I had the privilege of attending Love Never Dies last week, courtesy of Ticketmaster, and I was incredibly impressed with this new production. Melbourne has produced a spectacular musical - far better than the original London production according to all reports I've read and heard.

The opening of the musical has changed, starting with what is my favourite song from the show - don't be late or you'll miss it due to the black out period! It starts the show with a power song and continues to build from there. The set is incredible, the costumes are superb. The title song "Love Never Dies" is beautifully sung but the costume and set take it to another level. I won't give anything away about this because it is quite breathtaking to see live. I may have a let out an slightly audible "wow" during that song!

The relatively unknown leads do well in the roles of the Phantom and Christine. Having listened to the soundtrack many times I had very high expectations of Ben Lewis performing "Till I Hear You Sing" - I wanted the goosebumps! And he didn't let me down I am very pleased to say!

The show is somewhat "dark" in it's themes and setting (Coney Island with it's side show freaks) with a range of musical styles from the powerful anthem-like "Till I Hear You Sing," the operatic style of "Love Never Dies," the cutesie "Bathing Beauties" and the rock offering "Beauty Underneath." Something for all tastes. There are some musical phrases from Phantom of the Opera appropriately included - but none of the full songs. This is an all new look at the story of the Phantom and Christine 10 years on.

Despite knowing the story line in advance, this production amazed me with just how it was presented - and I'm looking forward to seeing it again with the group. There was so much to see and take in!

Allison Hilbig
(Self confessed musical theatre junkie!)