Walkerville troupe ‘nails’ Phantom

Congratulations Walkerville Centre for the Creative Arts. You mounted an astounding 16 straight sold- out performances of the Phantom of the Opera.

I consider myself fortunate to have been able to see two of these performances.

When I first heard Walkerville was going to be performing the Phantom, I was apprehensive as to how well they would be able to handle the complexities of this production.

Having seen the Phantom performed at the Pantages Theatre in Toronto three times — 1992, 1994 and 1996 — I was keenly aware of the scope of undertaking such a production. Much to my delight and everyone else in attendance, the Walkerville troupe absolutely nailed the performances.

he professionalism of the performances went beyond what one would expect from a high school production. Director John Nabben, you are to be congratulated on how well you prepared the students.

Music director Ian Smith, there were times I would have said it was the Windsor Symphony Orchestra playing.

The countless hours by vocal director Elspeth Maynard paid off in amazing performances by Danielle Beauchamp and Mary Spinks as Christine Daae.

Throughout the performances, I had to keep reminding myself that all the performers are only high school students.

From the person who sold me my tickets, to the parent who picked up a son or daughter after each rehearsal and every single person involved with this production, I sincerely thank you for your efforts.

With very little advertising — largely word of mouth — 16 performances were sold out. The talent level of our local youths is nothing less than impressive.

No doubt they could have sold out 16 more performances for this delightful production.

Windsorites, do yourself a favour and buy your tickets for the next Walkerville production, before they sell out.