Last Friday night I got the opportunity to see the newest show at the Westchester Broadway Theatre – “Phantom”. This fantastic show is based on the novel Phantom of the Opera by Gaston Leroux. Not to be confused with the opera-like Andrew Lloyd Webber Broadway production “Phantom of the Opera,” this show is more of a traditional musical with a mix of dialogue and songs sung throughout. Not knowing what I was walking into when the night began, I was pleasantly surprised!
Upon our arrival at the theater, we walked into the welcoming lobby that is decorated with show posters, old costumes and other memorabilia. We took some pictures and then found our table to settle in. The theater seating is set up in a “U” shape around the stage so there is not a bad seat in the house. Our waiter was very attentive to us and helpful with suggestions from the menu. The cocktail list was especially fun, with each drink named after a different Broadway show. They also create a signature drink for each show.
The Westchester Broadway Theatre is a unique night out and a bit of a throwback to the days of full service entertainment. The theater itself is large but works like a well oiled machine. I recommend going right as they open at 6:00 p.m. so you can enjoy your meal and drinks with plenty of time to settle in before the show starts at 8:00 p.m. The atmosphere is casual but elegant and it is wonderful for date nights or small groups. Patrons run from young to old and families are always welcome. The theater puts on shows that lean toward adult audiences (Menopause The Musical, anyone?!) as well as family shows like A Christmas Carol.
With drinks in hand, we sat for dinner. At only $89, our tickets included a salad, entree, dessert, coffee or tea and a drink. Not to mention the show! The menu options were plentiful and included their signature entree – prime rib, as well as fish, pork, chicken and vegetarian options. I had the prime rib and it was delicious! The service was friendly and fast but we never felt rushed.
When the lights dimmed and the show began I was blown away from the first scene. To be honest, I was not expecting a Broadway quality show in Westchester, but that’s exactly what we got! Kayleen Seidl, who played the female lead role of Christine Daaé, was outstanding. Her voice is on par with that of opera singers and her acting made you believe 100% in her character. The lighting, props, costumes and set were all phenomenal as well. Phantom is set in Paris in the 1880’s. The costumes that reflect that time period are intricate and detailed, but the Westchester Broadway Theatre pulled it off without a hitch! Everything from the wigs to the dresses to the dance shoes was on point and added greatly to the overall quality of the show.
During the intermission we discussed how blown away we all were by the show and agreed that the time had just flown by because we were all enjoying it so much. When the show ended, the entire theater was on their feet applauding the actors, orchestra and stage crew. What an amazing production! I am so happy to know that this great theater is so close to us. I will definitely be returning for a date night as well as a family trip with the kiddos!
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If you are interested in checking out the Westchester Broadway Theatre, please call Reservations at (914) 592-2222. Or visit them online at: www.BroadwayTheatre.com. Phantom is running from September 13 – November 25, 2018. Showtimes are as follows:
- Wednesday & Thursday & some Friday Matinees: Lunch: 11:30 a.m. & Show: 1 p.m.
- Thursday, Friday, & Saturday Evenings: Dinner: 6:30 p.m. & Show: 8 p.m.
- Sunday Matinees: Lunch: 12 p.m. & Show: 1:30 p.m.
- Sunday Evenings: Dinner: 5:30 p.m. & Show: 7 p.m.
Upcoming shows at the Westchester Broadway Theatre:
A Christmas Carol – November 29 – December 23rd, 2018
Phantom returns – December 27th – January 27th 2019
Ain’t Misbehavin – January 31st – February 24th, 2019
Menopause The Musical – February 28th – March 24th 2019
Newsies – March 28th – May 26th 2019
