Phantom of the Opera Returns to PPAC

One of musical theater’s favorite masked men returns to Providence Performing Arts Center (PPAC) courtesy of the touring company of Phantom of the Opera. The blockbuster Andrew Lloyd Webber musical will play March 21 – 31 and will include the songs “Think of Me,” “The Music of the Night,” and “All I Ask of You.”

Jordan Craig plays Raoul, who competes with the Phantom for Christine’s affections.

“I think he’s a little bit of a playboy at the beginning,” Craig said. “Then he falls hard for his childhood best friend (Christine). That’s the arc that occurs in his life.”

The Houston native began his career at the world-renowned Houston Grand Opera (Billy Budd, Tosca, Carmen). Craig went on to appear in the musicals Next to Normal and The Wizard of Oz, when he played the Tin Man.

As a performer, Craig enjoys having “the opportunity to change people’s lives through the art of storytelling. It’s a rich tradition to be a part of. There’s a spiritual element to it. [Audiences go the theater] to learn the truth about human nature. It’s a way to reflect on one’s self and I think that’s a very important thing.”

The love triangle at the heart of the story has won over audiences through the years, but Craig believes another reason why the show has endured for so long is due to its moral ambiguity.

“[The Phantom of the Opera] does not tell anyone what to think,” Craig noted. “That’s why it’s still resonating, especially in this era, because there are so many outlets of information. Nothing is pure anymore. Everything is tainted (from people telling you what to think) and Phantom doesn’t do that.”

Craig calls Raoul his favorite role and has performed in front of “millions” of people.

“I am extremely fortunate,” he added.

The Phantom of the Opera runs March 21 – 31 at Providence Performing Arts Center. 220 Weybosset St., Providence. For tickets, go to ppacri.org.