If ambiance is something that appeals to your senses, then a musical at the exquisite Providence Performing Arts Center (PPAC) could be for you. Walking into the theater is like walking into a gilded castle, with all the tinsel and glamour. Hand painted ceilings and embossed walls with gilded scenery offer a wide variety of artistic presentation. Velvet draped balconies and beautiful lighting adds even more to this exquisite building. Concession stands are kept minimal, maintaining the glamour at an all time high.

My visit to PPAC brought back memories of my early childhood, when it used to be called the old Loew’s Theater. Not just any theater, but a place where you could see a movie for fifty cents (ok, so I am not 25 like you thought). The velvet seats, gilded ceiling and chandeliers reminded me of being in a castle, and I was the princess (no knight in shining armor at 11 years old though). The place was in need of many repairs in the 1970’s, but to a kid of 11, I felt like Cinderella. Little did I know that I would be returning there again someday!

The Complete Phantom of the Opera

I happened to be at the opening performance of “The Phantom of the Opera” (the fourth time for me) and as usual, I was greatly entertained. Opera seats were a first for me, as I was accompanied by a good friend, who equally enjoyed the performance. I had attended so many other performances of the Phantom, I pretty much knew the story, but I am always surprised when I discovered something new and remarkable. The music alone was enough to send my head whirling as I listened in amazement at the performers. I was particularly impressed with the lead actor that portrayed the Phantom this time. A very strong performance by the “Phantom” and equally as strong by the performer who portrayed “Christine.”

Intermission brought a mad rush to the ladies room and a taste fine wine. I convinced myself not to buy one of the T-shirts for sale, but promised myself that the next time I would indulge myself.

The performance's climax featured the famous chandelier swinging its way down through the crowds, only to land delicately on stage. I was amazed to find out later on that that piece of artwork actually weighed 1500 lbs, and was made of finely finished metal and glasswork. No wonder it had to land delicately!

The orchestra and the performers had me mesmerized, and the costumes, equally so. It didn’t take much to make my head turn when the “Phantom” performed his solo “Christine” which brought tears to my eyes to be blotted by handfuls of tissues.

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I was so enthralled by the musical, that I didn’t want it to end, but, like all good things in life , it did. But, I know that it will be back again, and this time I will be in the first row, instead of the twelfth row.

Tickets can be purchased online, ranging from $45-75 for seats, at www.ppacri.org. PPAC is at 220 Weybosett Street in Providence. Phone 401/421-2997

Linda Eagleson has been a writer for as long as she can remember. She has been published in local papers, anthologies, and columns, and participates in poetry slams throughout the state. Her passion for life shows in her writing.

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