BWW Previews: PHANTOM OF THE OPERA at Paramount Theater

The Phantom of the Opera has been wowing audiences for decades. The Paramount Theatre offered a select few a sneak peek behind the scenes of the production. What we discovered was inspiration, glamour, and magic.

Eva Tavares was on hand to discuss her role as Christine in the show. Growing up she was a competitive dancer and later studied opera in college. Her story parallels that of Christine's as she too began as a dancer and ended up the star of the opera.

For Tavares, it's a bit of serendipity, but also shows the diverse paths that people take to Broadway success.

Tavares is feeling at home here in the Emerald City as her cast mates have dubbed her Green Christine. She has been teaching the cast about sustainable living and finding ways for them to recycle and compost while on the road. She usually finds a community garden to accept their compost, but is thrilled with the variety of options that Seattle offers to help their production go green.

Guests got a close up view of the grand chandelier that is virtually a character in the show itself. While watching technicians reset and prep the chandelier for the next show, the stage manager answered questions about the lovely lighting piece and how it operates. The gilded lady looks right at home in the Paramount, and I can't wait to see it in action.

To top off the event, a rack of costumes from the show was on display for everyone to ogle up close. Costumes always look beautiful as they move and dance across the dance. However, it is not until you hold one in your hand that you can truly appreciate the art and craftsmanship that a single costume contains. One of the gowns on hand consisted of at least a dozen different types of materials, trims, beads, buttons, and lace. Every stitch was impeccable. Most surprising was the sheer weight of many of them. I tip my hat to the ladies that jump and twirl in these heavy dresses.

If you're looking to add a little inspiration, glamour, and magic to your day, grab some tickets to Phantom of the Opera at the Paramount Theatre, now through August 19th.