An Open Letter to Andrew Lloyd Webber

 

Total: 100 Guests

Friday 08/29/2003 10:08:36pm
Name: Judith A Parry
E-Mail: juparry@yahoo.com
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Where are you from?: Salt Lake City, Utah
Referred By: Search Engine
Comments: There is no one better for the Phantom, than Michael Crawford. How can it matter how old he is, hes wearing a mask. He has the most wonderful voice, I listen to his tapes, I have the orig broadway cast and others, please, please cast him in the movie, you are the best composer, writer we have now, tks, Judith Parry
Thursday 08/28/2003 5:56:11pm
Name: Vokar
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Where are you from?: Dassel, MN
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: "Fondest greetings to you"
Why aren't you putting MC for the Phantom? Why? over 8000 people signed for him! But of course, "You don't have to! They can't make you!" It would have been such a wonderful choise! You would have made million more! Litterally! "It's your desision, but WHY not?" Are you "backing out"? Compared to MC the other singers are in did "insolent boy"s and "slave[s] of fasion" and "ignorant fool[s]" by way of music. Another thing is that I have heard a rumor that you are taking out music?! Are you? I can understand adding music (Here [you] bring the finished score!") I'm not so entirly sure about have Mr. Butler, but taking out your music!? Things brings to mind such things as "down you plunge""down that path into darkness (actually red numbers if you get my drift)""D*%nable!""How dare you!""[You] are ruined [Webber] ruined!!" Why this is so bad "It's just the sort of story" one would expect of disaster. The Phantom will not be so ghost like, the theaters will! The new "Phantom" "is nothing but a man! But while he [plays], the" theater will seem haughnted. Oh, well. "These things do happen."
Thursday 08/21/2003 11:51:15pm
Name: Marie Chappal
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Where are you from?: the bay area
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: I first heard the Phantom of the Opera as recordings of Michael Crawford's and Sarah Brightman's performances and I fell in love with the music. I am just fourteen and so I haven't had the chance to actually see them. When I heard about this movie me and my mom were overjoyed. But then I heard that Michael Crawford might not be in it, and was extremely disappointed. He is what makes up the Phantom! my mom has seen P/O 6 times and still totally loves the performance of Michael Crawford over all others. I will be VERY sad and dissappointed (as will MC fans everywhere) if u decide to cut out Michael Crawford.
Tuesday 08/19/2003 6:26:48pm
Name: what's it to u?
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Where are you from?: the middle of nowhere
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: Mr. Webber, PLEASE put MC as the OG. I will be very angry if you do not. You do not want to be in the same state as me if I am angry, so here is a warning. MC is the BEST Phantom I have ever, or will ever, see or hear. Do NOT put some sappy actor who knows noting about the story instead of our orignal Opera Ghost. Remember what I said!
Tuesday 08/19/2003 6:22:19pm
Name: Erin
E-Mail: magicsgerl@yahoo.com
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Where are you from?: what's it to u?
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: pu-lease put M.C. as the Phantom in the new movie! His voice is the best Phantom voice I have ever heard, all ghostly like and all. If you do not, I will be very angry. And one does not want an angry Barrel Racer!
PLEASE PUT MC AS PHANTOM!!!
Saturday 08/16/2003 3:03:31pm
Name: Jason
E-Mail: excelmanager@aol.com
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Where are you from?: North Carolina
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: Mr Webber, you have just signed the death warrant for Phantom of the Opera. I got taken in by it after listening to the CD's of Phantom. Many of my friends and family had done the same, then we saw the live broadway shows. Although Crawford wasn't there, we still enjoyed it a lot. Then there were my friends who did not hear the CD first and get sucked into the music of Crawford who say the live broadway. They were not very thrilled with it, and it was no big deal to them. Because Crawford is why we got into the Phantom, and now your casting somebody who just learned how to sing 1 month or so ago? Me and many fans are going to boycott the movie, I shall NOT see it, and I will rip off a FREE copy of it from Kazaa. You had better cease production of the movie and put Crawford in, or this will be a very large montetary mistake for you. If you have crawford, you'll have millions of fans on opening weekend, if you don't, you'll be hearing crickets in the theater on opening night.
Wednesday 07/30/2003 11:01:55am
Name: Amber Caul
E-Mail: broniadavis@hotmail.com
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Where are you from?: Uk
Referred By: Search Engine
Comments: Andrew, you are a total genius ... And a damn fool! How can you let some young sexy git of an actor steal the role that you and Michael created out of talent and friendship? Its obsurd to think that the likes of John Travolta are being asked to play the Opera Ghost, I mean can you seriously imagine, the Phantom bursting out a little song and dance of "night fever"? In his dungeon of black depair? I love your musical - it changed my life - and every moment I hear nothing but Michaels voice in my head. . . maybe its because that you've been hearing that voice for over a decade, but I'm only 13 and I swear to God if you do this ( as in NOT give MC the role of the Phantom) I will definatley f***ing kill myself, okay? Your obidient servant A.C.
Saturday 07/26/2003 3:55:01pm
Name: Emily
E-Mail: Empem8@pacbell.net
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Where are you from?: California
Referred By: From a Friend
Comments: I would like to say that since I heard of the possibility of making the Phantom of the Opera into a movie, I was really excited. But I think that it is a huge mistake not to use Michael Crawford. He is the man who made the Phantom. Even the Phantom who is touring right now, Brad Little, said that every Phantom has followed the mold created by Michael. Michael's voice is the purest, most beautiful voice...he has become the voice of the Phantom. To not allow him to play the role for which he has made famous,replacing him with a younger, sexier actor, is a huge mistake.
Sunday 07/20/2003 2:29:42pm
Name: Kathryn
E-Mail: LiserLS@aol.com
Homepage Title:  
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Where are you from?: CA
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: Dear Andrew,
I went to a concert last night regarding the very best of your music. It featured one new song from the phantom movie, I must say it is so beautiful, it's called The Hardest Note To Write. I hope you will leave the score and add just a couple more songs that are critical to the story. I also hope you'll include Michael Crawford in at least directing something in the movie!! Thanks!
Wednesday 07/16/2003 12:22:03am
Name: I'll never te-ell
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Where are you from?: Parts Unknown
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: Not to be mean, but I'd really like to see your PHANTOM OF THE OPERA movie flop so you'll learn a lesson about casting and changing the script
Monday 06/30/2003 6:09:05pm
Name: Laura
E-Mail: PrettyGrl141@aol.com
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Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: Dear Sir Lloyd Webber,
Even though you probably will not cast Michael Crawford and put Gerard Butler as th new, young, sexy phantom as you say he is, I will respect your decision for the casting and support the movie. We are not going against you, we would just rather see Michael Crawford than Gerard Butler. Gerard will be expected to be good because you chose him and you chose Michael Crawford all those years ago. So I hope you get the movie done soon, because I'm dying to see it. Thanks for making the Phantom an expierence from Heaven.
- Laura (a future Christine Daae)
Sunday 06/29/2003 11:09:45pm
Name: Michael
E-Mail: BeemanII@hotmail.com
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Where are you from?: USA
Referred By: Search Engine
Comments: Dear Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber...you CANT ADD NEW SONGS TO PHANTOM. The stage show is amazing the way it is and that is why it needs to be preserved. I will tell straight out that you will get some pretty unhappy fans if you CUT any shows from the musical. Adding a few songs is one thing but there is not ONE song in that musical that is not brilliant and can be cut. Phantom fans are hoping to see and adaption of the stage show NOT another Robert Englund or Claud Rains "VERSION" of Phantom... I mean really have you not LEARNED that Evita was a FLOP...stick to what you have...the stage musical is brilliant and should stay so
Thursday 06/26/2003 6:22:07am
Name: Pia Francesca
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Where are you from?: Foggia /ITALY
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: Dear Sir,
Friday 06/20/2003 1:49:47pm
Name: Another Upset Fan
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Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: Mr. Lloyd Webber, how could you do this to us?? How could you let us down by casting someone else and not Crawford as the Phantom?? I'm thoroughly disappointed in you.

We, the fans, counted on you to cast Michael Crawford as the Phantom in the POTO movie as you promised. We wanted so much to see Michael Crawford either once again or for the first time.

Mr. Lloyd Webber, I've been a fan of yours for quite some time, and all these years you have never let me down once. JOSEPH was amazing because you cast Donny Osmond in it. JCS was awesome because Glenn Carter was in it.

Now for the first tim you have let me down. Your Phantom movie would have been successful if Crawford had been the choice.

Well, this letter is long enough. I better let you go. Bye.
Friday 06/20/2003 1:33:25pm
Name: A Peeved Off Fan
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Where are you from?: None of your business
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: Lord Webber, I would just like to say something briefly. Since you didn't cast Micheal Crawford in the Phantom Movie...YOUR PHANTOM FILM WILL NEVER BE SUCCESSFULL!!!
Sunday 06/15/2003 11:23:25pm
Name: Mary Weaver
E-Mail: Sweetums@sc.rr.com
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Where are you from?: Sumter, SC
Referred By: Web Ring
Comments: I really wish that you would reconsider and use Michael Crawford for the Phantom of the Opera movie. I have seen the musical twice and, unfortunately, have not seen Michael Crawford in the role. I have the CD with his voice on it and have also seen him live in Las Vegas when he did EFX. He is absolutely terrific!! Please give everyone, who didn't get to see him in the Phantom of the Opera, a chance to see him in the role that he made famous!
Tuesday 06/10/2003 8:25:09pm
Name: Katie Zenk
E-Mail: starstruckdiva@charter.net
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Where are you from?: USA
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: Dearest Lord Lloyd Webber,
I want you to know how much I enjoy your musical "The Phantom of the Opera"! It is sheer genius! I was, however, dissappointed to learn that you will not be using Michael Crawford and Sarah Brightman in the movie. It is rumored that Mr. Crawford will not be cast because of his age. I am well aware that he is older than the "desirable" age, but he doesn't look it. Besides, he would have the mask and a ton of make-up on. No one would ever know. More than that, it's not about looks, it's about the voice, the SOUL, he gives the Phantom. No one can play the Phantom like he can! My mother and I are both fanatics about the Phantom. We both feel that the movie, should be like "Cats" and "Joseph" video versions of the musical. At least that's what we,(and all the fans we know) want. It, of course, is your decision, but I sincerly hope that you would consider the wishes of your fans!
Sincerly Yours,
Katie Zenk
Sunday 06/08/2003 10:48:33pm
Name: maria roman
E-Mail: lucindastrinkets@yahoo.com
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Where are you from?: mn in usa
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: you are looking a gift horse in the mouth. Who do yoou think madfe phantom. it's a crime to even think of anyone else
Sunday 06/08/2003 10:48:16pm
Name: maria roman
E-Mail: lucindastrinkets@yahoo.com
Homepage Title:  
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Where are you from?: mn in usa
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: you are looking a gift horse in the mouth. Who do yoou think madfe phantom. it's a crime to even think of anyone else
Wednesday 03/19/2003 2:43:59am
Name: Erika Nelsen
E-Mail: TheaterFan24601@aol.com
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Where are you from?: Plymouth, MN, USA
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: DEAR LORD LLOYD WEBBER:

On behalf of all of the people at the MICHAEL CRAWFORD PHANTOM MOVIE CAMPAIGN website, I would just like to inform you that your fans, are VERY upset with you for refusing to cast Michael Crawford as the Phantom in the PHANTOM OF THE OPERA movie.

We do not want to see our favorite musical being ruined by Hollywood. Look a what happened to Evita. It bombed (meaning it was bad) because you got a Hollywood cast to do it. We don't want the same thing to happen to PHANTOM.

Michael Crawford is NOT too old to play the Phantom. He played Count Von Crolock in DANCE OF THE VAMPIRES, which I am sure is a demanding role. If he can do DANCE OF THE VAMPIRES, then he can do PHANTOM OF THE OPERA.

You're depriving your fans of the man who made it all happen, especially those who have not had the chance to see Michael Crawford as the Phantom.

You've heard our pleas and you've read our letters. We've asked you, now we're begging you to cast our beloved Michael Crawford to play the Phantom.

The fans and I will stand together and see that Michael Crawford plays the Phantom in the PHANTOM OF THE OPERA movie. We will not give up.

So do the right thing. Give Michael Crawford back the roll that made him famous. Cast him as the Phantom in the PHANTOM OF THE OPERA movie.

Sincerely,
Erika Nelsen, the people of the MICHAEL CRAWFORD MOVIE CAMPAIGN, and all the rest of your fans
Thursday 03/13/2003 2:48:16am
Name: Kevin Faulkner
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Where are you from?: Norman, Ok
Referred By: Search Engine
Comments: Please, don't sell out to some Hollywood fool. Michael Crawford did an AMAZING job playing the Phantom, but so have numerous Phantoms in touring shows. Even if Michael Crawford turns down the role or is deemed inappropriate due to age or any other silly reason (or simply turns the role down), the part should go to someone who can play it with a degree of skill superior to, say, Antonio Banderas. You put so much work into this, and we have been loyal. You owe it to yourself, the fans, and every castmember or crewman to make the best possible artistic decision. The fans will buy art, but we'll be less apt to return four times to watch Antonio Banderas.
Tuesday 03/11/2003 7:44:38pm
Name: Tammy Sokol
E-Mail: tammy@thesokols.org
Homepage Title: The Sokols.org
Homepage URL: http://www.thesokols.org
Where are you from?: origoanlly, Texas, now living in Georgia
Referred By: Search Engine
Comments: Dear Mr. Webber:

Years ago, I went to a theatre in San Antonio, Texas, and sat through one of the most wonderful amazing, spectacular things I have ever seen, "The Phantom of the Opera".

I am sure people have told you this over and over, and I wanted to add mine to the many accolades that you have received. Your work on "Phantom" is without equal. It is the best thing I have ever seen. Michael Crawford is perfect as the Phantom. You can't go wrong with him in the much hoped for an anticipated (especailly by me) movie. Again, thank you for the wonderful experience I had at "Phantom".

Tammy Sokol
Monday 03/10/2003 5:33:06am
Name: Scott Phelps
E-Mail: raven92080@yahoo.com
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Where are you from?: Parma ,Ohio
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: Dear Mr. Andrew Lloyd Webber,

I am writing to ask that you use Michael Crawford as "The Phantom" in your movie adaptation of "The Phantom of the Opera". He was the amazing actor that I saw the first time that I saw your amazing musical. He is a part of the reason that I still love "The Phantom of the Opera". I have heard other's try to pull off the same role, but none can compare to the way he pulls it off.
He symbolizes "The Phantom" for me in every way. From the the way he sings the role to the way he moves to the way he looks as "The Phantom".
PLEASE! PLEASE cast him for the role.
And thank you for your most valuable time.


Sincerly,
Scott Phelps
Sunday 03/09/2003 10:00:15pm
Name: Unknown
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Where are you from?: Unknown
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: I can't BELIEVE that you would think Michael Crawford is too old to be the Phantom. I mean, COME ON. Would you vote for a president for his age and his looks?? Of course not.

You'd vote for a president for the good work that he does and a promising performance. If he was a good president you really wouldn't care about his age or his looks.

Well that's the same deal with the PHANTOM movie. You can't just cast someone based on their age or their looks. You have to cast them based on the quality of their voice and the hard work they do. Michael Crawford is just the man to do the role.

I mean, so what if he's too old? He's going to be in makeup so it won't really matter.

All I'm trying to say is that we (the fans) really don't care about how old Michael Crawford is. We just want the best and the best is Crawford.

So do us all a favor and vote "CRAWFORD FOR PHANTOM." It'll just save you a lot of trouble if you do. Trust me. You'll be glad you did.
Sunday 03/09/2003 3:22:28am
Name: Megana
E-Mail: megana_williams
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Where are you from?: Wales
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: Please, please choose the quality phantom actor that is Crawford.
Saturday 03/08/2003 10:19:54pm
Name: Charles T. Capone
E-Mail: wand@mahanoycity,net
Homepage Title:  
Homepage URL:  
Where are you from?: PA
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: Dear Lord Webber,
After seeing Michael in DOTV several times, I think you should reconsider your thoughts. Michael Crawford created the character Erik and should be in the role in the movie. Michael's age should not be even a consideration. if you would have seen his performance in DOTV it was amazing and that voice!! Sorry, he is and always will be Phantom!! Please reconsider.
Wednesday 02/26/2003 9:37:58pm
Name: An Angry Fan
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Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: Dear Sir Lloyd Webber,

Mr. Lloyd Webber, I just want you to know that not casting Michael Crawford to play the Phantom in your PHANTOM OF THE OPERA movie is a slap in all of your fans' faces.

We spend countless amounts of money on tickets, CDs, posters, T-shirts, and other merchandise from PHANTOM OF THE OPERA. We, the fans are the ones making the money for you and giving you what you want. And now this is how you repay us?

You should give us what we want in return for giving you fame and fortune. We all want Michael Crawford as the Phantom in your movie, and we will NOT give up without a fight. We will NOT stay silent.

THE ROLL IS THE MAN! THE MAN IS CRAWFORD!!!
Monday 02/17/2003 6:44:05pm
Name: josh {JAZZ}
E-Mail: joshbird@aol.com
Homepage Title:  
Homepage URL:  
Where are you from?: aylesbury
Referred By: Web Ring
Comments: please put m.c in the movie i love ur shows n the film versions of ur shows he is great no matter what the age
Friday 02/14/2003 0:16:27am
Name: Sarah-Ann Lee
E-Mail: lee_meixia@hotmail.com
Homepage Title:  
Homepage URL:  
Where are you from?: planet earth
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: Dear Lord webber,

If you're reading this, I just want to tell you that I think you're making a gigantic mistake. I'm a new fan of crawford, a bit late really, since someone lent me the highlights of POTO i've been looking for the double disk but I just can't seem to find it in singapore...

If you are thinking that MIchael is too old to play the phantom, I can jolly well say that you are too old to be making musicals! and besides, you think Erick was only around 45 when he fell in love with christine? come on man! he would have been around 60 and even if he was a bit younger than that, Michael would be under all that makeup so no one would really care.

What we really care about is to hear Michaels voice sing the role he was destined for, that is all.

And if you thind AB can do it you are so wrong, the guy is too tall to act as a frenchman! he's spanish!
Friday 02/07/2003 7:16:49pm
Name: Melanie Dyer
E-Mail: terreis1@yahoo.com
Homepage Title:  
Homepage URL:  
Where are you from?: Arkansas
Referred By: Search Engine
Comments: Mr. Webber,

When I was only twelve, I was taken to New York City with fourteen other girls my age. We were from a small town and, naturally, NYC was overwhelming for us. We were there for four days and saw fantastic things, but, on our first night there, we saw The Phantom of the Opera.
I'll never forget it. It was the first real play I'd ever seen and I immediately fell in love with it. I don't remember now who played the Phantom, because as soon as I got back home and bought the soundtrack, Michael Crawford's voice pierced my very soul. He IS the Phantom. No one else could ever be. Even now, thirteen years after I saw the play, all I have to do is hear Michael Crawford's voice and I'm transported back to that night.
Please don't rob those who haven't been able to see the play of the chance to see this man act in the part he was born for.
Sincerely,
Melanie Dyer
Saturday 02/01/2003 6:22:52pm
Name: Nancy Hoffman
E-Mail: otchmeg@aol.com
Homepage Title: Phantom
Homepage URL:  
Where are you from?: Harrisburg, Pa. USA
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: I had the priveledge of seeing Michael Crawford in Dance of the Vampires on Closing night. He is just as awesome and talented as he was 15 years ago in Phantom. In my humble opinion, HE is the Phantom and any movie made without him cast as such will be a hugh Farce!
Monday 01/27/2003 2:51:39pm
Name: Mrs Sandra McLeod
E-Mail: csmith@biocare.org
Homepage Title:  
Homepage URL:  
Where are you from?: Boston, Ma USA
Referred By: Search Engine
Comments: Dear Sir,
We have heard that you believe that Michael Crawford is now too old to play the lead in the film. ACTUALLY, he is probably just the right age for perceptions of the phantom. He is also THE best. PLEASE reconsider. We are old fans (54 yrs old) of yours.
Thank You,
Tom & Sandy Mcleod
Monday 01/20/2003 2:24:11pm
Name: Phanari Rhun
E-Mail: phanari@hotmail.com
Homepage Title:  
Homepage URL:  
Where are you from?: Phelan
Referred By: From a Friend
Comments: ALW,
You really shouldn't worry so much about MC's age. He has a wonderful voice and he wrote the role of the Phantom not to mention the fact that he's still a lady killer (have you ever been to one of his concerts? You'll never seen so many women in one room in your life) and besides, he'll have a mask and tons of make-up on his face so you son't have to worry. Oh, and you must know that Erik (the real Phantom) was much older than 60 when he fell in love with Christine. It makes plenty of sense for the era. Come on, give MC a chance. We all want him and I'm sure you'll have the money and crowds you want in your movie.
~Phanari
Sunday 01/19/2003 4:01:37pm
Name:  
E-Mail: Phantomrose20
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Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: Dear Mr. Webber,

How can you possibly think of casting anyone else besides Michael Crawford as the Phantom?! I mean, are you crazy?

Back in high school is when my love for the Phantom began. I was the only student in the whole freaking school who was a fan of the Phantom and because of this I was severely teased and made fun of.
I would come home everyday after school crying from being made fun of just for liking the Phantom of the Opera.

And now this is how you repay me for suffering just to be a fan of your music? By not casting Michael Crawford in your Phantom Movie and making me suffer more?

Do me a favor and end my suffering. Please cast Michael Crawford as the Phantom.
Friday 01/17/2003 11:39:35pm
Name: Laura Schultz
E-Mail: PrettyGrl141@aol.com
Homepage Title:  
Homepage URL:  
Where are you from?: CA
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: Dear Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber,
First, I want to thank you for all the work that you have done for the world over these many years. I wrote a letter to you saying how I love The Phantom and that I was going to sing a solo of the Music of the Night. I'm in 7th Grade- and well you see I'm not your average teen. I am a broadway freak and want to be singing the part of Christine Daae one day. When I sing my solo of the Music of the Night, the one person I want in my audience is... Michael Crawford. He has inspired me so much to be all that I want to be. It's true I've never met the talented man, and he doesn't know who I am but I know that he is with me somehow. When my older brother told me that there was a Phantom movie coming out I thought I would have a heart attack. Of course I thought it would be the original cast, but when I found out that it probably wouldn't, I was in deep despair. Michael made your dreams come true now its your turn to make one of his dreams to come true. I heard Antonio Banderas sing the Phantom part and he isn't half as good. If you put Michael as the Phantom youwould make me and everyone around the world extremely happy. Well please consider what I have said and thank you for taking your precious time of reading this letter.

Love always,
Laura S.- a future Christine Daae
Friday 01/17/2003 10:01:03pm
Name: Lauren K.
E-Mail: popcorn1289@yahoo.com
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Where are you from?: California
Referred By: Search Engine
Comments: Dear Mr. Lloyd Webber,

Recently I heard the news that the Phantom movie project is going ahead. I congratulate you on one of the smartest desicions you've ever made in your life. HOWEVER... I have also heard some rather unpleasant rumors about Antonio Banderas. :( . Why on earth would you cast HIM as the phantom???????? Please... your work is the best I've heard in a long time... don't ruin it. I can assure you, the main reason that you'll have an audience for this movie is if you have the only true phantom actor in the role: Michael Crawford. Please... do everyone a favor... don't ruin something so special. Michael Crawford IS the Phantom. Would you take him away from us?
Tuesday 01/14/2003 10:02:00pm
Name: Danise A. Hegerty
E-Mail: DofB5@prodigy.net
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Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: January 14, 2003

Dear Sir Lloyd Webber,

I know that you must have read many letters in this
campaign to have Mr. Crawford star as the “Phantom of
the Opera”. It is my hope to possibly bring a
different perspective and to that end I only ask a
chance to plead not Mr. Crawford’s case but Erik’s.

I am a 44-year-old woman, not a child. I am not a
card-carrying member of Mr. Crawfords fan club. I do,
however, have a great respect for the man and his
work.

I first heard “Music Of The Night” on the “Premiere
Collection” CD which was given to me as a gift. It
caught my ear so I purchased the “Phantom” CD.

Eric’s voice moved me to tears. No thoughts of what
the actor looked like or his age entered my mind. The
music and the voice wrapped themselves around my heart
like silken thread and bound me to them.

When I finely was able to see “Phantom” at a road
show, I was very disappointed. My head knew it
wouldn’t be the same voice but the silken thread
around my heart tightened, refusing to allow me to
acknowledge the usurper. I walked out of the theater
feeling hollow and unfulfilled.

No matter how many times I have seen “Phantom” since
then I have never had the experience that matched the
voice on the CD. Many may try to replace him, but
that voice is the yardstick, by which all others must
be judged, weighed and ultimately found to be wanting.
Perhaps it was the truest “Phantom” of all, not
judged by appearances but by voice alone.

I believe that this is the sentiment the others of
this board are trying (perhaps a little over
enthusiastically) to convey to you.

I beg you to go some place quiet and to set aside all
images or thoughts of the appearance/age of the
actors. Please listen to their voices alone. Picture
Eric and I know in my heart that you will find there
is no reason to rethink your original choice.

The tears I’ll shed should you decide on someone other
than Mr. Crawford to portray Eric won’t be so much for
him as for Eric. You will have given him a body but
robbed him of his soul.

Thank you for your time, kind attention and any
consideration you may give my words.

I remain,

Respectfully yours,

Danise A. Hegerty
DofB5@prodigy.net
Tuesday 01/14/2003 3:54:54am
Name: Crystal Beck
E-Mail: sleuthgirl24@aol.com
Homepage Title:  
Homepage URL:  
Where are you from?: Kentucky
Referred By: Search Engine
Comments: Dear Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber,
I discovered today on TV Guide online that due to the success of "Chicago" you have finally decided to produce the film version of "Phantom". I am exhuberated at the idea. "Phantom" is my favorite musical and I have long wished to be able to watch it whenever my heart desires. But the article also metioned that Antonio Banderas has expressed an interest in the lead role. PISH POSH! He cannot sing the role of "phantom" and I would be disgusted til the end of time if he were to recieve this role. The obvious choice is Michael Crawford! He is what the fans want! You can use the other role to bring in the star power. Nicole Kidman as Christine. Ewan Mcgreggor as Raoul. But please, for the love of this musical and the fans who adore it so much, DO NOT CAST ANTONIO BANDERAS! I heard him sing "Music Of the Night" as few years ago at the tribute for you. He does not have the voice. If not Michael Crawford then please find someone who can pull off a falsetto note without making my blood curdle. "Erik" was not a stud! He was a pure soul, tortured and tormented his whole life for his appearance. Banderas would be an insult. I beg you, on bended knee. Do this film the justice is deserves. And please remove that, pardon my french, bull shit line of "don't forget the angel of hell" from the final act. It makes "Erik" seem cruel, stallerish, and sadistic. He was in actuality none of these things, but an animal who only attacked when he felt threatened. I thought I was going to scream when this was added during a performance I recently saw. "Erik" is a tragic character that has a beauty within him that is unable to live in the light because of the biases of the majority. His love for Christine is pure with no boundries, but years of physical, mental, and emotional abuse sends him into fits of madness. The actor who plays this role should have that kind of depth, and Banderas does not. The first actor I saw perform this live, Brad Little, was just what I had hoped for, minus not being Crawford. Crawford is not too old for the role since "Erik" is between 30 and 60. Keep the fans in mind when casting for this film. I beg you!

Your Obiedient Servant and Friend,

Ms. Crystal Beck
Sunday 01/12/2003 3:01:46am
Name: Tina
E-Mail: Jimmeebufet@cox.net
Homepage Title:  
Homepage URL:  
Where are you from?: USA
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE DO NOT !!! think of Antonio Banderas as the Phantom for the movie!!!! There is no one like Crawford with that voice that could make it work. I have seen the play about 7 times live and the only one that came close was a gentleman at the Wang Center in Boston about 6 years ago (I'm sorry, I forgot his name). I would absolutely LOVE to see Phantom on the big screen, but to be honest, if it was Banderas I don't think I would go. What a let down. Thanks for your time. And thanks for a great musical.....I've loved it for years and have known it word for word for quite a few of them :)
Saturday 01/11/2003 8:45:29pm
Name: Erica
E-Mail: angel_of_music89@yahoo.com
Homepage Title: The Angel's Labyrinth
Homepage URL: http://www.geocities.com/americanangel34429/theangelslabyrinth.html?1038275326660
Where are you from?: Florida
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: Dear Mr. Webber,
I LOVE your musical, the Phantom of the Opera. I first saw it on a field trip in 6th grade - I am now in 8th and I can still remember every little detail of that romantic, thrilling story... I can't remember who I saw as the Phantom, but after the show, I bought the CD with the original cast. When I read the cover, it said "Michael Crawford". "Hmm, I thought to myself, I wonder if he's any good!" I turn the CD on and I about faint. He was AMAZING! No words can describe how he sang. I now listen to that CD every single night, especially The Music of the Night because I love hearing Michael Crawford sing... When I heard that a movie of the Phantom of the Opera was going to be produced, I was thrilled. When I heard you were casting Michael Crawford, I was ecstatic. When I heard that you had been thinking about breaking your promise to Mr. Crawford and casting Antonio Bandares, my heart broke into a million pieces!! Yes, Antonio can sing. He has a good voice, but not a Phantom voice. It compares absolutely NOTHING to Michael Crawford's voice, which is sweet, soft, persuasive, and inticing. Mr. Crawford's voice is the PERFECT Phantom voice!!!! You, as well as anyone should know that. He was the ORIGINAL PHANTOM and the only true one... Mr. Webber, I may only be thirteen years old, but I know a talented, inticing voice when I hear one. And that voice belongs to Michael Crawford!
Wednesday 01/01/2003 8:48:29pm
Name: Richard K. Christovich
E-Mail: proteus333@aol.com
Homepage Title:  
Homepage URL:  
Where are you from?: New Orleans, LA
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: Dear Lord Webber, Your Lordship created the Phantom, and Michael Crawford became the Phantom in every manner you could have envisioned. Please support his continuation of the role in the movie version. Thank you so much for all of the enjoyment you have brought to me and my family through your many works. Sincerely, R. K. Christovich
Monday 12/16/2002 6:58:22pm
Name: Wesley A. Kelly
E-Mail: -
Homepage Title: The man is the role, Crawford campain
Homepage URL:  
Where are you from?: Portland Or
Referred By: From a Friend
Comments: First of all I would like to give Andrew Lloyd Webber the recognition he is due for his work in the birth of the most beautiful and passionate piece of preformance art ever.Gaston Leroux would be pleased I am sure.Phantom of the opera has grown to become one of the most highly attended musicals ever. It has touched my life and once again I Thank you. However the overall balance of passion and power, seduction and grace, are largely owed to the foundation layed by the charismatic Micheal Crawford. I was horrified to hear that you,as one of the original master minds of this creation would consider having anyone other than Mr.Crawford portray our phantom on the silver screen.Broadway preformers can always change, this however is a perminent representation of the dream, the monster,the man, the phantom. You owe it to the fans who have also helped POTO become what is today, to do all in your power to keep the dream alive and preserved on film in all its glory. You know whats right. Dont let personal disires interfere with aesthetic judgement.
Saturday 12/14/2002 11:32:36pm
Name: Phantom lover
E-Mail: band_chick9@hotmail.com
Homepage Title:  
Homepage URL:  
Where are you from?: Iowa
Referred By: Search Engine
Comments: Lord Llyod-Webber,
"Many have sent you letters of the most amiable nature, detailing how this musical should be cast. Our orders have not been obeyed, but we'll give you one last chance...
Michael Crawford is available to you, and we are anxious his career should progress...You shall therefore cast Banderas as Buquet. The part of the Phantom calls for a voice and appeal. The character Buquet dies quickly, which makes our casting, in a word, ideal! If these demands are not met, a box-office disaster beyond your imagination will occur.
I remain respectfully yours,
P.L."
Sunday 12/08/2002 10:47:34pm
Name:  
E-Mail: SweetPassion21@aol.com
Homepage Title:  
Homepage URL:  
Where are you from?:  
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: Mr. Webber, you know right well that everyone wants Michael Crawford as the Phantom in the POTO movie and not Antonio Banderas or whoever the hell that guy is. So just give the fans what they want and cast Michael Crawford as the Phantom. He was the guy I fell in love with when I first heard the CD, not some spanish freak. Cast Antonio or any other person to be the Phantom, and you can kiss your fame and fortune goodbye.

P.S. I wasn't trying to be rude, but I was just telling you all of this for your own good.
Thursday 12/05/2002 2:50:41pm
Name: Maestro le Fantome
E-Mail: meastro_le_fantome@hotmail.com
Homepage Title:  
Homepage URL:  
Where are you from?: Wilton IA
Referred By: From a Friend
Comments: Mr. Webber,
have you lost your senses, as a writer myself I know the feelings of wanting the best for your piece, however, Antonio is not the answer. You had him all along, Mr. Crawford.
He is the only one with the right to wear that mask.
My final note, you created a beautiful musical, and we thank you, but us fans are numerous and pissed off.
The artist can not exist without his fans,
Your obediant servent
Maestro le Fantome
Thursday 11/14/2002 1:37:01am
Name: Elena Hoexter
E-Mail: ehoexter@attbi.com
Homepage Title:  
Homepage URL:  
Where are you from?: Fremont ,California
Referred By: From a Friend
Comments: Phantom of the Opera IS the greatest musical I have ever seen. I found it interesting and questionable to why Antonio Bandaras would be cast beside Sarah. It just doesn't seem right. No one can take the place of Michael Crawford and it just seems so much more appropriate to keep Michael, the real Phantom, the one who has the experience and dedication and knowledge of the part. If Antonio Bandaras would be cast, it wouldn't have the same effect as Michael does on the Phantom fans. I am not saying that Antonio Bandaras doesn't sing well, it just isn't the same. People are so used to Michael that no one else would be exceptable. I mean, if Michael couldn't do, I think it would be wise to consider someone else who has had as much stage experience and experience with the part, such as Franc Di' Ambrosio. However, Michael is top choice. The Phantom phans(fans) and I ( I assume I speak for the other fans) don't think that casting Antonio would be appropriate.

THanks for the most wonderful music in the history of musicals.

A dedicated Phantom and Michael fan
Saturday 10/19/2002 7:56:20am
Name: jakub
E-Mail: chipmunkfisherman@most-wanted.com
Homepage Title:  
Homepage URL:  
Where are you from?: Australia
Referred By: From a Friend
Comments: dear ALW
What do you think you are doing? Making your loyal fans suffer, look at all the sad and dissapointed faces around you. Why dont you listen to us? and keep YOUR fans happy, we are ones who have to go watch it to make you the money , so let Micheal Crawford play the role.
Jakub
Wednesday 10/16/2002 1:25:04am
Name: Sharon Payne
E-Mail: sharon_l_payne@hotmail.com
Homepage Title:  
Homepage URL:  
Where are you from?: Australia
Referred By: Just Surfed On In
Comments: Dear Mr Lloyd-Webber,

I have been a fan of your brilliant creation Phantom of the Opera for a number of years now. At the tender age of 16 I was introduced to this visually stunning and beautifully written musical by a good friend for which I will be forever grateful. For my 17th birthday, I bought the album and listened to it continuously for three days and I am not ashamed to say that it was for one reason and one alone. The voice of Michael Crawford. While I hold attachment to a number of others who have played this role such as Rob Guest of Australia and Colm Wilkinson it is a role that truly belongs to Michael and none other. When I heard rumours of Antonio Banderas possibly playing the title role and heard a sample of his singing from your birthday special, I was most disturbed. Please Andrew, for the sake of the dignity of the character and for the well-being of your fans, allow Michael to continue and bring to life on the big screen, this character which has captured the hearts of many.

Sincerly and with much pleading,

Sharon
Wednesday 10/09/2002 10:16:15am
Name: Barbara stasak
E-Mail: crazygurl@netlimit.com
Homepage Title:</