Phantom of the Opera
Columbus

Andrew Lloyd Webber's Masterpiece Returns to Columbus

When Andrew Lloyd Webber first read Gaston Leroux's 1910 novel Le Fantôme de l'Opéra, he saw more than a gothic thriller — he saw the foundation for what would become the most commercially successful piece of entertainment in history. The Phantom of the Opera, with music by Lloyd Webber, lyrics by Charles Hart and Richard Stilgoe, and a book by Stilgoe and Lloyd Webber, premiered in London's West End in October 1986 and opened on Broadway at the Majestic Theatre in January 1988. In the decades since, the musical has been performed in over 40 countries, seen by more than 145 million people, and generated over $6 billion in worldwide revenue.

The story unfolds in the Paris Opera House circa 1881, where a mysterious figure known only as the Phantom — a brilliant, disfigured composer who dwells in the labyrinthine cellars beneath the building — becomes obsessed with Christine Daaé, a young chorus soprano with an extraordinary voice. Posing as the "Angel of Music," the Phantom secretly tutors Christine and falls deeply in love with her, setting off a chain of events that pit his genius and desperation against the world above and the affections of Raoul, the Vicomte de Chagny. It is a story about beauty and ugliness, obsession and compassion, the transformative power of art, and the line between love and possession.

What elevates The Phantom of the Opera from a compelling story to a theatrical landmark is the combined artistry of its creative team. Maria Björnson's set and costume design — from the shimmering candlelit lake to the Phantom's subterranean lair to the opulent Opera House stage — remains one of the most visually stunning achievements in theater history. Her work, combined with Andrew Bridge's atmospheric lighting, creates a world that feels both lush and menacing. The iconic chandelier — which hangs above the audience and crashes spectacularly onto the stage — is a coup de théâtre that has been thrilling audiences for nearly 40 years.

The current North American tour, produced by Cameron Mackintosh and The Really Useful Group with NETworks Presentations, launched in November 2025. Directed by Seth Sklar-Heyn — who also helms the London production at His Majesty's Theatre — this staging is based faithfully on Harold Prince's celebrated original direction, with choreography by Gillian Lynne recreated and adapted by Chrissie Cartwright. The result is a production that honors every detail of the original while carrying a renewed vitality that has earned standing ovations at every stop on the tour.

In Columbus, the tour takes up residence at the Ohio Theatre — a 1928 movie palace on East State Street that has been lovingly restored to its original Spanish-Baroque splendor by CAPA. With its gilded columns, ornate ceiling murals, and a 2,779-seat auditorium that delivers both intimacy and grandeur, the Ohio Theatre is one of the finest touring houses in America and an ideal home for a show built on spectacle and atmosphere. The Phantom plays 16 performances from May 12 through May 23, 2027, as part of the Broadway in Columbus 2026-27 season.

How to Get Phantom of the Opera Tickets in Columbus

How do I buy Phantom of the Opera Columbus tickets?

Official tickets are available through Broadway in Columbus, Ticketmaster, and CAPA season packages. For verified resale seats — particularly useful for sold-out performances — BigStub offers tickets for every date with a buyer guarantee, no hidden fees, and more than 20 years of trusted service.

How many performances does Phantom have in Columbus?

The Phantom of the Opera plays 16 performances at the Ohio Theatre from Monday, May 12 through Sunday, May 23, 2027. The schedule includes evening shows and matinees, giving fans multiple options to attend.

What makes this Phantom production special?

This Cameron Mackintosh touring production features Maria Björnson's iconic original design — the same aesthetic that was rapturously received when the London production was refreshed in 2021. Direction by Seth Sklar-Heyn faithfully recreates Harold Prince's celebrated staging, ensuring that every signature moment — the chandelier crash, the gondola ride, the Masquerade ball — is delivered with the full impact of the original.

What is the Ohio Theatre like for a Broadway show?

The Ohio Theatre at 39 East State Street is a 2,779-seat venue built in 1928 and restored to its original Spanish-Baroque grandeur. The ornate interior, superb acoustics, and intimate sightlines make it one of the best touring Broadway houses in the country. For a show as visually rich as Phantom, the Ohio Theatre's opulent setting enhances the experience considerably.

Is there parking near the Ohio Theatre?

Several parking garages are within easy walking distance in Downtown Columbus. The State Street Garage and Lazarus Building Garage are popular options. Street parking and surface lots are also available, and the venue is accessible by COTA bus routes and rideshare services.

Can I buy a season package that includes Phantom?

Yes. CAPA offers Broadway in Columbus season subscription packages for the 2026-27 season, which includes The Phantom of the Opera alongside other major touring productions like Wicked and The Great Gatsby. Season packages typically offer savings over purchasing individual show tickets and guarantee your seats for the entire lineup.

Phantom of the Opera Columbus — Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Phantom of the Opera about?

Set in the Paris Opera House in 1881, The Phantom of the Opera tells the story of a disfigured musical genius who lives beneath the building and becomes obsessed with Christine Daaé, a young soprano. He secretly tutors her voice while terrorizing the opera company, leading to a dramatic confrontation between his love for Christine, her affection for the Vicomte de Chagny, and the consequences of his obsession.

When does Phantom play at the Ohio Theatre in Columbus?

The Phantom of the Opera runs May 12 through May 23, 2027, with 16 performances at the Ohio Theatre, including evening shows and matinees.

Who wrote The Phantom of the Opera?

The music is by Andrew Lloyd Webber, with lyrics by Charles Hart and additional lyrics by Richard Stilgoe. The book is by Richard Stilgoe and Andrew Lloyd Webber, based on the 1910 French novel by Gaston Leroux.

Who produces this touring production?

The North American tour is produced by Cameron Mackintosh and The Really Useful Group with NETworks Presentations. It features direction by Seth Sklar-Heyn based on Harold Prince's original staging, Maria Björnson's iconic design, and choreography by Gillian Lynne recreated by Chrissie Cartwright.

How long is The Phantom of the Opera?

The show runs approximately two hours and 30 minutes with one intermission.

What are the most famous songs in Phantom?

The score includes 'The Phantom of the Opera,' 'The Music of the Night,' 'All I Ask of You,' 'Think of Me,' 'Angel of Music,' 'Masquerade,' 'Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again,' and 'The Point of No Return.'

Is Phantom of the Opera suitable for children?

The show is generally recommended for ages 10 and up. It contains dramatic and intense moments including the Phantom's unmasking and the chandelier crash, which may be startling for younger children. The themes of obsession and the Phantom's backstory are best appreciated by older children and adults.

What is CAPA?

CAPA (Columbus Association for the Performing Arts) is the nonprofit organization that manages the Ohio Theatre and several other historic venues in Columbus. CAPA presents the Broadway in Columbus series, which brings major national touring productions to the Ohio Theatre each season.

How long did Phantom run on Broadway?

The Phantom of the Opera ran for over 13,000 performances at the Majestic Theatre on Broadway from January 1988 until April 2023, making it the longest-running show in Broadway history. The show continues at His Majesty's Theatre in London's West End and on tour worldwide.

What is the chandelier scene in Phantom?

One of the most iconic moments in musical theater, the chandelier scene occurs at the end of Act One when the Phantom causes the massive chandelier hanging above the audience to crash onto the stage. It is a stunning practical effect that has thrilled audiences for nearly four decades.

Where can I eat near the Ohio Theatre?

Downtown Columbus offers numerous dining options within walking distance of the Ohio Theatre. The Short North Arts District, just north of downtown, features dozens of restaurants and bars. The area around East State Street and High Street also has pre-show dining options ranging from casual to upscale.

Is BigStub a trusted ticket seller?

Yes. BigStub has over 20 years in the ticket resale industry and holds the highest Trustpilot rating among resale platforms. Every seller is verified, every purchase is backed by a buyer guarantee, and dedicated customer support is available to help.