers and advertisements, and get any questions you have about the area answered.

TAFKaR

I hope you enjoy the Broadway production & NYC Anea!

Thank you, CTOD!

Anyone in need of a current Broadway brochure? Or other merchandise from The Majestic? Slip me a note here or on FB, and if I see it in time I'll buy it. Kinda looking forward to the merchandise stuff myself...

Haha, it's so ridiculous! My hotel room is basically on TOP of the Majestic. I overlook the roof of the theatre. Oh yes, I am a happy camper.

Phantom in three hours. It'll be my 40th time in total, and first on Broadway. And I am saying hi to Soot afterwards. So cool. Just SOOO cool. SO COOL!!!

operafantomet wrote:Haha, it's so ridiculous! My hotel room is basically on TOP of the Majestic. I overlook the roof of the theatre. Oh yes, I am a happy camper.

Phantom in three hours. It'll be my 40th time in total, and first on Broadway. And I am saying hi to Soot afterwards. So cool. Just SOOO cool. SO COOL!!!

That is so cool, I hope you had an amazing time! And hope your meeting with Soot went well

I'm hoping to go and see the show on Saturday whilst I'm in NY before my Trek America trip. It'll be my 4th time! I've got a long way to go to match you operafantomet!

Operfantomet- This is incredibly cool to have you on our shores seeing the NY production! Can't wait to hear your analysis of the production.

I've stayed at Milford before...cheap, but good, place for its location!

ifonlyidont wrote:

operafantomet wrote:Haha, it's so ridiculous! My hotel room is basically on TOP of the Majestic. I overlook the roof of the theatre. Oh yes, I am a happy camper.

Phantom in three hours. It'll be my 40th time in total, and first on Broadway. And I am saying hi to Soot afterwards. So cool. Just SOOO cool. SO COOL!!!

That is so cool, I hope you had an amazing time! And hope your meeting with Soot went well

I'm hoping to go and see the show on Saturday whilst I'm in NY before my Trek America trip. It'll be my 4th time! I've got a long way to go to match you operafantomet!

Only a zero apart, and as we all know 0 = nothing, right?

I have SOOOO much I want to tell you guys. Like, wow. But it really will have to wait until I get home. Too little time, and too unsorted thoughts... All love, though. However, I have some question:

Despite what everyone has said, Sara Jean Ford did not perform tonight. I had Marni Raab as Christine. And despite SJF's headshot and all in the playbill, it lists Marni Raab as principal Christine, Elizabeth Welch as the alternate for Wednesday evening and Saturday matinées, and Susan Owen for Thursday evening. Kimilee Bryant is currently the understudy. SJF isn't listed in the actual cast list. Where did she go? Is this an announced vacation or anything?

And about tomorrow.... technically I can do the Phantom matinée. I am VERY tempted too. However, I'm not sure I want to see the exact same cast again. Judging by the cast list I probably will. Anyone have inside info?

If I don't see Phantom, I will probably see Mary Poppins. Laura Michelle Kelly and Gavin Lee (original Mary and Bert) is apparently on. I know I should see "Book of Mormon" or "Turn off the Dark". But the former is probably hard to get ticket to + expenisve, and the latter is well... Had I been here several days I would see it, just because, but I don't want to "waste" an opportunity to see something awesome. So... Phantom... Poppins.... Phantom... Poppins...

I wish I'd had time to see another show. Still have only seen no other shows but Phantom actually on Broadway.

As I suggested on FB, the Christine situation sounds like SJF is on vacation. They did that for Carlotta when I was there a few weeks ago, listing the three usual understudies in the cast list by the days they perform, but Michelle McConnell was still on the title page, poster, and headshot page.

It'd be great if you got to see Bryant. She might be a bit old for the part now, but she's a great Christine, from what I've heard. Certainly was a good Carlotta.

Operafantomet - I'm so glad to hear that you enjoyed the Broadway production. I can't wait to read your review after you get home. I am flying into NYC in the morning for a business trip and returning on Thursday. I tried so hard to get extra time in the city for spare time but it sadly did not work out. So close to Phantom but yet so far.

If you don't see Phantom again, it sounds like a great opportunity to see the original Mary and Bert. Have fun!

See Mary Poppins! Turn Off The Dark is awful, and Mormon is impossible to get tickets to, except by luck...

Love that you loved the show!

SenorSwanky wrote:I wish I'd had time to see another show. Still have only seen no other shows but Phantom actually on Broadway.

As I suggested on FB, the Christine situation sounds like SJF is on vacation. They did that for Carlotta when I was there a few weeks ago, listing the three usual understudies in the cast list by the days they perform, but Michelle McConnell was still on the title page, poster, and headshot page.

It'd be great if you got to see Bryant. She might be a bit old for the part now, but she's a great Christine, from what I've heard. Certainly was a good Carlotta.

Yes, the situation sounds identical. I was just so surprised as I knew it wasn't an alternate day, and everyone said SJF would be on for sure, yet I immediately recognized Marni Raab when she entered stage.

I really hoped to catch Bryant, to be honest. I like her a lot. I actually emailed her, to ask if she had any scheduled performances, but she had the day off yesterday, and I think she's "only" doing ensemble work today.

Stephanie, that was basically my situation as well. So close, and yet so far. But luckily I was able to do a last-minute re-booking, so I got 24 hours in NYC. I am SO happy about that. Sorry you won't be able to do the same. But NEXT time...

MajesticPhantom: I sure hope Turn off the Dark is awful, that's exactly why I would want to see it... But yeah, when I can only see two musicals, and one of them obviously is Phantom, I don't want to waste an opportunity to see a great show. And I really want to see Mary Poppins.

A semi short note on the performance last night: I'm pretty sure it was sold out. At least very close to. They also got a standing ovation. That warmed an old Phantom heart. Especially when strolling Broadway and all the shows the city have to offer, and see that people still queued up for Phantom.

As for the cast, I saw Hugh Panaro as the Phantom, Marni Raab as Christine, and Kyle Barisich as Raoul. Panaro was absolutely amazing. Deeper voice than before, overall more intimidating, but also more sensual, and perfect money notes. SO impressed. Raab... well... I am divided. Her voice was rather thin for much of the show, and too thick when she needed volume, and she just didn't manage to blend those two well. I think that is the same issue I had with Anne Görner in Essen, and it irked me. However, her acting was fantastic. Like, fantastic. Some incredibly fine acting moments going on. Which made me kinda love her still. As for Barisich, he was flawless but didn't stand out in any way. Despite Raab being a "pro-Raoul" Christine, this was a performance where I watched the Phantom and Christine moreso than the trio.

Managers George Lee Andrews and David Cryer was excellent, ditto for Evan Harrington as Piangi. But the supporting role who very much stole the show was Marilyn Caskey as Madame Giry. Along with Heather Jackson, it is by far the best Madame Giry ever. Wow.

Michele McConnell was a sympathetic and even cute Carlotta. I loved that. Good voice too. Jessica Bishop was a lovely Meg in terms of acting and looks, but I had the same issue with her as I've had with most US Megs: vibrato heavy, to the point where it's hard to tell what is sung. So singing wise, nope. Dancing, cuteness and acting, top score.

In general I felt the Broadway production had a high level of professionalism. Things were exactly as they should, the dancers were always 100% on time and synchronized, and it looked fresh and energetic. I think that maybe impressed me the most. The production felt fresh, and knowing how worn/old some of the costumes and sets are, how cramped the backstage space is, and also how long some cast members have been there, I just found it very impressive.

I went to say hello to Soot afterwards, but he weren't there! He failed me! However, I was delighted to meet some of his friends - Panaro, Raab, Barisich, Thelma Pollard in makeup, and Andrew the maybe a bit involuntary costume guide. Seeing the US costumes up close was too cool for words. I mean, I know them by heart, but seeing and feeling textures, details, construction and actual weight is something else. More to come on that. THANK YOU a million-trillion-gazillion times for arranging this, Paula. I can't think of any better way to celebrate my 40th show. It was such a perfect night.