THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA Celebrates A Stunning Double Victory At West End Eurovision 2018

The cast of the West End's longest running musical, The Phantom of the Opera, were hailed the stars of West End Eurovision 2018, scoring a remarkable double victory.

Performing Conchita Wurst's 2014 winning song 'Rise Like a Phoenix', and earing top marks of 106 - 36 ahead of their nearest rivals, Dreamgirls.

The Phantom of the Opera entry was voted overall winner and was also awarded the Judges Award - Best Creative from the judging panel of choreographer, director and showbiz legend Arlene Phillips, John Partridge and stand up star Tom Allen.

Featuring a cast of bearded characters including Conchita, Alphaba, Princess Jasmine and The Bearded Lady from The Greatest Showman and a fabulous quick change dress transfornation, The Phantom of the Opera cast stormed the event winning more top marks than any other
production.

The third trophy of the night, the Best Ident, voted for by public text vote, was won by Hamilton.

The final result was:

1. The Phantom of the Opera - 106 votes
2. Dreamgirls - 70 votes
3. Aladdin - 60 votes
4. Young Frankenstein - 50 votes
5. 42nd Streeet - 42 votes
6. Kinky Boots - 38 votes
7. Mamma Mia - 32 votes
8. Hamilton - 24 votes

The evening also featured two epic performances by this year's UK entry, SuRie performing the emotive and uplifting track Storm that carries the hopes of the UK at the 63rd Eurovision Song Contest in Lisbon, Portugal on Saturday 12 May, and musical theatre leading actress Lucie Jones who represented the UK in 2017 with the nation's best showing in eight years - with a dance version of her entry, Never Give Up On You.

Legendary charity production West End Eurovision was staged at the Shaftesbury Theatre for the first time in four years and was a sold-out strorming success.

Melanie Tranter, chair of the Make A Difference Trust said: "We are delighted to welcome back West End Eurovision and look forward to it becoming one of our annual fundraisers. Last night's event was a testament to the generosity of the amazing people in the theatre community coming together to support the Trust. The funds raised will help us to continue our work supporting those living with of affected by HIV and AIDS. Congratulations to The Phantom of the Opera for a well deserved win. We all look forward to them defending the trophy next year."

Since the first West End Eurovision contest was staged in 2008, the event has raised thousands to support the MAD Trust. The Trust works with its partners to support HIV and AIDS projects both in the UK and Sub-Saharan Africa building awareness and providing care support and education.