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Behind the Mask: Broadway's Newest Phantom

CITY GUIDE: What is it like to play one of the most iconic characters in the musical theater canon? How was it stepping out that first night?

JAMES BARBOUR: The Phantom, is without a doubt, the iconic role. I think it stands true that no matter what other roles I've played, in fact I've had this conversation with other actors who have played The Phantom...it stands above all others in terms of visibility and notoriety. No matter where I go in the world, EVERYONE has heard of The Phantom Of The Opera. It's an incredible opportunity. My first night was exciting and exhilarating. To stand on the stage where so many before me have "donned the mask" is truly an honor. During the show I sit at the same piano at which Michael Crawford sat when he opened the show on Broadway some 27 years ago. It's amazing.  

CG: Also, masks have been used in theater since the beginning and they possess a sort of ancient power to them…how do you feel when you put it on? Do you notice any changes in yourself, mentally or physically?

JB: Masks have played an interesting role in my career, more specifically in my training as an actor. I studied classical and contemporary theatre and have done works by Eugene O'Neill in which masks were frequently used. They pose unique challenges and opportunities. The mask "hides the true being" giving a freedom to the character when he or she wears it. Once the mask is removed the real uncovered, base character is revealed. In the case of O’Neill the character expresses his true feelings when the mask is removed and his feelings go down again when the mask is on.  It, in a way, is to protect the person from the reality of the world, from letting the world know the true self. So it is with The Phantom. There is a great line from the show; "...hide your face so the world will never find you." I think this is what The Phantom has been trying to do his entire life, live a life where the world does not see him as disfigured both physically and emotionally. As such he's had to develop the persona of the mysterious man behind the mask. But like all of us, we have our sincere true self with strengths and weaknesses. It’s how we choose to deal with those issues in life that is our journey. For me the mask is an extension of who the character is. It is his "other half" so to speak. It enhances the character but, on a practical level as an actor, also has some physical restrictions which I had to get used to in performance. Most notably for me were some sight issues and breathing issues. I've now begun to use those as part of the character of The Phantom. After all...he would have to deal with those same issues in his life. 

CG: How many times had you seen Phantom before assuming the Broadway role?

JB: I saw the show twice before, once on Broadway in 1993 and once in Toronto. And then, once I was asked to play the role, I watched it about 10 times during my rehearsal process.

CG: Did you have a favorite Phantom or was there an actor who was particularly memorable for you or one that taught you something about the role?

JB: Wow. Having been an actor for quite a while I actually know many of the other actors who have played the role.  Some are very dear friends. That said I try to learn something from every experience in life whether onstage or off. As such I've gained insight from everyone I've seen play the role. I've also spoken at length about the role with a few of the other guys. One of the most important things they've told me almost universally is to keep the physical body in shape. The Phantom is a demanding physical role. It's deceptive in that way. So I think that is the most important lesson. Stay healthy and fit. 

CG: What is it about the show that captures people's imagination so many years later?

JB: This is a fascinating question. Phantom is the longest running show in Broadway history and the audiences keep coming and coming. It is one of the most celebrated love stories of all time. It's heartbreaking and triumphant. It speaks to everyone no matter what language they speak. I think we all can identify with it in some way and given the sheer beauty of its message of forgiveness, it’s a timeless gem that will never lose its luster.

CG: As a seasoned Broadway performer, do you have any favorite places in the Theater District that you like go pre- or post-show?

JB: Of course, I'm a health nut so I like to eat good healthy foods. My three places are Bare Burger, Juice Generation (I get a veggie drink everyday) and for more formal food I always end up at Sardis.

CG: Aside from the Phantom, are there any other iconic roles you'd love to tackle?

JB: I've had the good fortune to play some pretty amazing roles in my career, like Billy Bigelow in Carousel, The Beast in Beauty and the Beast and more; all were incredible experiences in their own right. As for roles in the future, I always keep my doors open to see what comes down the pike. I like creating new roles that have yet to be done. There is a creative freedom that comes with developing a new work. That said, I’ve had my eye on a musical that was based on a pretty famous film…so we’ll see what happens with that.  

CG: That chandelier still gets 'em, eh?

JB: Totally. There are nights when audience members actually scream when the chandelier comes crashing to the stage.  Gotta say, it's an amazing thing to watch it fall every night. It still gets me!

The Phantom of the Opera is currently playing at Majestic Theatre, 247 W. 44th St. To purchase tickets, visit thephantomoftheopera.com

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