An Open Letter to Andrew Lloyd Webber
| Name: Christopher
J. Krieger Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Baltimore, Maryland Time: 2000-03-01 01:01:49 Comments: Dear Sir: I am a fan of Phantom of the Opera. Although I have never seen the stage show, I have the CD. I listen to it daily and sing the songs with my 4 year old daughter. She plays the part of Christine and I play the role of the phantom. She knows the words, because we play it all the time. I am desperately hoping that Michael Crawford plays the Phantom again so that I may have an opportunity to see and enjoy this incredible show. Many Thanks |
| Name: logan
darkstone Website: Referred by: Yahoo! From: detroit michigan Time: 2000-02-29 09:12:24 Comments: Dear Sir In the simpelist terms no other should even be considered for the role of the "phantom" , but the Phantom himself. Michael Crawford is your man and is the only one i think of when i think of the phantom every one else lives in his shadow. |
| Name: Loretta
Williams Website: Referred by: AOL From: Amherst, N.H. Time: 2000-02-24 00:09:01 Comments: Dear Mr. Lloyd Webber, I've seen Phantom 5 times, never with Michael Crawford unfortunately, but I do have the soundtrack with the original cast and play it constantly. My 5 children and their children are all Phantom fanatics and love Michael Crawford. If the movie is ever made, please let Michael Crawford re-create the role only he can do. Antonio Banderas was fine as Che in Evita, but he could never duplicate the singing talents of Mr. Crawford. I would think that with your being the composer, you would have some clout in who portrays your characters. Please let the phantom be Michael Crawford. Thank you. |
| Name: Alice Clark Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Pomona Time: 2000-02-21 03:35:48 Comments: Im not sure of my E mail address |
| Name: Alex Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Florida, USA Time: 2000-02-20 15:18:01 Comments: Dear Sir, I had the most unfornuate occasion as I watched the news last night. In highlights, they announced the closing of CATS on Broadway. My eyes filled with tears knowing that the most legendary show will no longer exist. I hope this isn't so you can save money to afford to hire Antonio for the Phantom movie. I can't believe it after all these years, CATS is going to be gone forever... well, THE MEMORY IS NOW GONE!!! The memory didn't last forever... i am just so upset right now.... I never would have thought that it would shutdown.... I can't help but feel angry and upset, but I am sure you know what you are doing... if not, well I hope God is there to save you from the wrath of the world. |
| Name: Barry McKay Website: Referred by: NewsGroups From: indianapolis, indiana Time: 2000-02-19 03:12:45 Comments: Mr. Weber My name is Barry McKay, and I have been a fan for over 15 yrs., and I have been a devoted fan of P.T.O.. Thank you for writing such a beautiful opera and having it play in my life. Your song "Music of the night" has been a major factor in my life and it plays in my mind at all times. I am praying that Michael Crawford plays Phantom in the movie and sings the song of all times to be pronounced as the greatest. Thank you for your great gift. |
| Name: Bridget Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 2000-02-19 00:17:45 Comments: I find it amazing that you don't realize that to cast anyone but Michael Crawford as the Phantom, would be an extremely egrigious error. Antonio Banderas was not in the least impressive as Che and his singing left a lot to be desired. I am sure you noticed this. I saw the Pantages Theatre, Toronto production of the Phantom, and bought the sound track featuring Mr. Crawford. While the production in Toronto was fantastic, the music of Mr. Crawford still gives me chills. I wore out one tape and had to buy another. Also bought Michael Crawford sings the music of ALW. I WILL CONTRIBUTE TO THE ORGANIZATION OF AN ALW PRODUCTIONS BOYCOTT IF MICHAEL CRAWFORD IS NOT THE PHANTOM IN THE MOVIE. |
| Name: Katy Jessup Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Waterloo, IN Time: 2000-02-17 23:25:50 Comments: My Dear Sir: I'm fourteen years old, so I wasn't around when your musicals first started to come out. I only heard of you within the past year, but since then your music has had a profound influence on me. I love Antonio Banderas, but I want to see Michael Crawford as the "Phantom". How else can you bring it to life on the screen? I think that since this movie was originally set to come out many people have forgotten the magic that Michael Crawford brought to the production. It is my belief that the "Phantom Of The Opera" could never be done justice without him. Thank you for your time. Respectfully yours, Katy Jessup |
| Name: florence
ritter Website: Referred by: Yahoo! From: Time: 2000-02-15 18:20:41 Comments: Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber, My 'friend',as you are because you brought the 'Phantom' in my life. I have been to Toronto to see the 'Phantom' and did go back five times more. Colm Wilkinson was the greatest 'Phantom' on stage for me,but,not to cast Mr. Crawford in the movie role,would be the greatest mistake I can think of. Mr. Bandaros is a fine 'actor',but he will never be the 'Phantom'. The role has been defined by Mr. Crawford. His ability to sing and act in this role,have made the 'opera' what it is,today. I do hope,you will find it in your heart and "Think of Me",(and others),when you do the film. Thank you. |
| Name: Priscilla Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Texas Time: 2000-02-12 16:59:45 Comments: You will be doing the world a favor when you make Phantom of the Opera (movie OR video) with Michael Crawford. Think of your place in music history! With Michael Crawford, you will be getting the best possible portrayal of the role in this your finest work. I have been a fan of Phantom of the Opera ever since I first saw it, years ago, and it will always be my favorite. Since then, I have seen it several times, and never fail to be enchanted, even though silightly disappointed that I had not seen Crawford. He has the voice and all the "moves!" Do it! |
| Name: Chuck F. Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Florida Time: 2000-02-12 03:31:33 Comments: Dear. LORD Lloyd-Webber, The reason I capitalize your title, is that without us your title would be incoherent. I must be honest with you, I really don't understand (amongst THOUSANDS AND THOUSANDS perhaps MILLIONS now) exactly the reasons behind the dispute amongst the casting. I must admit, when I heard that Sarah Brightman and Michael Crawford were the SET title characters in this amazing show to be filmed, i was ECSTATIC! Unfortunately, Miss Brightman as rumored will not be cast in the film. However, I don't understand the reason for having a 17/18 yr old Christine! I have read Gaston Leroux's version of Phantom, and absolutely love it. For the MAGNITUDE of the amazing singer that brought the house to it's feet and their eyes in tears, the singer must be EXPERIENCED and TRAINED for this accomplishment. I don't see how a singer so young could pull off the singing voice of the Angel, and have the EMOTIONS EMOTIONS EMOTIONS to even pull of the "Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again" scene? At that climactic song, my emotions are just swept away by Miss Brightman's voice (who is TRAINED and TALENTED ENOUGH for this song alone). the EMOTIONS involved in this very special scene, i don't see a CHILD portraying this famed character role. however, amongst my problems with that rumor, i must admit again, that i am devistated by the MASS CONFUSION you're bringing up your devotees. As i understand it, Faye Dunaway of supposed role Norma Desmond of "Sunset Boulevard" was yanked out do to the prohibition of the embarrassment she would cause your show, and her contract money was reimbursed by suit. I would hope you would do the same with Antonio Banderas. I was impressed by his SPANISH role of Che with his SPANISH LOOKS and SPANISH VOICE, but....to have the articulate and amazing and just ENCHANTING voice of the PHANTOM requires SOOOO much more than ANY thing of looks. I simply listen to my Double disc cast recording of the London Cast and I am swept away by Michael Crawford's AMAZING ANGEL OF MUSIC VOICE. In my mind, i see the production (film version of my interrpretation) pass through my dreams and mind as often as I say hello to passer-bys. WIth Michael Crawford's voice, i became hooked onto musicals, and most INSPIRING by his performance, i am now currently writing a musical of which i hope to be staged. Your WONDERFUL musical was the inspiration and i thank you for that. Should i remind you to read Susan Kay's "Phantom"??? I assure you, if you read that book...only then can you understand the MAGNITUDE and WONDERS the PHANTOM has.This isn't just a character, this is a spirit that empowers us all, a voice so enchanting, we stop our everyday routine to listen to the VOICE, the VOICE of the ANgel of music. I see Michael Crawford as the personified vision Gaston Leroux and Susan Kay has. His sheer body movements, mysterious hand gestures, the look of the Red Death envoking Christine to sing the ending of the theme song, Phantom of the Opera. We the listeners have a power, and a say. "the voice of the PEOPLE, NEVER BE DENIED!" I quote that from Evita. The people rose with Freedom with the voice of Eva, let the people RISE with the amazing man and VOICE of michael crawford. You will see, that if you cast Michael Crawford, you will not retire short-changed mentally, you will retire with the SATISFACTION, the assurance that you did something right. the feelings you had when putting Evita and Phantom together, you KNEW it was....."just right". I hold you with the upmost respect. You chose Donny Osmond for the movie version of Joseph for the fact that you said so you yourself, "he's the best Joseph in the world". Elain Paige is "Grizabella",Patti LuPone IS "Eva Peron", Glenn Close is "Norma Desmond". in my mind Michael Crawford IS and ALWAYS WILL BE "The Phantom"....please allow me to see this dream of mine come true, and cast Michael Crawford..."aka....Erik". thank you for you time, sir. |
| Name: Jacquie Website: Referred by: Net Search From: Time: 2000-02-12 03:07:19 Comments: Dear Mr. Webber. I will keep it short... Please Reconsider and consider again and then consider..and after you consider....definitely use Michael Crawford as the Phantom in the movie version of THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA Thank You! |
| Name: Brian
Montgomery Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Northern California Time: 2000-02-09 18:47:14 Comments: Dear Andrew Lloyd-Webber; I can't begin to tell you of the hours of enjoyment that my 18 year old daughter receives from listening to the Phantom of the Opera CD featuring Michael Crawford. Since then she has sought out other Michael Crawford music, which needless to say has effected our whole family!!! Now the word has come to us that there is to be a movie made of the Phantom, but that there has not as of yet been someone casted in the role of the Phantom. It is the sincere desire of all of our family (especially my daughter) that the role of the Phantom should be played by Michael Crawford. We feel that anyone else portraying the Phantom would be a let down, and may result in our family not attending the film adaptation. I realize that one family may not make a difference, but we are trying to show our support of Michael Crawford as the Phantom in perhaps the only way we can. Thank you so much...We appreciate the many musicals that you have brought to the stage. Sincerely ...The Montgomery Family |
| Name: David Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: MN Time: 2000-02-09 18:42:09 Comments: Dear Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber, I heard that your film adaptation of "Phantom" was in the planning stages right now. On http://www.musicals.net, we have discussed the idea of a "Phantom" movie many a times. We applaud that "Phantom" can be retold in a lavish film version, which many more people will be able to see at a much lower price. I was very grateful to see the touring company just two years ago. I was shocked when I heard some startling news about film version, though. I have heard that Antonio Banderas has signed on as the Phantom! Now, I won't go crazy like the many other fans that have probably "killed" you in their letters. I just want to give you my point of view. I think Antonio was very good in the movie version of "Evita". He fit the part of Che, and did a well job of it, especially for someone who has not had any singing experiences. I do not think that Mr. Banderas fits the role of the Phantom. The Phantom is an older character, one who needs a much larger singing range that Mr. Banderas has. Mr. Banderas's voice does not fit personality and singing range of the Phantom. How can Mr. Banderas show off his beautiful face and sexy body if he is hidden behind a mask and big, black cape? Wouldn't he strongly fit the role of Raoul much more? Or how about the role of Alex in the film version of "Aspects of Love" which I hear you are planning? Many people I know think that Michael Crawford should be offered the role of the Phantom again. He has won many awards and recognition for his role. Remember, there are no "stars" to begin with. The public makes them. When we discussed the "Phantom" movie on the forum on http://www.musicals.net a while ago, we definitely agreed not to support the movie if Mr. Banderas had the starring role of the Phantom. My friends and peers at school definitely do not want to see a "Phantom" movie with Mr. Banderas as the title role. However, we definitely would be interested in the movie if Mr. Crawford were the Phantom. Well, enough of my babbling. On the forum of http://musicals.net, this is the casting that we suggested for a film version of "Phantom". You do not have to even listen to this, but is recommended, because we think that you will be reasonable and good at casting the film version of "Phantom". These are just suggestions… The Phantom: Michael Crawford Christine: Andrea Corr, Rebecca Luker, Charlotte Church Raoul: Antonio Banderas Madame Giry: Glenn Close, Dame Diana Rigg, Meryl Streep Carlotta: Bernadette Peters, Judy Kaye Piangi: Paul Sorvino, Luciano Pavarotti Andre: Jason Alexander, Mandy Patinkin, Jonathan Pryce Firmin: John Cullum, Mandy Patinkin, Jonathan Pryce Meg Giry: Kate Winslet, Jennifer Dawn Stillings Buquet: Sir John Mills I'm sorry if my letter came across too forceful or snotty. It just would be a great disappointment to many others and me if Mr. Banderas played the role of the Phantom. Thank you for taking your time to read this! Sincerely, David |
| Name: Jacob
Clark Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Magna, UT Time: 2000-02-09 15:07:30 Comments: Lord Webber, I for one saw the touring cast of "The Phantom of the Opera" and thought is was great! Your music was great, with excitment in every scene. Your musicals are all wonderful, and thank you for all of the great musical theatre you have provided for us fans. You're the best! Jacob Clark titanicfreak73@hotmail.com |
| Name: Carlos
Mainero Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Mexico City Time: 2000-01-27 00:56:53 Comments: Dear Andrew: Hello, I´m Mexican and I´m 17. I´ve seen "The Phantom of The Opera" four times, twice in Broadway and twice here in Mexico City. I just wanted to tell you that I really love your work (from Joseph to Whistle Down the Wind)and I really hope that Michael Crawford plays the role of the Phantom in the upcoming movie. Congratulations again, and I hope more of your musicals arrive here in Mexico. |
| Name: James
Henley Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: San Diego, CA Time: 2000-01-24 15:54:56 Comments: Dear Sir, I have had the opportunity to see Cats, Jesus Christ Super Star (w/Ted Nealy), Sunset BLVD (2 x's W/Glen Close), Star Light Express and Evita on stage. I have also seen Phantom of The Opera 9 times 3 times w/Davis Gaines, Robert G., Brad Little and 4 times w/Michael Crawford. I also own the above cast recordings along with many others. My daughter (8 years) has also seen Phantom w/Davis Gaines and has listened to the cast recording countless times and could probably sign the entire libretto form beginning to end. Although she enjoyed Mr. Gaines portrayal’s she still insists "there is only one Phantom, and that's Michael Crawford". I have always admired and supported your work. But you current efforts to bring PTO to the silver screen shocks me. Sir, how can even consider casting anyone else but Michael Crawford in role of Phantom? I own the DVD version of Cats. What an awesome choice of players you chose for that video. Seeing and hearing Elaine Paige sing "Memories" still brings chill down my spine just like Michael does when I here him sing "Music of the Night". Why not make the only choice for the role of Phantom. Choose Michael Crawford and capture your original vision on film for all to see. Any other choice will be a looser. Respectfully JMH |
| Name: Melanie
Young Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Martin, TN USA Time: 2000-01-20 06:30:13 Comments: I admit that if I am angry at anyone over this whole thing, it would be you. I tried to come up with something that was at least tempered with thoughtfulness, but I can't. I will just tell you that as far as I am concerned, if Michael Crawford -- the man who MADE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA the success it is today -- is not in the role of Erik, not only will I not see the movie...I will never watch another ALW related production again. I am severely questioning your artistic judgement. It seems to me it is traveling down the "how much money can I make" road. Cast Mr. Banderas as Raoul...he would do a credible job...but he does not have the talent to handle the role of Erik. Besides, Michael never played a role...he WAS and IS the Phantom. You best look at what the fans are saying because we are the ones who can make or break your efforts. |
| Name: JANET THOMPSON Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: DREXEL HILL PA 19026 Time: 2000-01-15 04:59:28 Comments: DEAR MR WEBBER, I DO SO MUCH ADMIRE YOU AS A MAN WHO HAS ALWAYS BEEN IN TOUCH WITH HIS AUDIENCE, AND THEREFORE I KNOW THAT YOU WILL MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICE AND GIVE MICHAEL CRAWFORD THE OPPORTUNITY TO MAKE HISTORY ONCE MORE IN THE PART THAT IS HIS AND HIS ALONE. |
| Name: Marilynn Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Atlanta, Georgia Time: 2000-01-09 17:12:51 Comments: Dear Sir: Congratulations on the recent announcement concerning the achievement of "Phantom". In light of that announcement, please keep the momentum going and preserve your greatest work by making the movie or video. Phantom was a success because its story touched people with all the different emotions that were inherent in the characters' lives. It was also a success because people could relate to the plight of the Phantom due to the struggles faced in daily lives. It was a success because the music was powerful and the words meaningful. Music is a universal language and the songs in POTO spoke vividly of pain, sorrow, love, and desire. It was a success becase the original cast breathed life into each character. They drew from their own experiences, not from previous cast members', and therefore were able to make each character real and credible to the audience. They gave the characters a heart and soul to which the audience could relate. This was especially true in the case of the Phantom, as played by Michael Crawford. Since the Phantom's face is masked, gestures and voice are all important in order for there to be communication between the Phantom, other characters, and the audience. Michael Crawford was able to achieve this communication. Please don't let this achievement go unnoticed or unrewarded. It was the public that ultimately decided on the success of POTO through their patronage. We await anxiously the uncut, unaltered stage production on film. Thank you, |
| Name: John
Miller Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Lebanon, Pennsylvania Time: 1999-12-30 19:51:04 Comments: Dear Mr. Lloyd Webber, I'm 16 years old and a huge fan of your work. I've been in love with Phantom since I was 10 years old. When I first heard the origional London cast, I was overwhelmed by the power of the score and lyrics. Mr. Crawford is, without a doubt, the best of all of the Phantoms. He inspired me to sing. Casting ANYONE but Mr. Crawford would be a huge mistake. You would be letting down all of your Phantom fans by casting anyone other than he. Please, do not fail us. Please reconsider your casting decision for the sake of the fans and for the sake of the Phantom. |
| Name: Adriana
Martos Naccache Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Brazil Time: 1999-12-23 19:19:10 Comments: I first saw this magical play about 3 years ago and I fell in love with it. So I decided that someday I will be making the role of Christine at the Majestic Theater (where I first saw the "Phantom").By this time I had already graduated in English and was already learning classical and modern ballet. When we came back from NY to San Paul(Brazil- my home town)I immediately started to take singing classes with the best teacher of my country, who studied and performed together with Maria Callas for many years. Now I'm 18 and I'm a professional ballet dancer and opera singer that also knows by heart more than 10 broadway's musicals.In addiction to all this I happened to have a really white skin and long brown curlyed hair -luck or coincidence? As you can see, I would gladly work in any of Andrew Lloyd Webber's productions but, as a fan, I'd really be disapointed if Mr.Michael "Phantom" Crawford were replaced in such an important event as the shooting of a Phantom's movie.I truely respect Bandera's work, but I know that this movie wont be as sucessfull as expected if the Phantom himself is not in it. Everybody knows that entretainment industries such as The Really Usefull Group have most of their public based on the tourism. As a Brazilian, rich tourist I ask you to think carefully about everything I said. Sincerily and with love. Adriana Naccache e-mail: deanacc@yahoo.com |
| Name: Doug
McCallum Website: Referred by: NewsGroups From: British Columbia, Canada Time: 1999-12-20 06:50:34 Comments: To Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber Dear Sir: Though I have long been an admirer of your work, I find your recent behaviour appalling. You claim to love musical theatre and to be concerned with its future, and yet when it comes to adapting your dramas for film, you approve the casting of movie stars who have had no prior connection with the original shows or with musical theatre as such. As a result, the film version of "Evita" was a travesty of the original, with a female lead who could not perform the songs properly as written and a Che whose delivery of the lyrics was large unintelligible. What a far cry from the moving performances of such artists as Elaine Paige and David Essex--fortunately those of us who most appreciate your compositions can at least enjoy excerpts of the originals on CD and video highlights. That is what I and my friends do, for we would not pay good money for the dreadful film "adaptation," which had no highlights and left only a bitter memory and which "lives again" only in the form of regrets for what might have been. You should have more regrets than anyone, since it is your creation that is going to live on only as a dim shadow of its former self. Is this how you want your works to be remembered? As travesties? Yet now you are about to compromise your integrity again and participate, again, in the violation of another great piece of musical theatre, one which many consider a masterpiece and which you claim to be proud of, even as you speak of turning it into another grotesque travesty. What a contradiction! You have said in a recent interview that you feel that this was one musical which you and your collaborators got right from the outset. Clearly millions of fans who have flocked to that production in London, in New York, and dozens of touring versions since have agreed. And yet you contradict yourself by talking about acquiescing to a "revised" script by a hack director who had nothing to with the work you "absolutely got right" a decade ago. Your own words come back to haunt you and will continue to do so as you betray your own work, your future reputation, the collaborators who first helped make it a success, and the millions of theatregoers who have wonderful memories of the impact it made on stage. Do you really think that any of us will be fobbed off with another substandard version, with music omitted or rewritten, merely in order to indulge the limitations of a movie star (and not even one of the first rank)? You should ask yourself why you repeat a mistake you ought to have learned from before, and why you wish to go on participating in your own degradation. Nor is it enough for you to betray yourself. Now you want to also betray the actor who contributed the most to presenting your vision in the best possible light, to giving the title character an indelible life in the minds of audiences everywhere. Hal Prince has said on more than one occasion that in the various restagings of the original production the main task for the lead actor has been to imitate as successfully as possible Michael Crawford's unforgettable embodiment of the role. Even those of us who were not able to see Mr. Crawford on stage have been able to verify this through the original cast recording and from various performances of excerpts on videotape. These are enough to make plain how subsequent performers have simply sought to copy, with varying degrees of success, Mr. Crawford's incandescent conception and incarnation of the role: his characterization, his walk, his gestures, his vocal inflections and colourings. You may be able to deceive yourself about these matters, but you won't be able to fool millions of fans who know Michael Crawford's contributions directly or indirectly. Your callous and shortsighted refusal to even consider him for the film is a dreadful repayment for the talent and devotion with which he served your creation. After having publicly promised him the film role, you have equally publicly broken your word! Why should anyone credit you or your future work with any integrity? You profess surprise at the controversy that has followed your recent conduct and attribute it to a bad image. But how do you think you acquired that image? Don't blame the public for it, especially not the legions of devotees, who have been loyal fans of yourself and your music in the past. Blame yourself, because you and your disgraceful, deceitful conduct have created that image and sparked the controversy. Consider it a left-handed compliment that our protest derives from our appreciation of, and loyalty to, your compositions, though we must dissociate them from the dishonest and disloyal person that you are increasingly becoming. You still have a chance to show some decency. Halt the misguided, self-corrupting course of action on which you are embarked and make amends to all those you have betrayed: to Michael Crawford, to your loyal audiences, and by doing so, to your self and your reputation, as well as to the future of your great work. Wake up and don't destroy another music drama's rightful place in history. Sincerely yours, Doug McCallum, Ph.D. P.S. In another of the disingenuous and misleading statements you have been making lately, you attributed the longevity of "The Phantom of the Opera" merely to 15 and 16 year old girls going to see it repeatedly. If you believe that nonsense, it just exemplifies how self-deceived, self-reinforcing and ultimately self-destructive your current mental state is becoming. It seems a paradoxical way to promote either the stage or film versions of the show. Implying that it is most suitable for fixated teenage girls does not seem calculated to attract new audiences from other demographics, including age groups who actually have more income to devote to repeated expenditures of $80 or more on theatre tickets. Of course by spreading such nonsense you do create the illusion of justifying your intention to cast a teen heart throb in a role for which he is unsuited and to turn Christine herself into a teenager. You're taking a very shortsighted and blinkered view of your own self interest. But once again you're only fooling yourself. The rest of us are not going to want to see a dumbed down, Ken and Barbie version of a once powerful drama. In fact I doubt if most teenagers will either. You seem so out of touch with contemporary realities that I should point out to you that teenagers have long since left Ken and Barbie behind. Those 15 or 16 year old girls who may have seen your show more than once were obviously content to see it with mature performers and without a "pretty boy" phantom, which, you ought to admit, is a ludicrous idea. I am sure Mr. Banderas, would rather watch in a movie where his face isn't covered up. |
| Name: Chris Burns Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: St. Pete, FL. Time: 1999-12-17 11:18:32 Comments: To begin, I am a very strong admirer in your productions, and I have seen Phantom of the Opera on more than one occasion. It has been my family's and my own favorite musical since it's introduction to broadway. I am very displeased with the choice NOT to include Michael Crawford in the upcoming movie. Antonio is a wonderful performer, however, his vocal quality is too ethnic, and lacks the integrity the the phantom voice held under Michael. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE reconsider. There appear to be a number of fans ho would enjoy this film, who were not lucky enough to see a Michael Crawford performance...including myself. Thank You. Chris |
| Name: Jason
Evens Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Leeds, UK Time: 1999-12-16 21:58:32 Comments: There can be no question over Michael Crawford's necessity to play the Phantom of the Opera. He is a hughly emotional person who holds his audience enthralled both in character and in person. If some might say he is less of a singer than might possibly be found to perform the role, this misses the point. Michael's voice has an emotional rawness to it that gives the music and the character their greatness. Many others, Antonioa Banderas included, lack this and the result is half a phantom and emotionally removed. Better no phantom, Andrew, than half a phantom. If they won't have him then forget it. If Warner Brothers' do not feel they can count on the bankability of Crawford's name on the big screen, they need only be reminded of how he took the public by suprise on stage with his performance. For this to be repeated on stage is surely not so far fetched, and is far more interesting than the prospect of a familiar box office favourite producing big opening takings but a disappointing result. Let people come to see a phantom film because they have heard how breathtaking it is, not because Mr Box Office is in it. J Evens |
| Name: Geri A.
Mellgren-Kerwin Website: Webscribe - a writer's homepage Referred by: Clicked on a 'Guestbooks by GuestWorld' Button From: Burbank, Ca. Time: 1999-12-09 23:34:58 Comments: Dear Lord Lloyd-Webber: Phantom of the Opera is a work of genius and the best stage musical of the century. Another act of pure genius was the casting of Michael Crawford as the Phantom. Since the story has 2 male leads, why doesn't Antonio Bandaras take the role of Raoul and let Michael play Erik. Raoul could be a latino and a handsome contrast to the disfigured Phantom. Pure casting genius! Best of all worlds! |
| Name: Maggie Birge Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Owensboro, KY USA Time: 1999-12-09 04:47:03 Comments: I have to comment on something I recently heard. I have been listening to some sound bites of various interviews with Antonio Banderas. In them he states that in the proposed Phantom film you are going to take out a lot of the show's music, add some new music, plus add some dialogue. My question is, why add dialogue? If Antonio plays the phantom, it will be a waste of good words. If you think you can validate your choosing Antonio for the part by giving him dialogue to say instead of difficult music he can't sing, save your time and energy. He can't even pronounce YOUR name intelligibly, let alone give the phantom a voice that an audience can understand. We already know Antonio is a weak singer. He's no better at speaking English dialogue. What a travesty this is going to be! Your beautiful show is going to become such a joke and you are going to be the laughingstock of the film industry!! You have a chance to recreate the perfection of the theatrical production, and you are throwing it away. What are you thinking? |
| Name: Victor
Faughnan Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: San Diego, CA.. area Time: 1999-12-07 14:42:25 Comments: Dear Lord Lloyd Webber, During this past year I have sent you 6 or 7 letters concerning the "Phantom of the Opera" movie. I think, as one of your fans of your music and Plays I deserve a reply. A response from you would be the decent thing to do. Thank you Sir, I await your considerate response.. Your Fan, Victor Faughnan, 10800 Woodside Ave., Space #218, Santee, CA., 92071-5607, USA...... vicsantee@aol.com |
| Name: Sara
Macdonald Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Surrey, British Columbia, Canada Time: 1999-12-05 05:30:17 Comments: Mr.Andrew Lloyd Weber...PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE don't give the part (in your upcoming movie) of the phantom to anyone other than Michael Crawford. I havwe nothing against Antonio Banderas (or anyone else) but you know Michael can sing circles around them all. He IS the Phantom. No one will ever come close to replacing him. Please don't make the mistake of not casting him. |
| Name: Kim Casella Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1999-11-29 23:09:35 Comments: Mr. Andrew Lloyd Webber: I have gone to see The Phantom of the Opera two times already on broadway, it is a wonderful production. I have only one regret though, and that was that I never got to see Michael Crawford perform as the Phantom. It would be a great error in your part to have someone other than Mr. Crawford play the part of the Phantom in the movie that you are to be making. Do not get me wrong Mr. Banderas is a good movie star, But he is no Phantom. I have had the chance to see Mr. Crawford in concert, and let me tell you he can belt out a song. If you are worried that he could not perform up to standards, you are sadly mistaken, his voice has never been better. Mr. Banderas does not have the vocal range that Mr. Crawford has for the Phantom. Please reconsider your decision. A fan of Michael Crawford's |
| Name: Jane
A. Whitmoyer Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1999-11-28 19:33:47 Comments: Dear Lord Lloyd Webber, I have been an admirer of you and your work for years. To me you are the most prolific composer of our time. You were absolutely brilliant when you chose Michael Crawford as the "Phantom". He was an instant success. As I understand it, at one time, you wanted Mr. Crawford to do the film. For the life of me, I can't understand why you changed your mind. He definitely is not too old, and as for Mr. Crawford not being a big-name star, that is not true. He is very well known here in the States. Please reconsider and choose Mr. Crawford for the film version of the "Phantom of the Opera." I believe, as do many others, that the film will not succeed without Mr. Crawford in the role. |
| Name: K.
Michiel Cavuoti Website: Referred by: Yahoo! From: Abilene,TX Time: 1999-11-27 02:58:03 Comments: The Honorable Lord Lloyd-Webber, I must admit that it is a crushing disappointment to find that a man whose talent and music I have idolized does indeed have clay feet. I never thought you would sell us out, unhappily I was wrong. |
| Name: Jaime
Dawn Crawford Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: oz Time: 1999-11-26 12:41:43 Comments: 26-11-1999. Dear Lord Lloyd-Webber, I would just like to say that IF the video production of THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA goes ahead with Mr. Antonio Banderas, and not Mr. MICHAEL CRAWFORD, then I will NOT be purchasing a copy;---if the role of THE PHANTOM is NOT played by Mr. MICHAEL CRAWFORD, I won't be the only one NOT purchasing the video. I would sincerely LOVE to own your production on video---I absolutely ADORE your version of THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA; the music, the costumes, the touch of comedy---EVERYTHING. Regretably, I have NEVER seen Mr. MICHAEL CRAWFORD as ERIK. I've only seen snippets of him on television, which has REALLY WHET MY APPETITE. I do not mean any disrespect to Mr. Banderas or anybody else, but, believe me, if you want the video production to be a success as popular and as well-loved as the stage-production, you will take the public's thoughts and views into consideration. I know that I speak for---LITERALLY---thousands of people. PLEASE, LORD LLOYD-WEBBER, THE ROLE OF THE PHANTOM MUST, MUST, MUST go to Mr. MICHAEL CRAWFORD. Thank You For Taking The Time To Read My Letter. Miss Jaime Dawn Crawford. jaime@picknowl.com.au |
Name: Scott Milham |
| Name: Lora
Fitzgerald Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Buffalo,New York Time: 1999-11-14 16:44:12 Comments: Hello. My name is Lora,and I am a HUGE fan of Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber.I think he is simply brilliant,and can be easily compared to Mozart and Beethoven because he is so varied.There is no one like him and there never will be.I always look for something new on him,and have everything up to date.Please never stop creating Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber!!! Thank you for this chance to speak my feelings. Your's very Truely, Lora |
| Name: Courteny
Daniells Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: New York Time: 1999-11-08 06:47:01 Comments: I have heard that you and others have decided that you would not cast Micheal Crawford in your movie of the Phantom that is coming out this year....I just wanted to let you know that I am very discusted about this and many people that I know also feel the same...If you had any common sense, what so ever, you would NOT be casting Antonio Banderes as the phantom...please in what life time was the phantom a 30 year old spanish man......Not to say he isn't a good actor..he is..but come on you should cast original people if you have the chance to and they can still play the part!!! And everyone in there right mind knows that he can still play the part...or have you not heard his newest album....but if you haven't heard it, I guess it is understandable since you seem to be an unenlightend type of person who is just in it for the money. |
| Name: Jessie Lewis Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Utah, United States of America Time: 1999-11-04 20:48:23 Comments: Dear Lord Lloyd-Webber, It is with sadness that I have heard you are planning to change the music in "The Phantom of the Opera" and star someone other than Michael Crawford. What has changed since your brilliant selection of him to play this role. It has brought you fabulous acclaim and money, and it made Michael Crawford an international star. His voice is - and will always be - the Phantom. A movie made with another person and a 'watered-down' score will only bring negative attention to you as the composer. If you listen to the customers - they want MICHAEL CRAWFORD, and will buy tickets to see the film if he is the Phantom. Otherwise, plan on a major flop (as they say in Hollywood.) If Michael Crawford isn't to be in the film, at least please have the courtesy to tell your supporters why. |
| Name: Marilynn Gardo Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Atlanta,GA Time: 1999-10-31 17:31:08 Comments: Dear Sir: Back in 1925 when the POTO was being conceived as a movie, and the casting of the Phantom was being discussed, the conclusion was arrived at that in order for the movie to be a success "it had to be Lon Chaney or nothing." The movie was a success. Today, as the casting of the Phantom is being discussed in order for the musical stage version of the movie to be a success, it has to be Michael Crawford or nothing. The movie will then be a success. In your heart surely you know that your original decision to cast Michael Crawford as the Phantom was a brillant decision and that casting him as the Phantom in the movie version will guarantee it's success and preserve your original masterpiece. Thank you. |
| Name: tmc Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1999-10-28 19:38:30 Comments: Only Michael Crawford should play the Phantom. |
| Name: Sarah
Campbell Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Hawaii Time: 1999-10-28 04:51:31 Comments: Dear Mr. Webber, I'm not sure if this will be read by you, but even if it isn't, maybe it will convince the millions of Phantom 'Phans' out there to fight for this cause. Although Mr. Bandaras was spectacular in Evita, he's just not the Erik for Phantom. Please understand that Michael is the ONLY ONE for Erik. When I was nine, my aunt sent me a recording of Michael and Sarah, and I fell IN LOVE. Even at such a young age, I knew how special and wonderful Phantom is. It's truly a masterpiece, Mr. Webber. Please don't let it go to waste. Antonio is wonderful, and I loved the whole 'casting different cultures' thing in Les Miz. with Lea Salong, but Antonio is VERY Hispanic and just not ERIK. I don't have anything against Antonio or Hispanic people- on the contrary, I think they're both awesome, but they're not ERIK. Please reconsider. Ever since I got the CD, any other person singing Erik and Christine is second-rate. Even Franc D' Ambrosio wasn't up to Michael's standards. And the man can SING! The Phantom of the Opera is REALLY, REALLY important to me. It's like my life- It's everything to me and I know it is to other people too, and I would be crushed if you cast Mr. Bandaras instead of the REAL Erik- Michael Crawford. There is no other for this role, Mr. Webber. Please, please please please please please please. We're begging you- please choose Michael. And if there is even a QUESTION who would be the best Christine, Sarah is without a doubt THE ONE. You can't deny that she's ASTOUNDING- it's like the role was written for her- same with Michael. Please, Mr. Webber. I feel so close to Erik when I'm listening to him on my CD. And I know that no one else, least of all Mr. Bandaras, could do justice to the role- could do HALF as good a job as Michael Crawford. Please listen to the millions who worship Michael- Phantom- You. Thank you for listening, sir. I love everything you've done and desperately wish that you will keep up the legend and choose Michael. I hope it's not too late. With the utmost sincerity, Sarah Christine Campbell, Wishing he was somehow here again. Hawaii |
| Name: Shaun McGuffin Website: Referred by: Net Search From: California Time: 1999-10-26 10:15:42 Comments: I have loved Phantom since High school.. Enough to learn the entire libretto before I ever saw the show. I hope it continues to run and that the quality of it never diminishes. Michael Crawford is the only logical choice for phantom in a movie. Thank you for a great musical Shaun |
| Name: Rommel Anacan Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Hawaii Time: 1999-10-23 13:22:50 Comments: Dear Lord Lloyd Webber... The Phantom of the Opera was the first musical that I had watched. It was in Los Angeles at the Ahmanson during Phantom's 4 year run. I have not had the privilege of seeing Michael Crawford performing as the Phantom but I did see him in concert of your music. Over the course of the yeras I have seen Phantom with Robert Guillaume and Davis Gaines. I must say that I would love to see Michael Crawford in the film production...I believe that as the originator of the role he would be the best to perform it. While I have the utmost respect for Antonio Banderas and enjoyed his performance in Evita I must say that I would rather see Mr. Gaines or Mr. Guillaume in the film before I see Mr. Banderas. I saw and heard Mr. Banderas in the birthday concert and I was not impressed at all with his performance of the "Phantom of the Opera"...I felt his voice was not right for the vocal demands of the score. Please reconsider... Respectfully Rommel Anacan Hawaii |
| Name: Jana Lynn Ploss Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1999-10-21 23:07:18 Comments: I write again for I have just 'disgusted' the Miami Herald interview with Antonio Bandit with my friends. Your subtle, poetic, Beauty and the Beast story will be the Jekyll and Hyde horror story after you downgrade to Antonio Bandit's range and allow him to incorporate his swash-buckler's acrobatics. Mr Crawford's body language spoke volumes that Mr Bandit cannot imitate. I recall the scene where Erik enters with Christine, hurls his hat across the stage, curls his finger through his hair, and does a Michael Jackson 'G' rated version of his hands sliding down his chest to the nether portions. Every bloody time could I hear the women swoon and the men snicker with anticpation of what was in store for them that evening. Not even Davis Gaines could perform it as well. Robert Guillaume did not even try to emulate Mr Crawford, but presented his own version. Michael Jackson could only marvel at the grace of Mr Crawford's hands. When Michael Jackson can see no other person in the role of Erik, does that tell you something? Hordes of people are reminding you to remember your words years ago, that professionalism over commercialism is your only concern. From my experience I have learnt crow is not the most delicious dish. I do not think you will enjoy it. You need some success backing your name again. Whistling and Jeeves did not do you justice, Michael Crawford will. Would you not prefer a gentleman who does not need to boast his ego (his fans are doing rather well in that category)? Or do you prefer the feathered cock who must crow to any interviewer that will listen that he is the only Erik? Listen with your heart Lord Lloyd Webber and not your pocketbook. |
| Name: Lisa L.
Bentrup Website: Referred by: Net Search From: St. Louis , MO stationed (US Navy) Groton, CT Time: 1999-10-21 21:51:33 Comments: Dear Mr. Webber, I would really like to know what has happened to your common sense. Most everyone I knoe thinks you have really lost "it". How could a brilliant artist not see the "Rembrant" before his very eyes? I love "Grease" and John Travolta in it, but not as the Phantom, I saw Antonio sing the Phantom on the PBS special of your birthday ( one question: Why was he singing and acting so angry???? To me the Phantom is not angry at anyone, didn't anyone inform Mr. Antonio of this well known fact. I know this is your show and you can do, basically what you want with it, before you make a final decision: "The moment I saw him (Crawford) with Sara at dinner for the first time, I knew there was no point in discussing the casting any further. The way he hypnotized her with his view of what he thought the phantom could be...I just tiptoed off and left them. I phoned Hal and said, ' It's cast." Time 1/18/88 Has this view changed? If so please explain to ever Phantom and Crawford fan why, I think we deserve that much. Thank you for your time, LISA |
| Name: Claudia Hemsi Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: São Paulo, SP, Brazil Time: 1999-10-21 00:49:43 Comments: Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber, when you first started working on The Phantom of The Opera you said you wanted it to be your "South Pacific". That is to say, your masterpiece. You achieved that, sir. It is a masterpiece. It is -your- masterpiece... you composed beautiful music, you were faithful to many aspects of Leroux's fantastic story... but most of all, you chose the right people. You chose Michael Crawford to be your Erik. It was, like George Perry said, "a brilliant casting coup". After all, you chose a man whose performance became one of the most acclaimed, celebrated and awarded performances of theatre history... you were strong enough to stick to your choices and request that the original cast went to Broadway... to more awards... to more recognition... then Michael Crawford went to LA... and the rest is history... a star, an era, a character was born. I live in Brazil, sir. In a country with no tradition in musical theatre at all. But people here know about the existence of The Phantom of The Opera, your masterpiece. Some only by reputation, some because they were lucky enough to be able to travel, like me, but, more than anything, because most of those people own a soundtrack... a CD that sold 12 million copies... the Original London Cast of your musical. Michael Crawford and Sarah Brightman. So most of people here in Brazil relate your masterpiece to Michael Crawford, and sir, let me tell you, it's the first impression that stays... how many times friends of mine did not come to me to tell me how much they loved his performance, and that by comparison the other Phantoms were weak... I saw your masterpiece 4 times, sir, and NONE of them compared to the powerful and unforgettable performance of Michael Crawford. And now, sir, you want to transform The Phantom of The Opera in a movie. Brazil is a great movie audience... I was thrilled with the idea, so were my friends... the play I loved so much, that touched my life so deeply, accessible to so many people who weren't lucky enough to see it on stage... the chance to finally -see- what they all -heard- for so long! And then... the disappointment, the frustration, the anger... you want to cast Antonio Banderas. A man who can't sing, a man who's not acquainted with the role... because his name means money, because his name sells, maybe because he's "more famous"... I don't know... but sir, this is not right... you have in your hands the chance to make art and history again! Michael Crawford is there, right before your eyes... a choice that all relate to the role, that doesn't need dubbing or music changes, that has touched so many lives with his performance and that now has the chance to become a movie legend. We have a saying here in Brazil... "you don't change players in a team that's winning". Michael Crawfordis a choice that guarantees success... Antonio Banderas is a risky and sad choice... sad because it could be a failure. A failure because I know many people won't see it because they -know- Antonio Banderas does not belong in this history... and that, sir, would be sad... to watch your masterpiece perish in hands that can't handle its power, the responsibility. Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber, your casting Michael Crawford to be your original Phantom was a surprise. But it worked. You were right. You were wise. You were perfect. How can you risk to be remembered for ruining your own work? Casting Antonio Banderas is wrong, sir, and I hope is not too late to open your eyes. It's the audience that saw your play, that bought your 12 million CDs, that gave you all the money and recognition, that asks for that. You can't go wrong with Michael Crawford. You knew it then... you should know it now. Humbly, Claudia Hemsi São Paulo, SP, Brazil. |
| Name: Jana Lynn Ploss Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1999-10-21 00:11:02 Comments: I am thoroughly disgusted with Antonio Banderas' interview with the Miami Herald. I read it through the phantommovie recent news. The man is arrogant and IS NOT respective of Michael Crawford fans. Deleting old music and adding new music is not the way to keep Phantom phans. Now I am thoroughly disgusted with you, Lord Lloyd Webber. I respected you more than any composer I can remember. Now I have lost it. |
| Name: Kathleen Sedlock Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Chicago Time: 1999-10-20 16:41:47 Comments: Dear Sir, Remember the good old days when a person who was in the play or musical on Broadway or West End would get to do the movie. So many of our TRUE stars like Jimmy Stewart and Julie Andrews would never have been known if it wasn't for the stage. All the composers like Irving Berlin crossed over and did both. It is just in the past couple decades where there is a definate line between the stage and screen. And I have always believed that they who are stage actors are the better actors. I have just heard comments that you were suppose to have said that Antonio is doing the movie version of Phantom of the Opera. I am very upset. I have been a fan of your music for along time and this makes me furious. I still have the announcement from five years ago from Variety stating that both Michael Crawford and Sarah Brightman would be doing the movie.Michael created and MADE that role what it was and no one since has compared in comparison. Remember Michael has had a longer film career than Antonio. And now this, remember, Antonio didn't do that fantastic of a job in Evita, and it wasn't a run away hit. It didn't make tons of money, it was just a modest success. In casting a younger and Spanish actor would be wrong, on top of which he has NO voice. It is the Phantom of the OPERA. Haven't you learned anything of late? Remember you cast a Hollywood actress for Sunset Boulevard to generate publicity and what happened? Glenn Close got the Tony and as soon as she left to go make her millions in Hollywood, the show closed. And where was Patti LuPone? Then instead of giving your songs to a good singer like Sarah Brightman, you gave to the songs to Barbara Streisand to sing. And so much for the video's and other promotional things you thought she'd do. Plus, her voice isn't what it once was and it made your songs painful to listen too. So there are two examples, where you stepped over friends to grab the brass ring. The trouble with that is it will eventually tarnish and what goes around comes around. Maybe Cameron Mackintosh should throw his hat into this ring, because since he produced the show and it is your biggest hit. Maybe you are a good composer but maybe your not a good producer as you think. And clearly Sir Mackintosh is supreme at producing. If you do hire Antonio, be aware that you will not only alienate your fans, fans of the show, but most importantly fans of Michael's and Sarah's. I do hope this gets to you and you fullfill the promises made and Michael Crawford is and will always be THE Phantom. That is his signature role and Sarah Brightman will always be Christine. So it is decison time, how will you decide by creative artistry or by money? If past indications are true you would stick to money, I hope I am wrong. |
| Name: Cris Website: none Referred by: Net Search From: London, Ohio Time: 1999-10-19 22:10:12 Comments: Alright.... now. I'm 13 years old and I'm not gonna go around sucking up to you like the rest of these people. I'm gonna give it to you straight. I LOVE the Phantom of the Opera. I tell people about it all the time if they would listen to me. I keep telling then how good it is and stuff like that. If you come out with this Zorro dude playin the Phantom, it's just gonna ruin the whole image I have been trying to give to these people! I don't want them to see that guy behind any other mask than Zorro's. Michael Crawford IS the phantom. i have the OLC CD and he isn't even to be compared to Antonio, it's probably humiliating to Michael!..... well, thats my opinion, sorry if I was a little blunt on it. |
| Name: Allianna
Nadjik Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1999-10-19 21:47:11 Comments: Please, dear god, do not cast Antonio Banderas in the part of the phantom. |
| Name: Matt Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Michigan Time: 1999-10-19 02:09:56 Comments: Dear ALW, Please do not choose Mr. Banderas over Mr. Crawford. I suggest that if you want your most successfull musical of all time to be a movie than please make Michael Crawford the Phantom! Remember, if it wasn't for Michael Crawford putting Phantom "on the map", Phantom would not have been a success in the first place. Please choose Mr. Crawford for the Phantom! PLEASE! If you want to consider Mr. Banderas so badly, let him do the sequel movie! Michael Crawford is the Phantom! It would mean so much to his fans and him. That would be the ultimate tribute to the best performer of this time! Please here us Phantom phans out! |
| Name: Michelle
Osborne Website: Crysania's Worlds Referred by: From a Friend From: Syracuse, NY Time: 1999-10-18 07:48:54 Comments: Dear Lord Lloyd Webber...I apologize ahead of time if I appear to be bitter. But I cannot even begin to understand your reasons behind casting someone other than Michael Crawford in the role of the Phantom. Your musical, sir, changed my life completely. I first heard it at the age of 14 and your music, combined with the ethereal voice of Michael Crawford hooked me on it completely. The story of Erik and Christine is very special to many people, as you probably already know. We don't want to see it bastardized in such a way! And now we find out that you plan to remove music already written and replace it not only with new music, but spoken dialogue as well?! All this, to accomodate someone who can barely sing. Have you forgotten that Erik had the voice of an angel? Would Christine have ever believed Antonio Banderas's voice to be that of her Angel of Music? Never! Michael Crawford has the perfect voice for this role, just as you discovered so long ago. Please...Drag those memories out into the light and reeaxamine them! Go back and listen to his performance...Go to one of his concerts and watch the women swoon and hear the wild applause. Michael Crawford is *loved* throughout the world! If you don't cast him as the Phantom, you are guaranteed to lose more audience than those you would gain by casting Antonio Banderas. Everyone I have ever talked to, whether they are into musical theatre or not, know Michael Crawford was, is, and always will be the Phantom. Just do what is right, artistically and otherwise, and cast Michael Crawford in the role! Don't settle for anything less than the best!! |
| Name: Sheri Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Chicago Time: 1999-10-18 04:40:37 Comments: Dear Lord Lloyd-Webber: I have been an admirer of your work for so many years. I've loved the Phantom most of all. I am heartbroken at the thought of any performer other than Michael Crawford bringing our beloved Erik to film. Antonio Banderas is a fine actor, but he cannot sing the songs we have all loved and been seduced by for more than a decade. Mr. Banderas does not have the vocal training necessary and he never will. Should the rumours that the score and story are being rewritten to fit Mr. Banderas's talents prove true, you will be destroying the body of work that inspired 12 million of us to buy the original soundtrack and inspired countless millions around the world to go to the theatre numerous times. There is no one but Michael for this role. Any true Phantom fan will not go see the film; I know that I certainly won't. In fact, I'll weep the day that it's released. Mr. Banderas's fans may go see the film...once...maybe. But the film, without Michael, will suffer a quick and agonizing death at the box office. And the fans will say "We told you so", but it won't do any good because we...indeed, the whole world...will have been robbed of a great treasure. Please, Lord Lloyd-Webber, reconsider. Your fans don't want to lose faith in you...we want to trust you with the character who has meant passion and romance to us for 12 years. We want, and need, to trust you with our Erik. Thank you for your time and attention. Sincerely, Sheri Boyd |
| Name: Rebecca
A. Sanders Website: Referred by: Signing another Guestbook From: Texas Time: 1999-10-18 03:29:15 Comments: Dear Lord Lloyd Webber, After seeing the Phantom performed for the first time, I, of course, realized that you were an artist of great caliber. I am a musician myself, and I was stunned by how moving and beautiful the songs were. Of all the music that I have ever heard, yours alone has been capable of moving me to tears. I am also an artist: a writer of poetry and fiction. As an artist, my first concern is the integrity of my art. If I should live a thousand years and never earn a dime, I would still never let anyone destroy that integrity. I would assume that the same is true for all artists and that the same would be true for you. To be completely honest, I would rather not see a movie made of the Phantom, for fear that it would hurt the musical industry. After all, most people would rather spend three dollars to rent a tape of a film than fifty for a seat in a theater plus travel expenses. However, since it seems that a film of the Phantom is decidedly going to be made, I beg of you to protect your art and give the role of Erik proper justice. At the risk of sounding crude, I feel that I should be totally honest about the current casting situation. Antonio Banderas is a fine actor, but musicals call for much, much more than mere acting, and Mr. Banderas, alas, sings like a bleating Spanish goat. His accent alone should cast him out of consideration. When you first heard Michael Crawford sing, you realized that he had a voice that could stir souls and seduce his audience. Mr. Crawford can captivate an audience like none other. Also, it is clear from viewing tapes of the two that he understands the role much better than Mr. Banderas. If you are determined to go through with making a film of the Phantom, I can only hope that you will choose to protect what most believe to be your finest work. Do not let yourself be bullied into casting a big name by producers. An artist's work is an extension of himself. If you let Hollywood destroy Phantom, you are destroying a part of yourself. I pray that you will make the right decision. Sincerely, Rebecca A. Sanders |
| Name: Jana Ploss Website: Referred by: Geocities From: Lompoc Time: 1999-10-15 23:01:43 Comments: This is in support to Eileen Kent's 15 October 1999 input. I did not watch the 'Making of My Fair Lady' because I do not have cable and only receive two channels: on and off. Remember Lord Lloyd Webber that Audrey Hepburn won the role for Eliza, but Julie Andrews won the Oscar for Mary Poppins during the following year's Award Show. |
| Name: Eileen
Kent Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Utica, NY Time: 1999-10-15 13:54:17 Comments: Sir, This is my second letter to you, this time prompted by hearing your comments on the AMC channel's "Making of My Fair Lady" last night(10/14/99). I find it quite ironic that you felt moved to comment on the choice of Audrey Hepburn to play Eliza in the movie (with her voice being dubbed), while the stage production Eliza, Julie Andrews was passed over. This error in judgment has been made frequently -you know all the examples -and yet you still seem to be considering using an alternate Phantom over Michael Crawford. Please, please listen to your initial instincts and choose Michael again. He proved you right and became the Phantom which made the production so famous and successful. No one will be accepted as a substitute by your ticket buying audience. We would rather have a film/video of the staged production, as you have recently done with Donny Osmond in "Joseph", or did with "Cats", but ONLY if the original PHantom -Michael Craword -plays the lead. Please end our torture and do the right thing for all of us -your conscience and bank account will thank you. PS If the rumor of your hotel in Vegas is true -it's a wonderful idea! |
| Name: Michelle
McCormick Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Virginia Beach, Va USA Time: 1999-10-13 05:36:10 Comments: The Phantom lives inside of Michael Crawford, consumes every part of him. His facial expressions become Erik's when he sings those songs, his body becomes an instrument of seduction and his voice reaches the innermost depths of the soul. His mode of expression has brought many to tears because of its beauty. There are many who could play the part but only Michael becomes it and that is something truly special. To rob those who have never seen Phantom of the opportunity to see it the way it was meant to be done is a heinous crime. I sincerely hope that you realize how many lives this story has touched and how many more could be captured by it if the right person plays the part. Think on it. |
| Name: Maggie Birge Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Owensboro, KY Time: 1999-10-07 22:26:00 Comments: Your Phantom of the Opera is a character whose very essence is music. He can only communicate effectively through music. He uses it to mock the people he hates and to seduce the woman he loves. This is a middle-aged man who has never known a moment's kindness or love in his entire life. His loneliness and despair are as palpable as raw wounds. Michael Crawford is an actor with the depth of talent to express the Phantom's emotions believably without going over the top into melodrama, and his voice is absolutely perfect to convince us he is truly an "angel" of music. Together, you and Michael created a theatrical masterpiece. Please do not even consider anyone else for the movie version of your show. A vast audience for this film has been building for the past 13 years, due partly to the numerous companies staging the show around the world, but also due to Michael's Crawford's extraordinary recordings and concert performances that have kept the Phantom music in the general public's consciousness. Michael is the definitive Phantom to most of the world. Most fans want only him in the film. No one else is acceptable. It's time to get the film made, and made properly. Michael Crawford as Phantom...or no movie at all! |
| Name: Katharina E. Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Austria Time: 1999-10-05 14:17:13 Comments: Dear Andrew! Hello, my name is Katharina. I come from Austria. I love your musicals, especially "Phantom of the Opera". I have seen it in Vienna. I have all CD´s of the production. If you like to make a film, please take an actor and singer like Michael Crawford, Steve Barton or Jerzy Jeske (Phantom in Germany). Christine should be played by Sarah Brightman!!! Or you make a video from the show (such as CATS and now JOSEPH) with the actors I have written. Don´t make the best musical I have ever heard and seen to a bad film. The musical "The Phantom of the Opera" is powerful and tragical and romantical. The music is the mirror for the feeling of the story. I love the story and the music - all. Don´t make a mistake with the film!!! Goodbye, Katharina |
| Name: James Anderson Website: Referred by: Net Search From: Heckmondwike, West Yorkshire Time: 1999-10-04 16:43:51 Comments: I would like to invite you to a production of Pirates of Penzance where I will be playing Frederic. It is in Keighley and opens on 18 October for 1 week. I am 6'4" slim, blue eyes, fair, and have been trained to sing by Jeffrey Lawton of the Scottish Opera. Free travel, tickets and accommodation are available for yourself or someone else who could come and give me their professional opinion on my ability. I was only contacted a few weeks ago to see if I was available to play this part but I am becoming more known and I am more in demand now and have been advised to try and get in the chorus of a West End show. Please reply. P.S. Mr. Crawford should play the Phantom in the film!! |
| Name: Hayley Marie
Christine Witthans Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Minneapolis, Minnesota(U.S.A.) Time: 1999-09-29 03:12:46 Comments: Dear Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber, Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Hayley Marie Christine Witthans. I am 13 years old, and a soprano, a lot like Charlotte Church from Wales, except I haven't done anything great like her. I greatly adore all of the music that you have composed, especially "Phantom of the Opera." I am also a great fan of both Sarah Brightman and Michael Crawford. And I wish that, instead of you having Antonio Bandares or John Travolta be the Phantom in the film version of your musical, that you would have Michael Crawford be it, with Sarah Brightman as Christine Daae'. I saw Sarah and Antonio sing at your 50'th birthday party, broadcasted on TV. Antonio couldn't come andywhere close to the genius Sarah has. They don't work well toghether. However, I've heard Sarah and Michael sing together, and they are perfect! What Angels of Music! I'd give up everything I had to see Michael Crawford in this film. My belongings, my dreams, even my life! Just please let Michael be in this film! Sincerely, Hayley Marie Christine Witthans P.S. I'm working on my own version of the continuation of "Phantom". If you are interested to see it, please contact me at my mom's E-mail address: darlene.witthans@ci.minneapolis.mn.us |
| Name: DONNA
MICHELI Website: Referred by: AOL From: ALBANY, NY Time: 1999-09-23 06:03:14 Comments: WITH ALL DUE RESPECT TO YOUR IMMEASURABLE TALENT I WOULD ADD MY SMALL VOICE TO OTHERS. THERE IS NO OTHER CHOICE FOR THE PHANTOM NOT JOHN TRAVOLTA WHO CANNOT SING OR DONNY OSMOND WHO CANNOT FIT THE CHARACTER LEAVING ONLY MICHAEL CRAWFORD WHO HAS LIVED THE TORMENTED SOUL. WHO BETTER TO UNDERSTAND. I DON'T KNOW WHY YOU CANNOT CONCEIVE BUT PLEASE RECONSIDER. THERE IS NO GREATER CHANCE FOR OPERA TO SURVIVE AS A MOVIE WITHOUT THE A TEAM CRAWFORD AND BRIGHTMAN WOULD DO YOU PROUD. PLEASE CHANGE YOUR MIND. DONNA MICHELI |
| Name: Marilynn Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Georgia Time: 1999-09-19 21:24:47 Comments: Dear Sir: Of all the actors I have seen perform on the stage and screen, none have the commanding presense of Michael Crawford. He alone is able to communicate the character's feelings, emotions, and traits to the audience in such a way that the character comes alive and becomes real. The audience is then able to relate to the character and become involved in that character's life. Michael Crawford alone will present the Phantom in the movie in such a way that audiences will want to see the movie again and again. Please cast Michael Crawford as the Phantom and make a movie that will not only be financially successful but will live in the hearts of minds of audiences forever! Thank you, Marilynn |
| Name: D.J. Website: Referred by: Yahoo! From: South Carolina Time: 1999-09-18 19:46:42 Comments: Mr Webber, Let me start off by saying that you are the master of musicals. I own cats, and Evita, and plan to get "Joseph...." when it comes out. I know that you have been getting a lot of complaints about Antonio Banderas playing the phantom. I think the Michael Crawford should play the Phantom as well, but if he doesn't I understand. It is your musical and it is your decision. Whatever you do, I bet it will be a movie to remember. From a devoted Fan!!! |
| Name: John Strom Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Portland, Oregon USA Time: 1999-09-13 00:33:28 Comments: Dear Sir Lloyd Webber, I had the pleasure of seeing your wonderful, "The Phanton of the Opera" six times while I was living in New York (just one performance without Michael Crawford) and was enthralled by the music, the sets, the acting and especially by the incredible talent of one man, Michael Crawford. I believe Michael Crawford helped immeasurably in making "The Phantom of the Opera" the spectacular hit it became. Simply put, Michael Crawford IS the Phantom! I have also had the pleasure of seeing most of your other works including "Cats" (three times), "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat", "Jesus Christ Superstar" (twice in London), "Evita" and "Aspects of Love". Of all of the musicals you have written only one has been elevated to the very pinnacle due to the efforts of one man. That one musical is "The Phantom of the Opera" and that one man is Michael Crawford. There has been talk for several years now of making "The Phantom of the Opera" into a motion picture which I hope you will do. "The Phantom of the Opera" is a wonderful story, has marvelous music and will surely be a hit. I confess dismay, however, that there is talk of Antonio Banderas (or some other) playing the lead. I urge you to reconsider. Antonio Banderas is a very average actor and his singing talents are pedestrian at best. There is only one man for the lead in "The Phantom" and that is Michael Crawford. There is absolutely no comparison between their singing talents and Michael Crawford is far and again the more romantic. I trust you will make your selection for the movie "The Phantom of the Opera" after assessing the talents of the two. Thank you for your consideration of the hundred of "The Phantom of the Opera" fans, to which I add my name. I remain..... Very truly yours, John E. Strom |
| Name: Arielle
Perez Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: New York City, NY Time: 1999-09-10 04:46:37 Comments: Dear Mr. Webber, I have heard, from many reliable sources, that you are planning to make a film version of your most magnificent musical piece of work "The Phantom of the Opera". I was VERY excited about this news, especially when I heard that you planned to have THE Michael Crawford as the hypnotic and majestic figure of Erik(The Phantom). Suddenly, all my dreams were shattered when I found out that you planned to have Antonio Banderas as the Phantom instead of Mr.Crawford. I must admit that at first I thought this was some kind of a cruel joke, but the many news clippings, websites, and other sources destroyed all my clinging hopes and confirmed my darkest fears that all of the rumors were undeniably real. No offence to Mr. Banderas, he was good in "Evita" and "The Mask of Zorro", but I honestly can't beleive that you are actually thinking of putting in an actor who has never even been in "Phantom" and whose vocal range is very limited. Michael Crawford IS the Phantom and I believe that he should immortalize the role of the Phantom for future generations. You chose him because you knew he posessed a voice that would bring the Phantom to life, a hypnotic voice which was(and still is) capable of touching a person's heart and reduce him/her to tears when he sang to Christine that one last time. That is the voice that I, and many others like myself want to be our beloved Phantom. I don't speak to you as an young thirteen year old girl but as a devoted and loyal fan of "The Phantom of the Opera". Please, listen to what I, and many other Phantom fans are trying to tell you. Michael Crawford is the only man that we will ever accept, and to turn our request down is to turn down everyone who has ever seen "Phantom' and was deeply moved. Please, don't make the mistake of replacing the moving and emotional Michael Crawford with a big Hollywood name. That is not what your musical was about. Please give the world that gift of having "Phantom" as it was made to be. That way everyone, especially young people like myself, can witness and experience the magic that it plays on people. Look into your heart, Mr. Webber. I know that there you will find a way to make the right decision. I thank you for your time. |
| Name: Arthur
Wiegand Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Colorado Time: 1999-09-10 03:52:55 Comments: I think you have been the greatest influence for the musical stage. I hope and pray for your continued success. I also hope that Michael Crawford would star in the movie, Phantom of the Opra. |
| Name: Peter
Bradford Website: The Web Page of Peter Bradford, formerly of Kent, now Maryland USA Referred by: Clicked on our Banner Advertisement From: Columbia, Maryland, by way of Kent, UK Time: 1999-09-08 14:26:01 Comments: Dear Sir Andrew, I must be one of the few people in the world who never had the opportunity to see "Phantom". By the time it was in my area, Michael Crawford had left the cast -- I refused to see it with any other lead. You could put that right for me by making sure he is your Phantom in the film version. May I add that in addition to being a huge fan of Michael's -- dating back to "Some Mothers Do 'Ave 'Em" -- I am an avid admirer of your work. My favourite, among many, being the piece you wrote for your brother, Julian; "Variations". I'll always remember sitting down to watch the very first airing of "The South Bank Show", and being blown away by the introductory music and the rest of the show, which was dedicated to the production of the record. Incidentally, through that I became a fan of your brother's, as well as of Barbara Thompson and John Heisman. In conclusion, please be loyal to your many fans, to your fellow countrymen and to the world of the arts -- "Make it Michael". Thanks, Peter Bradford |
| Name: Kelley Website: Referred by: AOL From: Nashville, Tennessee Time: 1999-09-05 20:58:52 Comments: Dear Mr. Webber, I have already sent you a letter by mail, and i hope you recieved it. Like i said in the letter, NO ONE can replace Michael Crawford, NO ONE! Michael Crawford is the Phantom and the Phantom is Michael Crawford! Please don't make a horrible mistake by letting antonio play the Phantom, Let him be Roule! and let Michael be the Phantom!! A loyal fan! Kelley |
| Name: Veronica Cyr Website: Referred by: AOL From: Santa Ana, CA, USA Time: 1999-09-05 19:52:36 Comments: Dear Mr. Weber, The Phantom of the Opera has been my favorite story since I was around fourteen years of age. I have seen every movie release, read the original book, and am thorougly in love with the story. I have seen Mr. Crawford in the theatre production of Phantom of the Opera more than '30' times. In my estimation, he IS the phantom of the opera. He brings the tortured sould to life. Antonio Banderas is a star in his own right, but he is NOT the person to play the phantom in your movie. This movie doesn't need a hearthrob to play the lead role. The phantom is deformed, he is tortured, he expresses himself in his music. While Antonio did alright as Che in Evita, he cannot hold a candle to the voice behind the mask that is Michael Crawford. Most of the people who will attend a movie musical will be the same people who enjoy the theatre experience. You are not going to draw the 'action adventure' crowd to Phantom of the Opera, the movie musical. Please listen to your phantom audience. They are the ones who will go to see your movie again and again, bring their friends, recommend it to others, and buy the video when released. Please reconsider what you're doing. Phantom onstage was a success because of Michael, plain and simple. His voice, his moves, his tortured soul, brought us back again and again. He is the Phantom! Thank you, Veronica Cyr Santa Ana, CA 92704 |
| Name: Katrina
Jenness Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Oregon Time: 1999-09-03 04:42:54 Comments: Dear Mr. Lloyd Webber, I am a dedicated fan of yours, and have loved your music since hearing 'Memory' as a young child. You are a true genuis, and I'm sure you know that by now. I have listened to or seen most of your works, and I have to admit "Phantom..." is my favorite. It is also your best. I believe that you must have a special kinship to this particular work of yours. I know many of your fans do. 'The Phantom of the Opera' is a story that will never go out of style. People will still be flocking to see any and all versions of it until the end of humanity as we know it. I know, because I once performed in a verson of the play. I know you are an artist, and see things with skill. Surely, Antonio Banderas can't be the one that the artist inside you really wants in the role. His style is not classic enough for the role. Michael Crawford, who has shown every success as The Phantom, (or, Erik,) seems to have been put to the side. Why? I have every faith in your descision, Mr. Lloyd Webber, because I know you would not sabbotage such a masterpiece. I am sure that you will do what you think is in the best interest of future artists and all of posterity. In my personal opinion, as a fan, actress, singer, critic and artist myself, Michael Crawford would be the most sensible living human to put into the role, stage or screen. Your admirer, Katrina Jenness |
| Name: Jo West Website: Referred by: Yahoo! From: The Hill Country, Texas Time: 1999-09-02 04:57:06 Comments: Dear Mr. Lloyd-Webber, Although many men have done admiral jobs protraying the Phantom on the stage (and I have seen many of them), there is.....in fact......only one true Phantom: Michael Crawford. I urge you to consider noone else for the film version of your beloved classic stage production. All best, Jo West |
| Name: Jessie Lewis Website: Referred by: Clicked on a 'Guestbooks by GuestWorld' Button From: Utah, U.S.A. Time: 1999-09-01 05:53:32 Comments: Dear Lord Lloyd-Webber, Your choice of Michael Crawford as the original Phantom of the Opera proved to be very profitable for you and provided untold hours of enjoyment for the theatre-going public. If the long-delayed movie is really to come to pass, I encourage you to use the same foresight as the first time and choose Michael Crawford to play the Phantom again. He would love to do it, and your fans would love to see him do it. You know in your heart there is no other who could come close to capturing a world-wide audience for you. Also, the recent release of his autobiography, will bring much additional publicity for the movie. Please preserve the music of the night for posterity. Make this a money-making, blockbuster movie with integrity, not a mediocre also-ran with someone else in the title role. |
| Name: Dan
McCleve Website: Referred by: Yahoo! From: USA, Ogden, Utah Time: 1999-08-21 05:46:03 Comments: Dear Andrew, First I'd like to say I love all of your musical's you've ever done, I can honestly say your AWESOME!, and your "The Man." Now I have a few idea's for future musicals which I thought you might want to consider: First a musical about Alexander The Great would be very cool, I mean you've done musicals like Starlight Express and Cat's that are centerd around groups of different Trains, or Cats, but you've never really done one around just one soild Character, well Evita and Joesph had lot's of help to get to the top, but to Alexander it came naturally, I thought it was a good idea anyway, the Second idea is to make a musical with lot's of "Seize The Day" songs in them, I know every musical ever made has at least one, but to make a musical composed of them would be pretty cool I think. I mean we all know that we can and do relate to musicals and there songs, but the "Seize The Day" songs give us, let's see how can I put this, well for me personally they give me inner strength and a boost of confidence evertime I listen to them. Please give me you input. Thank you |
| Name: Brandon Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: CA Time: 1999-08-26 11:52:24 Comments: Dear Mr. Webber, I am a devout fan of the phantom and am eagerly awaiting its release on the silver screen. However I am distressed about the casting. Antonio Banderas is a talented actor who did a fine job as Che. Despite this he lacks the singing ability to be the phantom. His shortcomings as a singer are even more evident after listening to other recordings of Evita. Many are calling your 50th birthday celebration a try out for Mr. Banderas. To me the event proved he just does not have the voice. In the video release of Cats you returned to one of the originals, Elaine Paige. The result was memorable (pun intended). Please trust Mr. Crawford to do the same with the Phantom. Thank you for your time. God bless. |
| Name: Yev Bronshteyn Website: - Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Connecticut, USA Time: 1999-08-12 14:45:31 Comments: Dear Mr. Webber, You have probably read many comments about the upcoming Phantom movie, and probably know ahead of time what I will attempt to say, but being a Phantom fan, I feel the need to say it anyway. Antonio Banderas is a good actor. I liked the way he played Che's part in Evita. He is talented as an actor, but I feel lacks ability as a singer. On your 50'th birthday, when he and Ms. Brightman performed The Phantom of the Opera, she literally drowned him out! His face, his posture, along with all other visual components of a good performance were perfect, yet his voice lacked the strength. Accent was yet another significant problem. Although I am impressed by how much he was able to conceal his accent, he did not conceal it well enough. Lastly, Antonio Banderas lacks the experience as a singer. Sure, he had to sing plenty of times, but he didn't have a career in singing like Mr. Crawford did. Banderas does not have Crawford's tenor or vibrato, or those other elements that make Phantom's voice memorable. You have probably already made your decision, and this one letter will probably not change your mind, yet I do beg you to reconsider. Much of your audiences will be fans who have seen the production of Phantom. They will want a Phantom who will be as good as or better than the one they had seen. Who better to be trusted with that role than the original Phantom himself? Please. Make the right decision. Your fan, Yev Bronshteyn |
| Name: Kirsten Website: none yet: it's a new domain Referred by: From a Friend From: Massachusetts Time: 1999-07-28 06:43:50 Comments: Dear Andrew... I have to quote from another letter written to you.. it states most of the thoughts I have: "I never had the chance to see Michael Crawford on stage. But I did see videos clips of 'Music of the night' and realised that he performs in a truly unique style, bringing a life, a soul to the very character of the Phantom, making him seem a more realistic and tragic figure than many of the old films (And trust me, I must have seen every single one). Its not that I dislike Mr Banderas, but I have several complaints about him: Too young, too good-looking (Thats what people want to see, but if he's wearing a mask, what's the point?) and his voice is simply not up to the standard required for the role. In the various books, emphasis is laid in the beauty of the Phantom's voice, in contrast to his disfigured appearance and, having listened to the original cast recording more times than I can count, I believe that Mr Crawford has the ideal voice. No insults to your judgement, but Crawford is the best and I hope it won't take you long to realise that." I think Banderos' voice is small, strangled compared to the voice of Michael Crawford.. MC is not beautiful and perhaps that is how he can convey the pathos that the Phantom must have (in order for the audience to believe in him)... How can you think of another to play the role?? I was so disappointed in the movie "Evita" because Patti Lupone's emotion grabbing voice was not there!! And, Banderos was okay in Che's part, but Mandy really WAS Che!! I will not watch "Evita" again... and I saw the play (whenever I could) at least a dozen times!!! Please consider your decisions longer!!! Please pay some attention to your fans!!! We made you.. didn't we?? |
| Name: Matt
Tilmann Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Michigan Time: 1999-07-27 23:53:50 Comments: Dear Mr.Lloyd Webber, You are a theatrical genius! How do you do it? Phantom is your best hit of all. My family and I are going to see the Canadian Phantom next month. Anyways, just please keep up your magic and put Michael Crawford as the Phantom for the movie. Don't let Hollywood executives persuade you otherwise, keeping in mind Michael Crawford is the one who made Phantom a great success in the first place. So, please make other Phantom "phans" as well as myself's wishes come true. Thank you for your time. A huge fan, Matt Tilmann |
| Name: Chris Kopacz Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Cicero, IL Time: 1999-07-25 16:31:14 Comments: Dear Andrew, The Phantom of the Opera is quite frankly the best musical ever written for the stage. A film version is a wonderful idea that will allow fans to cherish the Phantom experience forever. Michael Crawford and Sarah Brightman CREATED the roles of the Phantom and Christine. By bringing in Antonio Banderas, John Travolta, or some other box-office magnet, you run the risk of ruining the Phantom memories for many people. My suggestion is to do what was done for CATS: bring back many of the original cast members and recreate the Phantom experience that began its success. Thank you for your time. chrisk Chris Kopacz Cicero, IL |
| Name: Marvin G.
Zehr Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Carthage, NY Time: 1999-07-25 00:16:34 Comments: Sir Andrew (or whatever appeals to you the most); How anyone of us could presume to dictate a composer's wish for such a phenomena as "The Phantom of the Opera" is a bit askew. Most of us stand in awe of the years of work and rivers of perspiration that goes into the creative process. To presume we might be able to effect your decision is quite naughty of us. Being a humble secondary music teacher, I thought one more person with a simple plea might be the seed. Every year I teach a unit on your infamous musical to my charges at Carthage Central School. After preparing them with background on instruments of the orchestra, we carefully examine your libretto and listen to the original cast recording. Without question it is the student's highlight of the year. Even those students labeled with learning disabilities find it fascinating. With a subsequent trip to Toronto or a nearby city to see the production, they are completely moved by the experience. So, if it means anything to you, I too vote for Mr. Crawford. He posesses the subtle vocal nuances so critical in portraying both the "bright" and "dark" sides of the phantom. I respectfully doubt Bandaras can culture those qualities with his voice. A recent PBS performance, seemed to indicate a restrictive edge to his voice which does not lend itself to the lyrical ambiance so necessary to our empathy with the phantom. Michael so artfully calls us to fall in love with him. Again, I feel slightly embarrassed but clearly stirred by this challenge. You are the composer. If Michael is not available - give me a call. You need a lyrical Tenor not a makeover baritone. God Bless. |
| Name: Anne
Croteau Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Canada Time: 1999-07-24 03:00:39 Comments: mr. Loyd Webber, I would like, like many others, ask you to do something to get mr. Crawford to play the phantom. You are a musician yourself, and a heavenly talented one at that, you must know that Antonio Banderas is far from having an adequate voice for the phantom. So, I'll do what so many keep doing, I beg you to cast Michael Crawford as the phantom, I don't believe you would like to see your music turned to ridicule by a bad singer. Yours truly, one of your biggest fans. |
| Name: Clare Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Braveheart country Time: 1999-07-20 20:44:05 Comments: Lord Lloyd-Webber I was just a screaming brat when Phantom came out (Whose to say that I've changed much?) and I never had the chance to see Michael Crawford on stage. But I did see videos clips of 'Music of the night' and realised that he performs in a truly unique style, bringing a life, a soul to the very character of the Phantom, making him seem a more realistic and tragic figure than many of the old films (And trust me, I must have seen every single one). Its not that I dislike Mr Banderas, but I have several complaints about him: Too young, too good-looking (Thats what people want to see, but if he's wearing a mask, what's the point?) and his voice is simply not up to the standard required for the role. In the various books, emphasis is laid in the beauty of the Phantom's voice, in contrast to his disfigured appearance and, having listened to the original cast recording more times than I can count, I believe that Mr Crawford has the ideal voice. No insults to your judgement, but Crawford is the best and I hope it won't take you long to realise that. |
| Name: Elsa Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: England, UK Time: 1999-07-20 19:08:57 Comments: It is absolutely incredible, unthinkable, that anyone but Michael Crawford could be considered for 'The Phantom' !! I listened spellbound when Michael performed Andrew Lloyd Webber Music LIVE in Birmingham ... he was brilliant. The applause was deafening, the encores demanded by a captivated audience .. appreciative of sheer genius !! Please, please, please, Lord Webber ... Michael Crawford IS The Phantom .. let him haunt our lives for ever. |
| Name: Kat H. Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1999-07-20 06:48:20 Comments: HELLO LLOYD WEBBER! DO YOU NOT SEE THAT WE WILL NOT GO AWAY! MICHAEL IS THE PHANTOM! HE IS NOT TOO OLD! THE PHANTOM WAS OLD ENOUGH TO BE CHRISTINE'S PHATHER! AND, DID YOU NOT HAVE TO MAKE MR.CRAWFORD LOOK OLDER PHOR THE PLAY? WE WILL STOP AT NOTHING. LONG LIVE THE PHANS! LONG LIVE MICHAEL CRAWFORD! .....YOU WILL CURSE THE DAY YOU DID NOT DO....ALL THAT THE PHANTOMS ASKED OF YOU!!!!! ....YOU GAVE US THE MUSIC.... WE MADE THE PLAY TAKE PHLIGHT.... AND NOW.... HOW YOU'VE REPAYED US!.... DENIED US AND BETRAYED US.... WE, THE PHAN'S WON'T VANISH.... WON'T DIE WITHOUT A PHIGHT..... I ADVISE YOU TO COMPLY MY INSTRUCTIONS SHOULD BE CLEAR, THE PHANS WILL JUST KEEP HAUNTING YOU 'TILL CRAWFORD'S VOICE HEAR! -KAT |
| Name: Hollie Website: no homepage Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Utah Time: 1999-07-16 21:05:20 Comments: Dear Mr. Webber, Why are you considering to put Antonio Bandaras as the Phantom? You know the phantom is supposed to be a disfigured human being. No offence to Antonio, but he's a pretty boy. I've seen Phantom once, and it was pretty good, not Michael Crawford, but still good. I want to see Michael do the role, so for me (and everyone else like me) just let Michael do the role if he's willing. |
| Name: elizabeth Website: Teacher's Toy Box Referred by: Yahoo! From: St. Louis, Missouri Time: 1999-07-14 21:41:55 Comments: Lord Lloyd Webber, My introduction to your great musicals was when Phantom of the Opera was released in the US. I fell in love with it so much that when my 16th birthday came around, my parents flew me to LA to see it--with Michael Crawford and Steve Barton (he was filling in!). Since then, I have seen it every chance I get--4 times--but none of the other phantoms have compared with Michael Crawford. I have been a devotee both of the story of Phantom and of your other works. I know that I am not an influentially famous or wealthy person, but I hope you will at least consider my opinion as one of your fans, for it is the fans who give wings to the work you do. I appreciated the casting of Antonio Banderas in the movie Evita. He was not as strong a singer as, say, Mandy Patinkin, but he did surprisingly well with the part and added an interesting flavor to it. However, I am saddened that you have not approached Michael Crawford with the part of the Phantom for the movie. I know that you've read the book and understand that the phantom is an older character. In addition, Michael Crawford is still very attractive and, I am certain, very capable of playing a sympathetic and alluring phantom for your movie. I am also certain that Antonio Banderas will not make an acceptable phantom and certainly will not give the movie strength to call people back to musical theatre on the big screen. Instead, I'm afraid the movie will be a laughing matter. Antonio Banderas does not have the strong voice necessary for the role of the phantom. His breathy, half-singing at your birthday celebration showed that, and I think many people will not find him the sexy phantom you wish when the one who is supposed to hold the keys of music and woo with his voice cannot sing strongly. Please remember this is a musical and give the role to someone who's devoted his study to singing and musical theatre. Antonio Banderas may be a big name, but your largest crowd for the movie will be people who love musical theatre and people who have seen the show--not people who are looking for an action-adventure Zorro movie. The action-adventure phantom movie has already been tried--it didn't even have weak singing in it--and it was a flop. No one remembers it. Please don't do that to a story we all love and a movie we've all been looking forward to. You do have the power of making a wonderfully beautiful movie--one that can restore faith in the musical theatre and create great potentials for the future. Please don't ruin it by taking a show that probably has the greatest chance of enamoring the public and making it less-than-the-best. Thank you. |
| Name: Pat Williams Website: Referred by: Net Search From: Finksburg, Maryland Time: 1999-07-12 06:37:32 Comments: Dear Mr. Lloyd Webber, I have been waiting for years for the movie version of POTO. No matter who stars in the movie, EVERYONE knows: "The role of the Phantom can no longer be cast, because Michael Crawford IS the Phantom." No one can duplicate Michael, no one has his voice, no one can bring out the emotion. Michael and the Phantom are one and the same! I saw POTO in D.C last summer. It was good. I have seen Michael Crawford twice on stage, the last time being last summer (he sang various hit songs from numerous shows). There was no comparison. On stage in a tuxedo, no mask, no props, etc. he still strikes in the depths of one's heart with feelings, tears, love and joy. Please don't give us second best, when all we are asking for is first rate -- the "real" thing! |
| Name: Lucille
A. Jones Website: Referred by: NewsGroups From: Maryland Time: 1999-07-11 20:20:36 Comments: Mr. Lloyd Weber, When you finally did something right by choosing Michael Crawford as the original Phantom, it's best you stay with a winning choice. Some of your 'replacements' on stage did not do the show justice and you do want the movie to succeed? We need to experience the pleasures we receive when we hear Michael sing as the Phantom. |
| Name: Isis Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1999-07-11 03:13:13 Comments: Why can't you just stick with the decision of let Michael Crawford be the Phantom in the movie. He did years of loyal service for you performing your musical and now you are thinking of stabbing him in the back by using someone else for the part. I mean come, either way you cast Crawford or Banderas you still with a large amount of the profits. If the reason for picking Banderas over Crawford is because you want to make more money with the popular name, that is just low. When Steve Spelburg made the movie "Amastad", his main character was a bum off of the streets of France. I don't think that man's name was very popluar, but Spelburg still made a lot of money because he made a good movie. So you still can get your piece of the deal if you cast Crawford because he'll make the movie great. Besides, you've seen him act before and you'll know what to expect and you'll know what you'll get. Wouldn't you be kind of risking it if you used Banderas seeing how he's never actually done the true role of the Phantom?? Isis |
| Name: Jana Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1999-07-03 22:18:11 Comments: I made an 'oops' in my prior letter. I should have referred to the BBC regarding my returned letter not Jane. I do not know why I attempt to view 'Recent News' because I always am ejected from the net the moment I click an article. I can only address one screen everytime I enter the phantommovie.com before I am ejected from the net. I write letters to Lord Lloyd Webber and am bounced when I click to read letters. So I log-on again to read. The next click bounces me off the net so I reenter to read letters to Antonio Banderas, et cetera. Does anyone else have this problem? If so, is it a ploy by the Antonio Banderas' camp to assure Michael Crawford is the Phantom's phantom?********************************* Hi Jana, We are sensing that you might be a *tiny* bit frustrated! :) As far as the returned letters from Warner Bros., it is a shame that you tossed yours, but the campaign will be responding officially to Warner Bros. next week so you can breath easily on that issue. It is extremely remiss and very unprofessional of them to return customer mail back unopened and it will be addressed with their top officials. As far as you having trouble accessing the website, we use Javascript and if you have not enabled your browser to view Javascript you will very likely continue to have the same trouble in the future. Please go to Internet Options in View for your browser and enable your option to view Javascript, if you continue to have these problems you may e-mail us at crawford_movie@hotmail.com for more help. Thank you so much for your support in our letter writing efforts and the continuing battle to convince Lord Lloyd-Webber and Warner Bros. that casting Michael Crawford as the Phantom is the only financial and artistic choice possible! |
| Name: Jana Lynn Ploss Website: Referred by: Yahoo! From: Time: 1999-07-03 22:02:54 Comments: 3 JULY 1999. I do not know any other format to respond to Jane's 2 July plea for feedback. I contributed a letter to the 19 June weekend campaign. The postal courier returned my letter 30 June and incredible as it may seem, the words RETURN TO SENDER were embellished. Needless to say I was xxxxxx-off and tossed it. My first thought was I misdirected the letter. Now I realise what happened was even worse. Belligerent arrogance dictated the return of my letter. If someone is reading this, can he give me the eMail address to respond directly. I have tried for two days (over sixty times) to respond through the 'Recent News - updated' to air my frustration. I get the hourglass for a decent period of time before the 'You have committed an illegal operation' knocks me off the net. LORD LLOYD WEBBER, hear our plea! Michael Crawford is the Phantom of the Opera and no other! |
| Name: kathy Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: bulleton Time: 1999-07-03 21:32:18 Comments: Why does the phantom have to be young. With all that makeup, nobody would know how old the phantom is. I hear that you are concerned that Michael isn't in sufficient health to do the strenuous maneuvers on stage. This is a movie for Gods sake! If age is a problem for those few strenuous maneuvers Michael can't handle, get George Lucas to perform his special effects magic. Michael doing the movie will encourage movie fans to consider throwing in a stage production to compare the movie like one does comparing a movie with a book. Please Mr. Weber, let Michael do the role. I have almost all his tapes and saw the Phantom once without him. I want to see the Phantom with him! Thank you for your time. |
| Name: Judi H. Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: California Time: 1999-06-30 02:29:11 Comments: Dear Sir Andrew (I hope you don't mind my addressing you by your title): I am a fan of your music for all time. I thought Antonio Banderas was wonderful in "Evita" and have never questioned your casting. However, I have to question the choice of Mr. Banderas over Michael Crawford on the idea that Mr. Banderas is the bigger "box office draw". That may be true; however, there are millions of "Phantom" fans that would be fans forever (of yours AND "Phantom") if they could just see Michael Crawford "do it one more time", myself included. And the fact that, after the movie has run its course in the theaters, it would be on video with Mr. Crawford would ensure the success of this movie. I realize that Mr. Crawford is quite a bit older than he was when the show first opened and that the part is quite physical, but if Mr. Crawford is willing to do it, let him! The next question to answer is "Who is going to play the part of Christine?" That is equally important to all of the "Phantom fanatics". Sincerely, Judi |
| Name: Kim Website: Referred by: Yahoo! From: California Time: 1999-06-29 18:36:04 Comments: Dear Mr. Lloyd Webber, From the moment I heard the first chord of the overture, I was mesmerized by "Phantom". But actually seeing the show was an experience unlike any other musical theatre experience I'd ever had. And it wasn't until I saw two other actors play the role of the Phantom (Robert Guillaume and Davis Gaines) that I realized it had a LOT to do with Michael Crawford's brilliant interpretation of the role. Mr. Crawford brings to the role a passion and sensuality that was never matched by any of the other actors, and this is something that I think deserves to be immortalized on film. I'm not usually the type to join a campaign whose sole purpose is to get an actor a job -- the causes I fight for are usually about social injustices or environmental issues. So the fact that I've taken the time to write this letter should be an indication to you about how profoundly moved I was with Mr. Crawford's performance and how important it is for me to see him play the title role in the movie. I was deeply concerned to find out that Antonio Banderas was being considered for the role, primarily because this perpetuates Hollywood's idea that by simply casting a young actor, the movie will bring in more money. This time, it won't work. The Phantom transcends age. The Phantom needs to be played by someone who can do the role justice. When people see this movie, do you want them to go because they want to see an Antonio Banderas movie? Or do you want them to go see it because it's the Phantom of the Opera? Now, don't get me wrong, Antonio Banderas is one of my favorite actors, and I thought he did a pretty good job in "Evita". But the Phantom is an entirely different matter. I don't think he can live up to the standard set by Mr. Crawford, and quite frankly, I think you would be compromising your own standards by casting anyone else but Michael Crawford. |
| Name: Cathy Website: Referred by: NewsGroups From: Los Angeles, CA Time: 1999-06-29 04:46:42 Comments: Dear Mr. Lloyd Webber, I have admired your talent for many, many years, and have seen most of your theaterical masterpieces. My favorite by far is "The Phantom of the Opera"...I have seen it almost 10 times [New York, Los Angeles, Toronto, etc.]...but nothing compares to the four times I was lucky enough to see Michael Crawford in the lead. While others were good and may have even had better voices, it was like a second skin with Michael. His body movements, hand gestures, and sensuous presence made you yearn and root for the underdog. I actually wanted him to end up with Christine...because he created a magic like no other. I understand that the movie going audience is aimed at teens, and the dashing Antonio Banderas has a screen appeal...but HE IS NO PHANTOM!!! When Yul Brynner played the King & I -- he marked his territory and made the role his own. Others may have tested the waters, but everyone knew they were mere shadows in the master's footsteps. The same goes for Michael Crawford [I believe even moreso]...when he left the role as the Phantom, all actors tried to mimick his gestures. Why? Because they all knew [just as the members of this campaign all know] that Michael Crawford's portrayl of the Phantom was perfection [and how can you top that]. Yes, you can bring in a bigger named actor, or a younger actor...but that doesn't equal magic. Millions of people have went to see Phantom because of this magic...and that magic started with your pen and paper, and then was handed off to Michael and Sarah...they spread their magic in London, then in New York...and so on. You have a chance to continue spreading this magic by holding true to your original gameplan. You picked Michael originally for the role of Phantom because you know, just as we do...he is and will always be The Phantom. Please be true to yourself, and don't sell out to Hollywood. |
| Name: Dori Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: San Diego Co, CA Time: 1999-06-29 02:30:44 Comments: Dear Mr. Lloyd-Webber, I became involved with the Phantom Movie Campaign right after the Michael Crawford Cerritos Concert was shown on PBS last March. I found this website and learned that Hollywood was finally talking of making a film of The Phantom of the Opera. However, the shocking thing was that Michael Crawford was not even being considered to play the role he created so brilliantly on stage. Instead, two other actors, neither of whom was a trained singer, were being rumored for the part. The reason given was "Box Office Receipts". I know that film producers want to make many millions the first weekend when the film opens and they don't seem to care what happens after that. So this is why Antonio Banderas, "The Flavor of the Month", has the inside track. This is ludicrous. The play is already a proven success. You don't need Banderas or any other matinee idol. What you need is Michael Crawford. Banderas' fans might flock to see the film that first weekend, but they will be totally turned-off at not being able to see his pretty face and bulging biceps. That's what they are paying to see and they won't gave a damn about the music or the story if he doesn't get the girl. And how can you possibly expect him to sing "The Music of the Night" with that thin, little voice? And who will understand him if he does? Is it your plan to junk POTO as it was written and re-write the whole play to suit the mediocre talent of Banderas? If you do, you will disappoint the millions of fans all over the world who have been waiting for the film and where is the profit in that? You are risking the loss of millions if you ignore the drawing power of Michael Crawford. He is identified with the part from the original production, on audio and video tape, as well as in live concerts. No one will want the OC recording from the film when they can have the real Phantom. Please, stick with your original vision and give us the movie that we have been waiting for years to see. |
| Name: Noel
Dolan Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Colorado Time: 1999-06-28 22:52:46 Comments: Dear Andrew Lloyd Webber, As a dedicated Phantom of the Opera fan and fellow musician, I'm writing this letter in protest of Hollywood's plan to cast Antonio Banderas instead of Michael Crawford for their upcoming film version of your musical. Although I believe that Mr. Banderas is a talented actor, he is NOT a talented musician. There is only one man who is qualified for the role adn that is Michael Crawford. Please stop Hollywood from making a huge mistake. Cordially yours, Noel Dolan |
| Name: Mariah
Hernandez Website: Lexy's Phantom of the Opera Page Referred by: From a Friend From: Missouri Time: 1999-06-27 23:22:09 Comments: Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber- As I am sitting here, listening to Michael Crawford and Sarah Brightman singing POTO, I wonder how the idea to cast anybody but Mr. Crawford could every enter into somebody's mind. I have seen Phantom once and it was the best thing that I ever heard. The only way it could have been better is if it had Mr. Crawford playing the part of phantom. I live in Missouri, so I don't get the chance to go to LA or NewYork to seethe big time productions. I have heard that you want Antonio Banderas to do the part. He was good in evita, but I just don't think he has the tallent or the voice to play Phantom.. and I think the ONLY person good for this role would be Mr. Crawford. I saw Mr. Banderas on your birthday celibration and I just didn't think he was right for the part. Many others think the same way. I also know that Mr. Crawford is verry popular and I do know that if he is not cast there will be MANY MANY people who will NOT go to see the movie at all. I also know that if he IS cast it will bring MANY MANY people to the theaters to see it. I know that *I* will go and drag my friends along with me to see it if he is cast. Please, take into consideration the number of people you will loose if you don't cast Mr. Crawford.. and think about tallent... Mr. Crawford was the orriginal phantom and he (In my mind and in the mind of many many many others) is the only phantom that there ever can be. Thank you |
| Name: Sharon E.
West Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: from? as in born? or live? Time: 1999-06-17 07:31:05 Comments: I've seen POTO FIFTY TIMES. I am NOT a wealthy or frivilous person. This has cost me thousands and thousands of dollars I should be putting into retirement. Michael was not my first Phantom, and, perhaps not my ultimate favorite....but he is the ONLY person who can or should make the movie. This is a great opportunity to make a movie that WILL live forever. Please don't put a pretty face (i.e., Tom Cruse in INTERVIEW WITH THE VAMPIRE) or a young, light voice AND pretty face (ANTONIO BANDARAS). THIS must be made with integrity. Come on Lloyd Weber, you remember integrity...it worked in your favorite (South Pacific). It will work with POTO ONLY if Michael is the Phantom....WHY ELSE WAS HE CHOSEN IN THE FIRST PLACE? Not only does the man deserve it, he has the sensitivity, MATURITY, and tenderness to do it. Don't turn what has touched millions @$75.00+ a pop, into another empty emotion. |
| Name: LINDY Website: Referred by: Signing another Guestbook From: REDWOOD CITY, CA. USA Time: 1999-06-14 06:48:48 Comments: DEAR MR. WEBBER, I CAN THINK OF NO OTHER MAN TO PLAY THE PHANTOM THEN MICHAEL CRAWFORD. MY HUSBAND AND I HAVE SEEN THE PHANTOM ELEVEN TIMES. IT WAS VERY HARD FOR US TO DO MONEY WISE. ONCE YOU SEE THE PHANTOM YOU ARE HOOKED.PLEASE THINK OF MICHAEL CRAWFORD'S MANY, MANY PHANS. THANK YOU LARRY AND LINDY ( PHANTOM PHANS FOREVER) |
| Name: Francis
Teunissen Website: Referred by: Signing another Guestbook From: Arnhem, the Netherlands Time: 1999-06-13 12:04:17 Comments: Dear Lord Lloyd Webber, First of all; thank you for all the wonderful music you have brought to us over the years. I really love your music. I also love the story and the music of "the Phantom of the Opera". Now that a movie is to be made of this project I hope you will have the wisdom to cast Michael Crawford in the role of the phantom. Although your music is wonderful as it is, Michael adds love, dedication and a great passion to it all. That is why I can't see anyone else do this part. Further more, Michael Crawford has proven to be worthy of the role, because of his success on stage doing this part. I heard Antonio Banderas is interested in the role as well. He is a goodlooking guy and a decent actor, but I don't think he has what it takes to play this role. His singing abilities are medoicre at best, in my humble opinion. I really think Michael Crawford is the best choice for the role and I think he earned the right to be the one and only Phantom in the movie. With kindest regards, Francis Teunissen |
| Name: Miguel
Ângelo Website: Referred by: Yahoo! From: Goiânia,Brazil Time: 1999-06-13 02:20:56 Comments: Please sir Andrew Lloyd Webber think about MICHAEL CRAWFORD He´s the man behind the mask He´s your Phantom.And ANTONIO BANDEIRAS maybe Raoul |
| Name: tyler evick Website: none Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: ohio usa Time: 1999-06-12 20:22:52 Comments: Dear Andrew, I absolutely love all of your musicals. Phantom on tape would be awsome!!!! I do think one thing though, it woul not be as good without Michael Crawford as the phantom!!! If it was someone else I would lose interest quickely! please e-mail me back, I would like to ask you a few questionms about your musicals, you see, I writ music and want to write a musical but don't know what to write about! thanks for your time!!!!! Tyler Evick |
| Name: Lisa Hauser Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Wisconsin Time: 1999-06-12 00:47:04 Comments: Lord Lloyd Webber: I must confess, I am not one of those people who have seen Phantom upwards of ten times - in fact, I've only seen it once. You see, I live in Wisconsin, and we don't get a lot of Broadway productions in the area, the one time I did see Phantom was in Chicago. Since it was not on Broadway, or in London, or in Los Angeles, i missed the glorious opportunity to see Mr. Michael Crawford in the title role. I implore you, please don't forget about the middle of the country who are not given an opportunity to see the original actors in their signature roles. Please do not deny us this one chance to see Mr. Crawford doing what he does best - even if it is only in a movie. |
| Name: Helen Webb Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: New Jersey Time: 1999-06-08 17:18:14 Comments: To Andrew Lloyd Webber, I hope this message serves as a reminder that YOU were the one who chose Michael to play the Phantom when you were casting for the show. How could you ever think anyone else could play the part as Michael has? Michael IS the Phantom and will always be THE Phantom. MCIFA Member |
| Name: Magdalena
Johansson Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Sweden Time: 1999-06-05 15:03:36 Comments: Please Lord Webber, put Michael Crawford in the title role as the Phantom. He is the true Phantom and always will be!!! |
| Name: Cindy Marlowe Website: StageWorks Drama Outreach Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Corbin, Ky Time: 1999-06-01 23:03:52 Comments: Sir, I have signed this letter earlier, and I don't know if I can add much to the discussion. However, I do feel it is important to let you know that fans of Phantom of the Opera feel very strongly about the casting of the movie. Judging from the responses received on this website, I would say that most fans would feel very betrayed if anyone other than Michael Crawford was cast as the Phantom. Casting someone who is unsuited for the role (such as John Travolta or Antonio Bandaras) adds insult to injury, since most will view this as simply about "money". In a very real sense your own credibility and artistic merit are at stake here, since the fans of Phantom are the fans of Andrew Lloyd Webber. Hollywood does not care about the integrity of your work. Your fans do. You are the only one who is in the position of protecting that integrity for posterity. Don't let the pressure from those who are only concerned with a quick dollar cloud your judgement. Make the decision that will please the fans and preserve your work as you would like it to be remembered. Cast Michael Crawford as the Phantom. |
| Name: Jenny Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Idaho Time: 1999-05-31 19:34:00 Comments: Dear Andrew Lloyd Webber, Hello, you will probably never get this, but if you do I have some things to say: 1. I absolutly adore the Phantom of the Opera. It's incredible! Also what makes the Phantom of the Opera is the Phantom. And now, how can you have a Phantom without Michael Crawford? He is the best singer there is. You can't get much higher than the best singer! I respect your judgement, and after reading some of your quotes I know you will make the right choice. Choose Michael, you won't only be letting yourself down, but what about Warner Brothers, and how about the world? I mean look at this home page. Can't you tell there are SO many people out there that want Michael as their Phantom to keep and watch in their homes. We don't want to look back on a guieness like you and say you cheated us out of our Phantom. And I don't think you want that either. Now that brings our second point: 2. Sarah Brightman. You have to keep this incredible legand going. Sarah Brightman has thee most splended voice. In fact I am going to see her in concert in three days. You said in your 'Complete Phantom of the Opera' book that Michael Crawford and Sarah Brightman work perfect as a due. You can't break that team up. 3. ( and final) I love you Andrew Lloyd Webber. Your music is a sensation. No one in the world will ever beat Andrew Lloyd Webber! |
| Name: Joanne Daley Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Illinois Time: 1999-05-22 18:04:02 Comments: Here's your Hollywood formula: Crawford and Banderas would make a great team just as Anthony Hopkins does with his younger costars. Michael Crawford is identified as the Phantom of the Opera and would be the number one choice for the role. Antonio Banderas is known for his good looks and sex appeal and would be better suited for the role of Raoul. How will the Banderas' fans react coming to the theater, not being able to see his face instead hardly recognizing him in the disfiguring makeup and balding head? And you will see, Michael Crawford will be an equal match for the handsome Raoul, Antonio Banderas, to win the heart of Christine. I wonder how Antonio will be able to perform in such hideous makeup with an equally handsome Raoul looking his best. Antonio may be able to sing well enough for the part of Raoul but never the role of the Phantom. Michael Crawford will bring in the audience of Anthony Hopkins; Antonio Banderas will be in his fans for a much greater box office. Again, please mak |
| Name: A Phantom Fan Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1999-05-17 07:19:25 Comments: Well, let's just put it this way: If you are not going to cast M.C. as the phantom in the phantom movie, you are going to lost a lot of money, for a lot of fans will not want to watch a sucky phantom singing their favourite songs. (Except for a good laugh!) So, if you want to go ahead and do not listen to the voices of the people who have made you so rich, FINE! It's your show, and it's YOUR money. (To waste) We are just trying to help you to make a good choice here, and if you will not listen to us, that's not our problem. |
| Name: Julie Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Middlesex County Time: 1999-05-12 03:51:07 Comments: I have found yet another reason Mr. Webber, for Having MIchael Crawford Be the Phantom. Mr. Crawford is performing in Atlantic City this Coming Weekend In May and He is performing Phantom Music- And It is sold out- for I tried to get tickets. This once again proves that Antonio has no business in trying to be the Pahntom. Can yo not see he is Smooching up to you. Mr. Crawford will not comment because he has too much respect for you. He knows, as well as everyone at this site, that you will make the right choice and not put Antonio in the movie. I just wish i understood why the thought even came into your head to not use Michael. I mena just look at all the publicity he has gioven your show, here and in Europe. PLease please please use Michael Crawford. I want to seet his movie, and if it is not Michael, I promise you, many many many people will boycott it!! |
| Name: Jessie Lewis Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Utah, USA Time: 1999-05-10 17:10:58 Comments: To Lord Lloyd Webber: I love your music, including The Phantom of the Opera. You were inspired to select Michael Crawford as the original Phantom, and that choice paid handsome dividends for you. Technically, Mr. Crawford's voice has unbelievable range and control, so perfect for this role. The combination of his soaring, robust and tender voice and your music equals the romance called for in the role. He is also now the perfect age for the Phantom, and his voice is even greater than when he started Phantom for you. With mask and heavy makeup on, Mr. Crawford ACTS with his VOICE and body. If you are seriously considering another person for the movie, perhaps that person should audition with his face covered, and see how he would compare to Mr. Crawford. With Michael Crawford, this movie is destined to become a classic, world-wide event. Without him - disaster! Who would want to see it without Michael Crawford, after connecting Michael Crawford's voice to the Phantom all this time? The voice is the man! |
| Name: Eileen
Kent Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Utica, NY Time: 1999-05-09 06:50:01 Comments: I have seen Phantom of the Opera sixteen times, and have studied your work and seen all of your productions except Song & Dance,and Jeeves. I believe Michael Crawford is, by far, the most versatile and talented singer/actor, who will always be known as the best and the original Phantom. He created the character through his interpretation and he definitely should also be in the movie version. His voice has even gotten better since the original soundtrack was recorded, and he has commented that he would love to be able to play the part again. He has been promised the role,and even left the LA production to begin filming. I believe he had a clause in his EFX contract to allow for the filming of Phantom. He has done well by you,Lord Webber,and you owe him the respect of being allowed to complete his role as Phantom in the film version for all those who never had the chance to see him play it in London, New York , or Los Angeles. My respect for you as the genius composer of our time will disappear if you cast anyone but Michael Crawford as Erik. And a winning combo would be Michael Ball as Raul and Sarah Brightman as Christine. Please listen to your admirers, and please replay your birthday celebration video again. Seeing and hearing Antonio as Phantom was very disappointing and upsetting, and I would never see the movie or buy the video if anyone but Michael Crawford was to be given the part. Please keep your word to Michael,so I can keep my faith in you, to do what is best for this masterpiece of theater. He proved you were right to choose him the first time -please trust your instincts and choose him again. Your once loyal fan awaiting........ Eileen Kent |
| Name: Jan Ploss Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Lompoc, CA Time: 1999-05-09 00:24:19 Comments: ***Hi Jan, your concerns are certainly understood by us. We honestly don't know *IF* ALW's reading the material we're consistantly sending him. All we can do is try our best. It's hard to imagine that he's ignoring his "public" but we've heard nothing. Our ads are speaking to the masses though. It will be forever known that POTO fans *wanted* the theatrical integrity of the original Phantom, Michael Crawford, on the big screen, preserved in the role as he should've been years ago. If this movie goes on, without Michael, and flops big-time in the box-office ALW can't say he didn't know ahead of time what the "fans" wanted. These guest books are sent routinely to RUG/RUF/AB's management and WB. Whether they'll have an impact... who knows? At least we know we've done all we can. We'll not have to say.... "I wish I'd done something" because we did. Thanks for signing!**** *********************************************************** I continue to review the letters written. I commiserate with all, but I am also concerned with some letters I have read. For instance, antonio banderas was supposedly to have begun filming in March 1999? Could you be doing a George Lucas and secretly begun filming? I AM ALSO CURIOUS TOO (redundancy intended), IS THERE REALLY ANYONE READING THIS OPEN LETTER THAT WILL BE MOVED TO RECONDISER RECASTING? Dear Lord Lloyd Webber, I have been a fan of yours since 1970 when I first heard the British recording of Joseph and His Amazing Technicoloured Coat. Please do not disappoint me now. I will incorporate some of the former letters: You lost control of Jesus Christ, Superstar when you sold the rights. You cast Madonna (big musical ticket) as Evita and she did not even get nominated for an Oscar (of course that is probably due more to revenge against Michael Eisner than talent). The animated Universal Studios CATS is yet to be produced. Examples of stars losing roles they created on Broadway have done rather well in Films afterall (Julie Andrews won the Oscar for Mary Poppins over the role she lost to Audrey Hepburn in My Fair Lady; Carol Channing was respected in other roles despite the fact she never recreated roleS she created on Broadway). Some producers brave enough to take the chance of allowing Broadway stars (unknown to Hollywood) to recreate their roles have reaped megabucks (example: Barbra Streisant in Hello, Dolly!). IS THERE ANY WAY TO KNOW IF THIS LETTER CAMPAIGN HAS ANY SIGNIFICANCE? CAN SOMEONE CONVINCE LORD ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER TO RESPOND? |
| Name: Barry C.
Marshall Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Madison, WI, USA Time: 1999-05-08 23:05:18 Comments: Mr. Lloyd-Webber: Having seen Phantom of the Opera in several venues, my wife, Mary, and I cannot believe that anyone but Michael Crawford was chosen for the part in your movie. We see very few movies and only Michael could get us to see this one. All others have been excellent but none were Michael. |
| Name: Meg Depew Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Pennsylvania Time: 1999-05-04 21:07:17 Comments: Dear Mr. Andrew Loyd Webber, When I heard about the Phantom movie you will be making I was overcome with joy. However, when I heard you were going to cast Antonio Banderas as Erik, I almost vommited out of grief and a sudden sickening feeling to my stomach. I assumed that Michael Crawford was going to be cast as The Phantom (seeing that he is the only one and you were going to cast him in the 1990 movie you almost made). Why would you even consider casting anyone besdies him? You may have written the music but Mr. Crawford brought it to life! The Phantom of the Opera if known for it's power and drama. The thanks for that goes to him. He is the one who made the musical spectacular and he is the one who will make the film spectacular! You will make no money at all without him. However, with him in it, I will go see it at least 10 times! So will every other Phantom phan I know! Stop leading this Masquerade and cast him! If you don't Mr. Webber, you'd better "hide your face so the world will never find you". Sincerely, Meg Depew |
| Name: carole simms Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1999-04-28 21:34:15 Comments: I keep reading these updates. They're great if they do any good. I liked Dawn saying that Banderas is a looker, but who gives a bloddy ??????. Nobody sees a good looking phantom. |
| Name: Dawn Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Ft. Collins, CO Time: 1999-04-28 17:34:20 Comments: Sir, your music stirs the soul, fires the imagination, and ignites passion as nothing else can. It deserves to be performed by those with the greatest genius for capturing the depth of emotion inherent in every piece. Please, honor your music and your art by casting Michael Crawford as the phantom. Give us, the young fans who never had the chance to see him the first time, the gift of seeing him immortalized on film. For in doing so, you will immortalize your own great genius and true artistic touch. Trust your first instincts. Millions of fans cannot be wrong, though Hollywood can, and often is. Do not be fooled by their attempts to appeal to the younger generation by using big name stars. As a member of the twentysomethings, I can tell you that nearly every peer I encounter knows who Michael Crawford is, and fully adores his immortal role as the Phantom. Banderas may be a looker, but Michael has the style...not to mention a voice that sends shivers down the spines of young and old alike! With your support, this movie will be a priceless, treasured classic. Please, do not let Hollywood turn it into a catastrophe. Give us the true Phantom. |
| Name: JOYCE
GUSTAF Website: Referred by: Net Search From: CARMEL, CA Time: 1999-04-22 21:32:37 Comments: I WAS MESMERIZED BY MICHAEL'S VOICE WHEN HE SANG. HIS VOICE KEPT CRACKING WITH EMOTION THAT MADE ME EMOTIONAL TO. HE DID A VERY SINISTER LAUGH JUST BEFORE THE CHANDLIER FELL. BUT IT MADE ME FEEL MORE PITY FOR HIM THEN ANGER. I SAW ET SAY THAT FILMING WAS TO BEGIN IN MARCH 1999. PLEASE SAY IT DIDN'T. I COULDN'T BEAR TO SEE ANYONE, BUT MICHAEL ACT IT. PLEASE SAY MY VOICE ISN'T TO LATE TO BE HEARD. MR. WEBER, YOU CAN'T LET ANTONIO DO THIS ROLE. HE JUST DOESN'T HAVE IT. |
| Name: Maggie Birge Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Owensboro, KY Time: 1999-04-22 17:51:13 Comments: With the terrible tragedy this week in Colorado, we are once again reminded of how often life really does imitate art! We remember the pain we all suffer when we are ridiculed and rejected by those whose approval we most seek. In this episode of school violence, as with nearly all the others that have happened in recent years, the perpetrators have been children who were teased and scorned by their peers and felt compelled to seek revenge in the most violent manner they possibly could. As I commented to you in a previous message, your interpretation of Leroux's The Phantom of the Opera struck a universal chord with its audiences because it dealt with this same basic theme of a man desperate to be accepted by his own kind, and, when he was not, he became a victimized outsider who suffered such agony he was forced to live a claustrophobic life to protect himself from his tormentors and took his revenge on both the guilty and the innocent alike when he felt pushed beyond endurance. I hope that you now realize what a personal connection each member of the audience has to this story, and when you bring Phantom to the screen, you will respect your audience by giving them the interpretation of this character they most want to see. Michael Crawford gave a brilliant portrayal of both the Phantom's humanity and inhumanity. He gave the character depth, dignity, and soul, as well as conveying the evil qualities of his dark side. Audiences understood and responded passionately. Please remember this when choosing your cast. Remember the power of Michael's acting and the haunting quality of his singing. Give us, your audience, the emotional experience we have craved for so long, and the masterpiece we know this movie can be. Thank you. |
| Name: Jennifer Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Monmouth County Time: 1999-04-22 01:13:15 Comments: I do not understand how one could possibly think that Antonio is anywhere near Michael Crawford's amazing abilities!!!?!?! Michael is the only one who could fit the character, he already knows it inside and out form doing a magnificent jkob in the broadway play. I beg you Mr. Webber, do not make a horrific mistake in miscasting the Phantom...you do not want it to go down in history as a tragedy! |
| Name: Isabel Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Bergen County Time: 1999-04-21 18:07:12 Comments: To look straight at the facts, Mr. Webber, you previously asked Mr. Crawford to be in Phantom, which gave the show an enormous boost. Then MR. Crawford, did a collection of your love songs, and regular songs, his showtunes, album, then a faith album, and on to FX in Las Vegas. Mr. Crawford has much singing and acting ability under his belt, including The Music Man, and soon to be the Phantom Movie. On the flip side, Antonio has a few film where he sputters barely understandable lines in a heavy accent. I see/hear about no albums, no broadway shows, no shows in Las Vegas, or any other albums. No other director has asked him to act or to sing recently. I understand you felt sorry for him to give him a part in Evitas, but o fool everyone into thinking you wuould actually do that, is not nice. I really hope you come clean and announce that Michael will be THE MAIN ATTRACTION!! thank you. |
| Name: Ann Pepper Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Jackson, Mississippi Time: 1999-04-21 16:41:27 Comments: How could anyone not think Michael Crawford is the ONLY Phantom? I have not see the Broadway play, but did see a version at the Saenger Theater in New Orleans. However, I have worn out a cassette tape and almost worn out my CD from the original cast album. I have also seen Michael Crawford on various TV shows. If you listen to him on the cast album, the moment he says "insolent boy", I am hooked. NO ONE can do it except him. |
| Name: Nicholas Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Ohio Time: 1999-04-20 02:54:07 Comments: Mr. Weber, me and my friends have seen this show 7 times with Michael Crawford. I went and saw it the last time, an 8th time, when he quit. I left halfway through. The performance wasn't half the caliber of Crawford's. Now you wanna star some big shot Hollywood freak in the place of our beloved Phantom... I can tell you this: THE PHATOM FANDOM HAS SPOKEN. BRING CRAWFORD IN |
| Name: carole simms Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1999-04-15 22:08:16 Comments: i read some of the letters. You are making a mistake. The letter from gypsy reminded me of other musicals made into movies. Barbara Striesand was a nobody in the movies. She became famous when she starred in the movie Funny Girl. Julie andrews won the oscar over Audrey Hepburn. That was vengence considering Julie Andrews was Eliza Doolittle in England and America. The movies said Julie wasn't box office material. Carol Channing wasn't box office material for Gentlemen Prefer Blonds or another musical, but she was good in movies like Thoroughly Moddern Millie. Don't be stupid .Webber. Hire Michael Crawford or I will just weight to tape it on tv. I wouldn't spend a dime to see a spanierd doing french. |
| Name: Bill
Fabrey Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Sharpsville, Penna. Time: 1999-04-13 17:21:48 Comments: I truly can't beleive that anyone else would be considered to play the phantom in the movie role, when I lived near Los Angeles, I was privileged to see the Phantom seven (07) times with Michael Crawford. Before I saw it for the first time, I had to be talked into going to the theater, I really don't like live performances because I always feel they over perform. But after I saw the Phantom with Michael I was possessed by the performance. I had to see it over and over, after Michael Crawford left the show, I went to see it again with Gaines, I never went back, that should tell you what I think of the movie without M.C., you won't get my money or a lot of other people I know. There are many, many people who had seen the phantom and have the music on tapes and cd's that have been waiting to see the original PHANTOM OF THE OPERA "MICHAEL CRAWFORD" please don't disappoint all the fans!!!!!!!!!!!!! |
| Name: Tammy Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Illinois Time: 1999-04-08 15:24:55 Comments: I have nothing to gain here, other than to speak to you as an avid theatre buff and movie goer. I am in awe of your works, Mr. Webber. You are a musical genius. And because you are so gifted, you have the ability to recognize talent when you see it. Michael Crawford IS the Phantom of the Opera. To even think of putting someone else in the movie role is incomprehensible. Every time I hear him sing, I am truly spellbound. PLEASE, if you are going to make a movie, make it right....cast Michael Crawford as the Phantom! Thank you!!! |
| Name: Marilynn Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Atlanta, GA Time: 1999-04-08 12:47:48 Comments: Dear Sir: Please maintain the integrity of the original stage production with Michael Crawford as the Phantom. You made a fantastic choice the first time and so please make that same fantastic choice to make the movie with Michael Crawford as the Phantom. Michael has always attributed his success to you and has expressed his gratitude over and over that you chose him. Michael's performance is so moving and will certainly make the movie a huge success both in popularity and financially. Please, please make the movie and cast Michael Crawford as the Phantom. thank you |
| Name: gipsy Website: Referred by: Lycos From: Bulleton Time: 1999-04-07 21:37:18 Comments: I read you were upset when you lost control of the filming of Jesus Christ Superstar. You managed to maintain some control over Evita. But Evita wasn't that great. If you insist casting Antonio as the Phantom, you may lose a large audience of legitimate theater goers. Musicals are not big "sells" in today's generation. Those who went to Evita were Madonna fans and were one-time goers. If you give up on Michael, you will lose more than money and hoped-for grosses. You will lose theatrical integrity. |
| Name: jlp Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: california Time: 1999-04-06 21:51:40 Comments: Madonna is a box-office draw, but she did not draw the audiences to Evita. No-names did not not draw crowds to Jesus, Christ Superstar. CATS managed to capture a decent percentage as a PBS fund-raiser. So why not draw upon someone in-between the box-office draw and no-names? By recasting Antonio Banderas with Michael Crawford, you will allow novices who have not heard nor seen Hello, Dolly! and/or A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum. You could take pride in re-establishing the come-back star for Michael Crawford. I know the film was to begin production last month, but please re-think the matter. Thank you |
| Name: Jana Ploss Website: Referred by: Net Search From: california Time: 1999-04-04 01:01:41 Comments: UPDATE TO EARLIER VERSION: I left out a comment I wrote to you so many times Lord Lloyd Webber. That is Lon Chaney will always be the Silent Phantom. Claude Rains will always be the Talkie Phantom. Mr Crawford MUST always be the Musical Phantom. How can you shun Mr Crawford by casting Antonio Banderas? Antonio Banderas sufficed in Evita and did well in Zorro. I saw Mr Banderas muddle through Phantom songs for your Birthday. He is no Michael Crawford! Mr Crawford deserves to complete his triple play. He earned the Laurence Olivier. He earned the Antoinette Perry. Why can he not earn the Oscar? Do not infer he has little box office appeal. He acted in Hello, Dolly! and A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum. He received decent reviews then; he is better now. Not only can Mr Crawford be a box office draw, he can SRO theatres. I cannot remember the number of times I froze my tutu in the Will Call line after hours of waiting for the Will Call Box to open. I never once could see the Phantom without a month's advanced reservation and that was just to see Davis Gaines. It took longer for Mr Crawford. I will guarantee that Mr Banderas must perform at 1000% (I know it is impossible to have any percentage greater than 100%.) to win over Mr Crawford's die-hard fans. I number as one. Madonna was acceptable as Evita because there was no established star drawing crowds. There were the record's Evita, the London's Evita, the Broadway's Evita, and the National Tours' Evitas. Please your Lord, return to us the dream, the magic, of Mr Crawford to once again perform his role. Age should not be a factor. Remember Robert Guillaume. Technology and cinematic magic can camouflage any physical problems Mr Crawford may suffer. It is not the Music of the Night that makes the Phantom work. It is the Voice of the Night. That voice, that grace, is Mr Crawford. Thank you so much for bearing my voice once again. This certainly is better than writing New York and British agencies. |
| Name: Elizabeth Zimmerman Website: none Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Wisconsin Time: 1999-04-02 17:33:46 Comments: Sir Andrew, for those of us who never had the chance to see and hear Michael Crawford as the Phantom, please, PLEASE cast him in this role if you make a movie. There was something oddly cold about Banderas in the role at the Royal Albert Hall performance.Sure, the Phantom is supposed to be forbidding, but this was something else. Not right. Who could outdo Crawford? Don't miss this opportunity, please! |
| Name: Lynsey Website: Referred by: Yahoo! From: Belfast Time: 1999-03-30 15:21:55 Comments: Dear Mr Lloyd- Webber, I have longed to see Michael Crawford play the Phantom, as, it would seem, he was born to do. Banderas may have a good voice, but he cannot bring the same depth to the role as Crawford. When Crawford sings, everyone is spellbound. Don't break that spell by casting a "known" actor in the lead role, when you yourself that it belongs to Crawford, and Crawford alone. |
| Name: Lorraine Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: California, USA Time: 1999-03-29 21:15:46 Comments: Dear Lord Webber, Your splendid production of "Phantom of the Opera" is a masterpiece. However, to use someone other than the man that gave birth to your Phantom would be suicidal. Michael Crawford's talents and your genius were a perfect combination. Michael Crawford's performance was intoxicating and addictive. This addiction continues to plague us. The only way that this obsession can be satisfied is with Michael Crawford himself. His voice is astonishing and his execution of the role overpowering, no...dazzling. I beseech you, please use Mr. Crawford in this role that he was born to enact. Lord Webber, only together can the two of you immortalize this magnificent creation. Yes, only together, as in the beginning. Thank you for your talents and time, Lorraine (rainee@msn.com) |
| Name: Rigoberto
Hernadez Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: the Unites States Time: 1999-03-27 20:40:22 Comments: Dear Andrew, I have seen four of your musicals and soon to see "EVITA" and every play you have a great cast so when I heard that the WB was making plans to make the movie version on "THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA" and I hope is a musical movie , I said to my self there is only one person that can play the "PHANTOM" and that is Michael Crawford as the "PHANTOM OF THE OPERA" and Sarah "RAOUL Vicomte de Chagny" that would be the great cast for a musical and a great movie as it would be with "THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA" I smell "ACEDEMY AWARDS" with this movie good luck mr. Webber A BIG FAN, RIGOBERTO HERNANDEZ |
| Name: Ellen K Bilotti Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1999-03-27 06:47:53 Comments: Dear Mr Weber I will not see Phantom if Michael Crawford is not in the movie!!! Antonio Banderas can't sing!! Sincerely Yours Ellen K Bilotti |
| Name: Kathleen
Hon Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Los Angeles Time: 1999-03-25 21:29:54 Comments: Dear Mr. Webber, I saw Phantom twice with Michael Crawford and once with Robert Guillome (sorry about the spelling). It was spectacular! The people who were willing to see the play more than once with Michael Crawford will be more than willing to see the movie numerous times, then buy the video. Antonio Banderas may have a name and face that are popular, but he has an O.K. voice - not anywhere near strong enough for the Phantom, which required a strong voice and presence. Why would you want to hide his face behind a mask and makeup?! Actually, Banderas might be good as the romantic lead, Raul. Then we could enjoy his face and voice! Please don't let the narrow-minded view of Hollywood (MONEY, quick sell) ruin the artistic identity of your masterpeice; remeber they haven't done all that well on their big sell pictures lately. Crawford is already so identified with the part, anything else will be a let down -- remember, if the movie isn't quite right, you cannot go back in a few years and re-do it. Film lasts forever. Please listen to what the public is telling you. How many projects have such a loyal following, before their even made, that a letter writing campaign is started and carried on!! THANK YOU FOR TAKING THE TIME TO READ THIS. |
| Name: Cindy Marlowe Website: Referred by: Net Search From: Time: 1999-03-24 23:17:41 Comments: Dear Mr. Webber, Please be true to your original artistic vision. Don't let Hollywood's mistakes become yours. The casting directors and producers of Hollywood films have lost touch with much of their audience, and the fact that either John Travolta or Antonio Bandaras is being considered for the part of the Phantom proves the point.You knew what it would take to make your concept of the Phantom come to life on the stage, and you wisely chose Michael Crawford for the part.Don't do anything less with the movie--after all, once it's on film, it is preserved forever. Make sure the version of "Phantom of the Opera" that is preserved on film is the one we all want to remember--the one with Michael Crawford recreating his brilliant stage performance, and interpreting your beautiful music to perfection. |
| Name: Victor
Person Website: Referred by: NewsGroups From: Altadena, California Time: 1999-03-24 02:53:07 Comments: Dear Mr. Webber, The movie will not be the same as the theatrical version without Michael Crawford in the starring role. I was lucky enough to see it three times during the L.A. run. Mr. Crawford was in the lead during two of my visits. He is nothing short of spectacular. Granted, Antonio Banderas is a wonderful actor and did a fine job in "Evita" much to my surprise. However, Michael Crawford is the "Phantom." Thank you for your time in considering this request to cast Michael Crawford in the movie role. Victor Person |
| Name: Tim Timmerman Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Wash DC Time: 1999-03-22 21:10:13 Comments: After being one of the fortunate to see Michael Crawford play the Phanotm in 9 magnificent performances, I felt compelled to write. I was living in LA until 1996 so after a couple of performances in NY and SF, I was a happy camper hearing he was coming to LA.My industry (computers) was being embraced by the entertainment industry and I had many friends who later told me that it had been pretty much decided that Michael would NOT play the 'old man'. The accuracy you have brought to the stage in many of your musicals beg another instance where it is proper to follow the legend. The Phantom was an old man, not a young buck. Antonio seems to do OK as I watched the tribute to you where he sang with Sarah. I immediately loaded my stereo with the original CD and found, in all fairness, not many reasons to look forward to his replacing Michael Crawford. Please take this into account and let's all revel in the glorious sounds that we've all come to love and admire. Thanks for all your contributions to many a good memory Tim |
| Name: Vickie Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: St.Charles, Mo Time: 1999-03-21 23:46:04 Comments: PLEASE READ THIS- You need to realize it sometime, Antonio doesn't have a good voice. He was good in Evita, but that was a different singing style and his accent made the words hard to understand. Can you just imagine his "Touch me, trust me"? His Rs would role horribly and make it just sound plain silly, not seductive, like it should. I heard him sing "The Phantom of the Opera", and he had problems with the notes. He was really straining to reach them. I don't even want to think of how his "Music of the Night" will sound. And when he was saying, "Sing, my angel of music, sing...etc" he sounded really annoying. I think that the whole idea of him as Phantom is too stupid to actually consider. Now, you already know that Michael can hit the notes *perfectly*. He DID oringinate the role, anyways. And you told him a long time ago, during the beginning of Phantom, if you ever made a Phantom movie, you'd have him play Phantom. I know, I know, nothing was written, but just by saying it you pretty much promised it to him. And what kind of example are you setting for us young people by breaking your promises?? It is very juvenille of you. And Phantom doesn't need big star names. Everyone knows, loves it. So, instead of focusing on who would get the teenagers' attention, let's focus on who can actually *sing and perform* the role, ok? I really hope all these letters knock some sense into you, how there is only one man for the role, and that man is Michael Crawford, and I haven't talked with anyone yet who thinks otherwise. |
| Name: Marilynn Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Georgia Time: 1999-03-20 12:04:06 Comments: Dear Sir: After almost a decade, the time has come. Fans of the Phantom of the Opera are clamoring for the stage version to be immortalized on film before we pass into the next millennium. Millions of people paid to see the stage version in the theaters and millions will pay again to see it on the screen. However, just as Clark Gable is Rhett Butler, Yul Brenner is the King, and Richard Harrison is Professor Higgins, Michael Crawford is the Phantom. Please accept no substitutes-movie goers certainly will not. It was Michael Crawford who drew the audiences and played to sold out theaters and it is Michael Crawford who will draw the audiences back into the movie houses. Michael Crawford created a Phantom with depth of feeling. He can make you feel the Phantom's torment at Christine's rejection. His tears of anguish and wails of pain flood the audience leaving no audience member unaffected or unmoved. With every move and every fiber of his being Michael Crawford became the Phantom. He brings the Phantom's soul out in his portrayal which the audience has come to love and pity. Michael understands Erik perfectly and carries Erik's soul within him even to this day. Michael gave the audience a character with dimension-one that related to each audience member individually. As the Phantom, Michael Crawford sang in such a way that it stirred the emotions of the audience and he continues to do so today as he shares shongs from the production. He calibrates his voice to the character. He sings each piece flawlessly and seamlessly with such passion. His high notes soar with a crystal clear quality and his dark, rich low notes create an air of mystery around the Phantom. He reaches deep inside to create a sound that lifts the words and music to amazing heights. Every word that he sings can be understood and communicates the heart and soul of the Phantom. Just as the Phantom controls the chandeliers overhead, Michael Crawford controls the feelings and emotions of the audience through his powerful acting and singing. From the beginning, one can "feel" the Phantom lurking. Then when he is finally seen, he commands the stage completely. He weaves his spell over everyone during "Music of the Night." In short, Michael does not portray the Phantom's character, he becomes the Phantom. Therein lies the perfection that is the trademark of Michael's performances. He gives the audience all of himself and more. Please put aside all differences of opinion and put onto film the stage production that will be the blockbuster of the centurey-the one that wowed audiences for years and will for years to come. Make the Phantom of the Opera starring the internationally known Michael Crawford. Thank you so much for your time and attention. Sincerely, Marilynn |
| Name: Christina
Golias Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Niles, Ohio Time: 1999-03-16 06:05:15 Comments: I have been a long time fan of "Phantom" since I experienced the wonderful music in my high school band. I was privledged enough to see Phantom in Cleveland, Ohio and my father and I plan to go this summer to Toronto as graduation presents to each other. I have also seen "Jesus Christ Superstar", bought the video, and met Ted Neely at the performance. I have also purchased "Evita" and think that was an excellent choice in actors for that! If you do a movie of "Phantom", which by the way is long overdue, Michael Crawford is a logical choice. He has made the role as magical as it is today. I have longed to see him play "Phantom". I tell ya, if Mr. Crawford is "Phantom", I will see it until it is out on video, and then buy the video and watch some more. It would be even better if it was the original Christine and Phantom (Sarah & Michael). Although, if Mr. Crawford should decline, Antonio Banderas would be my second choice. He did an excellent job in "Evita" and had a great voice. But as I said before, ONLY IF MICHAEL DECLINES! PLEASE CHOOSE MICHAEL FOR THE MOVIE ROLE. I'M SURE HE AND ALL HIS FANS WOULD BE IN YOUR DEBT FOREVER FOR IT! Signed, Christina Golias (a big fan of all your work) |
| Name: Kay &
Martin Cochran Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Maryland Time: 1999-03-15 16:25:03 Comments: We saw Micheal Crawford in Phantom in New York. We have purchased numerous related products over the years. In fact I wear Phantom perfume (obtained at Macy's NY) to this day. For years-- we have waited for HIS appearance in the movie version. We have discussed the way the movie might enhance what we saw on the stage. Without Michael Crawford you'll have another Hollywood hack job. There is no one else for the part. Our motives are entirely selfish. We want a film which will bring back the feeling of that magical night at the theater. It could be great. The definitive Phantom. Don't screw this one up.Kay and Martin Cochran |
| Name: LINDY Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: REDWOOD CITY,CA. Time: 1999-03-11 18:24:51 Comments: DEAR MR.WEBBER,MY HUSBAND AND HAVE BEEN LONG TIME FANS OF MICHAEL CRAWFORD'S. WE CAN NOT EVEN THINK OF ANYONE ELSE PLAYING THE ROLE OF "THE PHANTOM" OTHER THEN MR. CRAWFORD.HE IS "THE PHANTOM". PLEASE,PLEASE THINK ABOUT THIS.WE THE PHANTOM PHAN'S ARE EVRY LOYAL TO MICHAEL CRAWFORD.THANK YOU FOR LETTING ME VOICE MY OPINION.YOURS VERY TRULY.LINDY PHANTOM PHAN FOREVER |
| Name: Maggie Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Owensboro, KY Time: 1999-03-11 05:30:39 Comments: Sir: Tonight I finally had the opportunity to watch your 50th birthday show on our local PBS station. What great music and fantastic performers--with one exception. Antonio Banderas was so bad I almost felt sorry for him! He was absolutely out of his element. His voice is weak, he has no range and not the slightest concept of phrasing. My final impression was that you must have lost your mind if this is the person to whom you want to entrust your masterpiece. And Warner Bros. must certainly be run by idiots if they are agreeing with your decision. Not only will the film of "The Phantom of the Opera" be bad, it will be laughably bad! It's rare for the people involved in making a film to get the public's reaction in advance. But you have that advantage. Don't ignore it. This will be one of the most important decisions of your career, so listen to the people who ultimately will cause this project to succeed or fail. Give us--your public--what we want and spare yourself and Antonio great humiliation. Give us Michael Crawford as the film phantom! |
| Name: Mark Holguin Website: Referred by: Net Search From: Texas Time: 1999-03-06 20:11:35 Comments: Now now now Lord Webber, as I can remember in some time past a similar event occured. I am talking of course about the how you totaly bailed out on LuPone for the Broadway verson of Sunset. Please don't do that again, after all, why would you want to break two promises? Mark |
| Name: Si Chan Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: UK Time: 1999-03-02 13:57:53 Comments: Sir Andrew, Do you have the strength of mind to convince Warner Bros. that casting a legendary musical production should be made on other grounds as well as financial? Si |
| Name: BONG-KOOK
KANG Website: Referred by: Yahoo! From: SOUTH KOREA Time: 1999-02-28 03:46:39 Comments: Dear Lord Lloyd Webber! Oh,How do you do?Lord!! I'm very very like you & love love your all songs. Sir? Most fans of South Korea hope your "Phantom"movie join the "Michael crawford". Absolutely I also,too. Phantom is not held in Korea,so most fans want to see "Phantom of the opera by movie. Adeed Phantom roll in "MICF". Lord Webber Sir!! Please, join the "Michael Crawfod". I'm very very admire you. Lord,God Bless you!!!! I'll always happy time your works. Sincerely yours BONGKOOK from S.Korea. |
| Name: Jeannine Maree Website: Referred by: Net Search From: Phila Time: 1999-02-24 04:24:05 Comments: Dear Mr. Webber, I have to say that The Phantom of the Opera is the reason why I have the chance to become a professional opera singer. Because of Gaston Lerox, you, and Michael Crawford, I was granted the gift of learning to respect and love opera. This story is amazing, and I have to be the biggest fan. I really would not like to see a movie if the cast is not perfect. You have writen one of the greatest musicals, if not the greatest, of all time, do not make the wrong decision. Never mess with perfection, and you know as well as I, that Michael is perfection! A soon to be Christine Daae, Jeannine Maree |
| Name: Jack
Bruce Website: Referred by: Tripod From: 2230 Stratford Way, La Verne, California, 91750 Time: 1999-02-21 20:01:29 Comments: Mr. Webber, I am no one special but Michael Crawford ""IS""--**the PHANTOM** & as far as I'm concerned everyone else would be a sad imitation. Please make your decision soon. I want to see a great Phantom on film before he can't sing(as well) or I die. You're a "genious" & anything else but perfection would be out of character for you. And Michael is the key to that perfection. Thanks for your time, Jack Bruce |
| Name: Jaime
Dawn Crawford Website: Referred by: Signing another Guestbook From: Adelaide, South Australia (unfortunately) Time: 1999-02-19 02:30:37 Comments: Dear Lloyd-Webber,--PLEASE,PLEASE, PLEASE have THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA brought out on video-tape; I have seen THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA,-8 times, but, unfortunately, never with Mr. Michael Crawford. The thing is-it wouldn't be so bad if I'd, say,-"never heard of Michael Crawford".-Fortunately, however,I have had that honour!-(I've also had the greatest honour of MEETING THE MAN HIMSELF last year in October.--WOW!!!!)-It would be absolutely hypocrytical to have THE PHANTOM (hopefully on video-THIS YEAR????-Yes Please!)-portrayed by anybody else.-Thank You, Lord Lloyd Webber for taking the time to read my letter. Jaime. |
| Name: Lynne
Morrison Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Philadelphia Time: 1999-02-18 19:43:59 Comments: Lord Lloyd Webber: Are you out of your mind? Antonio Bandaras as Phantom? You are out of your mind. What a kick in the teeth to have Antonio sing with Sarah Brightman at your birthday celebration. Even if he lost the obvious accent which is totally out of place in a french opera house, he could not hit the notes in the way Michael Crawford can. Even my mailman knows Michael Crawford and his range - and this from a guy you wouldn't even expect to know about theater shows. I hope you come to your senses, and soon! |
| Name: Edward Baron Website: Referred by: Yahoo! From: Orlando, FL Time: 1999-02-12 09:01:44 Comments: Dear Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber, I have listened to the music of the Phantom of the Opera since I was about fourteen or fifteen years old, and now I am eighteen and have seen the musical twice. I am deeply disappointed with he fact that Michael Crawford is not playing the role. He is my idle and the best Phantom that ever walked the earth. I would greatly appreciate it if you would choose him for the movie, since he is the best person for the job. |
| Name: Patricia
Helm Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Eureka, California USA Time: 1999-02-09 00:45:47 Comments: Dear Lord Webber: I was 17 years old when I first heard the wonderful music of The Phantom of the Opera. I am now 20 years old and still love it. I have seen the play twice and would very much love to see a movie made. However, I would rather there be no movie if Michael Crawford does not play the role of the Phantom. I have talked to my friends and relatives, ages 15-72, and they all agree with me. My mother, age 48, said that not having Michael Crawford play the Phantom is just like not having Robert Preston play the Music Man. So please do what is best for your "South Pacific," and let the "Phantom" be the Phantom. |
| Name: Ephanie Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: PA Time: 1999-02-07 01:15:42 Comments: Dear Sir Lloyd-Webber, I realize you probably have read hundreds, if not thousands of letters from angered POTO fans. I'm not going to get up on my soapbox and tell you what a huge mistake I think the Antonio Banderas movie would be, but I will tell you this: when I saw the ALW Celebration tape and heard Mr. Banderas' voice singing the Phantom's immortal lyrics i wept. I'm sure you of all people must realize how incredibly sad that performance was. I cannot believe you would introduce the world to so beautiful a musical through such an inaccurate portrayal. Please, please, please take us into consideration and give the people what they want. Give us Michael or give us death!! |
| Name: Marilynn Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Georgia Time: 1999-01-31 14:48:02 Comments: Dear Sir: The stage production of the Phantom of the Opera was so wonderful with Michael Crawford as the phantom. Please don't let the experately done stage production get changed when put into a movie format by letting anyone but Michael Crawford play the phantom. The genius behind your work would be compromised and the number of people who would be interested in viewing the movie would be significantly lower if anyone else but the internationally known Michael Crawford is not cast as the phantom. Thank you. |
| Name: Cosette Rose
Daae Website: Referred by: Yahoo! From: USA Time: 1999-01-30 02:26:16 Comments: Dear Lord Webber, As an 11 year old band student with a love for music I always should up for band practice rain or shine. One day Mrs. Hall, my music director at the time handed out the Music of the Night...I never thought that three bars of a song could send me off into to some far off world; yet it did. That was four years ago, and I have seen Phantom four times in the NorthEastern US. My love for Phantom dose not just revolve around your music(although I truely love it), but also Gaston Leroux's novel, Susan Kay's novel Phantom (Erik, the Pahntom's, biography), the Kopit/Yetson musical Phantom, L'Opera de Paris Garnier, and many others. When I heard that you were making Phantom into a movie I was at first ecstatic, but then I heard that you were going to cast Antonio Banderas as the Phantom. I highly urge you to cast Michael Crawford as the Phantom. I saw him preform in concert this past summer in concert and I realized that he was even more amazing and talented then I thought. I highly advise you to cast Michael Crawford as the Phantom; I know that even though Antonio Baderas might bring in more money in the box office, but Phantom is a classic tale and money shold not interfere with the quality of the show. --Cosette Rose Daae |
| Name: LINDA JOYCE Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA Time: 1999-01-29 05:03:34 Comments: Dear Mr. Webber: I sincerely hope you & the studio re-think your decision to cast another instead of Michael Crawford. The man & the character he becomes is like no other! I first saw Phantom in 1989 & 3 more times with Michael over the following years in Los Angeles. I've met him &he was ever so nice to sign his name on the program. I have waited many years to hear when the movie would be made. Even if the play had been filmed people would see it because of Michael! Please reconsider. |
| Name: William
Cross Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Chapel Hill, NC. USA Time: 1999-01-28 20:13:07 Comments: Dear Sir LLoyd-Webber, I would like to add my humble voice to the multitude entreating you to cast Mr. Crawford in the role of Phantom in your (hopefully) upcoming film version. I was fortunate enough to see Phantom in London with Peter Karre when I was thirteen. It was my first exposure to musical theater and has "left an impression that will last me a lifetime" (as Rose would say in Aspects) The story, sets and choreography were, of course, breathtaking. However, what truly made the show so life-altering and not just another night at the theater like Mousetrap, which I had seen the night before, was the music. Your composition was exsquisite and the melodic presentation of this haunted soul's pain was a thousand times more effective than any monologue or ballet could depict. On reterning home I purchased the Original Cast Recording and was equally enraptured by what I had heard. This new voice was perfect. He had captured the essence of Erik's pain, jubulation, passion and desire in every note. I am now a Junior in college preparing to go on to a career in the law. Still, Erik and Christine's story moves me profoundly every time I experience it. Still, also, the basis for this intense emotional reaction stems directly from the music. When the video of your birthday celebration finally made it over to America I eagerly went out and purchased it and watched it immedeatly, anticipating Mr. Ball's "Love Changes Everything" (Aspects is my favorite show) and Mr. Crawford's Music of the Night. Both of these songs are unspeakably beautiful on their own but also inexorably tied to the performer who made them famous. Imagine my shock when Michael was nowhere to be found, his rightful place had been usurped by Antonio Banderas and MOTN was sung by...Sarah?!? Her voice is always lovely but I feel Erik singing the role seems more apropriate, don't you. Antonio is a fine lower baritone when placed in a part that emphasises his great ability to act, fine good looks and thick accent. Unfortunately, the role of Phantom requires much more and his "normal trick of strutting 'round the stage" just won't do. Mr. Crawford seems the only choice for the film role which many others have already reminded you is of paramount importance for the story, the health of modern movie musicals and your own financial well-being. To be blunt, Phantom is a high tenor role simply beyond Mr. Banderas' ability. He would make a fine Raoul (don't count Michael Ball out, especially if you want a "name.") But our Erik must have the voice and emotive ability and I know of no one who captures these better than Michael Crawford. |
| Name: Tina
Jakes Website: ???? Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: atlanta, Ga. Time: 1999-01-25 22:27:01 Comments: Dear Lord Andrew: I feel that casting anyone other than Michael Crawford in the role of the Phantom would be a big mistake. Michael has not only proved to be the best actor to ever play the role, but he has proved very loyal to you throughout your long association. While Mr. Banderas is a talented actor, having heard him in sing in Evita has convinced me that he does not have the experience nor the vocal training required to since the complicated score of the Phantom. Phantom of the Opera has the potential to become a revered classic joining the likes of Gone With The Wind & Citizen Kane, just to name a few. One of the qualities needed to have an immortal film is to have a star with the rare magic that Michael has exhibited. Michael does not seem to just "play" a part---he becomes that person. I have been around hollywood people for a number of years, and he is one of the few people that possesses real talent. Please give serious consideration to casting Michael and perhaps Sarah Brightman in the movie. You are well known for being innovative and willing to try something new. Please listen to your fans. thanks so much. |
| Name: Ami Viitala Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Berrien Springs. Mi Time: 1999-01-25 14:27:24 Comments: Dear Lord Webber, I have been following the movie news of your musical ever since I heard there might be a movie. And I must say, right now, that casting Antonio Banderas, Travolta, or anyone else besides Crawford would be a disaster. Granted, I am not a movie/box office expert, but I have SOME sense. If your primary goal is to make money (which I am assuming it is) you will make more with Michael in this role, than with any other actor. You made the right choice in the beginning...why can't you make it now?! To millions of phans who HAVE SUPPORTED YOUR WORK FOR YEARS, Michael Crawford is the Phantom. Period. Antonio, though he is a very good actor, cannot have the impact in this role that Michael has had already. If you do not cast Michael as the Phantom, as he belongs, you will lose the support of a great many terribly disappointed people, who would have whole-hearted supported you and yours. Please, PLEASE listen to us. Cast Michael Crawford as the Phantom. Thank you. |
| Name: Paul Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Texas, USA Time: 1999-01-23 16:16:31 Comments: Dear Lord Webber, I have just a thought for you. Think of the movie Titanic...millions were made. What do the movies Titanic and POTO have in common? With Michael Crawford in the title role...millions will be made. With out Michael Crawford...POTO will sink! Just like the ship Titanic sunk years ago. You will sink with it! PLEASE, USE MICHAEL CRAWFORD AS PHANTOM! Thank you. |
| Name: Meg Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Georgia, USA Time: 1999-01-23 11:51:55 Comments: Dear Sir: I was too young and lived too far away from the cities in which the Phantom of the Opera was performed on stage. However, I have since heard many people sing songs from the production. All of the music is beautiful, however, no singer moved me and made me feel in touch with the character being portrayed like Michael Crawford. Therefore, I would very much like to see him perform in the production so that I could have the opportunity to see the entire production with his moving interpretation of the Phantom. thank you so much |
| Name: Bob Schurig Website: Referred by: AOL From: Royal Oak, MI Time: 1999-01-23 03:40:11 Comments: If and when you make a movie of the Phantom, Please use Michael Crawford in the title role. NO ONE else could possibly do as well as him. Thank you. |
| Name: Megan Morgan Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1999-01-22 01:26:37 Comments: Sir Lloyd Webber,I LOVE Phantom of the Opera and Michael Crawford and would LOVE to see him in your Phantom of the Opera movie!!!!!!!!! I'm only 15 and would like to see my FAVORITE actor and singer play the part of the Phantom sometime!!!!! If I can't see him on stage PLEASE make it on screen!!!!!! Your #1 Phan :) --Megan Morgan-- @->->->->->- |
| Name: Bethanie Website: Referred by: Clicked on our Banner Advertisement From: Huntington Beach, CA Time: 1999-01-20 06:09:24 Comments: Dear Lord Lloyd-Webber: I am truly disgusted this evening on reading that you have caved into base, commercial instincts and are going to allow Antonio Bandares to play the Phantom. After viewing your birthday celebration video, it is appanrent to anyone who listens that the man cannot sing the role as required by every person who has played the part onstage, especially Michael Crawford. The role calls for an angelic voice, and I don't care how many singing lessons the man took between last spring and now, there is no way that he'll be properly prepared to sing the role. I hope that you are ready for the ridicule and knives that are about to fly in your general direction. You may get a big opening weekend with this non-singing-trained *name,* but you won't get the masses you would have gotten coming over and over again because of Michael Crawford. With Michael reprising his stage role on film, Phantom would have had a chance to be one of the greatest musical films ever made. Be prepared for a boycott on a mass basis. The word of mouth on this project with Antonio will be truly horrible. The first viewers will leave the cinemas wondering what all the fuss was about in London, New York and Los Angeles, and will tell all their friends and relations that it wasn't worth the $9.00, let alone the $75.00 to see the show live. By casting someone who cannot be remotely confused with the *angel of music,* you and all the others connected with this project have insulted the millions who have bought the soundtrack, along with all of Michael Crawford's other cd's and videos. You are setting yourself up for a long hard road...we are about to witness the fall of Andrew Lloyd-Webber. I, my dear sir, have lost all respect for you and your artistic pretensions, and can assure you that I will never again spend a penny on any product from the Really Useful Group, or Warner Brothers for that matter. Bethanie Weber-Rayburn |
| Name: Linda
Okada Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Hanford, CA Time: 1999-01-20 05:24:50 Comments: Lord Lloyd-Webber, I have always been a fan of musicals for as long as I can remember. The beautiful music that composers can put onto sheets has a wonderful way of bringing one’s emotion from the depth of despair, to the heights of exultation, via their abilities to transfer the ideas onto song sheets. There has been a long history of such composers, and your work will also be considered amongst the best of this decade. I have seen much of your work in the last decade (many, I admit more than a few times). Phantom of the Opera is so beautiful, and has become an important aspect of my life, and I have encouraged (and taken) many people to see POTO. It is with this background, that I add my voice to the many others in trying to convince you that Michael Crawford would be the very best choice is casting for POTO. The choice of the casting of Phantom seems to make a huge difference in the outcome of the play during the 10 times I have seen the show. Without the perfect casting, the show may be good, but not as wonderful as it can be. This show needs to be immortalized for the people in the future who were not been able to see the show in the theater setting. Michael Crawford is the best example of the absolutely perfect Phantom who brings that character to life, in all his dimensions. He makes the audience feel the pain, all the passion, and in turn, how all that will transfer to the final outcome of the play. In seeing 7 different Phantoms, Mr Crawford was the one actor that could make one feel that passion and love through his performances. I feel very lucky to have seen his Phantom on stage, and there are many people who are very sad not to have been as lucky as me. Please re-consider your recent stand, and cast Michael Crawford for Phantom. There would be no better selection, and I know that the outcome of the film would be one that you would be very proud of. |
| Name: l Gajdos Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Florida Time: 1999-01-20 02:24:42 Comments: Dear Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber, There is only one true Phantom of the Opera and that is Michael Crawford; any other is only an imitation. I can't understand why anyone else is even being considered to portray the Phantom in the movie. I have seen Michael Crawford perform several times. I have never been as moved by any other performer. No one compares to him. While I am sure Mr. Bandaras is a talented actor and a seller right now, he still doesn't compare to Michael Crawford. You entrusted the role of the Phantom to Michael Crawford and the play is a hugh success. Why create anything different in the movie? Please reconsider your choice for the role in the film. Truthfully, I am surprised a letter such as this has to be written. From reading past articles on the filming of Phantom of the Opera, there was no doubt that Michael Crawford would play the part. Everything you have produced has been exceptional. Please produce an exceptional film with Michael Crawford as the Phantom. Let's not just have a |
| Name: Joella Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Texas Time: 1999-01-19 20:01:52 Comments: Dear Lord Andrew, For some time I have been writing to you in hope of helping to convince you to do the right thing with your best work. I am not alone in being mystified about why you seem to be bent on destroying something so magically beautiful. What is your problem? We hear that you have had financial difficulties and need to reacquire parts of various companies in order to have control over your projects. If you are acting in good faith in regard to POTO, I humbly beg your forgiveness, but it seems that instead of making good decisions about it, you are sending good money after bad! Since it has been such a wildly successful stage play, it would seem that you would want it to be just as successful as a movie. If it were successful, you would recoup on your financial condition and be able to give us other wonderful musical productions. Don't you remember the wildly improbable things that happened in LA when people heard the Michael Crawford was leaving the play? Can you imagine what might happen if he went back--even if he did it in, say, Toronto? I personally know scores of people who would be on the phone for tickets and borrowing money for airfare!If this happened, it would cause a riot! Now imagine, Michael Crawford, opening in POTO--ACROSS THE COUNTRY, IN MOVIE HOUSES! This is the big hit you have bee hoping and waiting and working for! And I am telling you IT WON'T WORK WITHOUT CRAWFORD! Forget Antonio Banderas! What a joke! Why him? If you planned it without Crawford, why didn't you at least get a SINGER? Placido Comingo comes to mind. Well-known, right age, respected, EXCELLENT VOICE. The fact remains, however--forget all those other people--you have it built-in with Crawford! He made the phantom a part of himself in order to develope such an unforgettable character, and HE is unforgettable in the role. Do yourself a favor--get Crawford for this role. He is the only one who will give back to you the success you need with this project. And you know what? Crawford is the only phantom people expect to see, and the only one true devotees of your work will pay to see. There's the bottom line for you. |
| Name: Marilynn Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Atlanta,GA Time: 1999-01-19 14:37:25 Comments: Dear Sir: If the movie version of Phantom of the Opera is going to reflect your genius and copy the stage version, then you need Michael Crawford to play the role of the Phantom. Anyone else would not give the role credit and not give your play the credit it deserves as one of the best musicals of all time. Michael's voice can not be matched in its excellence and ability to give meaning and feeling to the music. His acting ability can not be matched as he brings his energy and interpretation of the character through every body and facial movement. When the movie is advertised if Michael Crawford's name is not listed as the Phantom then no one will expect the movie to be as expertly done as the stage play and will stay away. If Michael Crawford's name is listed as the Phantom then movie goers will expect and will not be disappointed to see the same glorious story on the screen that was seen on the stage. You were so wise in choosing Michael once and he ended up creating a sensation and will once again bring the people into the theatre in the thousands to once again create a sensation in the screen version. Please don't ruin your wonderful story by casting anyone else in the role of the Phantom. It would disappoint thousands and thousands of fans of your music and plays. Thank you! |
| Name: Stef Website: Stef's Musicals Page Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: PA, USA Time: 1999-01-19 01:53:43 Comments: Dear Lord Lloyd-Webber, Although I greatly admire your work, especially "The Phantom of The Opera," I am horrified and appalled at the prospect of having Antonio Banderas in the title role of the movie version. You made a successful decision when you cast Michael Crawford in the stage production, so why won't you make the same decision again? Crawford has won the Tony for the show, so why not let him have a shot at the Oscar? Please give the role to Michael Crawford, for I believe the movie will be more successful with the Original Phantom in the lead role. Thank you for your time, S.C. |
| Name: Christine
Maynard Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1999-01-18 06:42:59 Comments: Mr. Andrew Lloyd Webber, I believe it to be a wonderful idea bringing Phantom of the Opera to the screen. It will allow a larger audience who might not have the means to see the show to have the chance to experience the masterpiece that is Phantom of the Opera. My only concern with this decision is with your current choice of Antonio Banderas to lead as the Phantom. I personally believe Mr. Banderas to be a fine actor, however I do not believe he has the skill to pull off the role both in acting and most importantly vocally. When people think of Phantom of the Opera two names come to mind, yours and Michael Crawford. As far as millions of fans and myself are concerned Michael Crawford is the Phantom. I feel that casting Michael Crawford as the Phantom is the only way to live up to the expectations of your fans. Without the fans there is no show. Sincerely, Christine |
| Name: Ariel
Childers Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Tennessee Time: 1999-01-18 02:52:38 Comments: I am not unlike anyone else here. I have loved your music before I even knew that it was your music. It would be very easy for me to pass this chance to voice my opinion by. I have a 500 word essay that's due tommorrow. It doesn't look like someone will suddenly rally a force of 100 or more people to campaign for Antonio Banderas. In essence you could say that I'm wasting my precious time to plead with you. CAST MICHAEL CRAWFORD IN THE TITLE ROLE OF THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA!!! I am just another voice in the chorus that begs you to protect the role that you created, and after the confusion has passed and a lead has been settled on, I will either be a voice singing (as Erik would put it) a wedding mass or a requiem. |
| Name: Lorna Camus Website: Referred by: AOL From: Shreveport, La. Time: 1999-01-12 22:05:33 Comments: Thanks for (all) your lovely music. I went to London to see POTO. I went to New Orleans to see POTO. I'm going to Florida this month to see POTO. I bought the original cast CD to listen to Michael Crawford. I want to go see Michael Crawford as the Phantom in the POTO music. That's a lot of "I", but we all add up. We want your music, Michael Crawford as the Phantom, and A.B. would make a fine Raoul. Thanks, C |
| Name: Lorraine Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Southern California, USA Time: 1999-01-09 17:42:14 Comments: My Dear Lord Webber, Daylight surrenders itself to an enchanting evening. Twilight brings with it darkness and the darkness offers a promise of sweet perfection. Draped in mystery and cape he appears to us, sadly adorning a mask to hide his shame and vile appearance. Then his concealed magnificence comes forth through music. Music so alluring that he captures not only a prodigy, but an entire world. At his feet the world feel, weeping, prasing his talents. They spoke of passion and pain and of a voice so glorious that it was unlike anyother. They came from near and far to enter into this bliss that darkness shrouds. And come they shall, to the venues again and again, to experience sweet perfection. At the unmasking we find an appreciative Michael Crawford. Talents finally realized by a spellbound audience. What's this? Sweet perfection gone a miss? My dear Lord Webber, don't let the spell be broken! Continue the illusion of Phantom with the mesmerizing talents of Mr. Crawford. As the audience, we require him. We need him to continue in this global seduction. Speak your name...who do we see? Speak of "Phantom"...who do we see? Are we blind? Deaf? Unaware? WE SPEAK, PLEASE LISTEN. Hollywood will then behold the great Andrew Lloyd Webber and the world will be yours. Thank you for giving us Phantom twice. Stage and Screen applaud you. jambobibi@hotmail.com |
| Name: Mindy Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Hermosa Beach, Ca. Time: 1999-01-09 06:42:40 Comments: Mr. Webber: I'm adding another voice to the many fans out here who would like to see Michael Crawford in the movie version of Phantom. (I would also love to be able to purchase a video of the play). I have attended 3x out here in LA, and loved every minute of it. I think it would be a huge mistake to cast Antonio Banderas in the role that made Michael Crawford famous, and for good reason. He's great in the part! Please listen to what all of us are trying to tell you. Cast the wrong person and you could lose lots of money. Put MC in the role synonymous with his name and you just might have a huge success! Wouldn't that be just nifty. He is the logical choice, for pete's sake. Thanks for taking a moment to read this. mc |
| Name: Erin Kettwig Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Livermore, CA Time: 1999-01-08 19:21:38 Comments: Mr Webber: Phantom of the Opera is the first live musical I ever saw, and it is the show that started my slight obsession with musicals. I've seen it three times (2x in Los Angeles, once in San Francisco), I've played some of the songs in piano recitals, and I listen to the highlight album frequently. Not to mention the fact that I purchase pretty much every ALW highlight CD, and the first thing I look for is to see which tracks are from Phantom. The ONLY person that I will EVER be able to associate with the powerful role of the Phantom is Michael Crawford. He originated that role, he made the musical a success from that role, and he is still and always will be the greatest person to hold that role. Mr. Crawford has expressed his desire to reclaim the role for the film version of Phantom of the Opera, yet Antonio Banderas (who did an admirable job in Evita) is still rumored to be the front-runner? How can you insult the loyal Phantom fans, Michael Crawford fans, and even more, Andrew Lloyd Webber fans, by completely disregarding what the fans and Mr. Crawford himself would like to see? I can guarantee that if you do not listen to the fans, the movie will lose money. And I can guarantee on the other end that if Michael Crawford were to reprise the role of the Phantom, the movie would be a resounding success. Look at the numbers, and please listen to the fans. Thank you very much. |
| Name: Sharon Austin Website: Referred by: AOL From: Wichita, Kansas, USA Time: 1999-01-08 16:11:37 Comments: Dear Mr Webber When you cast Antonio Banderas in "Evita" a superb match was made. Michael Crawford has already proven his ability to play the role of the Phantom, as evidenced by the awards garnered by and longevity of the musical. Those who were fortunate enough to have seen him in this role onstage were far outnumbered by those of us who do NOT live close to any of the theaters in which this production was mounted. All we have been able to see were the short television clips when the show first opened to rave reviews. My daughter and I have collectively worn out at least 2 copies apiece of the cassette recordings, and are close to needing to replace the CD's as well. Please, give us the one true Phantom. |
| Name: Carolyn Eliser Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Hubbard, OH Time: 1999-01-08 15:38:23 Comments: Like many other people, I too would greatly like to see Mr. Crawford in the role of the Phamtom in the upcoming movie. I am anxiously awaiting the movie, seeing the play two times in New York and one time in Toronto and I am just a lowly mother of 4 in a little farm town in Ohio. I would travel far to see Mr. Crawford in the play if that was possible. My husband has never seen the play, as the word opera is frightening to him. I am sure I can get him to see the movie. Please keep in mind the wishes of the masses when casting this role. Thank you |
| Name: Gloria Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: USA Time: 1999-01-08 13:40:22 Comments: Dear Lord Webber, I just heard a rumor that Antonio Banderas has decided to drop out of the role of the Phantom. This is good news to those of us who would love to see Michael Crawford in the movie. He has always been and always will be THE PHANTOM. I also heard that a video was made of the theatrical production of the Phantom of the Opera when Michael was doing Phantom in L.A. years ago and its just been collecting dust. How wondrful to make a double set when the movie does come out starring Michael Crawford. Fans would rush to buy the Hollywood version along with the stage production. Priceless!!!! |
| Name: Melissa
Ambs Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Montreal, Canada Time: 1999-01-07 20:04:05 Comments: My Lord Lloyd Webber, I have been an avid fan of your musicals since I was 9. They opened me up to many new discoveries about important people and issues. Evita is one of my favorite research subjects. Some may call me an unusual child, but even then I wanted to be up there on the stage with those wonderful, haunting melodies flowing from my soul. It is my great love and respect for your work which allows me to frank, I hope. After the enormous success of Michael Crawford's Phantom, how can you allow another actor, talented as he may be, to take the role and expect its success to be as good or greater than that which millions agree is the definitive performance? Crawford's success is, I think, guaranteed. The evidence is there in the will of the public. Always keep in mind that art requires an audience, and we are the audience. My Lord, I love your work and will forever continue to do so, but please be advised that the decision made will affect your future career as well. Your humble admirer, Melissa Ambs (Age 18) from Greenfield Park, Quebec, Canada. |
| Name: Lisa
Schoell Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: LIbertyville, IL Time: 1999-01-07 06:22:30 Comments: Mr. Andrew Lloyd Webber, I hope this was the proper title for you to be called! My name is Lisa and I enjoy your musicals VERY much. The only one I ever had a real problem with is "Jesus Christ Superstar" which was done in ridicule of my Savior and Lord. And although some content of your other musicals have been different, I really enjoy "Phantom of the Opera" The music is very beautiful, although some lyrics are questionable. But I know you did not write the lyrics, only the music. Thank you. The reason I am writing this is that I hope you will consider casting Michael Crawford as the Phantom on the movie that is being talked about of "Phantom of the Opera". He is only natural and if it is money you are worried about and you think Banderas would help that, cast Antonio Banderas as Raoul. It would be perfect for him, while still keeping the true phantom in his rightful place. Michael is a wonderful role model for people that are many ages and that is what we need. I have talked to many of my friends on how I want Michael to be cast as the Phantom. Many surprised me by saying that Crawford would be the only true Phantom and should be cast in the part. I am 19 years old and my friends are about the same age. We are the younger generation who will pay to see a movie 3-4 times if it is good enough. In my opinion, and obviously to others, the only way to make this movie a hit is to cast Michael Crawford as the Phantom. I only have one more request. Could you please talk to the people who are making the movie and ask them to keep useless profanity out of it? Believe it or not movies without all that junk in it would sell alot also. Or please just don't change anything about the play, keep it the same which would be better than adding stuff. I hope you take these opinions seriously, because they are written very seriously by one who cares. Thank you for your time. Sincerely, Lisa Schoell |
| Name: CathyH. Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: USA Time: 1999-01-06 14:31:43 Comments: Dear Sir, I can only state once again what so many before me have stated..that Michael Crawford be cast as the Phantom in the movie role. I think you can see the outpouring of love and devotion millions of us have for Michael. This admiration comes from his professionalism and his perfectionism as an artist. Sir,you chose Michael to sing the beautiful music you wrote..Would you have your work slaughtered? We who love the musical want it put to the screen with the same beauty and quality as it had on the stage. Why settle for anything less? Michael Crawford is the Phantom...and deserves the role as he was promised years ago. I feel such outrage at the thought of anyone but Michael in the role that I, along with millions of others, will not see the most beautiful musical ever written massacred by an only average entertainer when the best of the best is waitng in the wings. The project of course will lose money, sadly. Please Sir, cast Michael Crawford as the Phantom..it is the right thing to do..the smart thing to do! |
| Name: Pat
Turner Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, Canada Time: 1999-01-06 13:55:14 Comments: I saw Michael Crawford and Sarah Brightman on the Tony awards in 1988. I was so entranced by Michael Crawford that I went out and bought the original cast recording on vinyl, then on cassette, then another cassette for the car and finally on CD. I have read many times that when the movie is made Michael Crawford would star in it and I have been waiting patiently. When Evita was made and there was a new song, I hoped that when Phantom was made into a movie that there would be a new song for the Phantom and a good excuse to go out and buy the movie sound track. I saw the 50th birthday celebration this past Saturday with Antonio Banderas. And I understand that he is the front runner to play the Phantom in the movie. This would be a major disappointment to me and to many others. The only good thing about that would be all the money I'd save from not seeing the movie, not buying two or three copies of the soundtrack and then not buying the video. This is not how I want to save my money. To spend it on the opportunity to see and hear Michael Crawford is why I've been saving money. Thank you for reading my message. Pat Turner |
| Name: Liotale Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: USA Time: 1999-01-06 02:02:51 Comments: Dear Mr. Lloyd Webber, I understand that you're very busy. But I would like to take a few moments of your time to say why Michael Crawford should be Phantom in the movie. I have only heard recordings of Phantom, I haven't had time or money to see it live, although I want to. I have heard Davis Gaines as Phantom, and Michael Crawford. Along with a few other people. I recieved The Royal Albert Hall Celebration for Christmas, and was able to hear Antonio Banderas. I first heard the original London Cast staring Michael Crawford and Sarah Brightman when I was 10 or 11. I have deeply fallen in love with this musical, and would hate to see it destroyed. Michael Crawford has the perfect voice, and he was the first to have the role. He deserves the part. Antonio Banderas should not have the part. I like his voice, it's very nice. But his accent is too thick. If he cleaned up his accent a little, then I wouldn't mind. Anyway, I say that Michael Crawford should have the role of Phantom. Liotale |
| Name: Tammy
Hagler Website: Tammy's Homepage Referred by: From a Friend From: Tamarac, Florida Time: 1999-01-06 00:14:38 Comments: Dear Sir, I will not take up alot of your time because what I have to say is short and to the point. Although I have seen a variety of "Phantoms" in the past few years, and love them all dearly, you are making a grave mistake by not casting Michael Crawford as "The Phantom". I first fell in love with the original recording my senior year in high school. Ten years have passed, and I can't think of a better CD to listen to. And since I know my favorite "Phantom" has no chance of being cast, my vote goes for the originator of the role, the man that I have listened to for years, the person who has performed in front of sell-out crowds each night as "The Phantom" and in his current concerts----of course, Michael Crawford. |
| Name: Terry Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: USA Time: 1999-01-05 14:49:46 Comments: I am proud to have been a small part of the public that made the musical show "The Phantom of The Opera" a smash success. I am convinced, though, that a movie version with any one in the star role except MIchael Crawford will be a hollow, unworthy and unacceptable waste of time. My large, extended family and I have all vowed not to attend or support in any way the movie without the true Phantom in it. Michael has been sullied as being too old for this endeavor.....ridiculous, Phantom's face is covered and made up for the entire show. He has the charisma, mystique and the vocal power and prowess to render a better performance than any one else could "train" to do. And, he is the proven star of this show that would make the role live, breathe and come to life. PLease do not waste the Phans' time or resources with any other than the true Phantom. Thank You, Terry 8-{) |
| Name: Kathryn Vermeer Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Las Vegas NV Time: 1999-01-05 06:06:37 Comments: Dear Lord Webber, Fate chose you, to bring to the world, the most captivating musical story of the century. You have proven to the world that your musical genius has no equal. You found your Stradivarius in Michael Crawford. Nothing could stop you now. Nothing did. Leroux's story had finally been told. The legend of "Phantom of the Opera" was born, and lived in the minds and hearts of the theatre audience. But theatre cannot be remembered forever. It cannot be passed down from generation to generation. Modern technology changed that. Now you have the means. It's your call. So I ask you, Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber,in your mortality, will you leave your legend behind with your Stradivarius, or a fiddle? When we are all gone, how do you want the world to remember your masterpiece? So few of us in life, have the opportunity to leave something of such beauty and grace behind. You are blessed with that opportunity. You know in your heart how this must be done. Leave something for posterity that you can be proud of, Lord Webber. Give history "The Phantom of the Opera", by Andrew Lloyd Webber, starring Michael Crawford. Fullfill your destiny. Yours truly, Kathryn Vermeer |
| Name: Victor R.
Faughnan Website: Referred by: AOL From: San Diego, Ca., Time: 1999-01-05 02:00:56 Comments: I'll tell you what I'll drop my Title if we can drop yours, that way perhaps we could converse on more equal terms. You need not refer to me as Mr. and I won't call you Lord, actually being a Christian there is only one bearer of that Title that I would freely address in that manner. Now that we have that out of the way, Sir , lets talk. I have already posted 5 letters to you and hope you will soon be reading them as well as all the others. Frankly, I can not believe that you have done a complete 360 since the photo of you and Michael Crawford shown embracing, hugging and being very jubilant was taken. Has something transpired between you two gentlemen in the time lapsed since then? Is it possible that some petty difference is interfering with your ability to see and act clearly, blinding all of you from the course you and Warner Bros. must undertake? I would like to politely suggest that both you and Michael shake and make up with each other for the good of the much more important matter at hand. The film version of your most powerful Theatrical endeavor. The Warner Bros. movie "The Phantom of the Opera" will, when you two Musical Theatre Greats again combine your God Given talents into that direction will take the World by storm. Once the word gets out that you and Warner Bros. have finally got your act together and will sign Michael Crawford, Antonio Banderas and Sarah Brightman for the leads in the movie, the Public response will reverberate throughout the World. You Sir, will likely be transformed into one of the most loved, most popular, I won't go so far as to say, most revered, individuals in World Theatre. I do not want to get bogged down talking about financial benifits that your teaming up with Micahel Crawford again will mean. You know very well his popularity, his capabilities, the fantastic Tenor range of his singing voice, you know "Blooody-Good", you chose him originally for the role. You Sir, are like Steven Spielberg, in the sense that both you gentlemen have the uncanny ability to pick the best available talent in all your endeavors. The rest is History. The Motion Picture "The Phantom of the Opera" will catapult you, Michael Crawford, the cast and Warner Bros. Studio into the new Millenium and the Event will become a "World Happening". Well , I believe I have had my say, now that I have, I believe I will say "God Speed, Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber, hope to see you at the movies with your name up on the Theatre Marquees, right their with Michael Crawford, Antonio Banderas, Sarah Brightman. In large letters, "Warner Bros and Andrew Lloyd Webber Proudly Present "The Phantom of the Opera" with the Original Phantom and Christine. Just the thought Sir, sends chills through my body. God Be With You and God Save Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth. Respectfully Yours, Victor R. Faughnan ( I also am of English descent, on my mother's side (Irish on my father's side) vicsantee@aol.com |
| Name: Dori Bruns Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Fallbrook, CA Time: 1999-01-04 04:34:15 Comments: Lord Lloyd Webber: Along with many thousands of other fans of your wonderful musical, "The Phantom of the Opera", I have been waiting for years for the film version. Although I missed seeing it when it played L.A. with Michael Crawford, I bought the OLC recording, and was eventually able to see it with Davis Gaines. To tell the truth I couldn't imagine what all of the raves were about until I saw the PBS special, "Michael Crawford In Concert". Without the make-up, the mask or the cape, he became the Phantom. His voice was incredible, so full of longing, so seductive, with a range and tonal quality that conveys so much pain and passion. In fact, he sounds better now than he did ten years ago. I could not believe it when I heard that you were thinking of making the film with either John Travolta or Antonio Banderas. Surely, you are aware that these actors, although good enough for what they do, are not singers. You wrote "The Phantom of the Opera" and "The Music of the Night" for a tenor with an incredible range. You had a vision of what the Phantom could be. You cast Michael Crawford and hid his face so that he had to create the character with only his voice and his body movements. And he did it so well that it became a hugely successful musical, winning all sorts of awards. Can you honestly see Antonio Banderas doing that? I can't, not at all. And if you think that his fans are going to sit through two hours of libretto to see their boy for only a half an hour with his pretty face hidden behind grotesque make-up and a mask, your optimism is totally unrealistic. They expect their hero to act heroic and romantic and to get the girl in the end. Even with singing and English lessons, he will not be the "Angel of Music" that your wonderful music deserves. If you want the film to be a financial and artistic success, and I'm sure that you do, please stick to your original vision and cast Michael Crawford as the Phantom. |
| Name: Alexis Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Califonia, USA Time: 1999-01-04 00:16:02 Comments: My Dear Lord Webber--For years I have been a great fan of your music. I never made it a point to go see any of the productions that they entertained. I was happy just hearing your wonderful, enchanting music. The first was "Jesus Christ Superstar"...I was hooked. I love everything you've ever done. After listening to the double CD of "Phantom of the Opera", about 300 times, I broke down and went and saw the "masterpiece" that everyone was raving about. It was not what I had fallen in love with, not what I had heard on the CD. Although it was good, I didn't experience what those who had seen Michael Crawford had. I'm sure I'm not the only fan of yours that this has happened to. Since I first heard the Phantom CD with Michael Crawford, I feel hopelessly in love with his voice. His voice is so distinguishable, so revealing, so full of pain that you know when the Phantom speaks or sings, you even feel his pain along with him. I have now seen Phantom 3 times, none of the Phantoms I saw have those qualities that Michael released on an unexpecitng world. I now own all of his CD's and I am buying all of his old movies and even "Some Mothers Do 'Ave 'Em". I don't want to miss anything ever again. If you use anyone other than Crawford as the Phantom, I will still miss out as will the rest of the world that did not see him in the role. Please, help! I'm now waiting for "Whislte Down the Wind"...I won't miss this one, but please cast Michael Crawford as YOUR PHANTOM. Thank you so awfully. |
| Name: Marilynn
Gardo Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Atlanta, GA Time: 1999-01-03 18:57:52 Comments: Dear Sir: You made a wise decision years ago in casting Michael Crawford as the Phantom in your wonderful production. Since then, Michael Crawford has immortalized the phantom through his sensitive portrayal of the character and through the expressive performance of the music. Michael Crawford's name cannot be mentioned without reference to the Phantom of the Opera. Therefore, his name will be the name that will draw audiences around the world to the movie. His fans, which increase daily, will be buying up tickets and promotional items by the thousands. Please, once again, cast Michael Crawford, our beloved Phantom, in the title role. It will once again be a wise casting role. Thank you so much. |
| Name: Janette
Cataldo Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Time: 1999-01-03 18:25:53 Comments: Dear Lord Andrew, By this time I'm sure it doesn't come as any news to you that a great many people are very upset at the thought of someone other than Michael Crawford starring in the movie of The Phantom of the Opera. I don't believe for one moment, that your thought of using Antonio Bandares (or anyone else) in this part, has anything to do with the wonderful job that you think he will do. Be honest Lord Andrew, you know that there is no way on earth that Antonio is going to give a performance that comes anywhere near the one that Michael Crawford has given and will give again if he has the chance! You don't believe that the theater going public can fill the movie houses. First let me say that you don't seem to realize(although you should)how many of us there are, and we won't being going to see this movie just once! I don't have to tell you, of all people, that the Original Cast Recording has sold over 12,000,000 copies. I figure there is probably only one copy per family and a family is usually more than one person! Now if most of those people go multiple times, well you get the idea! I'm sure that you know that people will come out of curiosity because of all the publicity that the movie will get while it is in production. Now if Michael isn't in the movie you're going to lose a large percent of the theater goers, and the ones that do go aren't likely to make a second trip. You will get Antonio's fans, that's true, but since this really isn't their type of movie they won't come a scond time! The people who came out of curiosity, just to see what all the fuss has been made about, will only come a second time if something very special happens while they are there. I don't believe that anyone but Michael will be able to make that happen! Lord Andrew, you wrote the music, and beautiful music it is, but MICHAEL CRAWFORD IS THE MAN!! Think for a moment what it would be like if you and Warner Bros. made the announcement that a decision had been made to not settle for anything but the best, and Michael Crawford would recreate his award winning role in the movie version of The Phantom of the Opera. The media would go crazy! The people would come and once again Michael would weave his spell. Make the right decision, you have everything to gain and nothing to lose. Janette Cataldo |
| Name: Maggie Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Owensboro, KY Time: 1999-01-03 17:16:37 Comments: Dear Sir: By now, you’ve heard all the usual arguments in favor of casting Michael Crawford in the movie version of Phantom. I won’t repeat them, but there is one issue I feel you don’t yet understand…the reason that so many people have embraced this show with such passion and have taken such a proprietary attitude toward it. Perhaps without realizing it, you struck a universal chord with this show. Who has not been ridiculed at some point in one’s life? Who has never feared rejection? All people understand the phantom’s pain because we all have experienced it to some degree. When you chose Michael Crawford to bring your creation to life, it was the serendipitous melding of the perfect actor with the perfect role. His interpretation took “Phantom of the Opera” beyond success into the realm of phenomenon. Surely you are aware of the enormous groundswell of popular support for Michael to recreate his phantom on the screen, and the resounding lack of support for anyone else. With Michael’s voice indelibly imprinted in millions of minds as THE voice of the phantom, and with the mystique of his performance preceding him, this film cannot fail. Any other actor is an unknown quantity, and a risky one at that. If you must use Antonio Banderas in this film, then let him play Raoul. Please do not tinker with perfection when it comes to the title role. I have no way of knowing who has final control over casting—you, Warner Bros., or the bankers who will finance the film. But please use all the clout you have to preserve your masterpiece in the form that millions of its (and your) loyal fans expect and demand it must be. Insist that Michael Crawford be cast as the phantom. We are dead serious when we say it must be Michael or no one. Multimillions of dollars are riding on this. Please don’t take the imperious attitude that this is your show and you’ll do whatever you want. We, the fans, hold the key to the success of this film in our wallets. And they will stay firmly closed if you do not give us the film we want. Thank you. |
| Name: Marie Pringle Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Arizona Time: 1999-01-03 17:06:35 Comments: Sir Andrew: Well, I finally decided to add my two cents worth to this entire issue. I have seen Phantom of the Opera 3 times on Broadway, but have never had the honor and priviledge to see Michael Crawford in this role. I own both the Hightlights CD and the Double Set Collection Soundracks. Every time I listen to these soundtracks, I know for sure that Michael Crawford is, without a doubt, the one and only Phantom of the Opera. Whenever a discussion about the movie comes up, everyone will agree with me. I hope you saw for yourself when Michael appeared on the Howie Mandel show, there could be no other choice for this role. Michael Crawford has stated that he would love to do this movie. Now, it's up to you to do the right thing. Thank you for your time and attention. I hope you will make the best choice and cast Michael in this role. All the best, Marie Pringle |
| Name: Roseann
Solnica Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Yonkers, NY Time: 1999-01-03 17:03:21 Comments: Dear Lord Lloyd Webber, In the past your shows have always meant to me quality entertainment, excellent music, interesting plots and the best performances. Up until now you have always had a knack for casting the right person in the right role to do the most exemplary job of bringing the character to life. The undoubted best of your productions is "The Phantom of the Opera" and here, once again, you exhibited that uncanny judgement in casting an actor, Michael Crawford, who appeared an unlikely choice at first glance, but who empathised so completely with the character that he gave a performance that will go down in theater history as a classic. His voice was exquisite and his ability to make an audience fall in love with the "villain" was nothing short of miraculous. He is and always will be the quintessential Phantom. Although others have played the role well, in some cases excellently, since then, none of them can equal his unique achievement. Now we hear rumors that you are turning away from your own perfect choice and towards another actor who, while very talented in his own right, is completely wrong for the role of the Phantom. If it ain't broke why fix it? Why tamper with success? You aleady have the perfect Phantom, why spend time and money trying to make someone else into what you already have? Michael's singing skills and his devotion to the character of Erik were amply demonstrated during his American concert tour this summer and his tremendous success when he took that tour to Australia in the fall proves that his popularity is international. With a little judicious marketing Michael's voice alone could bring them into the theaters in droves. His is the performance that should be preserved for generations to come. His is the excellence that you should recognize and support. I urge you to reconsider any other plans you might have and put all your considerable influence behind the casting of Michael Crawford in the Phantom movie. Thank you. |
| Name: Mr. Victor R.
Faughnan Website: Referred by: AOL From: San Diego, Ca. Time: 1999-01-03 16:35:19 Comments: Sir, this is the 5th and final attempt on my part to try and enlighten you to the concerns of all Michael Crawford fans as well as yours. Perhaps a good way to do this might be for you to listen closely to the lyrics of many of your beautiful songs. Just 'Purge Your (pesent) Thoughts, all 'I (we) Ask Of You', 'Let Your Soul Take Us All Where We Long To Be (in a movie theatre mesmerized watching Michael Crawford as Erik in "The Phantom of the Opera"), 'Let The Dream Begin', Sir, 'Open Up Your Mind', ' You (are,and have) A Big Star', It May Be The Movie (that may get smaller), 'In All Your Fantasies, 'Darkness Stirs Await(ing) (your) Imagination. My God, Sir, all the answers you need to come to the only right, just and earth shattering decision are within the lyrics of all your wonderful pieces of music. Listen very closely to those songs and you will be guided, perhaps with devine guideance, coming from within your heavenly music. Sir, I rest my case, the fate of the Musical Theatre that you claim to want to preserve is, as well it should be, in your hands. God help you, to make the only right decision. God Be With You. Respectfully Yours, Mr. Victor R. Faughnan e-mail me at vicsantee@aol.com |
| Name: Debra Baird Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1999-01-03 06:31:48 Comments: Dear Andrew Lloyd Webber, I have seen a great deal of your work. You are extremely talented! When I saw Phantom Of The Opera it blew me away! The story was beautiful and the songs took my breath away! I couldn't believe someone could write a song like Music Of The Night. The writing was super! I felt after I had seen the musical that I had experienced such emotion. I thought about how well done it was, but there was something more this time. I have seen a lot of your work, but have never felt drawn to a character like this one. I returned to see it again. I realized I had fallen for Erik because of the way the actor had played him. His voice melted my soul and even though he was not always good in all his deeds, I cried uncontrolably for him at the end. I felt so emotional and had to hear the songs over and over again. You had picked the perfect actor. He wasn't playing a role. He was the Phantom! His depth will never be repeated because he originated the role. It came from his soul. I have talked to several people who have seen it since with other people. It didn't compare because it was just a role to them. Please don't cast Antonio Banderas in this film. Michael Crawford is the only one that can do it justice. Antonio B cannot sing the songs the way they should be sung. It will break my heart to see this half done when it is such a classic performance. Please don't ruin what Michael created. I can't eeven imagine this. Theater people are not the average movie goers. we know what acting is. If you make this movie with Michael, I will see it at least once a week.Think about this, no giggly young girl is going to even understand this movie. They are not your audience! This has too much depth for the-Oh isn't he cute crowd. Besides the character wears a mask. He is supposed to be older.He is supposed to have gone through emotional torture. Please make this to preserve your art, not for the money. If I see commercials for it with another actor, I won't see it and I'll talk it down to everyone I know. It will not let my spirit soar. It will make it cry. Sincerely, Debra |
| Name: Mr. Victor R.
Faughnan Website: Referred by: AOL From: Springfield, Massachusetts, now San Diego, Ca. Time: 1999-01-03 05:14:02 Comments: Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber, Sir, I have written I believe 3 previous letters to you, for your consideration. I sincerely hope you will take the opportunity you will soon be given to read them and those of other concerned fans of both yours and Mr. Michael Crawford. These letters are written to assure you at least will have had the opportunity to fully grasp the feelings of a vast number of followers of your music, musical theatre productions and Michael Crawfords magnificent voice. That there will be no doubt as to who a vast majority of the Theatre going public insists be signed for the Role of Erik in the upcoming motion picture "The Phantom of the Opera". It is very curious that nearly 10 years will have come and gone and still no "Phantom" movie has been released. Does Warner Bros. still enjoy the rights to do the movie? Are the rights about to revert back to you? If so, what will that mean, no movie? Will that then clear the way for the making of a Video of the "Phantom" Play by the original cast? Or does it mean you will start looking for another interested Studio? Sir, you have a World of disappointed fans who adore your music, who cry out to be heard. The following that you and your friend ( I certainly hope you are still friends) Michael Crawford enjoy is staggering, almost mind-boggeling. All of these people make up your ticket buying base, for your Musical Theatre Productions and Motion Picture endeavors. They don't just see your Plays once they return time and time again. They don't just buy one CD or DVD, they buy many to give to friends and relatives. They will by ticket after ticket to see Michael Crawford in "The Phantom of the Opera" movie, they will be repeat returns to the theatres both in America and around the World. It is the repeat ticket buyers that account for Box-Office Blockbusters, like Titanic. That is exactly what your movie will be with Michael Crawford in the Lead, without him, there is no ocean deep enough for all that wasted celluloid. They will be repeat purchasers of the Videos of the Movie and the Sound Track CD's and DVD's. They will be buying all of the "Phantom Dolls" and other merchandise sure to be generated by the movie. All the cash registers around the World will be playing Andrew Lloyd Webber music buy the bell sounds of the drawers opening and shutting. Sir, what I am trying to say is, do the thing that was in your heart so long ago, insist on Michael Crawford as the lead in your movie venture with Warner Bros. The Michael Crawford fans aren't alien to the film having Antonio Banderas in it, just that he isn't right for the lead. Indeed, cast Antonio Banderas in the movie, he would certainly be an additional box office draw. He would be the perfect Raoul, young debonair, handsome and a fine actor, his face shouldn't be hidden by a mask. After all the role was written for him, he will win the lady in the end also, right. During the passing of these many years Michael Crawford, like a fine wine has aged and mellowed into a fine Champagne, his appearance and voice have only improved not diminished. Choose Michael Crawford for the role of "The Phantom of the Opera" once more, and you will have made lighning strike twice in the same place. A feat not to many in the industry have been capable of for some time. Of course in the end the decision rests with you, we sincerely hope, you listen to the soul, the heart-beat, and the out-cry, of the World in this matter. God Bless You. Respectfully, Mr. Victor R. Faughnan .. vicsantee@aol.com |
| Name: Catherine Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Philippines Time: 1999-01-03 02:48:32 Comments: Dear Lord Andrew, Many have already been said, but I was wondering if you realize that Michael Crawford introduced your music to many people? I, myself, am one of these people. He opened a whole new horizon of music, specifically YOUR music, the moment I heard him sing. From then on, I became not only his fan but also yours. I started buying CDs with your music in it and collected piano pieces or anthology about you. OK, so maybe you’re wondering what’s the point? Well, the point is: Michael performs your work to perfection. He makes everyone who listens to your music long to hear more about YOU. Have you seen how Phantom fans’ interest swing from Phantom of the Opera to your other musicals? My classmates and I are good examples. But if for some reason you insist on casting Antonio Banderas in the film, then maybe you can cast him as Raoul, because simply stated: MICHAEL CRAWFORD + Antonio Banderas = BLOCKBUSTER HIT WORLDWIDE; MICHAEL CRAWFORD alone = still BLOCKBUSTER HIT WORLDWIDE; but Antonio Banderas alone = … (I don’t want to sound impolite). We don’t have anything against Antonio Banderas, but he’s just not the right person to immortalize your magnificent work on film. Please don’t let anybody else ruin your masterpiece. I don’t want to witness the downfall of my most favorite broadway composer. Please listen to what many people have been telling you. There’s wisdom behind their reasoning. |
| Name: Louise
Duke Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: England Time: 1999-01-03 02:13:20 Comments: Dear Andrew, You made a wonderful choice in Picking Mike as your phantom. He has honed the part to perfection, every detail, every movement has been crafted to reflect erik. It would be crazy not to let mike do movie, especially now as he is the correct age to play Erik. Mike is the phantom, if we can all see that, then why can't you? with respect, louise |
| Name: Pamela Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Virginia Time: 1999-01-03 01:24:11 Comments: Dear Lord Andrew: Make the Phantom movie with Michael Crawford...........and we will come.......... |
| Name: Claire Guthrie Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Bel Air, MD Time: 1999-01-02 21:20:44 Comments: Dear Lord Lloyd-Webber, I want to express my wish to have Michael Crawford star in the movie version of Phantom of the Opera. He is an outstanding talent and no one could take his place as the Phantom. I have enjoyed everything he's done and look forward to seeing him on the screen in the movie. |
| Name: Mary McCuin Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Burlington, Connecticut, USA Time: 1999-01-02 21:12:47 Comments: Dear Lord Andrew LLoyd Webber: First of all, please accept my congratulations on your receipt of your most recent title from Her Majesty the Queen of England. This letter is a heartfelt request that you please consider Michael Crawford for the role of the POTO movie, which I understand you are planning to produce. I have seen your play on several occasions, (I love it) and have taken different friends with me; and can honestly say that the role of Erik cannot be portrayed by anyone but The Phantom Himself, Michael Crawford. I sincerely believe in my heart that you will lose money, if you decide to have anyone else play this part. Antonio Banderas is a wonderful actor, but he is no Michael Crawford. Perhaps, Raol??? Please consider Mr. Crawford for the role of Erik for the movie or perhaps as a video as you did for Cats. I own and enjoy that video and would be thrilled to own POTO eventually, but only if Michael Crawford plays the part. Thank you for you attention. Sincerely, Mary McCuin |
| Name: Geri Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: California Time: 1999-01-02 03:18:15 Comments: Lord Webber--I am very impressed with all your works. I became familar with you at the release of "Jesus Christ Superstar". Although I don't agree with the interpretation of Jesus, it's your music that I love. I have to admit that you just keep getting better. Your "baby" is proof of that. I want you to know that when POTO came to LA, I saw every performer who appeared as the Phantom. I saw Michael Crawford and everyone who followed. Even the subs. I have seen POTO so many times that it is embedded in my heart. With all the times I've seen it the only one who made me FEEL IT and bring my husband and myself to tears was Michael Crawford. Now the only tears I shed for POTO are those of feeling the loss of the passing of the master. Phantom will DIE without Michael Crawford. When someone mentions "Phantom" they think Michael Crawford just as when someone mentions "The King and I" they think Yul Brenner. I believe that you think Phantom can make it without Michael Crawford because "My Fair Lady" did without Julie Andrews, but they still had Rex Harrison. Hello Dolly failed even with the great Barbra Streisand (the fans wanted the original). How do you think Phantom will make it with a so so like Antonio Banderas? Please think this through very carefully, POTO is my favorite of all your works. Please, listen to your fans. Thank you. Geri |
| Name: Regina Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Time: 1999-01-01 05:00:48 Comments: Lord Andrew, For several years I have been of the belief that there are 2 versions of your "Phantom Of the Opera." The first, the original with Michael Crawford as Erik, who reached within his soul and merged with the hauntingly lovely music you created. His performance then and now of that music touches the heart and soul of everyone who listens. It is almost that the two become one. It is Michael's voice we here as Phantom, even when another is portraying this man on stage. The second version is one that any other actor after him performs. Many have an excellent voice, some are able to convey in "parts" the pain, anguish, hope and dispair, love and hatred - and still invoking sympathy and caring from the audience. But no one, has made the impact on an audience that Michael Crawford has. No one has ignited the passion of fans, no one performs YOUR music to the fullest, no one becomes Erik with each performance as he did in the play and now when he sings in concert. I just read that you believe that Phantom was one of only two of your plays where your original concept was presented nearly perfectly onstage. Your selection of Michael Crawford was nothing short of inspired. You saw the gifted actor--at the time a song and dance man--within the comedian. Your judgement was verified--your brilliant play has been a source of delight to millions. The concept of a romantic hero with a disfigured face has been and continues to be your hold on the theatre going public. All this creation was the result of the your selction of this brilliant actor, who brought his heart, soul and pain to the creation of Erik. Why, at the time when all of this can be immortalized on film, do you choose to explore other choices for the lead role. Michael Crawford is ready, willing and able to perform this role. His legion of faithful fans have been expecting this performance. Many of us have expressed our dissatifaction at your proposed replacements over the past several years. And now, many of us are expressing our concern with protests and published letters and articles. Please, do not ignore us. I intend to remain loyal to the original concept of Phantom. I support Michael Crawford in the role. He will, again, fulfill your artistic dreams and will demonstrate to the movie going public what we theatre lovers have known for some time. Your music and Michael Crawford's voice and performance will immortalize this movie. It can only be brilliant with this combination carried forward to the screen. |
| Name: Victor Website: Referred by: AOL From: San Diego, California Time: 1999-01-01 02:39:11 Comments: PART 2.. Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber, I for one, speaking for myself, would like to take this opportunity to thank both Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth and all Her Subjects, the British People for sharing one of their prize Icons, an Ambassador to the "Colonies", with us. Mr. Michael Crawford has and is still doing an outstanding job of representing Great Britain and the Monarchy to a grateful American Public. We graciously thank Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth and the British People for sharing him and his incredible God Given talent with a multitude of very appreciative People of the United States. In closing Sir, I hope you can find in your heart the only right option, the only correct choice, the right thing to do, the right thing for you, the right thing for the movie going public, the right thing for your fellow British Citizens and as I suspect the one thing that may please Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth. In short, inform Warner Bros. that you have decided to accept no-substitute, no synthetic version of Erik, cast Michael Crawford, the only true Phantom of the Opera. Do this and the World will applaud you. You may now believe you are among the top World's leading musical Play-Wright's and Musical Composer's. You were right originally when you chose Michael Crawford as the Lead in your Play. Follow your own good intuition again and you will guarantee that the name of Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber will always be Center-Stage in Musical Stage and Film History. At the risk of sounding repetitive, could you also use that good judgement of yours and use Michael Crawford in the Video original cast version of the Play, as well as in the Phantom Sequel you are considering and, at the risk of sounding somewhat pushy, cast Michael in the guranteed "Phantom of the Opera, The Return of Erik" sequel that will be almost certainly expected of you and Warner Bros.. God Bless You! May God grant you many more years of creating Heavenly Music for a waiting and appreciative World. Respectfully Yours, Victor R. Faughnan, an appreciative fan of your music and Michael Crawford's wonderful voice and his inner being. God Save the Queen.. vicsantee@aol.com |
| Name: Victor Website: Referred by: AOL From: Sab Diego, California Time: 1998-12-31 23:40:54 Comments: PART 1...Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber, Sir, my knowledge of the Knighting requirements and rules in Great Britain is limited. I assume you first received the Title of "Sir" based on your accomplishments in Music and Stage up to that time. Those achievements brought honor and recognition to both your self and the British Empire. The Head of that Empire of course, being, Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth. Her Majesty, no doubt was well taken by your continual successes in your ongoing career. Her Majesty, I'm sure attended one or more performances of your outstanding production of "The Phantom of the Opera". Apparently, some time after your huge success with "The Phantom of the Opera" you were again elevated by Her Majesty to your present Title of Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber. No doubt She, that is, Her Majesty, was well taken by, at least in part, by your "jolly-good" play, "Phantom of the Opera". Perhaps even overwhelmed by the performance of the Plays Leading Man, Michael Crawford. Perhaps Her Majesty had been moved to tears, we may never know. But surely the Play inspired her to consider the Elevation of your Title, and Sir, rightly so. After all this Royal recognition being bestowed upon you, have you considered Her Majesty's wishes and desires where the choice for the Movie is concerned? Maybe, just maybe She too may wish to enjoy Michael Crawford in the Movie production. After all his performance likely overwhelmed her as it did the rest of World. Her Majesty, may feel about an Actor other than Michael Crawford cast in the role as a travesty. The same way you felt on the casting of Audrey Hepburn over Julie Andrews. After casting Michael in the movie, after the movies World success, just maybe you will be again setting in the audience of an Awards Show, The Academy Awards, to hear Michael again put his heart out to you in graditude for choosing him again for the part he adored doing. The other time you might recall was when he was on stage at the podium receiving his Tony Award for his outstanding portrayal of Erik "The Phantom of the Opera". He made the strong effort to assure you knew what he felt in his heart for the confidence you showed in choosing him for the part. All the rest is Stage and Musical History. After the success of the movie, would it be very long before Her Majesty summons Mr. Michael Crawford to the Palace and has him walk out, Sir Michael Crawford. If this were to happen it would be due to no small part of yours, and we would all thank you. PART 2 will follow |
| Name: Joella Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Texas Time: 1998-12-31 16:36:18 Comments: Dear Lord Andrew. It seems to me that in the matter under discussion, there are two main considerations. Both these considerations have an important bearing on your future, and the choices are simple. The first item is how to give the world and future generations of music lovers the best possible permanent record of your greatest work. A simple choice: Use the ones who made it great. Use Michael Crawford. The second item is how best to maximize profits from this project. The choices involved in this item are a bit more complex, but the answer is still the same. Use Michael Crawford. Perhaps you are being constrained by Warner Brothers to cast a "Hollywood hunk" in your beautiful musical. Maybe you are seduced by the prospects of a "big name" resulting in big bucks from your movie. You should know--you, who hand picked Michael Crawford as your phantom--that this is a very sensitive and delicate choice. There is no one who can fill this role more adequately, more perfectly, than your original phantom. For you, he became the phantom--for all of us, he IS the phantom and will always BE the phantom. And here is your bottom line: We don't want anyone else and we will not pay to see anyone else. Furthermore, we will not buy any of the souvenir collectibles and gimmicks, or the video--anything--without our own phantom in the title role. Coming full circle to maximizing profits: Use Michael Crawford--for a blockbuster hit that will provide income for you and yours from now on. No "Hollywood hunk" for your millions of Phantom of the Opera fans--give us the one who made your music so spectacular. Give us Michael Crawford as the phantom. We will give you your profits. |
| Name: Alan Komet Website: Referred by: Yahoo! From: Israel Time: 1998-12-31 06:44:24 Comments: Dear Mr. Lloyd Webber, Having been a long time fan of your work, from Joseph through Cats and up to Sunset Blvd., I was distraught to hear that Antonio Banderas was to be playing the Phantom in the movie version of Phantom. The actor who made your fans believe that he was the Phantom is and was Michael Crawford. It was his mixture of singing and tortured body movements that allowed the audience to feel the actual presence of the Phantom. I have seen Michael, Davis Gaines, and Robert Gillaume play the role and the one who captured the essence of Erik was Mr, Crawford. As a fan of yours, I ask that you cast THE Phantom Michael Crawford as Erik in the film version. |
| Name: CHERYL
HARDIN Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: MACKINAW CITY, MICHIGAN Time: 1998-12-31 02:34:12 Comments: Dear Andrew Lloyd Webber: Being a devoted Andrew Lloyd Webber fan, I thought you might be interested in what I think about your choice of casting Antonio Banderas as the Phantom in the movie version. I just finished viewing the Royal Albert Hall video celebrating your 50th birthday. Antonio Banderas was a perfect choice for Che in "Evita", but casting him as the "Phantom" is perfectly ludicrous. It's obvious on the video that he looks and sounds like Julio Iglesios and wisely, it was Sarah Brightman, not Antonio, who sang "Music of the Night"! Having seen the incomparable Michael Crawford originate and perform the role of the Phantom left me wondering what on earth you could possibly be thinking??!! Whatever falling out you two have had, Michael has continued to perform and record "Music of the Night", "Phantom of the Opera" and other great Lloyd Webber songs since his stage run ended. I saw Michael perform 6 months ago at a concert in Michigan (on his international tour), and his voice is as fabulous now as it was when he was on stage as the Phantom. Michael is the only actor who can successfully make the transition of the Phantom to the big screen. Even the multi-talented Colm Wilkinson sounds like Jean Valjean when he performs "Phantom"! Do you want "The Phantom of the Opera" movie to end up a big box office flop like "Evita"? Even casting Madonna and Antonio Banderas didn't help! The video ended up on grocery store racks for $5.95! I am sorry to say that if you do not choose Michael Crawford (MICHAEL IS THE PHANTOM) I, along with millions of Andrew Lloyd Webber fans, will not only boycott the movie, but will boycott any future Andrew Lloyd Webber endeavors! Sincerely, CHERYL HARDIN MACKINAW CITY, MICHIGAN USA |
| Name: Helen Davidson Website: None Referred by: From a Friend From: New Jersey Time: 1998-12-31 02:24:37 Comments: Dear Sir Andrew, "Phantom" is the greatest play I have ever seen . I have now seen it 3 times and have tickets to see it 3 more times before I retire. Michael Crawford IS the Phantom, now and forever! You chose him yourself and he made the show the legend it is today. Please let him do the same for the film. Antonio Banderas is a fine actor and would make a marvelous Raoul. Butr the legend is Michael Crawford so please pay heed to his many fans who are waiting eagerly to see this immortalized on film. Thank you for your time |
| Name: Rayanne
Summers Website: Referred by: Yahoo! From: New York Time: 1998-12-31 01:31:17 Comments: Hello Sir, I will keep this simple. You're a brilliant man. I listen to your works, see your shows, you're brilliant and it's easy to see that. Mr. Crawford is the Phantom, we all know this. Let's keep it that way, what do you say? |
| Name: Connie
Floray Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Kansas Time: 1998-12-30 23:18:30 Comments: Dear Sir: I would be thrilled to see The Phantom of the Opera made in to film. The video version would find a hallowed place in my heart and in my home. However, there really would be no point if someone other than Mr. Michael Crawford is tapped for the role of The Phantom. When people think of this marvelous musical, it is indeed Mr. Crawford's voice they hear singing your marvelous music. It is his ovbious joy of the role that enthralls. Truly, Mr. Crawford is the reason that the Original Cast Recording of POTO is the number one, best-selling cast album of all time!! I have heard a number of names of wonderful ACTORS bandied about for this role, not the least of which is Antonio Banderas. He is, indeed, a fine actor, and a passable vocalist. He did a grand job in Evita. However, why pay the price that Mr. Banderas will command, and sacrifice the quality that Mr. Crawford's incredible vocal talent would bring to the role for a name, and a face, that would be unrecognizable throughout the film? Mr. Crawford has proven countless times that his Phantom transcends the make-up and the costuming. His Phantom is personal, and real. The emotion which comes through his performance is unparalleled. Anything else would be, at best, substandard. And, at worst, a cartoonish flop! I would not be able to bring myself to spend money on a Phantom of the Opera film with anyone but Mr. Michael Crawford in the lead, and know a number of people who have the same feeling. Please, do not destroy the most beautiful, tender, courageous love story in modern musical theater history by bringing it to us with a poor substitue for the man who was born to play the role of The Phantom of the Opera. Truly, Michael Crawford IS the Phantom of the Opera, and we will accept no substitutes!! Thank you for listening to our pleas! We must depend on you to do the right thing! You did it the first time by casting Mr. Michael Crawford in the title role. Please, Please do it again for the film version!!! I can not imagine anyone else attempting the role, and will not waste my money on a ticket to view such a travesty. Sincerely, Connie Floray |
| Name: Becki Clark Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Southern California Time: 1998-12-30 23:10:24 Comments: Dear Mr. Webber, I will make this short and to the point. I know you put a lot of work into writing the music for Phantom and casting for the play. I must say, you did an excellent job. All of the actors/actresses were perfect for their roles. You had something good going. Why change it? Mr. Crawford made that show come alive. Even Hollywood was empressed with the emotion, tenderness, and compassion that he put into it. More importantly then that, the fans loved him. They are the ones that keep any show going. Without the fans support, there is no one to perform for. Mr. Crawford brought in the fans before and I know he can do it again. Thank you for your time. The Phantom Phan, Becki |
| Name: Liza Darcy Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: USA Time: 1998-12-30 22:05:52 Comments: Once upon a time in a quiet little town there lived a young girl. This young girl knew nothing outside her small community. She had never been very far outside the confines of her own hometown. She was very shy and had few close friends. The only excitement in her dull life was found in the school library, and it was there, one magical day, that she happened upon a book that would change her life forever. That book was Gaston Leroux's "Phantom of the Opera". Although she didn't realize it at the time, that book was the beginning of a lifelong quest for something more than the quiet life she had known before. She poured over book after book in that small school library. Jane Austen became her closest friend, and through her works and the works of many other authors, the girl became enchanted with a fararway world across the sea -- a place she could visit only in her dreams. As time went by, real life caught up with the young girl. She did all the things that young girls were supposed to do. She went to school and studied hard and she even found time to swoon over The Beatles and play a flute in her high school band. She eventually married and had two wonderful children. She was content in her small town and spent her time taking care of her home and nurturing her children. But eventually, her children grew older and no longer needed her constant care. And in the idle hours that were left to her, she realized that even though she had a wonderful life, something was still missing. In her heart, she knew that there were places to go and things to see and people to experience in this great big world -- but she was timid and afraid, so she pushed those thoughts far back into her mind. She lacked the courage to look into her past and search for the dreams of her youth. So she settled for a simple life in a small town. * * * This would have been the story of my life, but for one happenstance. One day I received a gift. It was a recording of the original cast of your "Phantom of the Opera". I began to play the recording, and when I heard Michael Crawford sing "Music of the Night" for the first time, I wept. No music had ever touched me this way before, and suddenly, I knew that I could not be content any longer with my simple life. All my childhood dreams and longings came rushing back into my memory and I could no longer suppress them. I'm not sure if it was your music or Mr. Crawford's voice that had such a profound effect upon me -- I suspect it was the combination of the two -- but it doesn't really matter. What does matter is that hearing that lovely melody and those beautiful words sung with such deep emotion and understanding caused something inside me to awaken, and at long last I had the courage to make my dreams a reality. I found a new passion for life and I began to take some time for myself to travel outside my little circle of life. First I ventured only short distances from my hometown with a few friends; then I made a cross-country trip alone; and finally I made the journey that I had dreamed of for so long. I made my way to that land across the sea -- to blessed England. Oh, what a beautiful, magical place! It was more wonderful than any dream I could have imagined! I would never have had the courage to leave the safety of my simple life and venture into a new exciting one had your music not sparked the flame of long ago dreams, and for this I will be forever greateful to you. But now I must ask you for something more. I have heard rumors that you are contemplating a film version of your musical with someone other than Michael Crawford playing the role of the Phantom. Please do not do this! Mr. Crawford understood your Phantom and gave life to your creation as no one else has been able to do. You must have known that when you chose him for your original cast. I beg you now to please make sure that the magical combination of your music and Michael Crawford's voice is preseved forever, not just on recordings, but on film -- for myself and for all those people who need magic in their lives to help them make their dreams come true. Thank you again for touching my life with your beautiful music. |
| Name: James A. Yacobacci Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Pottsville, PA Time: 1998-12-30 18:29:54 Comments: Dear Mr. Lloyed Webber: This is not the first letter I have written to you, through the Really Useful Group, or to Warner Brothers. Although I have received several replies from your representatives, I am shocked and dismayed at the fact that you seem too indifferent or arrogant to make a public response to the casting controversy that you have helped to create. I have never agreed with the attacks that you have suffered from critics relating to your past works. Although I am sure that these attacks did hurt you personally as an artist, you always skillfully deflected these critical reviews by the simple statement that you write not for critical acclaim, but for your musical theatre fans. You seem to have forgotten that by alienating your fan core, you are risking punching holes in the insulation from the critics that your fans have given to you by their financial support. If Michael Crawford is not cast as the Phantom, we will hold you personally responsible for the casting, even more than Warner Brothers, since as a musician and creator, you should know better, and should have some allegiance and loyalty to the fan base that have been so kind to you. This will translate into more than just disappointment and hurt feelings. If Michael Crawford is not cast, we will not travel to Broadway to see any of your musicals. We will not buy any of any of your recordings or videos, or other publicity books for your projects. You will find out that the foundation of the Andrew Lloyd Webber is only as strong as the pocketbooks and allegiance of your fans. With the number of shows you have on the West End and Broadway and on tour, as well as, the "Cats" video and "Whistle Down the Wind" show and recordings, can you really risk affecting the very fan base that would make the Phantom movie and your other projects a success? Can you afford to suffer the slings and arrows of not only the critics, but your own fan base? Do you really think that the small teenage base that may oodle at Banderas in an adventure flick, would actually go to the theatre to see the film? The young adults that would go, would go only because they were hooked on Crawford or one of the other talented Phantoms they saw and heard in theatre productions? Continue to ignore you fans on this, and you will learn in a very real and significant way just how fallible you are. I can see the headlines in books and magazines for years to come: " The Rise and Fall of Andrew Lloyd Webber - What Happened?" You have the opportunity to reverse your future bad fortune if you only have the foresight to see the writing on the wall. As for me, with a family to support, I only have so many dollars to invest, and have already turned my attention to the works of Schonberg and Boublil, who do not seem to hold their fan base with the same disdain as you do. Sincerely, James A. Yacobacci 1333 West Market Street Pottsville, PA 17901 (570) 622-3380 |
| Name: Cheryl
Andersen Website: Referred by: AOL From: New Jersey Time: 1998-12-30 08:09:21 Comments: Please take a minute, let your mind take you back to opening night. Can you hear your wonderful music, "Night-Time Sharpens, Heightens Each Sensation," magic was being performed and Michael was casting the spell. Michael IS the Phantom..he loved playing him and he always will. Even with the exceptional cast, inspired music, precise direction, special effects and extensive theater reconstruction; the one constant in all the accolades is Michael. He made such an impression (usually with only his voice and hands) that when people recall aspects of the play, they don't think from scene to scene but from Phantom byte to Phantom byte. Before your Phantom lurked in the underworld of Broadway, Michael had earned virtually every award possible for his London performance. Every person we hear from who was fortunate enough to see his performance as the Phantom in London and the United States agree that his expertise continued to grow in stature, earning him the second set of prestigious awards including, of course, the Tony for the best actor in a musical. Michael enhanced the image of your disfigured, homicidal sociopath into a Broadway heartthrob. It was announced that Michael would continue as the Phantom when the movie was made. Instead of his voice diminishing over these years, anyone who attended this summer's concert tour can tell you that his voice is more amazing now as he strives to make each performance better than the last. Our goal has always been a simple one. We think the most qualified man deserves the part. We think that Warner Brothers can look at their recent Profit & Losses to see that BIG, BIG NAMES don't necessarily mean BIG BUCKS at the box office. I'd like you to recall your comments regarding JACK WARNER using an actress who's singing needed to be dubbed when Julie Andrews, who had done a marvelous job in the stage production was available. How the English people where terribly upset and how Julie Andrews won the Oscar anyway and Audrey Hepburn was not even nominated. How did you end that interview? "Well we could say, we knew what would happen, HA! HA!" DOES ANYTHING I'M SAYING SOUND FAMILIAR?? This is a movie that is big enough for both actors. Antonio is the perfect Raoul. Charming, romantic, and the vocal is not as demanding. Changing from Zorro's mask to the Phantom's mask is not just a change in color. Covering Antonio's looks with latex diminishes quite a bit of his assets. As long as we're on the subject, the mask and the latex won't help in clarifying his speaking voice, either. Michael has always been the quintessential Phantom, donning the mask and the cape for over thirteen-hundred performances. Any phantom since has only been an understudy, waiting for Michael to return. Michael AND Antonio; that would make a lot of people, very happy and you and Warner Brothers very rich. It's up to you. Once again, opening night can be Magic. "He Alone Can Make Your Songs Take Flight, or is it over now, The Music of The Night" |
| Name: Cathy Conway Website: TMCPMC Referred by: From a Friend From: Huntington Beach, CA Time: 1998-12-30 01:10:14 Comments: Dear Lord Andrew, I can't think of a time when I didn't adore your work. Your music has brought me so much enjoyment throughout the years. That said, this is a most difficult letter for me to write. When I first saw Phantom Of The Opera at the Ahmanson theatre with Michael Crawford in the title role, I was amazed by the compassion, empathy, sensuality, and ability of this gifted actor *you* placed in the title role. He moved me far beyond any place any actor ever has before. I didn't know much about Mr. Crawford at that time. I didn't know all he'd been through to prepare for the role, or about any of the roles he'd done previously. What I did know, was that I'd seen a performance that I'd never forget, done by an actor born to do what he'd been doing, in a role he was born to play. Throughout his entire run here, the media couldn't get enough of him. Everyone I'd spoken to had either seen the musical, had tickets *to* see the musical, or was wishing they could do so. It was like nothing I'd ever seen happen before. In this "television and movie" drenched society, the "theatre" had become the popular place to go again! When talk came to the fore about a movie done of your production with Michael Crawford as the star, I was beside myself with joy! My children who had been, at that time, too young to sit still in a theatre, would now be able to see this show that had moved so many. Selfishly, I, too was thrilled at the prospect of having a copy someday of this event to relive over and over on video. I thought many times throughout the years what depth, passion, and empathy you must've delved into within yourself to create something so wondrously beautiful, haunting, and so personal that everyone in the audience, young and old alike, could take a piece of this night home with them to reflect on over and over. It meant so much to so many. What I can't understand now is, after all the love that went into this production to make it what it was and is, a musical loved by millions of people World-Wide, how could you turn your back on it and change it into something it was never meant to be? Regardless of what might've transpired between yourself and the stars of this show in your personal life, how can you possibly ruin the integrity of this glorious production and sell us out like this? We, the fans of your work and of this show in particular, have spent millions of dollars on this production. It was Michael Crawford's voice that lined your pockets well, for many years on the Original soundtrack alone. It is sheer lunacy to think of someone else in this role preserved on film. It is also heartbreaking as well. In this world where there are much larger issues than entertainment to deal with on a daily basis, I realize many think concerns like this are frivolous and don't hold much merit. I disagree with this way of thinking. It is all the more reason we *need* the goodness in our lives. The meaningful sagas and stories to take us to a place where we can connect with our feelings and the feelings of others again. The dramatic arts, in any given form are something to be enjoyed and treasured throughout generations. I can't see how you can live with the thought of this masterpiece of yours, loved by so many, changing into something that will end up a mockery in the long-run! Having Mr. Crawford in the title role of this film, could make you, and the production live on forever as something *great!* It did so well in the theatre's with tickets averaging $75. With movie prices averaging $7 you could have the biggest, best movie on your hands and you're literally giving away the chance! To please who? Not your fans! It makes no sense at all! Please think about what you're doing. What this means to the people that were there for you through the years and have depended on you to do the right thing. Please Lord Andrew, please preserve the integrity of this musical on film. Please give us Mr. Crawford in the title role. Sincerely, Cathy Conway |
| Name: Andrew Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Southern California Time: 1998-12-29 05:52:12 Comments: Sir Webber, My name is also Andrew, I am 9. I don't know what to say to get you to use Michael Crawford as the Phantom in the movie. I saw your play, but missed Michael, because I was to young when he played the part. Use Michael Crawford for the movie! The End? |
| Name: Alexander Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: California, USA Time: 1998-12-29 05:46:15 Comments: Dear Lord Webber, I am only 12 years old. I just saw Phantom for the first time in LA, I loved your music. The voice of the true Phantom on the double CD was so much more superior than who I saw. Please, please cast Michael Crawford as your Phantom in the movie. I need to see him to really appreciate your masterpiece. God Bless and thank you. |
| Name: Gloria Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Time: 1998-12-29 04:11:10 Comments: Dear Lord Lloyd Webber, Thankyou for writing the most beautiful music I have ever heard. My favorite is the Phantom of the Opera. I'm a new fan. I just saw the Phantom this summer and the music was so moving. I went out and bought both the double CD and the Highlights. Even though I was not fortunate to have found the Phantom when Michael Crawford was performing it I have fallen under his spell. I bought his Concert video because he performed many of your songs. When he sings the Phantom of the Opera I can see the mask even though he does not wear one. He is such a talented actor and wonderful singer! He has brought you such good luck in the past. I think the movie would be a great success if he were to star in it. I can see him doing the sequel on stage. What a triumph for you both!!! What history you will make. 4o million of us have been waiting for Michael Crawford in the movie. Make it so. It will be bigger than Titanic! |
| Name: Dorothy Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Pittsburgh, PA Time: 1998-12-28 17:12:52 Comments: I am sitting in my office on my lunch hour listening to my Phantom tape wondering how in the world you could think of having anyone else play the lead role in the movie version of Phantom of the Opera. I have been waiting a long time for this movie and there is no way I will plunk down my hard earned money to see someone with an average so-so voice do this movie when you have the man who helped create him waiting to do it. Michael Crawford put his heart and soul into this character and I cringe to think that you would let anyone tamper with this perfection. I hope you reconsider this before it is too late and you have one big disaster on your hands. |
| Name: Victor R.
Faughnan Website: Referred by: Signing another Guestbook From: San Diego, California Time: 1998-12-28 04:03:25 Comments: Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber, I felt I needed to voice my concern along with the thousands of other Michael Crawford Fans. I will try and keep this to a minimum as it would appear you read music much better than fan mail from Michael Crawford Fans..I will not spell out all the typical points concerning the pending production from Warner Bros. "The Phantom of the Opera". You are well aware of your statements back in 1990. You are well aware of how much money enriched your life because of Michael Crawford's performance in you wonderful Play. You are well aware of your ongoing financial enrichment from Michael's renderings of your music in the Original Cast Album CD's. I could go on and on, but why, if you read all the mail you will see the multitude of reasons why you should do what your original intention was some 8 years ago. Read Angela Coots letter, read Dale Crawford's letter, read Diane Flogerzi's letter, and Mary Ann Szymanski's also, heck, put down your sheet music for a couple hours and read all the mail coming in to you. This mail is coming from the hearts, from the souls of both yours and Michael's fans, at least show them all the coutesy of reading it. For Christmas my brother gave me a copy of your Birthday Bash Video "Celebration". I found it very entertaining, with many outstanding Performers, namely, Elaine Paige, Michael Ball, Glenn Close, Sarah Brightman and Antonio Banderas. However, there was one serious Blight tainting the Video, the blaring absence of Michael Crawford from the line-up. This seemed very unusual considering the working relationship you two talents have had with each other. I can only conclude that his absence was likely due to your choice. If Michael's absence was due to some personal and/or professional feud than I would certainly hope you two could bury the hatchet, smoke a piece pipe and put any petty differences behind you. Clear the way so you two outstanding immense talents can, for a second time in your fabulous careers come together, merge, for one more musical assault on the entire World Publics Senses. Cast Michael Crawford as your choice for the Movie Role now as you promised and intended to do over 8 years ago. After doing this, for a follow up release Michael Crawford in a Video version of the Play, do these two things Sir, and you will endear your self with the multitudes, only the Sermon On The Mount will have had a more lasting effect on the followers of any one man. God Bless You. P.S. Could you also keep Michael Crawford in mind for the Sequel to your "Phantom of the Opera" Play and for the Sequel to the Movie as well. Thank You for taking the time to listen to me and the multitudes.. Victor R. Faughnan vicsantee@aol.com |
| Name: Lorraine Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Southern California Time: 1998-12-28 03:14:24 Comments: Dear Lord Webber--It has been disturbing to me, for quite sometime, that Michael Crawford is not going to play the Phantom in the up coming film version of your presentation of "The Phantom of the Opera". I was under the impression that you were a businessman as well as a very talented individual. Casting Michael Crawford as the Phantom would assure a great, successful production. On the other hand, anyone else would be a risky business adventure. I have been a movie and theater goer for a great many years. The idea of using a fairly recent new comer in this production makes me uneasy as to the ability of the decision makers for this and other projects of this caliber. Antonio Banderas is popular now, but are his talents to the high standards that this role demands? Would you have trusted him to bring the Phnatom to life in your stage production so many years ago? Why trust him now? Even fans, such as myself, of Antonio feel that he is not suited for this part. His in-experience will cause this great work of yours to become one of Hollywood's great musical mockeries. Mr. Crawford's participation and experience is truly needed to make this film as successful as the original stage production was. People continue to flock to the theater to see Phantom because of the legacy created by Michael Crawford. It was Mr. Crawford who breathed the breathe of life into your Phantom. It was only Mr. Crawford's unique and well trained voice along with his sensuous hand and body movements that leaves the audience spellbound and captivated for the entire performance. Everyone who has seen Mr. Crawford's performance has experienced Phantom, others have merely seen it. I would like to take a moment out to congratulate you on your excellent choice as to selecting Mr. Crawford. You knew, upon hearing his melodic and hypnotic voice, that he was to be your "Phantom". It was and is his distinctive style of singing that has caused everyone to fall in love with this heart rendering beauty and the beast story that you have so marvelously created in music. It is this fantastic music that Mr. Crawford used to captivate the world. But, the world is not ready to see the two separated. I, along with thousands of others, encourage you to use the only man that is capable of making this film a huge success and a profitable business adventure. Please don't let future generations miss out on this moving and thrilling experience. Only the original Phantom, hand picked by you, can cause this upcoming film to become a "classic". |
| Name: Nancy
Shealy Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Easley SC Time: 1998-12-22 23:54:35 Comments: Dear Lord Lloyd Webber, As a 17 year old musical theatre fanatic, I have always admired you and your music, most notably "Phantom of the Opera". I first heard it when I was 5 but didn't become an actual phanatic until I was 13, when I heard it again for the first time in 6 years. I was once again caught up in the spell of the timeless story, but mostly in the spell of the Music you created for the story. However, when I heard Michael Crawford sing the "All I ask of you Reprise", I broke down and cried. I have never had a simple voice touch me so deeply, and I don't think I ever will. Michael IS the Phantom. Your casting of Antonio Banderas is nothing but a denial of the character of Erik. I've heard that this musical is your "baby", and well deserving of the title, because it is a classic and my favorite of all time. But how can you deny now what you knew to be true 13 years ago? Michael and the Phantom are synonymous. IF YOU CAST ANYONE BUT MICHAEL CRAWFORD, YOU WILL DESTROY THE SPIRIT AND SOUL OF PHANTOM. Michael is the Phantom. There is no one else. Please look inside your memory to the time you heard Michael sing..."I think we've found our Phantom" you said. that is just as true now as it was then. The Phantom never left Michael...even now at his concerts, he is STILL the Phantom. time has not changed it for him, or for his fans. so why should time change it for you? Please cast Michael Crawford as the Phantom, because to do otherwise would be to slap your loyal and devoted fans in the face. I love your works, and I LOVE this work. Please don't destroy it. Very respectfully, Nancy Shealy |
| Name: Bonita
Hammill Website: Referred by: Clicked on our Banner Advertisement From: Victoria, Australia Time: 1998-12-21 06:34:01 Comments: Dear Lord Lloyd Webber, Thankyou for giving the world your musical of "The Phantom of the Opera" and starting my love of this miunderstood character. I fondly recall first hearing "The Music of the Night" at an organ recital in 1988 and wanting to be able to play it myself. On the strength of that piece alone I went and purchased the music book of nine songs from the show long before I had the money to buy the OLC recording and hear it for the first time. The music is what began my love for your musical but it is the strenght of characterization of the Phantom in voice, heart, soul and emotion as portrayed by Michael Crawford that has enabled me to maintain it as the best version of the original story. In the ten years since first becoming familiar with the Gaston Leroux tale, I have seen, heard and read numerous other phantoms of the opera in movies, other musicalizations and fiction based on the original novel. However Michael Crawford's Phantom will always be my favorite and that of many others because he feels the hurt and agony the character goes through and makes the listener believe he *IS* the phantom. I was so happy in the late '80's when I heard "Phantom" was coming to Australia and for a short time it was rumoured that Michael Crawford would star for the first six months; alas this never happpened. Then in 1990 my hopes for seeing him in the title role were raised again with the talk of the proposed movie. At the same time with the coming opening of "Phantom" in Australia, numerous competions were running with the main prize to see Michael Crawford's Phantom in LA. I entered when ever I could in the hope of seeing my dream come true. If I hadn't been a student at that time with little money, I would have been on the first plane to the US I could find to have seen Michael Crawford in the title role. Now in 1998 I'm still waiting to see him as the Phantom. I've been fortunate in seeing three marvelous Australians here in the production, but no matter how brilliant they were, I was never able to forget it was an actor/singer behing the makeup and mask playing a part. However when seeing Michael Crawford in concerts here in 1992 and 1998, I forgot it was a man on a bare stage and could see the emotion behind the voice, he made me believe the phantom was there in front of me, and the sellout audiences did too. No other performer today is know so well globally for a role they created and their interpretation of a song. Michael Crawford is the Phantom to millions of people like me, that never got the opportunity to see him on stage but wish they had been able to. In October 1986 one critic said of him "It is surely one of the great performances, not only in a musical but on any stage in any year" (cited in The Guiness Who's Who of Stage Musicals p93 1994). This interpretation should be transfered to film for posterity like Elaine Paige's Grizabella in "Cats". Michael Crawford's "Phantom" would be the "Titanic" of the movie musical. Yes, you composed the music of the night, but it is Michael Crawford that made "Phantom" take flight and capture the hearts of millions around the world. His appearances in the film of the musical will ensure the music of the night will never be over. Respectfully Bonita Hammill |
| Name: Peggy Frey Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Pittsburgh, PA (USA) Time: 1998-12-20 23:19:08 Comments: Dear Sir Andrew, I'm a true fan of the theatre, and of many of your musicals. I'm also in agreement with many that the Phantom of the Opera is your greatest triumph, and that much of its success and worldwide appeal is due to Michael Crawford. His presence and talent have touched the hearts of theatre goers everywhere. Once one has seen him in the title role, it is impossible to accept any exceptions; no one can take his place. That is why it is so shocking that you could consider anyone else to play this part. Could you imagine The King and I without Yul Brenner? There is no need to search for the perfect Phantom. You cast him once when your musical first hit the London stage; he took the Broadway world by storm; he has amazed audiences across the globe. He is the true Phantom. To make the movie with anyone else in the title role would be to deny moviegoers the complete Phantom experience. If your music is the heart of the show, then Michael Crawford is its soul. Please don't kill the spirit of the Phantom. |
| Name: Rachel
Nesser Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: New Jersey Time: 1998-12-20 15:57:32 Comments: Lord Lloyd Webber, Sir, I am a 20 year old college student, and I have a dream. I have had this dream, this fondest wish, ever since I first saw your musical, The Phantom of the Opera, on Broadway when I was 12(I have seen the show 3 more times since)and ever since I first heard the magnificent Michael Crawford as the Phantom on the original cast recording soundtrack. I was not fortunate enough to see Michael Crawford in the role on stage, and yet his phenomenal vocal performance on the cast recording(which has sold 13 million copies worldwide)touched my emotions as nothing else has, and sparked this dream. Michael Crawford's passionate, inspirational, and sincere portrayal of Erik in your powerful musical created this cherished dream. I share this dream with thousands of Michael Crawford/Phantom fans around the world. The dream is this: to see the definitive movie musical of The Phantom of the Opera, starring the original Phantom himself, Michael Crawford. To see Michael reprise his Tony Award winning role on the big screen, to have Michael's legendary performance as the Phantom preserved on film for future generations to see- that is the dream. However, it is hard for me to remain hopeful when you and Warner Bros. choose to ignore us and seem determined to cast an unqualified actor as the Phantom, thereby breaking a promise you made to Michael Crawford and to us back in 1990 when this movie was first proposed. If I may point out a statement made in the book The Musicals of Andrew Lloyd Webber by Keith Richmond, about the success of Phantom: "The production was greeted by a ten-minute standing ovation and at that moment Lloyd Webber knew that not only was this the best thing he had written, but that the paying public shared his taste." Well sir, WE are the PAYING public- we shared your excellent taste when you made Michael Crawford the original Phantom, and so we hope you will show your appreciation of us by making our dream come true. Just as Michael Crawford and all of us have honored your musical by making it an artistic and commercial success, I am hopeful that you will honor us and Michael by making the dream a reality, by using your influence to have Michael cast in the role that he brought to life for us all. Please sir, if we, the fans of your musical and of Michael Crawford, mean anything to you, then persuade Warner Bros. to let Michael be the Phantom for the world once again. I end this with a statement from the Variety ad: "Cast Michael Crawford as the Phantom. It makes artistic sense. It makes financial sense." Sincerely, Rachel Nesser |
| Name: Mary Ann Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: New Jersey Time: 1998-12-20 08:30:45 Comments: Dear Lord Lloyd-Webber, Although I have seen almost all of your musicals, "Phantom" is my particular favorite. When I first saw it in the summer of 1988, I was worried that it would never live up to the hype that I had been hearing for the better part of a year. I was afraid that the singing could not be as wonderful as what I had been hearing on the original cast album. But I was wrong--completely, totally, gloriously wrong. "Phantom" was beautiful, sumptuous, romantic, passionate, breathtaking. It was one of the most wonderful evenings I've ever spent on Broadway. But when I left the theater that night, it wasn't the beautiful sets, the gorgeous costumes, the sublime music, or the falling chandelier that I couldn't forget--it was the performance of Michael Crawford that stayed with me. This was a performance unlike any I had ever seen before. He played the role with an intensity and passion that I had never experienced in musical theater. If there had been a power failure in the theater that night, he, alone, could have lit up the stage with the energy he was giving off. My husband and I went back to see him again and again. We brought relatives and friends with us. We brought an 8-year-old and a 72-year-old on the same night, and they loved Michael Crawford equally. And when he moved on to Los Angeles to do the show there, we went there too--as did many others that were introduced to his incredible performance in NY. When Michael Crawford left the show in 1990 to prepare to star in the film of "Phantom," it was the talk of the town. The crowds at the stage door were so large, the LA Times dubbed it "Michaelmania." Every television station in LA covered his last performance. Two tickets to his last show were auctioned off on television for $27,000. Hollywood was ready for a film of "Phantom" starring the original Phantom. And then everything came to a screeching halt. We've all heard the "party line" on why that happened; we've also heard the rumors of why it happened. But it didn't matter at the time because we knew that whenever this movie was made, you would be involved, and you, more than anyone else who might come on board later on, knew what Michael Crawford brought to this role and to the success of your show. We knew that you would be his biggest supporter. Everything would be OK because, in the event that it was necessary, you would tell the movie studio that their movie of the crown jewel of your composing career had to have Michael Crawford. If they worried about box office numbers, you would tell them that in NY in 1988 Michael Crawford was, truly, an unknown, but that didn't stop people from buying $18 million dollars worth of advance tickets. You would tell them that after his success in NY and LA you made sure that people all over the world knew him as the Phantom because you had him headline a show of your music in which he performed the songs from "Phantom." You would tell them that in NY alone this show grossed $4 million dollars in two weeks at Radio City Music Hall. In short, you would tell them that there wasn't an actor in the entire world more identified with this role than Michael Crawford. And now we flash forward to 1996. Your spokespeople announce elaborate plans for Really Useful. A huge article appears in The NY Times listing all the things RUG is going to accomplish. And on that list--a film of "Phantom." Hallelujah! We are finally going to get the film we were promised six years earlier. But suddenly something is wrong. You are reported to be talking to first one and then another Hollywood film actor about the role that Michael Crawford was supposed to do. Phantom fans all over the world begin to talk, to worry, and, finally, to take action because the one person they trusted with the legacy of "Phantom" has lost his way. You have forgotten what makes this role great. It doesn't require a box office name. It requires a man with a voice capable of mesmerizing and seducing the world; a man whose voice must unlock the secrets of a tortured soul; a man whose voice could be mistaken for the voice of an angel. Don't underestimate your audience; have the courage of your original conviction. If you give the world a movie that contains the performance that thousands of people have seen and even many thousands more want to see, you will single-handedly resurrect the movie musical. Consider this: Michael Crawford estimates that he played in "Phantom" approximately 1300 times. At an average of 1000 people per performance (more than that in NY and LA but less in London), that means that 1,300,000 people saw Michael Crawford in "Phantom." And with an average ticket price of $50 per ticket, "Phantom" grossed $65,000,000 with Michael Crawford in the lead. And I can't even begin to estimate the profits at the souvenier counters. If we know this, Lord Lloyd-Webber, surely you must know it too. Why, then, are we the only voices telling it to Hollywood? Where is your voice? Why are you willing to gamble on casting when you already have a sure thing? Do you want this film to be the one to put the final nail in the coffin of the movie musical? Lord Lloyd-Webber we need you with us. Your voice will be heard above all of ours. We want what you want: an artistically successful film; a commercially successful film; a film that will live in the hearts of filmgoers for generations to come; a film that will beome an instant classic. Michael Crawford can give you the performance that will make this film all that you and we want it to be. Please join with us and, together, we can convice Hollywood to make a film that the world will love. Mary Ann Szymanski |
| Name: Erik
Fontaine Website: The Phantom's Lair Referred by: From a Friend From: Carson City, NV Time: 1998-12-20 08:18:20 Comments: Dear Lord Lloyd-Webber; Ever since my father took me to see Cats in Reno, I've been a great admirer of your work. From the shows which I have seen, to the original cast recordings which I've bought, you're talent shines through. So, naturally, when I heard that you had begun transferring your productions onto the silver screen, I was thrilled. When I saw Cats on video, with Elaine Paige staring in one of the most memorable roles, I trusted that you were working on creating true masterpieces with a cast that would make these films as stunning as their stage counterparts. I trusted that you had learned to look beyond the appeal of using a Hollywood 'name' to support your works and cast those who had helped you in the past. Then I heard that Donny Osmond would possibly star in Joseph and I believed beyond a doubt that this was indeed what you would working towards. That you saw that previous theatre shows which were captured on film soared when the original cast was brought back and fell when another was cast instead. So it was that I believed your next move would be to bring Phantom of the Opera to the screen. As one of the most successful shows you have written, it seemed a natural move. Yet, when I heard that Antonio Banderas was auditioning for the role of the Phantom, I was stunned. What had happened? When did you go from casting the original stars, to endorsing a Hollywood actor? What changed your mind? As I began looking into it, I saw that Warner Brothers was involved and figured that they must be the reason for this change. A Hollywood studio would go for a Hollywood name. I ask you now, Sir, to persuade Warner Brothers to stay with the cast that helped bring Phantom the success it has held in the past, and continues still to hold. Listen to what the audience has said and will forever continue to say, that only by casting the original actors will a theatre production survive the transition to the screen. Please, use the facts to help Warner Brothers see that only by enlisting Michael Crawford will they guarantee a blockbuster. Recall that you yourself asked him to star in that role, recall the way Phantom rose from a show to a phenomenon, recall the Olivier Award, the Tony Award, the Los Angeles Drama Critics Circle 1989 Award, recall the millions of cast recordings sold which featured Mr. Crawford. Your audience has spoken out, you have heard who we wish to see in the role. Please, help us bring back Mr. Crawford to the role that is his. Please do not let Hollywood continue on their path of ruined Phantom films, help them make one which will stand tall amongst all the others. Just like Mrs. Paige, and Mr. Osmond, let Mr. Crawford reclaim the role which was made for him. Your audience is counting on you. |
| Name: Jenna Daley Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Southern California Time: 1998-12-20 07:41:53 Comments: Dear Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber, Hello. My name is Jenna, I am 13 years old, and I am already a *huge* fan of your musicals. My favorite of them all is your most famous, "The Phantom of the Opera." Not only is the story itself moving, but the music is exceptionally beautiful with equally breathtaking lyrics. To have a full audience leave a theatre differently than how they entered depends upon the actors who perform the lead roles. This is exactly what happened with The Phantom, giving all of the credit to the lead role that can be summed up into two words. Michael Crawford. You are a greatly talented human being, with whom I am sure that inside you are a reasonable person and can relate easily to the ideas of common people. Then you should be able to understand it would be natural to use the original actor in this movie to please the people who paid to see him. The work and evidence that The Michael Crawford Movie Campaign has shown you is from the countless fans around the globe who all have one goal. To have Michael Crawford star in this new movie. Michael Crawford. Where can I begin? Never have I heard a voice so pure and soft, and yet he can morph it to be something stronger and louder. This he has shown in the character of the Phantom, which has changed so many peoples lives and has made him known world wide. His voice and his acting abilities are far more advanced than those of Antonio Banderas. That is mostly due to his experience in the role of the Phantom. Please listen to what I and the other Phantom phans have to say about the movie, you will find out what the people want. Besides, we are the ones who decide if the movies a big hit or not by seeing it in the theatre. If you do decide to have Michael Crawford in the movie, that is already a guaranteed hit. Thanks, Jenna Daley |
| Name: Frank Saenz Website: Referred by: Net Search From: Topeka, KS Time: 1998-12-20 02:36:02 Comments: Dear Andrew Lloyd Webber, Let me commence by saying that I think you're an enormously talented composer. To be honest, you're the reason why I became fascinated with musicals. Before, I used to think they were silly, boring, and yes,,,wimpy little things. But after the one fateful night when I first heard your music, I was enthralled with what I was hearing. I realized how precious musicals and operas really are. I fell in love with your compositions, starting purchasing all your CD's...always looking forward to playing them. Though loving all your musicals, the Phantom of the Opera is the one I most deeply treasure! It's a superb story...brought to live by your music and...MICHAEL CRAWFORD!! He understands the character like no other actor/singer does. The Man is Erik. You know that ;) and the masses agree! I'm still looking forward to seeing the definitve film version of the Phantom of the Opera. Music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and starring the greatest male voice in the planet, Crawford! I don't know if you know this, but you're getting more and more popular with people around my age (I'm 17!!!!) and we all are going to be terribly disappointed if this doesn't happen. Cast the man you know has the understanding, emotion, energy, and proven capability of making PHANTOM an outstanding success. Cast Michael as the film's Phantom and you will have made the best decision, financially and aritistically, in your life!! If you don't cast him, well...personally you will have lost the respect of your fan. Love, Frank Saenz. and same thoughts from Ian and Sally Sayers!! |
| Name: Linda Frey Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Apollo PA Time: 1998-12-20 01:12:32 Comments: There have been several rumors in the casting of the movie version of Phantom of the Opera. First there was John Travolta and then Antonio Banderas. Have you ever heard of "third time's the charm?" Choose Michael Crawford and you will get it right! You remember Michael Crawford... the man who helped create the role; the man who gave sold out performances in London, New York and Los Angeles; the man who helped you sell millions and millions and millions of cast albums; the man who won the Tony and every other award for his performance? I recently saw Michael Crawford in concert in Pittsburgh. If possible, he actually sings the songs better now than he did when he made all of that money for you. He had the audience in the palm of his hand and he had no mask or props of any kind -- just that glorious voice and tremendous stage presence. I got more from that performance then I did when I saw the Phantom in New York at the 10th anniversary performance. Michael Crawford helped make the Phantom the success it is. He laid the groundwork for those who followed him. Help him get the part in this movie and your problems will be solved. |
| Name: Claudia Website: Referred by: Net Search From: Brazil Time: 1998-12-19 21:53:27 Comments: Dear Andrew Lloyd Webber, My family and I greatly admire you for your inspiration and talent and the gorgeous musicals you gave us. That same inspiration made you choose Michael Crawford as your first Phantom, and you saw how amazing the response to that casting was as the years passed. I'm Michael's biggest fan in Brazil and a lot of friends of mine absolutely love his voice and promised to support me. They are only going to see that movie if Michael is in it. It would be a hell of a success, like it has been since 1986. Thanks |
| Name: Linda Levitt Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Bryn Mawr, PA Time: 1998-12-19 19:48:29 Comments: Dear Mr. Webber, Your phantom has become synonymous with your choice of Michael Crawford. You knew what you were doing the first time you cast him in this role. You are still reaping the rewards from this masterpiece because truly this man made the role. It baffles my mind why you might want to "fix something that is not broken". Nevertheless, there are so many of us that never had the opportunity to see your "Phantom of the Opera" with this legend. Now that you have decided to create this film, it just doesn't make sense that you would not want to give the world an opportunity to see what you accomplished in the theaters back in the 80"s - you established a phenomenon. Now you want to undo it and disappoint all of us of this chance. Please reconsider your choice of Erik and know that this film will indeed be a reflection of this major achievement if we are availed the luxury of seeing it as you originally intended. Most sincerely, Linda Levitt |
| Name: Marilynn
Gardo Website: Referred by: Clicked on our Banner Advertisement From: Atlanta, GA Time: 1998-12-19 19:39:52 Comments: Thank you for all the wonderful musicals which you have, through your talents, provided for our entertainment. When Phantom was first shown in the theaters, you cast Michael Crawford as the Phantom. As the Phantom, Michael Crawford brought that character alive through his wonderful musical and acting talents, which you obviously saw since you chose him to play the role. As you cast the role in the movie, please once again choose Michael Crawford to play the role of the phantom. His name is synonymous with the Phantom and therefore will draw audiences around the world. Thank you |
| Name: Angie Website: Phanfic Referred by: From a Friend From: Kansas Time: 1998-12-19 18:56:22 Comments: Dear Sir Andrew: Even though this is only the 11th or 12th letter posted here, there have already been some incredible pleas to you on several different levels, artistic, financial, etc. Let's spend a minute talking about artistic and personal integrity.********************** In 1990, Warner Brothers announced to everyone that they were proud to be bringing "The Phantom of the Opera" to the silver screen. They also said that by working with the original people, yourself, Michael Crawford and Sarah Brightman, they would be ensuring the artistic integrity of the piece. Now, ensuring artistic integrity is not something Hollywood movie studios are known for, so this sounded like something one of the creators of the piece, namely yourself, would be concerned with. Fans of "The Phantom of the Opera" were thrilled to hear that they would get the chance to see the performance of Michael Crawford captured forever on celluloid. It's now nearly 9 years later and we have yet to see this film or Michael's performance. Now it seems that the studio has lost the desire to ensure the artistic integrity of the piece. Why is that? Is it because the person who was originally fighting for it no longer cares? Or is it for some other reason none of us know about? You once fought valiantly to be able to bring the original West End cast to the Broadway stage, so we all know you are willing to go to battle for your work when you deem it important enough. Many of us are also aware of the fact that when you sold the movie rights to Warners Brothers all those years ago, Phantom was already a HUGE hit. Therefore, you didn't have to beg a studio to snatch up those rights. I would think that as an experience business man you would have had the good sense to insist upon retaining some control over the finished product. Well, Sir Andrew, we are asking, imploring, begging you to remember those promises made all of those years ago. Ensure the artistic integrity of this piece for future generations. Fight for Michael Crawford for this role. We all know you are capable of it if you put your mind to it. I mean, do you really want your future descendants to watch this movie and have only the mediocre interpretation of Antonio Banderas or some other "Hollywood Hunk," as the last living record of this, your most beautiful, most poignant and soul-stirring work? I would hope not. Do not treat the millions of fans of this show with the same contempt you now accuse Polygram of showing. Do the RIGHT thing! Fight for the artistic integrity of "The Phantom of the Opera." The long-term rewards will far outweigh any short-term swallowing of pride.*******************************Very truly yours, Angela Coots |
| Name: Bethanie Website: Referred by: Clicked on our Banner Advertisement From: Huntington Beach, CA Time: 1998-12-19 05:42:13 Comments: Lord Lloyd-Webber: I have a videotaped interview with you recalling the fuss that was made when Audrey Hepburn was cast in "My Fair Lady" in place of Julie Andrews. You remarked how the British were especially upset at this game playing by a studio. Now the same studio wants to deprive another British stage star of his rightful role in the film version of your play. Surely, you can have something to say about this when it comes to such an important decision. If you don't fight for Michael Crawford, you'll be letting the side down. Do you really want to do that? Have you no loyalty for the man who breathed life into the music you wrote??? How many millions of pounds went into your company and personal accounts because of Michael Crawford's performance, not only in Phantom, but in the concert tour. Michael Crawford's performance is the one that everyone other actor that followed tries to imitate, without success. I am one of the thousands who has seen the play many times, and am thankful that I had the good fortune to see Michael Crawford play the role here in Los Angeles. None of the other actors could compare, and I now refuse to see what I consider a second rate road company, as much as I love the music and visual elements. Use your influence.....if Michael is cast in the film, I guarantee that millions of people the world over will go to see this film again and again, bring RUG's profits back up to insanely healthy levels. With Michael in the film, Phantom has the potential to become another Titanic. We are counting on you to be forceful and stand up to Hollywood for the good of British stage actors and their fans everywhere!!! Respectfully, Bethanie Weber-Rayburn |
| Name: Paul R.
Raulkner Website: Referred by: Yahoo! From: Garrett, IN Time: 1998-12-19 04:13:23 Comments: Lord Lloyd Webber, I have never had the chance to see Michael Crawford in the Phantom of the Opera. I've seen the show several times, and I never get the feeling that I do when I just listen to him sing Music of the Night. Think about all the people who will see the show because Michael Crawford is in it. We don't all write letters, but we exist. I'm sure in your mind you think Antonio means $$$$$$. If you start thinking like the artist you actually are instead of a banker, maybe the Really Useful Group wouldn't be bothered with so much financial problems. I'm sure you recall you made a promise to Michael that he would be in the film. It's sad to think in the world of today a promise means nothing, unless it's signed on a paper. You got Elaine Page for Cats, and I hear your looking at Donny Osmond and Glenn Close for Joseph and Sunset videos, respectively. These people made the role theirs, as did Michael. He needs to be captured on film, so future generations will be able to see the great man who made The Phantom of the Opera the hit it is. You fought the Equity boards once to make sure he was in the Broadway opening, you can fight the powers that be at Warner Brothers to make sure he's in the film version opening night. I don't know how you think any man other than Michael Crawford could do this movie musical. Let Antonio play Raoul or even let him play the Phantom on stage. Let the master play him for all future generations enjoyment, and to ensure that even after Phantom has long closed on West End and Broadway, someone will be able to point to Michael and say, "He was the one everyone else tried to imitate. I am a teenager, so I go to the cinema almost nightly, and I can assure you that my friends and I will be in front of the line to see this film. But only if the Phantom is in it. |
| Name: Kelly
Crawford Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: Plano, Tx Time: 1998-12-19 00:46:56 Comments: Where do I start? First and foremost, let me say that I once greatly respected you and your work. I have been a fan of the story The Phantom of the Opera since before you ever did your musical. I have watched Hollywood make a mockery of the story and other plays fall short. But when I saw your show, when I heard Michael Crawford's voice as if he were whispering right in my ear, I knew I had finally found it. I had finally found a person that understood the story, you. And a person who understood the Phantom like no other person on earth, Michael Crawford. Everything I had ever pictured in my mind while reading the book came to life with Mr. Crawford. It was if the Phantom himself was standing on that stage. It was magic, pure and simple. And then, in 1990 when I heard of the movie and that Michael Crawford would be reprising his role I was elated. Finally, a movie that captures the true story and a man that can show the world the heart of the Phantom! But now....now you are allowing Warner Bros. to cast someone other than Michael Crawford. I sit here and shake my head in bewilderment. Why? Why would you allow them to take away the very soul of the Phantom? To deny us the only man who truly understands the character and makes each and every heart cry out for Christine to stay? Yes, others have played the role. Some very well, others not understanding the part at all. But not one, I repeat, not ONE has ever touched me the way Crawford did. Not one has ever made me think, "That's the Phantom, in the flesh, on that stage.", like Crawford did. Not one has lived up to the image in my mind like Crawford has. And no one but Crawford should play the role in the movie. Please, let there finally be a movie worthy of the name The Phantom of the Opera. Keep your promise to Micheal, and to your fans. We want to continue to respect you, but it's hard when you ignore us. This isn't really that much to ask, now is it? |
| Name: Deb Peterson Website: Referred by: Clicked on our Banner Advertisement From: Minnesota Time: 1998-12-18 23:41:24 Comments: Dear Lord Webber, Please listen to your heart and go back in time and remember your original vision when you created your masterpiece. Didn't the part of the phantom call for someone who had the voice of an angel? If you don't have that then the whole premise is lost. Who would believe that christine could be mesmerized by this voice unless it is unique and special. Who has this voice of an angel? You chose him yourself--Michael Crawford. He has that something special. He can accomplish what your original vision was because he puts his heart and soul into this performance like no one else can. You originally chose him -choose him again! |
| Name: Jane Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Pa. Time: 1998-12-18 22:53:21 Comments: Phantom of the Opera is a wonderful show with fabulous music and will probably go down in history as your most successful work. Much of the credit for that goes to the collaboration between you and Michael Crawford in creating a character that people could care about. I have seen several different phantoms and although some were good none of them came close to doing what Michael Crawford did in that theater. He and your music came together to create something that I have rarely seen anywhere. He touched the soul of the audience and took that show to a new level. I have also seen that show with phantoms who could not create that mood and it's an entirely different show; there's no magic, there's no caring, there's no sense of tragedy. It's just another show, and the people don't leave the theater in tears or sit there stunned or go home raving about it. And now you are talking about allowing Hollywood to wreck your masterpiece? If you make this movie with Michael Crawford you'll get the show with the magic. Make it with anyone else and you won't have that totally indescribable show that gives you goosebumps and brings people back for more. It won't work without the magic. Without the magic the flaws are too apparent. Everyone that I have talked to about this movie gets excited at the thought until you tell them about the casting and they immediately lose all interest in it without Michael Crawford. Don't do something you will regret for the rest of your life. If this movie fails you could get blamed for the death of musical movies and you will have no one to blame but yourself. Jane |
| Name: Joan
Trubica Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Jax. Beach Florida Time: 1998-12-18 22:51:51 Comments: Dear Andrew Lloyd Webber, If you don't care about the people buying tickets to your shows, you will have no shows to worry about anymore. It's sad when people think so highly of someone and that person could care less about them and their feelings. You are trying to take the "artist" out of the "arts".Michael Crawford made Phantom what it is today. His voice and his passion for the role is what has kept audiences coming back for more.He is and should be your ONLY choice for the movie. What are you thinking trying to put Antonio in the role?! Sure he fit in in Evita, he's spanish but as The Phantom?! The Phantom doesn't have a spanish accent! Or have you forgotten that like you've forgotten your fans? Make the movie as special as the play is-Keep Michael Crawford! There must have been something special about him or you would have never chosen him to open your musical in the first place.Is money more important to you than the respect of your fans? You're a sad man if it is. If anyone is cast as the Phantom other than Michael Crawford for the movie,not only will I and many others not waste our money seeing it, but you will also lose our respect. Joan Trubica |
| Name: Tara L. Evans Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Galveston County, Texas Time: 1998-12-18 22:07:05 Comments: Lord Andrew, I am not the sophisticated writer of the others in this group, but I do understand talent, AND, I understand what it takes to make a movie a "Hit". I know of Antonio Banderas' movies, and I know that the man is talented. I thought he was great in Philadelphia. BUT, the decision of which man should portray the Phantom in the movie should not even have to be pondered. The only phantom, the only man to don the mask, should be Michael Crawford. He has proven his ability by hold a Tony Award in his hands. His popularity is soaring. ///If you ask someone a question about The Phantom of the Opera, the first name that comes to mind is Michael Crawford, and the reverse applies. Michael Crawford made The Phantom of the Opera what it is today. And Michael Crawford will bring that same thing to the big screen.///I know that you believe that Antonio Banderas will draw the younger crowd, but I am 33 years old and in My Humble Opinion, Michael Crawford is much more of a sex symbol than Antonio Banderas is.///I have many family members and I know for a fact that if Antonio Banderas is cast in the part of the Phantom, we will not spend the money to see it. Lord Andrew, please think about this. Don't make this decision by thinking of the younger crowd, make this decision on the fact that you promised this part to Michael. Keep your word! Show the world that you are a man of your word! MAKE MICHAEL CRAWFORD THE PHANTOM!!! I know that you won't be sorry. Thank you for your time!!! |
| Name: Dale
Crawford Website: www.phantommovie.com Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Dallas, Texas, USA Time: 1998-12-18 21:07:45 Comments: Art. Let’s talk about it. * * * Anyone in Hollywood can attest: if there were a magic formula for producing blockbuster films, no studio would ever suffer through multimillion dollar losses. But time after time, film producers pull the same rabbit out of their hats: “Cast a star,” and you’ll have a hit—the accountants will be delighted. Then, behind that producer’s back, myriad Hollywood executives who’ve already made the same mistake laugh at the fool. Later, somehow, the ones doing the laughing become the laughing stocks themselves when the accountants cause them to buckle, and they once again pretend that “Cast a Star” is the magic seed from which blockbusters grow. * * * The ticket-buying public sits back bewildered: “Why can’t they see the one thing, the only thing, the wonderful thing that makes a movie a blockbuster?” We wonder, “Don’t they remember back when they were outside the Studio Gates, and they knew what every moviegoer knows: there actually is a way to make a movie highly likely to be a hit?” It’s just one word: Art. The Phantom of the Opera appears to be only a musical stage show. Maybe that’s how a producer sees it. That’s how an accountant sees it, certainly. But one day, not so long ago, you saw something else. You reached into your heart and found that lonely place that longs to be fed; the place that knows that sorrow can be sweet, and that joy can burn. You saw the lingering fear in all of us: the fear of loneliness, of rejection. You created a character and told us a story through music. It not only reached us intellectually, but it also penetrated our very beings, reaching into emotions we can rarely otherwise express. The Phantom of the Opera guided us to face that hidden fear and then taste the sweetness of its truth. Looking in, we find ourselves. In that discovery, we find something within us, noble and strong, that allows us to appreciate the beauty of what you have composed: there in ourselves, we find Art. * * * When some klutzy Hollywood producer comes along and fiddles with our inspiration, he is not just making a business decision. He’s reaching into our hearts and saying to us, “Your heart and your soul are not worth enough money—so I have a better idea.” But to those of us touched by The Phantom of the Opera, there is no better idea. No other interpretation will reach the spot in our hearts that awakens each time we hear the music or see a performance. We retract in anger and fear from anything that violates the sacred connection between our souls and this Art. * * * When someone wraps their hands in money and grabs hold of Art, they twist it into something different. They pretend it’s still Art because it started out as Art. But the soul longs to be touched by Art, and it sees through these obvious lies. We might as well let our accountants repaint the Mona Lisa or have a chimney sweep re-score Mozart’s Requiem. I’m certain that you know that The Phantom of the Opera is that good. It is timeless. It will be that which for which you are most remembered. It has a soul of its own. It is Art. Sometimes a performer is merely the conduit of Art. Sometimes you can replace him and the beauty remains. But sometimes the performer’s interpretation weaves into the soul of the composition, blending with it until the concept and the performance are one. This is the case with The Phantom of the Opera. Its Art lies along the line between your composition and Michael Crawford’s performance. If Crawford is removed, the Art falls woefully short of touching the part of our hearts that led us to fall in love with the show. * * * By considering other performers for the role of Phantom in your movie, you are repainting the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel in fluorescent hues. You are adding a funky beat to a favorite lullaby. To please the accountants, you are frantically chiseling away on an already-perfect sculpture—chipping it away until a statue of a skeleton stands where once was The David. * * * But we are the public. We’re the ones expected to buy tickets to your movie. Yet you intend to deprive us of the Art that made this story take hold of our hearts. It is not our minds nor our wallets that will cause you to fail—our hearts will leave us no choice. They will protest, and they will cry. They will fluster and rage. Our hearts will fret and fuss and, in the end, when they see another klutzy Hollywood interpretation of beauty, our hearts will tightly grip every dollar and every pound .in our pockets. And there the money will stay. * * * That’s how intimately we care about this particular piece of Art. But we’re only representatives of tens of thousands who voice their frustration that Crawford has not already been cast in this role. They in turn are representatives of millions who, while still silent, have hearts that will grip their money just as tightly. And you—think back to the days when you, too, were outside the Studio Gates—I am a representative of you as well, Lord Webber. * * * Once in a great while, amidst thousands of films, one emerges that does have a magic seed for success. The Phantom of the Opera is such a film. The magic seed is Michael Crawford. But The Phantom of the Opera also offers a guaranteed formula for failure. That formula is to fail to cast Crawford by letting the Hollywood statisticians practice their hit and miss “Cast a Star” insanity. Lucky for us all, Crawford is available, and enthusiastic about this role. * * * So I implore you; reach back to the moments in your life when a song, a play, or a film found its way inside your heart, when it gripped you in a powerful way that you couldn’t understand. Then do what your heart tells you. Your heart won’t tell you to cast someone else—only an accountant would do that. But I promise you, accountants know money, not Art. They’ll lead you to failure, then blame you for making a lousy film. And in turn, this masterpiece you’ve created will forever be remembered by millions as a farce. You know this, and so do the millions of us. The Phantom of the Opera is the case where following your heart will actually lead you where your accountant wants go. * * * Sit down and recall the first time you heard Crawford’s voice and penetrated and weave through your music. Remember what it was to have your joys and your fears cradled in the arms of that performance? Please remember today what you knew when you composed The Phantom of the Opera. Cast Crawford, and again you will create Art. |
| Name: Diane Flogerzi Website: Referred by: Just Surfed On In From: Palmdale, Ca Time: 1998-12-18 16:36:08 Comments: Dear Lord Webber, With the debut of this "Open Letter", we are now taking our letters to you in this more public forum. We felt this has become necessary, as you do not appear to be listening to your fans. It also seems that you have no concern for the thousands of letters you have received pleading with you to come to your senses and give back the role of the Phantom in the upcoming motion picture to Michael Crawford. In 1990 you promised him and you promised all of us that he would star in this movie. Now, I know for a fact that you have indeed received a LOT of mail asking you to keep this promise by people all over the world who want to see MICHAEL CRAWFORD as the Phantom. This campaign gave out thousands of flyers in the past seven months at venues and colleges all over the United States. In addition, this web site has posted your addresses for seven months now, and our web site received over 16,000 visitors in just the space of time since September. But I also PERSONALLY know that you have received a lot of mail because one of your own people at Really Useful Films told me so. I called your office in Beverly Hills in August to get verification on the signing of Antonio Banderas as the Phantom. Your assistant there told me that yes, they were getting mail, and they were getting a LOT of mail, but that it wouldn't make any difference. Now I think that is a pretty sad state that your fans are taking the strongest effort ever shown in history for the support of an actor to be cast in a film, and you and your people have turned stone deaf. Never before has there been any effort mounted as this one, we are not going away, and no matter how this turns out we have accomplished one of our main objectives. We let the media and the world know that we wanted to see the TRUE Phantom, Michael Crawford, captured on film for everyone, everywhere, and for future generations. History has now been changed and people do have a voice. You and a few suits at Warner Bros. can make this decision that affects all of the rest of us, but we don't have to support, nor pay to go and see this movie without Michael Crawford. Now, at this point in time neither your people nor Warner Bros. have confirmed that Antonio Banderas truly has been signed, so far his people are the only ones advertising this as fact. This campaign will stay in this proactive state until the movie is in the can, and then we will switch to reactive. I am praying that this will not be the case because that will mean it will be too late to film this movie with the TONY AWARD WINNING MICHAEL CRAWFORD. PLEASE, keep your promise. Listen to the fans, do the right thing and cast Michael Crawford as the Phantom. And Andrew, Antonio Banderas would make a FINE Raoul. Think about it. Sincerely, Diane Flogerzi |
| Name: Diane Flogerzi Website: Referred by: From a Friend From: From Here Time: 1998-12-18 06:10:42 Comments: Welcome to the brand new "Open Letter to Andrew Lloyd Webber" that we have just unveiled on December 18, 1998. There are a lot of fans that have a few things that they would like to say to Lord Webber, and this will be a fine place to say them. It is our sincere wish here at the campaign that he may finally listen. |