An Open Letter to Andrew Lloyd Webber

 

Total: 115 Guests

  Saturday 04/20/2002 6:29:31pm
Name: Andreas
E-Mail: traveller_in_time@hotmail.com
Homepage Title:  
Homepage URL: http://
Where are you from?: Sweden
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: I have just one question for you, lord Webber: are you out of your mind???? have you gone insane?? do you have such an ego that you won't let Michael crawford cast as The Phantom? do you fully understand the consequences that will come by doing so?
  Friday 04/12/2002 7:39:35pm
Name: Jessica Moynihan
E-Mail: jleigh_honey@yahoo.com
Homepage Title:  
Homepage URL: http://
Where are you from?: Del Rio, Texas
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: Dear Mr. Webber,
Hello, as you can obviously tell my name is Jessica Moynihan. I have come to this site to express my feelings about the casting of Antonio Banderas as the Phantom in your video. I believe as so many other phantom fans do, that while Banderas is a very talented actor, he does not meet the qualifications we, as the supporters of your work, have set. The phantom must be 1) able to sing, 2) this is an American musical, let an American sing it, 3)The phantom is to be an enchantment, a person which one can grow to love and be in tune with his pain, anguish, love, or happiness. Banderas does not hold this quality to the same effect as Michael Crawford, Brad Little, or Ted Keegan hold. They have spent there life becoming singers, and as we the "phans" believe the climax of their carrer, ultimatly the Phantom. Banderas is an actor, he is to be on stage on a set where he can show his talents in a film better suiting to his nationality and looks, (such as Zorro) Michael Crawford or any of the other Phantoms are Broadway singers and they deserve what Banderas has not earned... Please consider the "phans" pleas and let the Phantom be enchanting and magical. Let Crawford play as this dark creature.
Jessica Moynihan

P.S. It is a pleasure for me to be giving you my opinions thank you for that.
  Friday 04/12/2002 8:59:21am
Name: Chloé Sharrocks
E-Mail: chloesharrocks@hoofbeat.tv
Homepage Title:  
Homepage URL: http://
Where are you from?: BRIXWORTH NORTHANTS
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: Thought you would like to see a copy of the letter I plan to post to ALW. just hope that with my letter and everyone else's we can perhaps make a difference. Otherwise, i too agree with James A. Yacobacci in that we will all have to boycott the film. And what shame that might be. Let's hope some strange fate makes ALW change his mind, when he hears of the thousands of phans who will boycott his movie otherwise.

Keep up the good work!

Chloé

7th April 2002

Lord Lloyd-Webber
The Really Useful Group, Limited
22 Tower Street
London, WC2H 9NS
England

Sir Andrew

Firstly, thank you for taking the time to read my letter. I appreciate that each week you must receive hundreds of letters from either dedicated Phantom ‘phans’ or Michael Crawford admirers, but still I feel that it is my duty to express to you my wishes on the matter of the Phantom Movie.

“The Phantom of the Opera” is a musical unlike any other. It is a thrilling tale of a disfigured man and his amazing vocal talents, which we see through his training of the young opera singer. The lyrics and the music score bring to life the inner emotions of the characters, but this is only possible if the actor himself can guide the audience through these emotions and take us on a journey with him. To my knowledge, the most capable person for this is Michael Crawford. His singing and skilful portrayal has touched thousands of people around the world, often encouraging them to return time and time again (even when the actors are different) to watch this phenomenal musical. To cast another actor, especially someone from Hollywood who has limited experience performing a film based around a musical, would firstly not do the original musical justice and secondly upset the many phantom ‘phans’ who are the reason for The Phantom of the Opera’s success.

I am aware, like the other thousands of ‘phans’, that there are many factors involved in producing a movie and that not all wishes can be catered for during the production, but I also realise that the movie is there to make a profit, and this is earned by the box office sales. This is where the importance of Michael Crawford comes in. He was the reason the musical was a success, and only him can ensure that the film is a success, for he had, and still has the amazing atmosphere about him, which grabs the viewers’ attention, ensuring that they follow his every move and every note. Michael Crawford alone can either make this movie a hit, or a complete flop, depending on whether he is chosen to play the Phantom.

Unfortunately, I fear that he will not be chosen as the Phantom, and that the once awe-inspiring musical, The Phantom of the Opera, will lose a valuable audience when people see the movie, without the original Phantom. If he is not chosen, then I am afraid to say that myself, and the other thousands, or perhaps millions, of ‘phans’ out there, will be reduced to only hearing the songs in our minds, for we will all stand together and boycott the movie, and hope that the West End musical does not suffer as a result.

Sir, finally I ask you to reconsider your choice of the main part, not just to conform to the wishes of thousands, not just to ensure that your movie is a box office hit, but to ensure that your promise to Michael Crawford himself is kept, and that you will allow him to once more share with the world “The power of the music of the night”


Chloé Sharrocks
  Wednesday 04/03/2002 12:02:27am
Name: Tanya Kapustina
E-Mail: kapustin@ ibh.ru
Homepage Title:  
Homepage URL: http://
Where are you from?: Moscow, Russia
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: Dear Sirs! Dear Sir L. Webber! On behalf of many Russian fans of Michael Crawford's talent, I protest against participation of another actor in "The Phantom of the Opera " movie. Only M.C., the created image of a Phantom, has the right to play this part. If other actor will play Erik’s part, he will spoil all, and the movie never will be popular. Only Michael can make your cinema really great! I do not want to know, that has taken place between you and Mr. Crawford , but your conflict should not be reflected in art.
This letter is shout of soul of the spectator, which never saw M.C. in great performance "The Phantom of the Opera ". And my last hope to see him in this part is your movie. Do not destroy hope of the fans in the whole world! Michael Crawford has given a voice to the character, which has been thought up G.Leroux. You, Mr. Webber, have composed ingenious music, but you have not the right to scoff at own creation!
  Friday 03/29/2002 10:45:14pm
Name: Angelofmusic4evr
E-Mail: angelofmusic4evr@yahoo.com
Homepage Title: The Cellars - Phantom of the Opera RPGs
Homepage URL: http://www.geocities.com/the_cellars_series/cellarseriesmain.html
Where are you from?: Washington State
Referred By: Web Ring
Comments: Please, please, PLEASE cast Michael Crawford in the Phantom movie. PLEASE! Do yourself a favor, do us all a favor! Make it something to remember, not something to be laughed at. Don't make yourself a fool.
  Saturday 02/23/2002 7:03:03pm
Name: Eric
E-Mail:  
Homepage Title:  
Homepage URL: http://
Where are you from?: Marshall, Michigan
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: Dear Mr. Webber:

I have seen Phantom of the Opera once in Toronto and once in Detroit. I would see it a million more times and not get sick of it if i could. unfortunately, i do not have the opportunity to see it that many times. So that is why I sincerely hope you make this film. I have never seen Michael Crawford or Sarah Brightman play the Phantom or Christine, but I have owned the original soundtrack since the early 90's and LOVE it. Noone that I have ever seen play those parts has sung it as well as Michael and Sarah. I hope that this movie will be worth the wait. I do not think Antonia would make a very good Phantom due to his accent. If you must have a Phantom with an accent, choose an actor that is French since the whole play is set in France. You are truly the greatest playwrite I have ever known.
  Thursday 02/21/2002 5:45:11pm
Name: Sakura
E-Mail: lil'_pink_bunny@juno.com
Homepage Title:  
Homepage URL: http://
Where are you from?:  
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: This hole movie thing SUCKS!!!!! Just leave the musical to the live performers, the way it should be!!!! I mean Mr. Loyd Webber, look what happened to Cats!! It got kicked of Broadway and now it has to say so-long to London! I'm a hard core Phantom Phan and I don't want to see it trashed by Hollywood!!!!
  Wednesday 02/20/2002 8:24:23pm
Name: sharon jones
E-Mail: volsone@earthlink.net
Homepage Title: phantom of the opera
Homepage URL: http://
Where are you from?: united states(florida
Referred By: Web Ring
Comments: DEAR LORD WEBBER...PLEASE PLEASE ADD MICHAEL CRAWFORD TO YOUR MOVIE..I HAVE BEEN A FAN SINCE 1984 SINCE I SAW MICHAEL IN PHANTOM OF THE OPERA..THERE IS NO OTHER PERSON FOR THE ROLE..PLEASE
  Sunday 02/17/2002 1:10:08pm
Name: Anna
E-Mail: mizzkitty87@yahoo.com
Homepage Title:  
Homepage URL: http://
Where are you from?: Colorado
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: Hello again Andrew,
I have written before, but I just heard some more dissapointing news....Charlotte Church as Christine. I have one thing to say about that....no. Im 15 years old, and isn't she around my age?? I would love to see Sarah Brightman as Christine, and of course, as I have told you before, MICHEAL CRAWFORD as the Phantom. I would love it if a movie of Phantom finally came out, and I know others who would too. But if Antonio and Charlotte are cast... I really dont think anyone would be interested. Now, I know you are getting slammed a lot for this, and us "Phans" all know that if it wasn't for you than we would have never been able to see/hear Micheal as the Phantom, and we respect you and love you for that. But it's a situation like this than can mean trouble for you. I wish I could have seen the play, but even though I haven't, I have heard the songs (I have the soundtrack) and seen bits and pieces of "The Music Of The Night" and was totally mesmerized by that one scene. I cant imagine how good I would feel to see the whole thing! So please, PLEASE, cast Micheal and Sarah. It would be greatly appreciated by everyone!!
Sincerely, Anna
P.S. If Antonio is in the movie, there will be no one to watch it.
  Sunday 02/17/2002 12:47:41am
Name: Anna
E-Mail: mizzkitty87@yahoo.com
Homepage Title:  
Homepage URL: http://
Where are you from?: Colorado
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: Dear Andrew,
I have heard that there has been consideration of Antonio Banderas playing the role of the phantom in the movie version. At first I thought it was a joke, and then I realized that unfortunately it wasn't. I have never seen "The Phantom Of The Opera," but have heard the beautiful songs that Micheal Crawford has sung in the the stage version and have fallen in love with the Phantom because of Micheal. If Antonio is cast, I have no doubt that there will be a serious uproar and an extreme dissapointment for the true fans of THE Phantom, the one and only, Micheal Crawford. PLEASE PLEASE DO NOT MAKE SUCH A MISTAKE! Micheal deserves, and was made for, the role of the Phantom. He IS the Phantom! Thanks!
  Sunday 02/17/2002 11:25:00am
Name: O.G.
E-Mail: Nothorns111@AOL.com
Homepage Title: none
Homepage URL: http://none
Where are you from?: In a perfect dream...
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: Lord Lloyd Webber,
Perhaps you have overlooked one fact while changing from Michael Crawford, to Antonio Bandaras. The fans will not stand for it. We have Michael Crawford in our hearts and souls, and no amount of persuading may change our minds. I love your work on many of your shows, but Antonio Bandaras, as the Phantom? Surely you must be having us on. He cannot, sir, capture the soul of the Phantom. He may have done well in "Evita" but that's hardly a Phantom. Listen to your fans, Lord Lloyd Webber, and you will be rewarded. Or you will curse the day you did not do, all that your fans asked of you.
I remain sir, your obedient servant, O.G.
  Sunday 02/10/2002 6:33:57pm
Name: Spence
E-Mail: S SQUARED26@aol.com
Homepage Title:  
Homepage URL: http://
Where are you from?: The US
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: Dear Mr. Webber,

Although I AM JUST A TEENAGER, my love for the Phantom of the Opera and Michael Crawford is unparalleled. I first became entranced and mesmerized with Michael and Sarah's awesome voices when my mother played the original cast recording in the car. Having seen the play numerous times, she also had a sincere love for the music. (Who wouldn't though?) I was inquisitive when I listened to The Music of the Night, and asked my mother who was singing the song. I had never before heard such a sweet and talented voic as the one the singer possessed. My mother then told me that the singer was Michael Crawford, the Phantom in the play. After that, I requested my own copy of the musical, and for countless hours evey day I would listen to the "sweet music's thrall". In fact, I am listenign to the tape right now!! ....The Phantom of the Opera is there, inside your mind.... In conclusion, since I have never had the privilege to actually see Michael Crawford in the role he was born for, I would be very much obliged if you would cast him as the POTO in the movie. It would be my only chance to ever see the one and only phantom. There is no other person that could portray the Phantom on the level as Michael has. Please cast Michael as the phantom, Mr. Webber because your genious with music depends on it. Thankyou.

Sincerely,
Spence
  Monday 01/28/2002 9:27:48pm
Name: Rose Smith
E-Mail: chev95@lsol.net
Homepage Title:  
Homepage URL: http://
Where are you from?: USA
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: I have been an advent fan of the Phantom of the opera, and am really disappointed that all this is such a problem, I have waited Years for them to put the musical on video, and once again I am disappointed, because of single minded people, No one can play the phantom except Michael Crawford, he is the part and should also play it. I dont think they should hire some over charged actor to play him. If you get someone who is in the public eye and hits on the screen you are also gonna be paying a high price to get them and in the end the movie will never be the same. I speak as only one person, but if Michael cannot play the phantom, then I will not even bother buying the video, it just wont be the same.... I saw the Musical 5 times once in London, which I had to save for just to see the original. I hope you are a man of your word and let Michael play the part and dont break down by anyone. I love your work.
  Sunday 01/27/2002 6:21:28pm
Name: Quinten J. Higbee
E-Mail: qman59101@yahoo.com
Homepage Title:  
Homepage URL: http://
Where are you from?: Untited States of America, Billings, MT
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: Dear ALW,
Like so many people I am obsessed with your version of The Phantom of the Opera. I have wished ever so much since I had first heard the music to see the play for myself. I understand that Warner Bros. and the Phantom crew had teamed up in 1990 to make The Phantom of the Opera movie. My question to you is, has the Phantom movie been made, is it going to get made or has it been lying in the vault destined to be left therefor the rest of eternity?

Scincerely Quinten J. Higbee
  Tuesday 01/22/2002 11:47:15am
Name: LeAnn Hopper
E-Mail: phopper@hotmail.com
Homepage Title:  
Homepage URL: http://
Where are you from?: Jacksonville, FL
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: Dear Sir Andrew Loyd Webber,

I would have to agree with everyone who has written in before. You are a very gifted man and your music and creations have brought joy to many people across the world. However, don't you think the presevation of your work is more important than who "Hollywood" thinks would be a good fit for the role? I am a 25 year old female who dreams of the day when Mr. Crawford romances me in POTO. Don't you have any idea what kind of conection we have to him and to Ms. Brightman. I would much rather see Mr. Crawford in the role, than some other "hollywood" star. Do you really think anyone could do what they have done for you??? If you are actually going through with this movie I would sincerely hope you can get Mr. Crawford and Ms. Brightman to play the parts that made them a household name, or you may end up loosing money. It is never a good thing thing to mess with perfection!!!

Sincerely,

LeAnn Hopper
  Saturday 01/12/2002 3:15:52pm
Name: Maria
E-Mail: maria_sablina@euro.ru
Homepage Title:  
Homepage URL: http://
Where are you from?: Russia,Moscow
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: Dear Mr.Webber!
I understand that without your genius this musical(the Phantom) never exists. I know that you have choosen Michael for the role and that was a brilliant idea. Of course Michael isn't a young man but he looks very young.Besides, the make-up'll close his face and, as you know, The Phantom isn't a young man too. In Russia we have got a lot of problems with money,we just haven't got enough for food.But many people will be glad to spend their last money buying video version of The Phantom with MICHAEL as The Phantom. I wrote it because I made a polling. So please pay attention to our requests.
  Thursday 01/10/2002 4:38:54pm
Name: Lisa
E-Mail:  
Homepage Title:  
Homepage URL: http://
Where are you from?: UK
Referred By: Search Engine
Comments: Dearest Andrew,
There can be no question of your absolute genious. The Phantom of The Opera is a musical that has touched audiences all around the world, and continues to do so today.

I have recently turned 16, and as a birthday present was taken to see the show in London. Being an owner of the origninal cast recording, i was already familiar with the music, but it was the first time that i had actually seen the show. Words cannot begin to describe how i felt at that time. It was probably one of the happiest times of my life, and needless to say, i will never forget it.

Still, despite the fact that i was brought to tears by the wonderful performance, i couldn't help but imagine Michael Crawford on that stage, reliving HIS role. Obviously, being only 16, i never had the privilage of seeing him perform the Phantom all those years ago, but from the moment i first listened to his performance on the original cast recording, it has been my dream to see him perform the part...someday.

Still, i did realise that the chance of ever seeing Michael relive the part on stage again would be very unlikely. It seemed to me that a movie would be the only possible way. But now...even that is not going to happen, is it?

Once again, my dreams will be shattered, which would not be such a bad thing if they were only MY dreams. But they're not. Almost all Phantom Phans have dreamt of seeing Michael play the part, and needless to say, if he is not cast in the movie, there will be thousands upon thousands of unhappy(to say the least) people all around the world.

Surely you understand that it is these people who helped make the show as successful as it is today. Don't you feel you owe these dedicated Phans something. If you do, i think it is now obvious what we all want. We want Michael Crawford to play the Phantom in the movie. Please give us the chance to experience his magic.
The fate of the movie lies in your hands. We know you'll make the right decision.
Yours Faithfully
*Lisa*
  Friday 01/04/2002 3:57:15pm
Name: Brian Tuttle
E-Mail: jbtuttle@cox-internet.com
Homepage Title:  
Homepage URL: http://
Where are you from?: Texas
Referred By: From a Friend
Comments: Mr. Webber,

Years ago I took my 2 young sons to New York to the Phantom. One son was 7 and one was 11. My son's were familiar with the score. The program began with a stream of excitement and music. About 20 minutes into the production I turned to explain or discuss a scene in the play, only to see both of my son's with tears rolling down their cheeks. I need to explain nothing.

After the show we left the theatre and discussed the play and Michael Crawford's performance. To this day Mr. Crawford draws back these great memories because of his great talent and abilities.

Retain the integrity of the production -Michael Crawford is an artist that will bring this production to it's much deserved success. Your music is timeless. Please allow the musicians who made the production timeless to aid this production. Don't bend to Hollywood whims.
  Friday 01/04/2002 3:03:33pm
Name: Allison
E-Mail: alley_cat47@hotmail.com
Homepage Title:  
Homepage URL: http://
Where are you from?: The United States of America
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: Dear Sir Andrew Loyd Webber,
I am only thirteen but I know that The Phantom of th Opera has the most astounding music I have ever heard! When I was a child my parents went to see The Phantom of the Opera and loved it so much they bought the soundtrack. I must admit I was afraid to listen to that tape because of the intensity of the music and lyrics. My parents would play the tape in the car and when the Phantom of the Opera came on I would hold my ears so that I would not be afraid of the music. Years passed and just this summer I read the book The Phantom of the Opera and I fell absolutely in love with the story. Then I remembered that my parents had the soundtrack from when they went to see it. I asked my mother where the tape was and she gave it to me long since played but not forgotten. I imediatly put it in the tape player. To the wonderment of my ears I heard the beginning of the Phantom of the Opera! I listened to Sarah Brightman and Michale Crawford's duet and was shocked! It was the most wonderful sound I ever heard. Then I listened to The Music of the Night and was blown away by the mesmorizing ( forgive my spelling if I'm wrong. Sometimes the words that are needed to describe exactly what something is are difficult to spell.)enchantment of the song. The sound of Michale Crawford's amazing voice brought me to a moment where I could no longer speak or breathe I became a mindless set of ears that could only listen to the music of the night.

After that the rest of my summer changed completely! Instead of reading and swimming and things like that I was in my room listening to and sing the song from the Phantom of the Opera. While I was listening to The Phantom of the Opera one day a boy I hardly knew called me; when he heard the music he politley asked me if I would please turn up the volume. I did and he started sing it. We started talking about The Phantom of the Opera and how wonderful it was when sooner or later we realized we had been talking for two hours! I promised to call him tommorrow and said good-bye. Now he and I are very goodfriends he went to see The Phantom of the Opera and was going to take me but my mother would not allow it. So now the show will not come back to where I live for two years! Until then I will wait and keep listening to the music of the night.

Michale Crawford is perfect for the Phantom. His voice has a certain sound that makes you have to listen! Antonio Banderes was wonderful in Evita but he could never beat Michale's Phantom just as Michale could not compete with Antonio's Chei. Michale fits the Phantom as a key fits its lock. They were made to be together. As Michale is made for that role. Michale's Phantom is perfect! Other's may come close but only Michale's Phantom is perfect. So Sir, I implore you to give Michale Crwford the role as The Phantom of the Opera let ther be perfection!
A voice of truth,
Allison
  Monday 12/31/2001 6:54:39pm
Name: Kay
E-Mail: terkzan@hotmail.com
Homepage Title:  
Homepage URL: http://
Where are you from?: Texas, USA
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: Dear Mr. Webber,
I'm only a quiet teenager from a small Texan town, but I'm a lover of musical theatre and the artistry of it. And when this art is threatened, I find a need to express my opinion and do my best to protect it.

I admit, I've never seen Michael Crawford's performance as the Phantom, but I've learned a great deal about him and how dedicated he was to the role. If you don't recall this story, he actually checked himself out of a hospital against doctors' protests- just to take on the role while the understudy was injured. He treated this role with justice and respect as if it were a living being. What you're trying to do is cast this classic role to someone only for money-making purposes. This will only make the audience reject him- which is what Erik, the Phantom has had enough of, don't you think?

Please, show our Phantom a little kindness- give the role to Michael.

Sincerely yours,

Kay
  Tuesday 12/25/2001 11:01:10pm
Name: Erica
E-Mail:  
Homepage Title:  
Homepage URL: http://
Where are you from?: Toms River, NJ
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: To Mr. Webber,
This is meant as a slight twist to everyone else's letter's...
Out of curiosity, why are you casting Antonio Banderas as the Phantom? Sure, he may appeal to some people, but how many people are going to enjoy listening to a Latino "French" Phantom? There are so many more people you could please if you cast Michael as the Phantom...plus the fact that many people aren't going to think very highly of you as you said you would cast Michael, and you went back on your word. I realize that the whole movie business is about making money, but if you took the time to sit down and add up all the money you would make off of Michael, and the money you'd make off Antonio, you would realize that Michael would bring in much more money. If for no other reason, please cast Michael just for the money....for whichever reason you cast Michael, everyone will be pleased...
  Monday 12/17/2001 7:17:20pm
Name: Christine
E-Mail: nomorebabytears@hotmail.com
Homepage Title: /
Homepage URL: http:///
Where are you from?: Belfast Northern Ireland
Referred By: Search Engine
Comments: Dear Mr Weber

I have seen the Phantom once back n 1995 i think, I traveled to Manchester, England to see it with my school. When I first heard we were going to watch an Opera I thought i would not enjoy it I wouldn't be able to follow it, but I did, and I loved it, and i'm planing another trip to London next year to see the show again.

The Phantom was played by a man called Mike Sterling. He was fantastic.

On my return I bought the CD with the original cast Michael Crawford and Sarah Brightman. And I can honestly say there is no better a Phantom than Michael, or better Christine than Sarah.

I have seen people try and I emphasise the word TRY to sing the songs from the show and to be honest they CANT.

I seen Antonio Bandera's play a part in Evita, and am sorry but he was useless.

No one can replace Michael he is THE PHANTOM he is THE VOICE BEHIND THE MASK and I feel to cast either Bandara's or even Travolta would not do your show any justice.

BRING BACK CRAWFORD.
  Thursday 12/13/2001 11:22:37pm
Name: Clarisse
E-Mail:  
Homepage Title:  
Homepage URL: http://
Where are you from?: CA
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: Lord Andrew, here are two quotes from Star Trek that relate to the Phantom of the Opera movie:

"The needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few or the one."
"The needs of the few outweigh the needs of the many."

You feel that your needs and WB's and Antonio's needs are more important than the needs of the 58+ million people, your fans, and us. You think casting Antonio as the Phantom, finding a Christine first, and wrecking the movie in the process are more important than what we want. Well, it is actually the reverse: the needs of the 58+ million people, the fans, and us outweigh WB's and Antonio's and, particularly, your needs. All of us want Michael Crawford as the Phantom and a very faithful adaptation of your masterpiece, as in the play you once said "there can be no question of fiddling with this one." You also said Michael is your first choice as the movie Phantom. Have you forgotten those words?

You think that we will lose in the end despite our efforts in the last 3 years. You think your needs will outweigh ours. But no matter what the outcome is, our needs will outweigh yours. And because the needs of the many do outweigh the needs of the few or the one in this case, please listen to the 58+ million people, the fans, and us who made your show a success and want Michael as the Phantom.

Oh, one last message Andrew: Cast Michael in the film. It's not only the logical thing to do but it's the human thing to do!
  Sunday 12/09/2001 1:47:51am
Name: Kaitlyn Goddard
E-Mail: snow_rider182@hotmail.com
Homepage Title:  
Homepage URL: http://
Where are you from?: Canada
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: Dear Mr.Webber

I am a 16 year old, living in a small town in Ontario, Canada. I am in a dramatic arts program at my school, and last year we studied musicals. Obviously, one being “The Phantom Of The Opera”. Growing up in such a small town, I never had the opportunity to be exposed too much musical theater until then. But when I first heard the recording of The Phantom of The Opera in class, I was instantly hooked on it. It also inspired me to get involved in the new musical theater program at school.

I really would like to see "The Phantom" live, but seeing as the closest show is in New York (11 hours away) I haven’t been able to go see it. So, naturally, when one of my friends told me that there was talk of making a movie of the show I was really excited! This would let people like us, people who live to far away to see the show, a chance to experience it. Also, many of my friends agreed that if we saw the movie, and it was really good, it would probably be worth the effort of making a road trip down to New York to see it live.

I recently read that you would be casting Hollywood Actor as the Phantom, and cutting most of the wonderful music out of the movie. This is not a good idea! There are so many millions of people in the world that don't live anywhere close to where "The Phantom" is preformed. The movie of "The Phantom" will probably be their only chance to experience it. People like us, who have listened to Michael Crawford sing in CD version of that wonderful musical, will not waste our money going and see a sub par movie, with a Phantom that can't sing! Those of us that haven’t listened to Michael Crawford sing as the Phantom, and do decide to go see the movie, will never make the effort to go see the show live, because they will assume that if the movie was bad, then the show can't be that great. People will not spend money on expensive tickets, or drive 11 hours or more, to see the show, if they assume (by watching the movie) that the show isn't all that great. The people in cities where "The Phantom" does play will not go to see the movie, if they can see the show version, which is 100 times better!

So, as you can see, by using actors that can't sing, and making an all around sub par movie, you would just be hurting both the movie and the show. Why change something that works so well already? It would be a shame to ruin such a masterpiece as the Phantom of The Opera, by not using the best Phantom, Michael Crawford, and not using all of the beautiful songs. It would be very disappointing to us small town folks, and aspiring actors, to never be able to see such talented actors as Michael Crawford, or to see decent version of the legendary musical, "The Phantom of The" Opera.

Please consider this!
Best regards,

Kaitlyn Goddard
  Wednesday 12/05/2001 8:47:32pm
Name: Noelle Binoche
E-Mail:  
Homepage Title:  
Homepage URL: http://
Where are you from?: D.C., United States
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: Just adding to the spirit, and the concept of strength in numbers:
Dear Mr. Lloyd-Webber, or "Lord Lloyd Webber," as you have been referred to, although, maybe not affectionately...
First off, the name written above is not my real name. It's not even close. It is what I have chosen as my "French Name," and since POTO takes place in France, well.....I don't know. It was a kind of spur-of-the-moment thing. Anyway, a brief history about my liasons with this masterpiece: I had, of course, heard about it, and had even heard the songs as early as maybe my elementary school years. Last Christmas, I received a piano book that compiled selcted songs from POTO, and then, just a few months ago, I received the CD for my birthday. That was when the impact of "Phantom" really hit. The hypnotic sounds of Crawford and Brightman, and, of course the talented cast was overwhelming. The thrilling instrumental accompniments combined with their voices weaved a bewitching web, impossible to resist. I then proceeded to do my research. The internet to the rescue; using the good-old-fashined net, I proceeded to acquire more and more fascinating knowledge about this haunting tale. I found that there were others out there, equally as obsessed, and maybe even slightly more, and then, I discovered that there was to be a movie. How Great and Perfect! One of my favorite musicals/stories brought to life on the silver screen! I was rather surprised to hear that it was to be released in 1991 (when I was only about 5) and then shocked and disappointed to learn that production of the movie had stopped, and has apparently been at a stand-still for 10 years! It has, unfortunately, come to my attention that "other people," who shall remain name-less, are being considered for the role of Erik, the Phantom of the Opera. I have not seen the musical, definitely not with Michael Crawford, but I have heard his sweet, soothing voice in my CD player, and I have heard/read the cries and pleas of many, many fans, some of whom chose harsh words; whether you are deserving of them remains to be seen. There are probably a lot of things out there that I don't know, or that I'm not sure of, but I am sure that if you cast Michael Crawford as the Phantom, you will not only have captured brilliance to be preserved forever, you will have captured the hearts of millions of fans, and they will be forever grateful for your choice. There are people, Mr. Webber, who have true gifts, and these gifts can be more precious than gold. I think that Mr. Crawford has this such gift, and I also belive that you have a wonderful gift for composing and creating. Please, share his gift and your's with the world. In the words of a rather famous song you may recall, "Your spirit and his voice, in one combined.....The Phantom of the Opera is there, in all our minds." Thank you.
  Saturday 11/10/2001 1:38:10pm
Name: Anastasia
E-Mail: injure@euro.ru
Homepage Title:  
Homepage URL: http://
Where are you from?: Russia,Moscow
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: I hate to think about Antonio as Phantom.It is insane.Why don't you want to put Michael in the role of the Phantom? If you have some reasons,then tell about them!!! Antonio isn't a bad actor,but he couldn't play this role!!! There are a lot of fans of Michael as a Phantom in Russia and all of them want to see and to hear Michael in the Phantom'role.If there is a film with Michael,there will be a great success.(And Antonio isn't a singer,he has no voice and he will play and even maybe sing the role of the Phantom?!)Can you just give us (fans) the real information. Please make the right decision.
Monday 10/29/2001 6:42:54pm
Name: Clarisse
E-Mail:
Homepage Title:
Homepage URL: http://
Where are you from?: CA
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: I want to comment on what you Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber said recently on the Phantom of the Opera movie:

"Antonio Banderas wants to do 'Phantom,' but you'll have to ask Warner Bros. about that. They don't seem to get it, but they won't give the rights back to me."

WB don't get it? WB DON'T GET IT!?!??!?
True, it seems that way but Andy, YOU ARE THE ONE WHO DOESN'T UNDERSTAND THIS!!! YOU will be the one with the most to lose if you DARE to cast Banderas as the Phantom. And YOU will be torn apart by critics and fans. Yes, you said you are used to being criticized but this time, the criticism will be very severe. No wait, it will be up to the point you are savagely being torn apart in the reviews. Banderas will be severely criticized too on his lousy, p***-a** portrayal of the Phantom. WB will be wondering why the movie flopped and YOU will be saying to WB that it flopped because the studio didn't get it. SCREW THAT!!! YOU Andy did not get it!!

Andy, YOU were the one who stopped the film because of your divorce with your then-wife Sarah Brightman. YOU should have gotten over that. YOU should have stayed true to what you originally promised to the fans and I don't mean casting Banderas if that's what you think. I mean, casting Michael Crawford as the movie Phantom. YOU gave Michael the role, Michael thanked you for it, YOU promised to cast Michael in the film, and YOU even said that when you were divorcing Sarah. What the hell ever happened to what you said more than 3 years ago: "There can be no question of fiddling with this one [Phantom]"?

Andy, seems to me you are way long overdue for a checkup on your head. Are monkeys taking over your brain?

"Unfortunately, our agreement has no time limit; I don't know how we got ourselves into that."

It's so damn simple Andrew. We all said it for the last 3 years. YOU GOT YOURSELF INTO THIS MESS. Is that too much to say? Or do I have to repeat myself here until I go beserk? We've been trying to tell you for now almost 4 years (talk about how time flies!) but you still don't listen!! Is it because that late last year, if I remember correctly, you said that Phantom is "hokum"? Um, excuse me but it wasn't even "hokum" in the first place. It was perfect from the start. But it will be "hokum" if you mess this up.

"As for 'Cats,' you'll have to ask Universal; we're trying to get those rights back, too. Tom Stoppard wrote the screenplay, and it has the cats absolutely nailed. I noticed various lines popped up in his 'Shakespeare in Love.' They were too good to waste."

Uh, excuse me? Wasn't Cats already released on video and DVD by Universal? I'm sure it was because I saw them at video stores. Are you thinking of "revising" Cats? Oh god!! You revised Jesus Christ Superstar recently and look what happened: it was slammed by critics. You do something like that to Cats, you'll get whacked by critics. You do this to POTO, everybody will give you such a smack in the head until it hits you (pun intended) that you should have not fiddled with your musicals in the first place.
Thursday 10/25/2001 5:31:26am
Name: Arianne Lyre Daniel
E-Mail:
Homepage Title:
Homepage URL: http://
Where are you from?: Philippines
Referred By: Search Engine
Comments: Dear Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber,

I commend you for all the beautiful music you continually compose! Most especially for The Phantom of the Opera whose music I never tire of singing and listening. I love classical music and I could say that you maintained perfect balance of classicism and pop-culture that made Phantom appealing both to cultured people and the gen-X youth(although in my opinion I think you should've not chosen Sarah B. as the original Christine because of her limited vocal power).Truly your music is timeless!
I just wish you'll think of nothing else to play the role of Erik in the movie version for nobody can play the role better than Michael Crawford! I honestly don't like Antonio Banderas not because he's not good in acting, but because I don't think a Latino-Spanish-accented-actor isn't fit to play the role of a french (Erik). And besides, he's not as good as Michael in singing!
I hope you'll listen to the million Phans who wants only to give justice to such sad and haunting tale by G. Leroux!
Tuesday 10/09/2001 10:53:50pm
Name: Joanne Daley
E-Mail: Mrsdaley@aol.com
Homepage Title:
Homepage URL: http://
Where are you from?: Illinois
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: MICHAEL CRAWFORD IS THE BEST PHANTOM! His Disney CD did great in Australia and will be a big hit here. He's going to star in Dance of the Vampires on Broadway opening 10/24/02. Now would be the time to produce the Phantom starring Michael Crawford and make the movie a classic rather than a disaster with Antonio Banderas miscast as the phantom instead of Raoul.
Thursday 10/04/2001 8:51:16am
Name: Sultana de Mazendran
E-Mail:
Homepage Title:
Homepage URL: http://
Where are you from?: Tehran, Persia
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: Obviously that isn't my real name, but that's where I'd fit, in the story...anyway, on to my letter:

To begin, let me tell you, sir, how I first encountered The Phantom of the Opera. My mother and father are both organists (but we needn't speak of the latter), and when I was little, I used to accompany my mother to the churches where she played. I lurked about or amused myself, but sometimes I watched young (and not-so-young) couples choose the music for their weddings. Many times they requested "All I Ask of You." That's how much your music means to some people! I would hear my mother or the vocalists practicing it, or at the wedding itself. Mostly during these weddings (the funerals too), I would be deposited in the blower room, some hidden annex in the choir loft, or a room in the basement. Sometimes I was allowed to watch though, and I saw the magic of weddings -- and your music was there. Needless to say, I had the whole song memorized by the time I was 8 or something. Then on my 13th birthday, one of my friends gave me an invaluable gift for which I will never be able to repay her: a copy of Leroux's book. I fell in love with it, and it is now quite worn with care. I was at this time aware that the opera existed (I do not deign to employ the term "musical" here, as I find it somewhat degrading) and I had never seen it, although I thought it somewhat a pity to alter the original version in any way. Then about a year ago, another friend lent me her CD. I was absolutely overwhelmed by everything -- especially by Michael Crawford's voice. I confess I used to prefer baritones to tenors, but I've changed my mind! His passionate rending of the role was positively unparalleled to anything else I had heard before...and it truly helped me, I think; knowing that I would never be alone in sorrow probably saved me many times from doing something rash. And then I heard that you intended to make PTO into a movie and cast Antonio Banderas (may Allah curse his name forever!) in the title role. Cher monsieur! it felt like rape. I beseech you not to turn a deaf ear to your devoted fans. Hear our pleas. Put Mr. Crawford in his rightful place or don't do the movie at all. What in Allah's name possessed you to even think of this, I don't want to know, and I won't scold you now because this letter is becoming very long...but please just fix it -- and don't worry about Banderas's (spit to the left) fellings; he's shallow...he'll get over it...
Wednesday 10/03/2001 10:40:19am
Name: Josh Carter
E-Mail: joshosh_2000@hotmail.com
Homepage Title:
Homepage URL: http://
Where are you from?:
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments:
I am sending this e-mail to perhaps sway you in the direction of a "Phantom of the Opera" video. I saw it and can easily say it was the best musical I have ever seen. I am a Lloyd Weber freak (Well, that's what my friends call me anyway). Every single day I check the newspaper for anything upcoming. I have purchased copies of Cats, Evita, Jesus Christ Superstar and Joseph and the amazing technicolour dreamcoat. I have! They are brilliant!

I personally have seen the musical, but that was six years ago. In Australia, we only rarely ever get a Lloyd Weber musical down here. It's a blessing when we do. The most recent was, if memory serves me correctly, 1996. I can only remember a few scenes, and even so, they are foggy at best. All I can remember is Joseph Buquet falling from the flys and the Phantom taking Christine through the mirror.

Look at the success of the other musicals on video- Cats, Evita, Joseph and the amazing technicolour dreamcoat etc... These have sold millions of copies worldwide and with the Phantom being one of the most widely known and appreciated musicals ever (as it has been dubbed down here), it would be a terrific idea to release it on video.

Perhaps the problem is that no-one would go to the theater to see it if it was released on video. Wrong. I for one would buy the video and still go to the theater to see it. I'm sure there would be plenty more people out there like this. I know of about fifteen people who are big fans and would do the same. Imagine! You getting income from sales not just from tickets to the theater, but from royalties from the videos as well. You can't say you're not tempted. : )

Trust me, it's a good idea.

O.G (Just kidding)

Josh Carter
Joshosh_2000@hotmail.com
Tuesday 09/25/2001 2:40:41pm
Name: Dot McAliley
E-Mail: mcalileypad@aol.com
Homepage Title:
Homepage URL: http://
Where are you from?: Alabama
Referred By: Search Engine
Comments: As I was reading previous letters, I was reminded of one thing I left out in my plea that you leave perfection alone and cast Michael Crawford (THE Phantom) as the Phantom: The letter-writer said make the movie as a stage play and not in the usual fashion of a movie. I agree totally! Please don't tamper with the stage effects in an attempt to make this play "movie-ish." I reiterate--you cannot improve upon perfection! "You will curse the day you did not do all that the Phantom('s fans) asked of you!"
Sincerely, Dot McAliley
Tuesday 09/25/2001 1:40:46am
Name: Pauline Davy
E-Mail: perilsofpauline@bigpond.com
Homepage Title:
Homepage URL: http://
Where are you from?: Australia
Referred By: Search Engine
Comments: Dear Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber,
I cannot hope to compete with the intellect in the many letters sent to you regarding who will be the phantom in the movie version Phantom of the opera. All I can say is that all my children came to love musical theatre after hearing Michael Crawford as the phantom. Is'nt this what you have sought during your lifetime, that the generation coming up should appreciate, and come to love beautiful music. Your music, Mr Lloyd Webber?
Please don't deny a whole new generation of music lovers, the opportunity of seeing Michael Crawford as the Phantom in the movie.
Yours sincerely,
Pauline Davy (Melbourne Australia)
Friday 09/21/2001 9:18:27am
Name: Dorothy McAliley
E-Mail: mcalileypad@aol.com
Homepage Title:
Homepage URL: http://
Where are you from?: Alabama
Referred By: Search Engine
Comments: "Maybe I've seen genius." A fan of musicals as a child, I had wandered from them until a dear friend sent me a tape of "Phantom" highlights. I have fallen in love again! I don't know if you are religious--I hope you are, because I believe God has given you the most remarkable gift. I don't know if you just write the melodies, then have someone else orchestrate them; I feel that you probably do it all. Since first receiving the tape a few months ago, I have seen POTO three times, but of course not with the original cast. I have since obtained the CD with much more of the play and I wake up to "The Auction" and "The Chandelier Rising" every morning. Needless to say, my mornings are much better now--no pesky alarm clock! Dear Sir, I listen to each note by each separate instrument, and am overwhelmed by the sheer beauty and the immense talent that produced such beauty.The singers are extremely talented as well. Michael Crawford is THE Phantom of the Opera. I have heard recently that your wonderful play may be made into a film. I know Mr. Crawford is not as young as he used to be and might be reluctant to do some of the stunts necessary for the film; however, his incredible voice--absolute perfection in this role, the menace and malice; the tenderness and yearning--could be heard even as a stunt double was doing some of the things he might be reluctant to do. You don't know me, and I will never be lucky enough to know you, but this is a personal and most heartfelt appeal that if POTO does ever become a movie, please cast THE PHANTOM as "The Phantom." I did not mean to turn this letter into simple praise for Mr. Crawford. I truly wanted to express to you my complete awe at your talent and to express a thought you probably already know: You cannot improve upon perfection, and you have achieved perfection with "Phantom of the Opera"--the music, orchestration, and equally important, Michael Crawford as the Phantom. Sometimes things come together in a unique way--your play represents one of those times. Sir, I would like to tell you in the event you consider this a "fan" letter that I have never (and I am 62 years old) written a "fan" letter in my life. This is meant to let you know that I recognize your genius--yes, now I have seen genius, and to ask that even you, "Angel of Music," need not try to improve upon the perfection you have already achieved. "Phantom" as a movie needs no additional songs. It is perfect as you originally produced it. I pray that I may someday be able to see Michael Crawford perform this role. I do hope you see this because I am sincere in my writing. I know you must have a huge staff to read your mail, but please somehow read this one. Thank you, and may God continue to bless your genius. This is written ten days after the terrorist attack on America. Sometimes I can only forget the tragedy while listening to your beautiful "Plantom of the Opera." Thank you for it, and thank God for granting you this amazing talent.

Dot McAliley
Tuesday 08/28/2001 2:27:23pm
Name: Vickie Gold
E-Mail: vfgold0311@compuserve.com
Homepage Title: Michael Crawford
Homepage URL: http://
Where are you from?: High Point, N. C.
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: Mr. Webber,
I beg of you, please do not take the role of Phantom away from Michael Crawford. HE IS the Phantom! Many years ago, I was packing to move out of my house. I had just bought the CD from the Phantom Of The Opera. While I was aware of the story, I had never read the book or done very much research on the Phantom. I listened to the CD's in entirety while packing some things up. At the conclusion, I cried as if I had experienced a death in the family. That plaintive voice of Michael's so moved me that I begged my husband to take me to NYC to see the Phantom. Once there upon seeing Michael and hearing him, I cried again. I was pregnant at that time--my son's name is Michael. That should tell you how much the man means to myself and my family. We also traveled to L.A. to see Michael Crawford once more. Please cast him as the Phnatom. There is no one else.
Friday 08/24/2001 11:35:14am
Name: Clarisse
E-Mail:
Homepage Title:
Homepage URL: http://
Where are you from?: CA
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: Y'know, I find it interesting that you Andrew Lloyd Webber have been making successful musicals back then and yet you remain undaunted by the critics. How will critics react the minute The Phantom of the Opera movie gets messed up? Oh they will tear you apart more than ever! More than that, you wouldn't be remembered as the greatest composer of our time but rather, the composer who ignored his fans.

So your touch these days have been uncertain, ne? Well, there is only one way to regain that touch and it's listen to the fans on what they want: cast Michael Crawford as the Phantom in the movie version like you promised more than ten years ago. You have reminded the world of the very talents of Michael. Do it again and this time, it would be forever preserved for anyone who wished to have seen him, for history's sake, and for integrity's sake.
Sunday 08/12/2001 2:36:21pm
Name: Jessie
E-Mail:
Homepage Title:
Homepage URL: http://
Where are you from?:
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: Can I just say this? I was an ALW fan before I was ever a phan; it was the beautiful music of the show which made me into a real phan, but how can you even think of "fiddling with this one"?
I loved your music before I ever knew Erik existed, so don't tell me I'm just overreacting - someone who can write music as beautiful as that must have some essence of a soul in there. Don't shut out the voices of your fans.
Monday 08/06/2001 2:36:00am
Name: Cat
E-Mail: cat_midas@hotmail.com
Homepage Title:
Homepage URL: http://
Where are you from?:
Referred By: From a Friend
Comments: Michael Crawford IS the Phantom. You evidently thought that too at one stage, you cast him remember? All the TRUE Phans want him, not Antonio Banderas - is it AB who makes Phans cry when they listen to the soundtrack? Who drew audiences back time and again to see the show? I think not. You cannot think of casting anyone else in his role; MC is the living embodiment of Erik and no one else is good enough. So please, come to your senses and *start making the film with MC*!
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Friday 08/03/2001 2:41:33pm
Name: Erik'sangel
E-Mail: Littlej41@goarmysports.com
Homepage Title:
Homepage URL: http://
Where are you from?: New York
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: