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Cape Town – The Phantom of the Opera has suffered another setback.
André Schwartz, the number one Phantom, has strained his vocal chords due to the challenges of preparing for the role. He will not be playing the role until further notice.
The number two Phantom, Jonathan Roxmouth, is taking over from him and the third Phantom, Nicholas Nkuna, will move in as his successor.
Impresario Pieter Toerien said singers and actors suffer injuries like sportsmen. "If a sportsman injures a muscle, everyone understands. I hope the public understands that Schwartz's voice is injured. We cannot risk him suffering permanent damage. The moment he feels fine, he will play the role again. "
'Money notes'
According to Toerien, Schwartz is devastated because he can't go on with the show.
"Ironically enough, it only revolves around five notes that need to be sung in different songs. It is the five high A-notes - we call them the 'money notes'. If the Phantom can't reach them, it's just not good enough."
Roxmouth, who now plays the Phantom, said he realises he has big shoes to fill.
On Tuesday the musical was performed as a concert version for the first time in its 25-year existence due to wet paint on the stage.
André Schwartz, the number one Phantom, has strained his vocal chords due to the challenges of preparing for the role. He will not be playing the role until further notice.
The number two Phantom, Jonathan Roxmouth, is taking over from him and the third Phantom, Nicholas Nkuna, will move in as his successor.
Impresario Pieter Toerien said singers and actors suffer injuries like sportsmen. "If a sportsman injures a muscle, everyone understands. I hope the public understands that Schwartz's voice is injured. We cannot risk him suffering permanent damage. The moment he feels fine, he will play the role again. "
'Money notes'
According to Toerien, Schwartz is devastated because he can't go on with the show.
"Ironically enough, it only revolves around five notes that need to be sung in different songs. It is the five high A-notes - we call them the 'money notes'. If the Phantom can't reach them, it's just not good enough."
Roxmouth, who now plays the Phantom, said he realises he has big shoes to fill.
On Tuesday the musical was performed as a concert version for the first time in its 25-year existence due to wet paint on the stage.
