[GretchenM]

the ensemble singing was superb, and IMO, the staging of "Masquerade" was almost up to 1930's MGM standards

I haven't seen the 1930's MGM version but I loved both of the things you listed above.

I'm delighted you went to see it. I also loved the "Prima Dona" number. It made me laugh as soon as Callow and Hinds made their entrance, singing. What did you think of that one?

[ohioWfan]

I guess what I said was confusing. There was no '30's version of Phantom (just '27? and '42), neither MGM, nor a musical (other than the singing in the Operas in '42).

It's just that the MGM Musical set such a high standard in singing and choreography, that none have been even close since, IMO. So for me, that was a really high compliment.

The Prima Dona number was great! Minnie Driver was a very interesting choice for Carlotta, especially since she can't sing (opera, anyway). I guess they picked her for comedy, but it was still an interesting choice.