‘Phantom’ star Jonathan Roxmouth is back in Manila

By: Julianne Gabis

After seven years since his last performance in Manila, the South African multi-awarded theater actor Jonathan Roxmouth picks up where he left off as he comes back to play as the Phantom in the longest-running Broadway show, Phantom of the Opera.

Roxmouth announced his arrival in Manila on his Instagram saying, “I’m in heaven.”

In a media interview, Roxmouth then shares how he feels more pressure performing for the Manila audience.

“I cannot believe how much Manila has changed in the time I’ve been away. So coming back to it, the audiences and the fans certainly expect a cast that’s very excited to be here and delivering the absolute A-game,” said the opera singer. “Phantom here is such a big deal for me. That I would hate to be less than what we were then. I want to be better. One does not want to disappoint. Going out there you feel the audience go ‘Oh you’re here. Lovely to see you again’ It’s a wonderful time.”

He further continued to express his excitement for the show’s Manila season as he noted his adoration for the Philippine culture and its love for theater.

“I’ve had the opportunity to travel with a number of productions. That first tour we did with ‘Phantom’ in 2012, I fell hopelessly in love with this place,” he added.

Roxmouth also expressed his admiration of the Filipino members of the orchestra and crew of the show. “I remember the first time we came and we heard that Filipino members are playing in the orchestra. We could tell the difference. There is this sensitivity to the music,” he said.

Together with Roxmouth are Meghan Picerno, who plays the talented soprano “Christine,” and Matt Leisy, who plays “Raoul”.

The singer also announced his first international concert through his social media.

“Jonathan Roxmouth The Musicals Concert” will have two shows on April 13 at The Theater at Solaire, after the Manila run of the Phantom of the Opera.

The Phantom will end its Manila season on March 31 and tickets to the final week of the show are now available on ticketworld.com.ph.