Leo Kharibian

Interview: A Career That Goes Beyond The Mask, Michael Crawford Looks Back on A Long and Distinguished Career
by Elliot Lanes - Dec 19, 2025

International performer Michael Crawford is probably best known the world over for originating the title character in The Phantom of the Opera in the West End, on Broadway, and an extended engagement in Los Angeles. But his seventy year career goes far beyond that one show. Prior to The Phantom of the Opera Mr. Crawford appeared regularly on the West End in such productions as Barnum, Black Comedy, Flowers for Algernon, and Billy. You might also remember him from his performance of Corneilus Hackl in the movie version of Hello Dolly. He also appeared in EFX at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas as well as having a very successful concert and solo recording career.