SMP Partners’ staff and guests enjoyed a spectacular night at the theatre for a performance of world-famous musical The Phantom of the Opera.

The company celebrated its sponsorship of the Taylorian Productions show with a corporate evening on 11th August, inviting 50 people to experience the stunning performance.

At the end of the evening a collection on behalf of Finley’s Tracks, SMP’s Charity of the Year for 2015, raised more than ?500 for the cause.

The Phantom of the Opera opened at the Gaiety Theatre on 10th August and will run until 22nd August. It is the first time an amateur production of the Andrew Lloyd Webber’s legendary show has been licensed in the British Isles, a recognition of the high standards attained by the Taylorian team.

Taylorian Productions has previously staged hugely successful performances of Evita, Cats and Sunset Boulevard. Staging a worldwide phenomenon like ‘Phantom’ is a major undertaking, but Mark Denton, Managing Director of SMP Partners, said the team had excelled themselves.

He explained: ‘The production is quite simply astounding, and it is no wonder they have had standing ovations every night of the run so far. It was very brave to take on such a well-known and much-loved musical, especially for the first amateur production in the British Isles, but Taylorian have once again done themselves and the Isle of Man proud.

‘Everything is perfect, from the outstanding performances and music to the stunning costumes and scenery. This may be billed as an amateur production, but it rivalled the very best professional musicals I have seen. It was thoroughly enjoyable and absolutely enthralling for all our guests.

‘We have sponsored several productions by Taylorian, and are also proud to support such wonderful shows, but Phantom has set a new standard of excellence.’

Mr Denton added: ‘I would urge anyone who hasn’t seen this show yet to try and get a ticket, although I know they are in very short supply. It is a phenomenal opportunity to see a captivating production which would be at home on any West End stage.’

The Phantom of the Opera cast features David Artus as the Phantom, Emily Coates as Christine, Damian Kneale as Raoul, Kristene Sutcliffe as Carlotta and Mandy Griffin as Madame Giry. The show’s soaring score is packed with memorable songs including All I Ask of You, Music of the Night, Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again and, of course, the stirring The Phantom of the Opera.

A limited number of tickets, priced from ?23, are available by calling the Phantom Hotline on 600555, visiting the Welcome Centre or Villa Marina box office or online at www.villagaiety.com and www.taylorianproductions.net. 

Photo - David Artus as The Phantom and Emily Coates as Christine (Steve Woodley).