The Phantom of the Opera: Peter Jöback to star

Platinum-selling Swedish recording artist Peter Jöback will assume the starring role of 'The Phantom' from 29 Apr - 24 Aug 2013 in Andrew Lloyd Webber's The Phantom of the Opera, the longest-running show in Broadway history. He will assume the role from Hugh Panaro who will return to the title role on 26 Aug 2013.

Jöback is a Grammy-nominated, platinum-selling Swedish recording artist. He recently played 'The Phantom' in the London production of The Phantom of the Opera from 19 Mar 2012 to 01 Sep 2012. Other West End theater credits include 'Miss Saigon' and' The Witches of Eastwick.'

In other casting news Sierra Boggess will end her run as 'Christine Daae' on 2 Mar 2013. Samantha Hill who currently plays the show's alternative 'Christine Daae' will assume the role from 4 Mar 2013. Phantom vet Marni Raab will return to the show on 4 Mar 2013 as the productions alternative 'Christine Daae.'

The musical's principal cast currently stars Hugh Panaro (The Phantom), Sierra Boggess (Christine Daae), Kyle Barisich (Raoul), Jim Weitzer (Monsieur Andre), Tim Jerome (Monsieur Firmin), Michele McConnell (Carlotta), Ellen Harvey (Madame Giry), Christian Sebek (Piangi) and Kara Klein (Meg Giry). At certain performances Samantha Hill plays Christine.

The Phantom of the Opera opened at the Majestic on 26 Jan 1988, following previews from 9 Jan, and went on to sweep the 1988 Tony Awards, winning seven, including Best Musical.

Based on the classic novel Le Fantôme de L'Opéra by Gaston Leroux, The Phantom of the Opera tells the story of a masked figure who lurks beneath the catacombs of the Paris Opera House, exercising a reign of terror over all who inhabit it. He falls madly in love with an innocent young soprano, Christine, and devotes himself to creating a new star by nurturing her extraordinary talents and by employing all of the devious methods at his command.

The Phantom of the Opera has music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and is directed by Harold Prince. Lyrics are by Charles Hart (with additional lyrics by Richard Stilgoe) and the book is by Richard Stilgoe and Andrew Lloyd Webber.

The musical has production design by the late Maria Björnson, lighting by Andrew Bridge and sound by Martin Levan. Musical staging and choreography is by Gillian Lynne. Orchestrations are by David Cullen and Andrew Lloyd Webber.