Broadway Beat's Priceless Spotlight - Michael Crawford

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Welcome to BroadwayWorld TV's weekly video series, BroadwayBeat's Priceless Spotlight. The program presents special moments by some of theatre's past, present, and future greats!

On January 9th, 2006, Andrew Lloyd Webber's The Phantom of the Opera made Broadway history by becoming the longest-running production ever. The lavish musical reached its 7,486th performance on January 9th, overtaking Cats, the previous record-holder. 

Since its Broadway debut on January 26, 1988, the musical has grossed over $720 million, making it the highest-grossing show in Broadway history. Having since surpassed Cats' record by a phenomenal 3 years and 1,300 performances, it has now played over 8,800 performances - the only show in Broadway history to do so - and all with no end in sight. The musical continues to thrill audiences at New York City's Majestic Theatre eight performances a week.

The role of the masked and lovelorn 'Erik', The Phantom of the Opera', was created by musical theatre superstar Michael Crawford. Crawford won a 1988 Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical for his legendary performance in the role. In this episode of 'Priceless Spotlight', Broadway Beat speaks with Michael Crawford on that record-breaking evening about creating the celebrated role. You will also meet the actor who played 'The Phantom' at that historic performance, Howard McGillin.

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