One of the most ravishing visual and theatrical feasts to be seen on our stages for some time.

The original London production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s sequel to his record-breaking Phantom of the Opera garnered mixed reviews a year or so ago and, despite my general enjoyment of the subsequent recording, I have to admit I could understand that there were problems with the storyline and character development. It turns out that former MTC artistic director Simon Philips saw the show and, after frank discussions with Lloyd Webber, was given carte blanche to create his own staging. It is that production which is enjoying a 12-week run at Sydney’s Capitol Theatre. Yes, there are still problems with the book, but what a remarkable spectacle!

This must be one of the most ravishing visual and theatrical feasts to be seen on any of our stages for quite some time. Philips and his superb design team (Gabriela Tylesova: set and costumes, Nick Schlieper: lighting) have triumphed over the hi-tech London version with what is in reality a remarkably old-fashioned concept – good old smoke and mirrors.  Bits of set that fly, a revolve, loads of sequins, glitter and light bulbs… All...