What is your favorite Erik?

[Meg Giry]

I couldn't think of more than three actors who've played the Phantom so I didn't set up a poll for this topic - but as the title says, who is your favourite Phantom? Do you prefer Gerard Butler's portrayal in the film to any of the stage Phantoms? Do you like any of the old-school original cast Phantoms like Michael Crawford? How do they compare to each other?

Having grown up with my mother playing the Original London Cast CD around the house, Michael Crawford is my personal favourite. I love the tone and colours in his voice. The "Let your soul take you where you long to be" line in 'Music of the Night' gets me every time *shivers*

[Opera Ghost]

I have only ever seen one version of Phantom of the Opera - the 2005 film. So naturally, I'd have to say that Gerard Butler is my favourite Phantom. He's got a great singing voice, he's a brilliant actor, and of course - he's majorly good looking! :D So yeah, I'd say he's my favourite.

OG

[The Khanum]

I'm definitely going to have to go with Gerry, just because after reading 'Phantom,' I've come to the conclusion that you can't portray Erik without a certain amount of sensuality and romanticism. Gerry's got both. Don't get me wrong; Michael Crawford has an amazing voice, but he just...I don't know, doesn't have that vital, raw (for lack of a better term) sexiness for Erik's role. I mean, look at my username. The Phantom just IS sexy. It's what he is.

But if we're going for ALL Phantom's, my personal favorite is Kay's Phantom. Kay!Erik is simply perfect in every aspect. Period.

~The_Phantom_is_Sexy

[cinty]

Michael Crawford, Michael Crawford, Michael Crawford.
I like Gerry alot, but man, MC's voice is so the best!!! He rules.

[Selenity]

My favorite Phantom has, and always will be Brad Little. His voice, his movements, his portrayal of the Phantom is how I would imagine the Phantom to be if he existed.

Sincerely,
Selenity

[Evaline Cuomo]

Cinty & Selenity - You're getting spammalicious there. Please don't post just one or two lines. Make it more substantial.

[cinty]

Sorry.I'm often posting on here in a hurry so I don't ahve time to say much. I will give more description. I like Gerard very much, I thought he portrayed the role well, put much passion into it and did a good singing job considering his training. But I think that Michael Crawford is the best because I think, from the pictures I have seen, he had the ideal looks too. He looks old, like he is meant to be according to Leroux's book, and he has that beautiful melting voice that makes you fall in love with him. You can forget his face and just listen to his voice and fall in love with him. I think that is the way Erik is meant to be. So I say that MC is my favourite phantom.

[wolfwynd]

My favourite Phantom is John Owen Jones - I absolutely adore him, his voice, his mannerism - I could wax lyrical about the man alllll day :P:duck:

[Meg Giry]

I agree with you again, Jacinta! I just love the tone in MC's voice, it has a wonderful purity about it that I think reflects the Phantom's softer side, but can also sing in a menancing fashion when necessary. Lovely.

[Phantom of Eternia]

Movie wise my favorite Phantoms are:

Lon Chaney- his is closest to Leroux and I think he did a wonderful protraying Erik and his lines are so moving "No more will I haunt these cellars like a toad secreteing the venom of hatred for your will redeem me"

Claude Raines- While the story deviates from Leroux I think it is a very sweet and touching version of Phantom. You feel sorry for Enrique I mean the man gets fired from the Opera; loses his house; gets his music stolen; and gets acid splashed on him. Raines also does well in protraying the Phantom's softer side and his voice is one of the best.

Gerard Butler- Gerry Butler has so much passion in his voice that I get emotional sometimes listening to the soundtrack espescailly at the end when he sings "Christine I love you"

Stage Wise:

Brad Little- he was the only Phantom I've seen live and from what I can remember he did an excellent job

Michael Crawford- the man has a wonderful voice and does an excellent job in the role (although there are some songs that prefer Gerry Butler's voice than Michael's)

[Silhouette]

My favorite has got to be Hugh Panero, the current broadway phantom. I think hes got an amazing voice that just plays into the feelings of pain and despair. I dont think anyone plays the part as well as he does

Michael Crawford is my 2nd favorite another amazing portreyal

and Gerard butler was slightly dissapointing for me but he did allright. Just doesnt compare to broadway

[sing_for_me]

I've only ever seen two Phantoms - Gerard Butler and Howard McGillin - so my I never actually got to see my favorite. (Also, I was about three years old at the time... darn. :mad: Plus, I'm American, so it really wouldn't have worked out..)

Peter Hofmann, the original German (as in, Germany, not German language) Phantom. I love him so very, very much. His voice is really haunting and just perfect for the part. And he's really scary and perfectly threatening at the end of Notes I. :mask:

[Amber Summers]

I`ve seen 3 phantom movies. Thats all I can say. Favourite phantom- Gerry, ofcourse. For me there`s no competition.

I guess Robert Englund makes a fine Phantom aswell, very well played. Nice voice.

[IamErik771]

Voice-wise, Michael Crawford is my favorite. I think if Erik were a real person, he would probably sound a lot like MC. I also like Hugh Panaro, John Owen-Jones, and Anthony Warlow's voices, among others.

That said, Gerry is my favorite Phantom who I've actually seen playing the role. He brings so much power and emotion to his character; I'm glad he was chosen for the film. I also loved Lon Chaney's film, and watch the DVD whenever I can. The only other POTO film I've seen was Claude Rains, but that was long ago (before I became a Phan!) so I don't really remember much about it, other than the chandelier drop. :D

[Requiem]

Oh Michael Crawford without a doubt for me! His voice is just so rich and beautiful. Even now, a million listens in, parts of his songs still make me just go "wow". He just HAS that Phantom presence - creepy, alluring, dangerous...

Gerry Butler was ok, nothing spectacular. I thought he did a great job bringing the acting to life, and he was certainly a fantastic-looking Phantom. He just doesn't have the voice that Michael has though...

[cinty]

Originally posted by Requiem
Oh Michael Crawford without a doubt for me! His voice is just so rich and beautiful. Even now, a million listens in, parts of his songs still make me just go "wow". He just HAS that Phantom presence - creepy, alluring, dangerous...

Gerry Butler was ok, nothing spectacular. I thought he did a great job bringing the acting to life, and he was certainly a fantastic-looking Phantom. He just doesn't have the voice that Michael has though...
I really agree with you about all those things.. only I do really like Gerry.. but Michael's voice is HEAPS better... he so IS the Phantom.

[cinty]

I'veheard of Gary Maur.. he sounds really good.. wow you have seen/heard a lot of actors playing him!! I have only seen Gerry, but I've heard MC (my fave) Graham Bickley, Hugh Panaro and Colm Wilkinson. They are all very good but MC shines out for me.

[kashmir]

This is not a favorite Phantom of mine, but I've heard that Paul Stanley from the 70s/80s band KISS is playing the Phantom in Canada right now...and he's suppose to be on broadway? Someone just told me this, so I figured I'd ask on here to see if anyone knew anymore about this?

[Amber Summers]

I checked it out and this is what I found: Paul Stanley plays the role of The Phantom of The Opera in Toronto, Canada - The Pantages Theatre from May 25 through August 1st & September 28 through October 31.

[kashmir]

Wow...that's crazy. Thanks for finding that out for me. I mean...I guess he must be okay if he's performing it at all...I just wonder what he's like...? lol. *shrugs*

[Reza Khan]

It's a hard choice for me. I've heard a fair few, and they all have their good and bad points. I'll contemplate the issue for a while...

Honestly though (and this will sound completely odd and maybe slightly biased or something), one of my favorite 'Phantoms' is this guy I go to school with, Bryan. Technically, he's never played the Phantom on stage or anything, but I we were on a bus for choir going somewhere and my choir teacher and I 'taught' him how to sing MotN (well, there was a pitch pipe, some lyrics, and a PotO soundtrack involved). It was fabulous. Bryan is a naturally talented singer. I wish I had a recording of him that I could share...

Elizabeth

[IamErik771]

I have heard clips of Paul Stanley singing The Mirror and Music of the Night. I thought his voice was okay. Nowhere near my top 10, but not the worst either. I'm not trying to be mean or anything, but his lisp kind of gets in the way sometimes when he's singing, especially on "Insolent boy, this slave of fashion..." or "Close your eyes, let your spirit start to soar..." However, I was afraid he'd be a lot worse, so I was satisfied overall. I wonder what his POTO or PONR sound like? :mask:

[Amber Summers]

Originally posted by littlelotte
Wow...that's crazy. Thanks for finding that out for me. I mean...I guess he must be okay if he's performing it at all...I just wonder what he's like...? lol. *shrugs*

This is a pic of himwith the mask on, souldn`t find any better. Stanley as Phantom (http://www.chartattack.com/pics/19990825-stanley2.jpg)

I guess if you want to see him as Phantom, you have to go and see the show....

Originally posted by IamErik771
I have heard clips of Paul Stanley singing The Mirror and Music of the Night. I thought his voice was okay. Nowhere near my top 10, but not the worst either. I'm not trying to be mean or anything, but his lisp kind of gets in the way sometimes when he's singing, especially on "Insolent boy, this slave of fashion..." or "Close your eyes, let your spirit start to soar..." However, I was afraid he'd be a lot worse, so I was satisfied overall. I wonder what his POTO or PONR sound like? :mask:
Where did you hear the clips?!

[IamErik771]

Originally posted by Amber Summers
Where did you hear the clips?!

A friend of mine sent them to me a while ago, via e-mail. Same with all the other Phantoms I've heard whom I've mentioned in my other posts. I don't advocate bootlegging in any way, but since RUG only releases official CDs for some casts and not for others, I can see why people do it.

[Reza Khan]

Has anyone ever heard Graham Bickley as the Phantom? I borrowed the soundtrack with him, Claire Moore, and John Barrowman from a friend of mine, and he does a very good job. I especially like his MotN and PonR, which puts him as a close second to Gerry as my favorite. :)

Elizabeth

[The_Persian]

I am a Micheal Crawford fan... i think he IS the phantoms voice, well at least it's as close as you can get to it..

I also think that Gerry Butler did a wonderful job, especially Music of the Night!

[Countess Cain]

As far as voices go... I'm growing rather fond of Peter Hofman. He sounds a lot like what I pictured Erik to. I only got the German CD yesterday, but I can't stop listening to it.

However, I like Michael Crawford too. They both fit the part. I'm just sad I'll never get to see them both perform...

Movie-wise, I'd have to say Lon Chaney is my favorite. No idea why, really.

[IamErik771]

Yeah, Chaney was awesome as well. His disfigurement was the closest anyone's gotten to Leroux's description so far, and his acting was great, especially considering it was a silent film.

[Miss Daae]

My favorite would have to be...well, the only ones I've seen were Gerard, and Gary Mauer. Gary was amazing though, I really felt what he felt and I really couldn't see his face most of the time, and not because of the mask, but because I need glasses. But yeah, I thought he did such a great job as Erik.

Only wish I saw Michael Crawford in the Phantom, I'm only hoping my mom will let me go watch his concert thing when the art center opens up here. He'll do some Phantom Songs and I'd love to see him. But I think he would be my most favorite Phantom, he is the original...well in the musical.

[phantoms_nemo]

I enjoyed Gerry Butlers phantom(how he played the role) but I might change my mind because in August I am going to see the theatre adaption where Earl Carpenter is the phantom.

[Vivian]

My favorite Phantom so far has been, without a doubt, Lon Chaney. He embodied the Phantom perfectly! His body language, his facial expressions, and his facial disfiguration were simply astonishing, and have been unparalled to this day. Sadly, we cannot say much about his voice as the Phantom because, well, it was a silent film! heh.

-V-

[Reza Khan]

Favorite Phantom....

For a while it was Gerard Butler, as I had only heard him and Michael Crawford (whom, and I don't want to anger anyone, I think is rather horrid), but I now have my hands on a version featuring Graham Bickley. Wow. He is now my favorite Phantom, no contest. He possesses the perfect Phantom voice, angelic and musical at times, but still seductive and such when that is needed (i.e. PonR).

If you get the chance, buy a CD with him on it, or download a song (I suggest PonR or MotN). Brilliance. :)

[phantom_phan8]

I love Gerry Butler as I have said before and will always say... I think he plays a great phantom and he also does well in all of his movies. If you ever wish to see Gerry in a movie, the list is this and longer.
Timeline, POTO, Dracula 2000, The Game of Thier Lives...and so on...you can go google and you can always find it...Also as a reminder or a hint...Gerry is starring in another film that is in preproduction stage. It is called Burns if you ever want to see it...it will be out next year!!

[toxic fruit]

I love Gerry for right now since he's the only one I've ever seen. But as Elizabeth (Misconception) said, I've also heard MC and I agree it was horrid. No one hurt me please!!!

Wait...did I already tell you all this in my earlier post? I feel like I'm repeating myself. So sorry if I am!

[cinty]

Originally posted by Misconception
Favorite Phantom....

For a while it was Gerard Butler, as I had only heard him and Michael Crawford (whom, and I don't want to anger anyone, I think is rather horrid), but I now have my hands on a version featuring Graham Bickley. Wow. He is now my favorite Phantom, no contest. He possesses the perfect Phantom voice, angelic and musical at times, but still seductive and such when that is needed (i.e. PonR).

If you get the chance, buy a CD with him on it, or download a song (I suggest PonR or MotN). Brilliance. :)
Oh, I agree!!! Graham is MARVELLOUS!!! MC is my fave of course (and I've heard many many phantoms now) but Graham blew me away as well. He was something VERY special. :D

[CountessDaae]

My Favorite phantom so far would be Gerry Butler. He plays the phantom so well. I have seen many other men play the phantom at the musicals, however, i did not feel the darkness and saddness coming from them as i did when Butler played it.

[phantomphan]

I have to say I have fallen in love with Michael Crawford's voice.
I like Gerry as well, but Michael Crawford has always been my favourite.
I also recently saw Phantom in Arizona and Gary Mauer was the Phantom and he did really well.
I have seen the older movies such as the one with Chaney or the one with Claude Rains. I really liked those.
But I saw Robert Englund and that version totally scarred me for life. It was so horrible and off the story of Phantom that I don't think it should be even cosidered in the category of Phantom of the Opera. I quickly understood why it was rated 'R'. It was quite disturbing.... O_o

[Wishing]

I love both Gerry's and Michael's voices, but I think that Michael Crawford's voice sounds more like an "angel of music" type of voice. I heard Michael Crawford's voice many years before Gerry's, so that's probably another reason I like Michael Crawford's voice better. At first I thought that Gerry had kind of a weak voice, and I didn't really like it. Now, I adore him.

And phantomphan, I saw Gary Mauer as the phantom too! Except I saw him last summer in the Twin Cities. And yes, the 1989 Englund movie was freaky...

[CountessDaae]

However, i think that Gerry's voice suites the Opening theme, his voice is lower than Micheal Crawford's which suite the Music of the night. If you put both of them together, i think it would be neat. lol. However, it is hard to find a guy who is able to be both a high and low tenor.

[The Khanum]

Which interpretation of Erik is your favorite? :mask: Simple enough, really...

I picked Kay!Erik because...well...

::Points to signature and text follower thing::

[toxic fruit]

I picked Gerik because well...I've read Leroux and didn't like that version much. *Off to read Kay's version because of all of the promotion it gets from KT*

[The Khanum]

Just call me...Mini-Kay. ::Puts pinkie to mouth:: Mwah-ha-ha-ha!!

[Countess Cain]

I guess this would count as 'cheating', but I like them all about the same, to tell you the truth. They each add something to the role...

[phantomphan]

I really love all Erik's, but I would have to say my favourite is Kay's Erik. ^_^

[Mouette]

Do love them all--and Gerik is a close, close second--but my heart belongs to KayErik. He's just so . . . Erikky (my new favorite word describing the ultimate in Erik).

[YoungGiry]

Leroux!Erik, of course! How could I say anything else? Yes, I know everyone thinks the best they can do is pity him, but who could not love the man who said "You must love me!" And "The Angels wept tonight..."? And yes, he's one of the most insane, but I understand that...

[Reza Khan]

I went with Kay!Erik because he's just the best. And as I can't think of any coherent reasoning at this time, I'll leave it at that. :D

[Reza Khan]

Originally posted by cinty
Oh, I agree!!! Graham is MARVELLOUS!!! MC is my fave of course (and I've heard many many phantoms now) but Graham blew me away as well. He was something VERY special. :D
Whoo, someone else that's heard Graham! I've mentioned/asked about him in every PotO thread/message board I've visited, and asked every phan I know in real life, and nobody has even heard of him, much less heard him.

He's up there on my Phantom-ness pedestal with Susan Kay... :D

[Eriks_Angel]

Kay!Erik hands down. My heart breaks for him everytime I read Kay's book.

[operafreak84]

Originally posted by IamErik771
A friend of mine sent them to me a while ago, via e-mail. Same with all the other Phantoms I've heard whom I've mentioned in my other posts. I don't advocate bootlegging in any way, but since RUG only releases official CDs for some casts and not for others, I can see why people do it.


As long as there's no profit being made, then I don't see what's wrong with it. If RUG would make new recordings, then bootlegging wouldn't be necessary, but unfortunately, they probably won't.

[Forgotten Angel]

I just saw it on Broadway for the first time last night, and I have to say that the actor I saw playing the Phantom, Stephen R. Buntrock (Hugh Panaro's primary understudy), was amazing! Disappointed as I was that I didn't get to see Hugh Panaro, I was still very impressed with Stephen. Even got his autograph after the show. ^_^ He hit every note in every song, both high and low, put on a spectacular performance, made the audience really empathize with the Phantom, and was just all-around wonderful. I think, out of the Phantoms I've heard - or seen - he was probably the best. Gerard Butler is a fantastic actor, and I'm sure that with some more voice training, he would have sung just as beautifully as Stephen, but he just wasn't there yet. Michael Crawford has a wonderful voice for the part, but 1) I've never seen him act and 2) I think he could have put some more emotion into some of the songs on the OLC recording.

Now, on the matter of Hugh Panaro: I've heard him sing a song or two, but I've never heard him sing anything from Phantom. :( Does anyone know where I can maybe find clips of him singing some of the songs?

[Eriks_Angel]

Charles Dance is my favorite phantom.

Phantom de l'Opera - Did you see it in Columbus? I am flying to Columbus on the 25th and my friend and I have tickets to see the matinee performance on the 28th. (its actually coincidental that POTO is performing in OH for the month of August, I had the trip planned long before that)

[Forgotten Angel]

No, I saw it on Broadway. I live 45 minuets or so from NYC, I'm not heading all the way up to Ohio to see it. :tongue: But have fun when you do, eh?

[phantom_phan8]

I sayed Gerry's portral of Erik cause hes sensual and hes not the kind who will kill you if he doesn't like you.

[Why So Silent]

Kerik(...Kay!Erik, hey I'm original ^_^) rocks the nonexistant socks that I stole from KT off. Gerik is SOOOOOO close. They'll have to mud (cheese/chocolate/jello/whipped cream/honey...) wrestle to see who gets the upper hand next month, but August belongs solely to Kay's wonderful (-ly hot) Erik.

::nods::

[Reza Khan]

Originally posted by Why So Silent
Kerik(...Kay!Erik, hey I'm original ^_^)
Ohoho, that is completely my word. Grr to you...

But I'll let you use it as I haven't gotten it trademarked.

Yet. :D

Woot for Kerik in the lead!

[Why So Silent]

::blink:: so sorry. ::hands over copyrights to Misconception:: Hey, I BORROWED it. Nobody had said "Kerik" outside of the Susan Kay thread. So there.

And awesomelyness for Kerik in the lead: he's obviously the only choice.

[IamErik771]

At the moment, I'm trying to decide between:

Lerik (Gaston Leroux)
Kerik (Susan Kay)
Cherik (Lon Chaney)
Merik (Michael Crawford)

I love them all! How can I choose? Twisted every way... what answer can I give? :D

[Why So Silent]

Merik sounds like Gerry Butler's role in "Timeline" except that was Marek. Kinda pronounced the same though.

Lerik I only like because he was the original. He was kinda not all that cool, seeing as he was the most demented of them all...but I guess that's how Erik should be for the most part. Still love Kerik the best though.

[The_Persian]

I had to vote Kay!Erik, but I feel a really strong pull towards Lerouxs erik aswell... He just seems so real and so... insane!
Micheal Crawford is also WAY up there on my list.... I LOVE HIM!!!!!!!!! *faints*

[Reza Khan]

Originally posted by Why So Silent
::blink:: so sorry. ::hands over copyrights to Misconception:: Hey, I BORROWED it. Nobody had said "Kerik" outside of the Susan Kay thread. So there.
Pssh, I'll let you use it, no worries. :D

And woot for Timeline, great movie. Gerry just makes it that much better. Muahahaha...

[The Khanum]

WOOT for the Kay thread intermingling with the Favorite Erik thread, because us Kerik posters are the sockless gutter-minded queens of dirty thoughts.

Kat, Misconception... I think we're officially the leaders of the DMB (Dirty Minded Brigade) of TPO. YAY!!! I call President! :D

[IamErik771]

Can I be VP? :D I'm glad the DMB has made its way here.

[cinty]

Well, I have heard many many Phantoms now. Here are all their names
Michael Crawford
Hugh Panaro
Graham Bickley
Colm Wilkinson
John Owen Jones
Anthony Warlow
Ethan somebody.
Gerard Butler
Steve Barton
Oh, there's probably more. I have a shocking memory. Anyway, my favourites of them are Michael Crawford ,Anthony Warlow, Hugh Panaro, Steve Barton and John Owen Jones. :)

[Reza Khan]

Originally posted by cinty
Michael Crawford
Hugh Panaro
Graham Bickley
Colm Wilkinson
John Owen Jones
Graham is my favorite Phantom ever. Though I've only heard four or five, so that's not saying much, but he's really good anyways.

[The Khanum]

...Well, as to avoid copyright infringement, Elizabeth came up with the PPP (Pervy Phantom Phans). And apparently, I am pres, Kat is co-pres, Elizabeth is Secretary, and James, you are welcome to be vice. :D You have to join in our lovely PPP discussion on the Kay thread in Phantom Literature, though.

Welcome aboard!

[Why So Silent]

Hehe, I guess I'll be the Co-Pres in the DMB too, seeing as we're always talking in double meaning and such. Tis much fun, indeed. But I'm going to have to pic which one to put under my name now...can't I be the president of the DMB (and you can be Co-President..) seeing as you're the president of the PPP? ::sadness:: I'm always second. :(

Still love Kerik. Thanks for letting me use that Misconception. ^_^

[Reza Khan]

Originally posted by Why So Silent
Hehe, I guess I'll be the Co-Pres in the DMB too, seeing as we're always talking in double meaning and such. Tis much fun, indeed. But I'm going to have to pic which one to put under my name now...can't I be the president of the DMB (and you can be Co-President..) seeing as you're the president of the PPP? ::sadness:: I'm always second. :(
Kay, the DMB and the PPP are the same thing. The DMB was the original name, but we came up with a new one so we weren't copying the original DMB. Does that make sense?

[Why So Silent]

::blinks:: oh yeah, I forgot. ^_^ silly me

[cinty]

I've got to add PETER KARRIE. To that list. He was AMAZING. Beautiful, stunning voice. Unique. Very ,very emotional final lair.

[Luciana]

Originally posted by Why So Silent
Kerik(...Kay!Erik, hey I'm original ^_^) rocks the nonexistant socks that I stole from KT off. Gerik is SOOOOOO close. They'll have to mud (cheese/chocolate/jello/whipped cream/honey...) wrestle to see who gets the upper hand next month, but August belongs solely to Kay's wonderful (-ly hot) Erik.

::nods::

Who won for September? And now October! I may sell tickets.

I finally see the origin of my favorite thread, the PPP! (Probably the most used as well.) DMB makes me think of Dumb Midget Blonds, which is actually something I used to say to my sister when she did something dumb, even though she's not blond. Let's say I'm glad it became the PPP.

[Angel_Of_Music0_G]

I really cant decide I really like Micheal Crawford and Gerik! They both have such great voices!

[Ms Christine Daae]

Michael Crawford hands down. Ted Keegan rocks, too...

I'v seen Mark Jacoby and Hugh Panaro as well.

[Ms Christine Daae]

I chose MCs Erik because... well... he IS Erik brought to life- his voice, his mannerisms, his passion. Even thought MCs performance came years before the book, I believe there is a lot of Kay's Erik in him and perhaps THAT is where she drew some of her inspiration.

[ChristineDaae]

I love Erik in general, but Susan Kay's version will always be my favorite.

[The Khanum]

Originally posted by Ms Christine Daae
Even thought MCs performance came years before the book, I believe there is a lot of Kay's Erik in him and perhaps THAT is where she drew some of her inspiration.

Ms. Kay said herself that her Erik is based strongly on both Leroux and MC Erik, but she also stated that he's got a bit of almost every Phantom version out there in him.

For those of you who haven't checked the Reflecting Mirrors thread as of late, there's a message about ordering Phantom Livestrong bands. The latest order features the names of famous Phantom's, including Kay, Leroux, MC, and Gerry.

For more info... (http://phantoms-opera.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1127) Check the third page.

[Reza Khan]

Originally posted by The Khanum
For those of you who haven't checked the Reflecting Mirrors thread as of late, there's a message about ordering Phantom Livestrong bands. The latest order features the names of famous Phantom's, including Kay, Leroux, MC, and Gerry.
:: beams ::

I ordered one of the Kay!Erik bands and I wear it all oph the time. Nobody every understands what it's phor, though, so I meet plenty oph new people by explaining it. No phans yet, though. I've phreaked quite a phew out, which is good enough phor me. :)

[sunshine]

I cant choose between Crawford Erik and Leroux Erik I love them both. Crawford Erik for his beautiful voice and Leroux Erik for his wonderfuly complex character ( that I love so so much :D ) I just cant choose ....

[sunshine]

Well I have to say I have heard many Phantoms but MC's voice is by far the best in my oppinon. His voice is so overpowering. If I had to imagine the phantom it would be MC all the way. His voice is so mesmerizing....his voice is loud and clear but it is never harsh or raspy. It is so clear and true. I love it. :D

[IamErik771]

I've updated my list again. This time, I've split it up into two, because I was never truly happy with the results when I just made one list of general favorites. These aren't in any particular order, either; simply by who comes to mind first. Also, I'm not simply limiting myself to ALW actors (although there are many more of them than film actors, and so they occupy more space in my lists.)

Top 15 (voice)
Michael Crawford
Anthony Warlow
Brad Little
Franc d'Ambrosio
Ron Bohmer
Hugh Panaro
John Owen-Jones
Ian Jon Bourg
Yuichiro Yamaguchi
Juan Carlos Barona
Masachika Ichimura
Davis Gaines
Grant Norman
Peter Karrie
Steve Barton

Top 11 (acting/presence)
Lon Chaney
Ernst Duttlemeier
Peter Karrie
Ian Jon Bourg
Michael Crawford
John Owen-Jones
Colm Wilkinson
Hugh Panaro
Steve Barton
Gerard Butler
Paul Stanley

[The Khanum]

I dunno if I replied to this thread before... ::Shrugs:: Ah, well. My list is fairly short.

-Peter Karrie. <3
-Gerard Butler.
-Robert Englund.
-Hugh Panaro.
-Michael Crawford.
-JOJ.

Not a big phan of Steve Barton...he did great as Raoul, but I think maybe because he did both, I had a hard time seeing him as Erik.

[Vivian]

I voted Leroux ^-^. He is my favorite, but Crawford, Chaney, and Butler come up close. But, although these are phantastic (hee hee) representations, the one true Phantom is Leroux's Erik. He is maddened with love, obssesive, broken, tortured, but sensual to death! Crawford and Butler play with one faset of his personality, and Chaney exploits another, but Leroux's is the whole package! And he may be the most deformed, (Although Chaney's come to an EXTREMELY close second!), he is altogether the most lovable and in need of love, in my opinion. ^^

-V-

[Phantom's Sonnet]

I have three favorite actors that potray the Phantom ,their all in movies.

*Gerald Butler: For the Phantom he was so seductive and good looking. And oh that voice!What a lovely voice!

*Lon Chaney: Perhaps one of the Monster Masters of all time. He may have been silent in the POTO first movie. But, Lon could act! He is definately a favorite of mine.

*Robert Englund: Mostly known for his potrayal of Freddie Krueger, he did a fine job as being a twisted tearing faces off Phantom.

[PhantomofFrance]

I picked the Other Nove!Erik. I don't know why.

[FallenRose123]

I pick Gerry. Mainly because he is the only totally HOT phantom. But I saw Howard McGil or something the longest running Phantom and this is all that I have to say. WOW! When he did You were cursed.... it was amazing. His appulase lasted for like 10 minutes.

[Delilah]

I, too, chose Leroux's Erik. I mean, of course, it was Gerik that got me hooked onto POTO, but as soon as I read the book, I was entranced- now I can't even think of Erik without thinking the name "Leroux" right away. :mask:

[Parisian Phantom]

Personally, I mostly liked Gerard Butler's performance and portrayal of Erik's. It is actually the only movie of the phantom that I have ever seen, and that is why it remains my favourite. I've also read the book, but it was better to see it on screen, especially because of the beautiful songs featured in it. I thought Gerard did an amazing job, and truly brought the feelings of the phantom in the audience's attention. He perfectly show his complex personality, with everything that he is about, everything he always charmed us with. :)

[Phantom's Sonnet]

I have to add to my list, now that I am reading Susan's Phantom and just saw Phantom on Broadway.'

Kerik: I just love how Susan has molded him into a genius and you can't help but, pity this misunderstood creature of the night.

Howard McGillian: Just saw him as the Phantom on stage last night at the Majestic theater and fell under his spell with his beautiful voice.

[AAW0487]

When I think of the Phantom I see Gerard Butler. He just had everything to offer as the Phantom. The wonderful acting, singing, and over role of the Phantom. Now I haven't seen a lot of other Phantom's. Just about three others, not including Michael Crawford, but he sounds wonderful too. Just after reading books like Journey of the Mask, Progeny, Phantasy, and Leroux's POTO, I can see Gerry playing in everyone of those roles.

[Minoru Inoue]

So far, the best Phantom I have ever seen has got to be my father. ^_^ He just has the most wonderful voice and is so passionate about the role. He performs the song to all the women in the audience sometimes during his variety shows. He really seems to draw them in. It still mesmerizes me, and I've seen him do it a hundred million times. Plus, Erik was supposed to be in his 50's at the time, so my father's at the right age.

However, I know one of my best friends will kill me if I don't say that Hugh Panera is the best Phantom they've ever had. I've never seen or heard him perform, but from what I hear, he's amazing.

[ForbiddenRomance]

My favorite Phantom is Gerry but that...could be because I've only seen the movie and read the Leroux version of POTO...So out of those two Phantom's... I perfer the slightly...in my opinion more sane Erik/Phantom...plus..well...Gerry is HOTT!!! :)

[kissed_by_a_rose]

Don't get me wrong I love gerry with all my heart but I would have to say Michael crawford becuase he has that weird phantomy type attitude. He also makes the phantom seem weird.

[northangel27]

My number one favorite Erik, without question, is Kay's Erik. She gave the man a soul, and it was after that book that I started to have more compassion and love for Erik.

I have secret phantasies about casting my own non-musical movie version of the book, and in my mind there is only one man who should play adult Erik and that is Ralph Fiennes. For anyone who doubts me on this, rent "The English Patient" and watch the party scene were Ralph is slightly drunk and is dancing with Kirsten Scott Thomas. He gives her this hungry, predatory look that just sends shivers up my spine every time.

The first time I watched that movie and saw that scene I just said out loud, "that's Erik". And he also gets a chance to look sufficiently deformed in that movie as well, as he is severely burned.

Anyway, that is my two cents on my favorite Erik.

[ThePhantomsAngel]

I love Gerard Butler as Erik!!! His passion is sooo great! He tries so hard and it works!

:tp6: :cd12:

[Pyromaniac]

I love Michael Crawford as the phantom, mostly because I only have the movie version to compare him to, but still. Micheal Crawford all the way baby! XD

I remember first hearing the Phantom of the Opera and I was very skeptical about it until I heard M.C.'s voice and was blown away by it! I don't think I could nominate others as amazing phantoms!

(Though my girl let me listen to some different versions of the phantom, they were awesome, but still M.C. kicks butt, or in this case voice XD)

[More than Music]

My answer: Charles!Erik. HANDS DOWN. I have no problem saying that.
I do love Michael Crawford, but Charles Dance was more of an Erik for me.

[MaskedNicci]

Michael Crawford offered phans YEARS of sheer brilliance. It was not a one-month thing, a one-year thing, or even a two or three-year thing. It was simply awesome, how much he gave to this exquisite character, of himself, for so long.

I watched an interview of him, and he said something about the way that a person has to make this character emmanate from every movement, every gesture. It has to be a complete bodily surrender, to create this surreal experience, to show the audience what an immortal being the Phantom was!

MC rocks, dudes! *peace sign*

[Bean]

My favorite phantom was Michael Crawford- his voice is beautiful, although, for some reason, MOTN puts me to sleep EVERY TIME I HEAR HIM SING IT. Although, my mind features some sort of composite Erik- Michael Crawford's voice, slightly- uglier- than- Lon- Chaney face, Claude Rains' mask, and Lon Chaney's chandelier and cape. This is, pretty much, how I imagine the ultimate Erik.

[masquerading rose]

My favorite broadway Erik would be John Cudia. Ii is like taking everything I love about Crawford and about Butler, and putting it together.

But I do love the Charles Dance Erik. He did that role wonderfully. I'm not a HUGE fan of the Yestin and Kopit musical, but I really liked Charles!Erik....

[Shattered Rose]

I love Leroux Erik... he's mysterious, a great genius and his lair as far as I can imagine it is great :D

[Mrs Nadir Khan]

My number one favorite Erik, without question, is Kay's Erik. She gave the man a soul, and it was after that book that I started to have more compassion and love for Erik.

I have secret phantasies about casting my own non-musical movie version of the book, and in my mind there is only one man who should play adult Erik and that is Ralph Fiennes. For anyone who doubts me on this, rent "The English Patient" and watch the party scene were Ralph is slightly drunk and is dancing with Kirsten Scott Thomas. He gives her this hungry, predatory look that just sends shivers up my spine every time.

The first time I watched that movie and saw that scene I just said out loud, "that's Erik". And he also gets a chance to look sufficiently deformed in that movie as well, as he is severely burned.

Anyway, that is my two cents on my favorite Erik.

Ooh, Ralph Fiennes is an excellent choice for Kay!Erik. I, too, have phantasized of making a nonmusical version of the Kay novel and Erik is always the character to stump me.

Anyways, I love Kay!Erik because he is the coolest and most human. Then comes John Cudia Erik. I lahve his preformance, which I've seen only through Youtube. Ask me in a few months, though, and I may have seen him live!

Third is Leroux!Erik because, he's simply Erik, without anything added. He's the original, and if you don't love his characterization (even if you don't love him) then I wanna know what book you read. I may loathe the things he does, may disagree every step of the way, but Erik is Erik. And that makes for great reading.

[doristelford]

I love the Leroux Erik; hes the original Phantom after all and none of the others would exist without him, I love the whole of the characterization of him, and the fact hes unpredictable - and a complete nut - as well as being a musical genius - and obsessed - and creepy - and just someone looking for love, mind you, he does go about it the wrong way....on stage its Michael Crawford the whole way, his voice and acting were amazing the twice I saw him, and hes actually scary at times. Movies, has to be Lon Chaney - brilliant! And I did enjoy the Gerard Butler movie, even if he wasnt as over the top as I exoected and the make up for the deformity could have been better.

[December_Flower]

Gerard Butler - He's not much of a trained singer, but I don't think anyone could portrait Erik with so much passion.

Lon Chaney is pretty close, and Michael Crawford is amazing too. His voice is enchanting.

[Victoria]

WHAT?!?!

You're making me choose? How dare you! You're all evil, evil people!!!

I'm kidding, hope you know that by now...

Anyway my favorite Erik of all time would have to be either Leroux's or a stage Phantom's.

Heck I love all Eriks, for different reasons, but I think that those two had the entire package. Sense of mystery, genious, dark, and well phantomish :mask:

[phantom's_rose]

have only ever seen one version of Phantom of the Opera - the 2005 film.

I thought that one was in 2004? Oh, well, same difference. :D


I am a Gerry and Michael fan, because they both have good voices and...are nice actors. :) Lahvly, dahling, lahvly. They both did a good job and I couldn't beside between the two. :D

[MllePaula]

Yes, the film premiered in 2004. It didn't hit some movie theaters until very early 2005 and the DVD was released in Summer 2005.

[Andrew_Phantom]

My favorite Eriks are:

Michael Crawford: I like his voice because it conveys alot of emotion, and brings the loving personality of Erik to life. :mask:

Claude Rains: I like this Erik too because, like Michael Crawford, he can convey a softer side to Erik, and still kill people throughout the film! I liked that at first, he was rich, and could provide for himself and Christine's voice lessons. Then, he's fired from the orchestra, gets his music stolen and sketching acid thrown into his face, thus turning his world upside-down. I liked that he still had a somewhat soft side even after all this.

Lon Chaney: I like this Erik because I believe that he brought Leroux's Erik to life more than any other. His skull-like head and upturned nose was most in accordance with Leroux than any of the other deformities featured on stage or film. His performance, though without speech or sound, was definitely well delivered through his actions and emotions. The Masked Ball / Red Death sequence of this film surely influenced the ALW's stage adaptation of Phantom, as you can see that they have the exact same Red Death costumes.

[marissamayhem]

I love Michael Crawford. I've never seen him perform but I've listened to recordings from shows and I've never heard a Phantom that could make me weep with him. He is absolutely stellar. I also think his voice is near perfection for Erik. While a lot of singers have amazing voices, no one I've heard has yet matched the "other-worldly" voice that Michael has. It's very different but absolutely beautiful.

Now, don't bite my head off but I think Gerard made a good Phantom. Not in the singing capacity. I think he has a lovely voice but it wasn't right for Erik. Anyways, if they were to do a Phantom movie that was a majority of acting instead of singing the whole way through, I think Gerard would be wonderful. He is a very fine actor and I think he could've pulled it off. I think he got who the Phantom was. Is it true that he refused to shoot the Down Once More scene without his shirt on? If so, then I think he knew that Erik wasn't supposed to "sexy" and I love him just for that alone. :]

My all-time favorite is Kay's Erik. He was everything I pictured and KNEW Erik was. The way she described his deformity was also how I had pictured him in the my mind which was perfect. Overall, Kay!Erik is just the best. Hands down.

[tiannangel]

I agree.

Kay's Erik just captured my heart....and I can't say anything else here that others haven't said before.
*completely agrees with the previous poster.*

I also adore Gerry's Erik.
He was a great actor, even though his singing didn't match to Michael Crawford's, he is still sensational.

[xXphantomaddictedXx]

Michael Crawford...by far. I've never had the chance to see him perform (unfortunately for me), but I have the original CD that has him on it. He is the closest thing to a "perfect" Erik, in my opinion. He has an enchanting voice, as well. One note from him, and I...well, let's say I just about forget my own name. This happens most when he sings Music of the Night and Point of No Return. I think I better stop here before I go into a useless rant about how amazing/sexy/talented Michael is. :D

[Madame le Courayer]

I love Micheal Crawford and for me his voice will always be the voice of Erik. He has the hypnotic and beautiful yet masculine quality that Erik was supposed to have. Plus he was closer in age to Leroux's character when he played the Phantom. Wasn't the Phantom supposed to be fiftyish? SO as far as authenticity, MC has it in all aspects.

That said, I have admit that Gerry Butler is the Phantom I would most want to lead me down to his lair. He is sexy, sensual and compelling. His acting was stunning even though his voice left much to be desired. I thought that he did pretty well, though for the short amount of time he had actually training for the role and now I can't picture anyone else doing it.

I think if you could just roll these two into one man you would finally have your quintessential Phantom. I know some here will disagree with me but that's just my opinion. You would have a Phantom worthy of Kay.

[angelgirl]

My fave Eriks would have to be:
Movie-wise
Gerard Butler
Charles Dance (1990 minseries)
Lon Chaney

Stage-wise
Micheal Crawford
Richard Todd Adams
A.G.

[DayDreamBeliever]

I'd have to say my favorite stage performer for Erik is deffinetly Hugh Panaro. I love that man's voice and whenever I hear it I just think of Erik so for me he is the voice of Erik.

As for movies I actually do like the way Gerard acted I thought he played a very convinceing and fierce Erik. He was sensual, passionate, powerful and yet invoked a pity in you that had you tearing up throughout the movie (or well he made me cry anyways.) He fit very well for ALW's outlook on the character (ALW's Erik is quite different from Leroux's Erik). Also I do feel that had ALW not deviated from the book he also could have brought out the book Erik we all know and love. Though the singing does need to be worked on.

Sigh if only there was a way to combine Hugh's voice with Gerard's acting.

Then for book Erik well naturally Leroux Erik is my favorite because well he is Erik. However I hold special place in my heart for Kay Erik despite the fact that little five year old him was showing me up in just about everything lol.

[darcimkire]

Stage:

Michael Crawford
Hugh Panaro

Film:

Lon Chaney

[darcimkire]

Michael Crawford...by far. I've never had the chance to see him perform (unfortunately for me), but I have the original CD that has him on it. He is the closest thing to a "perfect" Erik, in my opinion. He has an enchanting voice, as well. One note from him, and I...well, let's say I just about forget my own name. This happens most when he sings Music of the Night and Point of No Return. I think I better stop here before I go into a useless rant about how amazing/sexy/talented Michael is. :D

definitely agree... a 100%.. love every minute of his singing especially MOTN...

[Madame le Courayer]

Wow, that was a few months ago that I posted to this thread. A lot has changed...My favorite musical Phantom is Colm Wilkinson and my favorite overall Phantom is SUsan Kay's. I guess you could say that's Leroux's Phantom too but I like the fact that with Kay you get to know him a little more and find out a bit about what makes him tick. I could so see CW playing him in a miniseries based on the Kay book...
I still wouldn't mind Gerik leading me down to his lair but that kind of defeats the purpose of POTO, doesn't it? *grins sheepishly*

[Miss Eve]

My fav Phantom would have to be Gerry. :) He potrays the Phantom wonderfully and his voice is so deep, passionate, almost hypnotyzing! He would be the phantom I would want to sing to me :)

[Kojinka]

I have more than one favorite Phantom for different reasons.
My favorite film Phantom is definitely Lon Chaney. Very expressive actor, and his make-up job is one of the few that can do the Leroux novel justice.
I can't pick any one specific stage Phantom to be my favorite. All of the stage Phantoms I've heard were great, but if I had to pick one, I grew up listening to the OLC CD in my dad's pick-up, so Michael Crawford will always be the voice of Erik to me.
I also enjoyed Charles Dance's portrayal of the character. He had a child-like charm to him, and he's such a gentleman around Christine. I also like the basic mask design he and Claude Rains wear.

[Hidden Away]

I have to love Brent Barrett. His voice was very captivating and his actually technique of movement was whispering Phantom of the Opera in my ear. The chemistry that was on stage when Point of No Return was performed (with Sierra B.) was very bitter-sweet. Bitter because I knew what was going to happening, but sweet because the reactions and the way they both feed off each other's actions was just....man you know what! I can't say how....

[The Countess]

Would you believe me if I said...

LON!

I thought so.

Lon is definitly the greatest actor to ever portray the complex and haunting role of Erik. Hell, he made an entire theatre faint with fright. Not to mention he did own make-up, started a legacy in film, made POTO 1925 one of the most well-known silent movies ever, modeled the role for future Phantoms including Michael Crawford, and was the best. This is why he is my favorite.

[Phantom In Training]

My favorite movie Erik's are Lon Chaney (obviously) and Charles Dance. Dance is just so adorable! Plus, his sense of humor there is great.
"What kind of horror are you leaving me in?" Hehe

My favorite musical ones are Crawford and Butler (I count the movie as a musical. It just makes more sense to me that way!)

[Fallen Angel]

John Cudia is probably my favorite stage show Phantom...unfortunately I missed by a week or so in Minneapolis. *sniff* I love Michael Crawford and Hugh Panaro too. Tim Martin Gleason is the only one I've seen live and I loved him too...I can't choose!

As far as movie versions, I like Lon Chaney and Charles Dance.

[Lady of Music]

Ramin Karimloo, he is the current West End Erik, but is soon going to be the First Erik in Love Never Dies, and all I can say is.... WOW. This guy is just perfect, gorgeous, sexy, beautiful voice, and is just stunning as the Phantom. Gerry B is a close second though, but unfortunately he just isn't sexy and gorgeous enough to beat Ramin in my books, though his voice is beautiful.

[Soprano Rose]

For the film versions, Lon Chaney, hands-down. He captures the tragic, vulnerable, romantic, gentleman, child-like qualities of the character, as well as the insane, frightening, and dangerous. I also thought Charles Dance did a very good job, even though he was a bit too "soft" at times.

In terms on the stage show, I've only seen one live, and that was Andrew Varela. I thought he did very well, but I wouldn't rate him as a favorite. Of those I've heard on recordings and You Tube, I highly rate Michael Crawford, Mikael Samuelson (though I can't find the Swedish cast recording anywhere! If someone could help me I would really appreciate it!), Earl Carpenter, Hugh Panaro, John Cudia (I'm hoping to see him on Broadway), Davis Gaines, Peter Jorde, Steve Barton, Flemming Ennevold, John Owen-Jones, and Ian Jon Bourg.

[Madame le Courayer]

Lon Chaney is the best overall Erik....creepy, courtly, and humorous!

Charles Dance is second because he is just so charming and lovable...a very sympathetic portrayal.

Third is Colm Wilkinson because of his delicious voice!!!

[Soprano Rose]

Yes, I like Colm, too. He gave a very different interpretation of the character, which I thought was interesting. That said, I don't think the OCC did him justice. I wish they had made the recording after the production opened, because he and the rest of the cast would have been better acquainted with their characters, for lack of better words.

[Hidden Away]

*hugs Time Martin Gleason* Since my friends couldn't stop talking about him I had to listen to him and so I did. I was so happy they made me listen to him, he's amazing. And I thought he was only Raoul material! XD
Lon....well what more to say about him, when a guy dressed in a costume and scary make-up causes my mother and several other friends to pass out one by one...you love the guy even more. I loved his performance! And then I watched him in Hunched-back of Norte Dame....it was wonderful.

[endowed]

Michael Crawford is definitely my favorite Erik. Others for the stage are Hugh Panaro, John Cudia and John Owen-Jones.

And from movies? Hmmmmm.
Lon Chaney
Charles Dance
Claude Rains

[xXphantomaddictedXx]

Though I still love Michael Crawford to bits, my current favorite is Davis Gaines. I think he's brilliant and that his version of MOTN is epic. Plus, the fact that he and I share the same shade of hair makes it even better~! :2love:

[Ramin+Sierra 4ever]

Ramin Karimloo has such a wonderful way of portraying emotion with his facial expressions and I think his voice is very unique. But I also love John Owen Jones, his voice is soooooo beautiful!!

[IamErik771]

Now that I've gotten to see and hear many more different Phantom actors, I think I should update my "favorites" list. I've done a couple of different ones -- one for general portrayals of Erik across the different literary, film, and stage versions, one for favorite film actors, and one for favorite actors in the ALW musical.

Favorite Portrayals of the Phantom
1. Gaston Leroux's novel
2. The Tom Alonso musical
3. The 1925 film (starring Lon Chaney)
4. The 1987 animated film
5. The 1989 film (starring Robert Englund)
6. The ALW musical
7. The 1983 TV movie (starring Maximilian Schell)
8. The Susan Kay novel
9. The 1943 film (starring Claude Rains)
10. The Yeston/Kopit musical and 1990 miniseries (starring Charles Dance) -- since they're basically the same version.

Honorable mentions: The Phantom in the 1991 filmed stage production (starring David Staller), Erik and Angel from "The Price of Fame" (http://www.fanfiction.net/s/1591852/1/) (a superb Phanfic on fanfiction.net), and Erik in the Ken Hill musical.


Favorite Film Phantoms
1. Lon Chaney (1925 film)
2. Robert Englund (1989 film)
3. Maximilian Schell (1983 TV movie)
4. Aiden Grennell (1987 animated film)
5. William Finley (1974's "Phantom of the Paradise")
6. Claude Rains (1943 film)
7. Charles Dance (1990 miniseries)
...and that's it. :biglaugh:


Favorite ALW Phantoms
1. Anthony Crivello
2. Alexander Goebel / Ernst D. Suttheimer (tie)
3. Kevin Gray
4. Peter Karrie / Mike Sterling (tie)
5. Steve Barton
6. Colm Wilkinson
7. Davis Gaines
8. Kiyotaka Imai
9. Saulo Vasconcelos
10. Matt Cammelle

Honorable Mentions: Mark McKerracher, Scott Davies, Ethan Freeman, Mikael Samuelson, Earl Carpenter, Michael Lackey, Rob Guest, Anthony Warlow, John Owen-Jones, Hugh Panaro, Ramin Karimloo, Brad Little, Robert Guillaume, Osamu Takai, Ben Cramer, Christian Alexander Müller, Juan Carlos Barona, and many more... yeah, I like a lot of stage Phantoms. :biggrin:

[Soprano Rose]

Wow, James, that's quite a list you have there! They're all great Phantoms!

I think it's time I updated my list as well. So, without further ado, here are my top 12 Phantoms. (Why top 12? Because I like to go TWO steps beyond!)


In alphabetical order...

Davis Gaines - A wonderful, baritone Phantom; his voice is just awesome! He can hit those money notes better than most tenors! I also enjoy what I've seen of his acting.

Earl Carpenter - Earl's portrayal is probably the most humane and pitiful I've seen thus far, and he adds so many little nuances to the roll. Vocally, he struggles a bit with the high notes (come to think of it, so did Barton), but he has a very fine baritone.

Gary Mauer - He has an incredibly powerful voice. He kind of reminds me of Davis Gaines, except a tenor. I also enjoy his acting, particularly alongside his wife, Elizabeth Southard.

Hugh Panaro - I love how childish and sarcastic his Phantom is! I don't know if it's just me, but I've always felt that his Phantom seemed somewhat detached from reality. Someone on tumblr described him as "delightfully crazed," and I think that pretty much sums up my feelings about his portrayal. I also love his voice.

Henk Poort - I always liked his voice on the Dutch cast album, but he was never one of my absolute favorites. Then, one day, I came across a video of the Dutch production, and I watched it expecting to be blown away by Joke de Kruijf, but it was Poort who won me over with his operatic vocals and great acting.

John Cudia - I really love what he did with the roll. He brought a vulnerability and somewhat child-like nature to it, but still managed to be creepy in the "Final Lair," and his "Point of No Return" with Jennifer Hope Wills is one my favorites. He also has a lovely voice.

John Owen-Jones - This man is a powerhouse. His voice is amazing, and he's a great actor as well. His "Final Lair" and "Stranger Than You Dreamt It" are among my favorites.

Kevin Gray - Probably the most Leroux-faithful portrayal I've ever seen. He's absolutely captivating in his performance, and this is based on a mere two videos, neither of which were complete or of the best quality, and one of which featured a rather hilarious flub with the Punjab lasso. His voice, admittedly, takes some getting used to, I've even heard someone describe it as "ghoulish," but it really works.

Michael Crawford - Where would "Phantom" be without him? I don't think many people realize just how involved he was in creating this character. Admittedly, his voice isn't my absolute favorite, but his acting was fantastic.

Mikael Samuelsson - Probably the most emotional performance I've heard on a cast recording. I totally understood him even though I have no visual reference and I don't speak a work of Swedish! There's a very "raw" quality to his voice which works surprisingly well. He also reminds me of Leroux!Erik a bit.

Saulo Vasconcelos - This is based mostly on audio, but his voice is amazing! His acting is also very passionate. I don't think I've ever heard that much crying from the audience during the "Final Lair!"

Steve Barton - The only Phantom who has ever made me tear up just by listening to an audio, and I am NOT one who tears up easily. He had a beautiful voice, and put a lot of heart into every performance.

Honorable Mentions: Anthony Warlow, Matt Cammelle, Juan Carlos Barona, Thomas Schulze, Ian Jon Bourg, Brad Little, Alexander Goebel, Peter Jorde, Eiji Akutagawa, and Andrew Varela.