Lessons From The Phantom of the Opera

Second Edition & Kindle

2009-11-04T11:19:00.001-08:00

In the next month or two, I will be publishing on Kindle an expanded version of Lessons From the Phantom of the Opera that will include my most recent posts since publication in May of 2009. Sometime close to May 2010, I will make the second edition available in print form as well that can be purchased on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other retailers worldwide.

Thank you so much for all of your kind comments regarding my blog and book! Great reviews posted on the Internet and emails keep coming--it warms my heart.

If you haven't tuned into our radio show, check it out! We've had some great guests lately and the shows are archived for listening. Go to All Things Phantom on BlogTalkRadio.

On a side note, my first historical fiction novel is in production and will be released and ready for sale in the next month or two. If you're interested in a 19th century romance to warm your heart, please visit my book website at: The Price of Innocence.

Cheerfully yours,
The Phantom's Student

Love Never Dies - A Strong Opinion

2009-10-08T16:17:00.000-07:00

As most of you probably know, announcements have flooded the media recently regarding Andrew Lloyd Webber's pending sequel to the Phantom of the Opera. The show is slated to be released in March of 2010 in London and November of 2010 in New York City. As we stand on the verge of its release, I see a war brewing on the horizon among fans, and it breaks my heart.

I am constantly amazed over how this story elicits such strong emotions from individuals. The three camps of Phantom lovers, only to mention a few (Leroux, the stage play, and the 2004 movie), are drawing lines in the sand and opinionated battles have begun over the need for continuing the story on stage.

There are those who are vehemently opposed to the curtain going up. The trial has begun, but there's no "innocent" here until proven "guilty." Those who hate it, have pronounced their verdict even before the jury (the audience) has been shown all the evidence. Then there are fans who can't wait to see the next creation of Andrew Lloyd Webber, and no doubt already have their ticket in hand and are counting the days until release.

If you don't know how I feel about the impending sequel, I've already written a blog regarding my feelings. To recap, I look at it this way. He took Leroux's book, adapted it to the stage, and immortalized the genius of music in a musical. The Phantom of the Opera, by Andrew Lloyd Webber, is his creation. He gave it to audiences to enjoy, and for over 20 plus years, we have reveled in its beauty and sung its haunting musical score.

The last time I looked it says, © Copyright The Really Useful Group Ltd. The Phantom of the Opera on stage is Webber's creation, and he has the right to do with it as he pleases. We don't own the story, we merely use it to touch our hearts, and it has gone around the world to more than 100 million individuals.

What concerns me the most regarding the sequel, is not the release on stage or the continuation of the story. It is the division among the fan base across the globe. I see arguments rising on networking sites, forums, boards, etc. The entire matter is cause for alarm, as far as I'm concerned. We are fighting among ourselves, alienating one another personally, and causing a riff in the fan base, which may never heal. I guess you could say, "there's a disturbance in the lair."

Let's agree to disagree, but let's express our opinions respectfully. The one thing that should bind us together, is the love of the story. Why should we divide ourselves over Love Never Dies? I'd like to think our love of the story will never die, or the camaraderie we find with other fans around the world.

As the months progress and the public draws closer to seeing the new production, let's step back and focus on the center of what it's all about - the guy in the mask. Like him, you want to be able to remove your mask, reveal who you are, and find acceptance. It's no different in the lair of fans. The Phantom of the Opera is a story of unconditional love and acceptance, "All I wanted was to be loved for myself."

I encourage each of you, when another takes his mask off and gives his honest opinion regarding Love Never Dies, try not to rant and rave when you disagree with him. Go light a candle of peace in the lair instead. I'm sure Erik would appreciate it.

As always, your thought provoking....
Phantom's Student

PS...Below is a clip of one of the songs and here is a link to the official website for Love Never Dies.

Piangi

2009-09-24T17:18:00.000-07:00

I've had this blog since January of 2008, published my book in May of 2009, and not once have I written about Ubaldo Piangi, the principal tenor at the Opera Populaire. Frankly, up until now, I didn't know what to write nor did I think much about his character in the Phantom of the Opera.

This past week at Phantom Fans Week in Vegas I had the opportunity to meet Larry Wayne Morbitt, who plays Piangi in the production. He is a friendly, warm, and cheerful individual, and his presence made me pay particular attention to his interaction on stage with the other characters. As a result, I saw Piangi in an entirely new light as a character who exudes comedy and loyal support, but unfortunately experiences a tragic end.

Piangi, as most of you know, is not in Leroux's original work. So who is this fellow? What does he portray and what lessons can we learn from his short, but important participation in the story itself?

First, it's quite obvious he's part of the comic relief in the opening scenes of Hanibal as he attempts to crawl on top of that elephant! We learned during the costume session in Vegas his cape weighs 70 pounds! It's no wonder the guy has trouble!

Later in the scene, we see him standing by Carlotta watching her sing, comforting her after the accident occurs, and eventually storming off the stage behind her telling everyone we are a bunch of "amateurs." In every performance I've attended, the audience laughs, and I'm sure you have too.

What struck me while watching Piangi's interaction during the song Prima Donna, was the few words he spoke to the managers regarding Carlotta: "You don't deserve her!" What a friend!

Let's face it, at this point, poor Carlotta is struggling to maintain her position as lead soprano, feeling a tad bit slighted over Christine's stellar performance, and thinking she's really not needed any longer. Though the managers assure her she is valuable and want her to stay, you really doubt their sincerity.

Nevertheless, there stands faithful Piangi by her side as a friend/lover, watching over the woman he cares about, and supporting her in any way he possibly can. Of course, at the Point of No Return, we know he meets an untimely death at the hand of the Phantom. (sniffs)

What lesson can we learn? I think all of us need a Piangi in our lives! They are the friends that stand by us through thick and thin, support us when others dislike us, and encourage us when things are going rough. If you've ever had a Piangi-type friend in your life and lost them, you know how devastating that can be.

Why it's taken me so long to see Piangi's value in this story is beyond me! I can only say, bravo, to Ulbaldo Piangi for being the prime example of a faithful friend who stands by and supports the the one he loves.

Your obedient servant,
The Phantom's Student

Phantom Fans Week Las Vegas

2009-09-19T18:49:00.000-07:00

Well, this is not going to be your typical post. I am, however, going to share with you my experience attending the International Phantom Fans Week at the Venetian Hotel in Las Vegas from September 16 - 20, 2009. It truly made all my nights!

This was the first year that Phantom Las Vegas hosted a fans week. Hopefully, it won't be the last either. The entire event was spectacular. It consisted of three full days of events, with a few optional ones. The main schedule was as follows, including seeing the show production as many times as you wanted:

Meet the Phantom - Anthony Crivello - Q & A Session
Meet the Cast - Q & A Session
Masquerade Ball with Cast/Crew
Phantom Costume and Makeup
The Chandelier Experience
Phantom Custom Theater
Keynote Address: Hall Prince

What was the best part? Well, I have to give kudos to the cast for their overwhelming warm welcome of fans and their willingness to rub shoulders and be up front and personal with everyone - from speaking to us personally, giving us autographs, posing for pictures, and expressing their appreciation. It was wonderful.

Of course, the Vegas show is spectacular....just like they advertise. Here are a few fun Phantom facts to ponder:

$40 million cost of the theater at The Venetian
$35 million cost to mount the production
$5 million cost of the chandelier
29,444 individual crystals in the chandelier
2,000 pounds of the chandelier, named Maria
32 number of winches used to operate the chandelier
6 months to construct the chandelier
$4.25 million cost of lavish costumes
100,000 weight, in pounds, of scenery hanging above the stage
1,800 number of seats in the theater
500 number of costumes
222 number of candles that rise from the Phantom’s lair
250 automated effects
80 life-sized, front-of-house mannequins filling the opera boxes
41 number of cast members
142 number of cast, crew and orchestra members combined
22 life-sized mannequins on the “Masquerade” Staircase
11 number of costume-changes for Christine

Having attended this event gave me a deeper appreciation of the work, genius, and talent that makes up a stage production of this size. Each of the cast members are excited to be part of Phantom of the Opera. They love their roles, and appreciate the fans. In addition, they are seasoned and talented professionals.

Hopefully, next year they will do another Phantom fans week. If they do, I wholeheartedly encourage you to attend if at all possible.

Also, tune into our show from Vegas on BlogTalkRadio. Brianne Kelly Morgan, who plays Meg, as well as Andrew Ragone, who plays Raoul, were kind enough to join us to express their thoughts on Phantom fans week. Both will be coming back on the show sometime in the future. In addition, we are blessed to have Anthony Crivello, the Phantom himself, join us too! I'll keep you updated.

Your totally, blessed, and happy....
Phantom's Student

Post Script: Here is a great article on Broadway World giving a recap of Phantom Fans Week.

All Things Phantom Broadcast From Las Vegas on September 19 @ 5 p.m. PST

2009-09-03T09:01:00.001-07:00

I am happy to announce that my Internet Talk Radio show will broadcast live from Las Vegas, Nevada during the International Phantom Fans Week to be held at the Venetian Hotel from September 16-20, 2009.

My co-host and I will broadcast on Saturday, September 19, at 5:00 p.m. Pacific Standard Time.

The show will focus on the Phantom Fans Week event, and we will be taking calls from attendees to share their experiences at the convention.

Tune in at BlogTalkRadio to listen live on 9/19 or catch the archived shows on our show blog All Things Phantom Show.

If you are attending and wish to be one of the callers to share your experience, contact me at vicki@lessonsfromthephantomoftheopera.com, so we can make arrangements and give you instructions.

Also, if you haven't listened to our shows before, we hope you'll tune in and join the fun. Can't make a live show? No problem. They are archived and available for listening at a later date from our audio players located on our show page and blog.

The Phantom's Student

Anguish

2009-08-26T07:42:00.000-07:00

Lately I’ve been focusing on a different authorship and was pondering Erik’s anguish. Remembering words, penned by Leroux, shook me once again and shed light upon his pain that I’ve never pondered before. Both of these quotes of Christine come from the scene of Erik’s unmasking in front of her and painfully speak of the anguish of his soul. It’s Erik’s suffering.

"Yes, if I lived to be a hundred, I should always hear the superhuman cry of grief and rage which he uttered when the terrible sight appeared before my eyes....”

"He had let go of me at last and was dragging himself about on the floor, uttering terrible sobs…”

I happened to pick up the Bible this week, which I sometimes do, and oddly was drawn to the Book of Job. It's not the most uplifting book to read. It focuses on one man who loses everything – family, possessions, and health and enters into an extremely painful season in his life. It’s a book of anguish and suffering penned thousands of years ago. As I read passages, they flew off the page as the voice of Erik expressing his anguish in my ears.

Consider the following quotes cursing his existence:

"…opened his mouth and cursed the day of his birth. Let the day perish on which I was to be born, and the night which said, A boy is conceived. May that day be darkness; Let not God above care for it, Nor light shine on it.” (Job 3:1-4)

"I loathe my very life; therefore I will give free rein to my complaint and speak out in the bitterness of my soul.” (Job 10:1)

Consider his questions why:

"Why did I not perish at birth, and die as I came from the womb?" (Job 3:11)

"Why then did you bring me out of the womb? I wish I had died before any eye saw me.
If only I had never come into being, or had been carried straight from the womb to the grave!" (Job 10:18-19)

"Why is light given to those in misery, and life to the bitter of soul, to those who long for death that does not come, who search for it more than for hidden treasure, who are filled with gladness and rejoice when they reach the grave? (Job 3:20-22)

Human suffering is not a topic we care to focus upon, but when we look at Erik, he is truly a picture of human suffering and anguish. His extreme pain is evident in his actions and heard in the cry of his sobs.

We all experience various forms of suffering and anguish in our lives. It is true, some experience more than others. Throughout the ages, humans have called it by many names: your cross to bear, your lot in life, fate dealing you a rotten hand, bad karma, etc. Whatever term you give it, whether you are religious or a non-believer, anguish and suffering is as universal as the air we breathe.

Although we can empathize with those who suffer, we cannot bear the anguish or pains of another. I cannot imagine the totality of Erik’s anguished soul or the deep affect it had on his psyche. Like you, I can only read about it, see it portrayed on stage and film, and ponder what he must have felt. His anguish is his own. “Each heart knows its own bitterness…” (Proverbs 14:10)

Unfortunately, we are not given reasons for our anguish and pain. We often ask why. I know I’m not the only one to lift my head to the heavens and question, in fact demand a reason behind my own personal sufferings. No doubt, we have all heard the same silence. We can only speculate, or like Job’s friends, be judged by others for why we suffer.

We could ask the same questions about Erik. Why was he burdened with such a horrid deformity and relegated to a life of suffering and rejection? On the other hand, we could also ask why was he blessed with such marvelous musical genius in return?

That, my friend, is the humanity of the story that touches our hearts. It’s here at this point of anguish we all relate in some way. As a result, we are profoundly drawn to The Phantom of the Opera, which grips our hearts and will not let go.

Sincerely,
The Phantom’s Student

The Horror Of It All

2009-08-16T15:41:00.000-07:00

As I focus on Leroux the second half of my blog, one element I haven’t talked about before is horror. Le Fantôme de l'Opéra falls within the genre of Gothic literature, which inherently includes the elements of both horror and romance combined together.

Leroux’s book is filled with instances of extreme emotion, fearfulness, ghosts, dark cellars, danger, death, decay, disfigurement, and a madman the Persian calls a monster. On top of that, we have elements of kidnapping, captivity, bondage, torture, strangulation, and death.

The setting is dark and mysterious. A ghost lives in the cellars underneath the Opera House and sleeps in a coffin. The path to his lair is filled with dark creepy corridors, dangerous trap doors, and an ominous lake that takes lives.

Leroux weaves symbolism throughout the book touching on the darker side. There are references to hell, damnation, graveyards, and the devil. Even another horror writer, Edgar Allen Poe’s work, Red Death, is woven into the story. I’m sure if you look hard enough, you can find many more symbols of horror throughout with the intent to frighten the reader.

As I write this blog, I’m back to my curiosity of human behavior. You know, I’ve termed The Phantom of the Opera my psychological playground, and this is definitely one that takes me to the sandbox.

So what is it about the genre of horror fiction that attracts us for entertainment purposes? We love to watch aliens invade earth, vampires sucking blood out of necks, monsters on rampages, and ugly men capture beautiful girls dragging them to their lair. Theaters entertain people with thrills of chain saw massacres and humans eating humans. Gothic novels about the darker side of horror and romance are big business, as well as films that dabble on the dark side.

Perhaps it’s the adrenalin rush we get having the daylights scared out of us or it is true that human nature loves darkness rather than light. I’m sure, unless you’re a little psycho yourself, you really wouldn’t wish to be on the receiving end of some of these horrific acts. Frankly, I don’t think I would have liked being kidnapped and dragged down to the Opera House cellars and bound by a disfigured madman who could blow me to smithereens!

As for Gothic literature, it appears we like to throw in the element of romance to smooth the rough edges of horror itself. The character gives in to the darker side and falls in love with the creepy guy with a mask or the blood sucking vampire. Somehow, I guess that makes it better and appeals to those women who love those bad-boys or their captors.

Whatever the reason, The Phantom of the Opera is a classic Gothic romance and horror literature. It contains all the elements of fright and love mixed together. On August 22 we'll be discussing the horror element of the story on All Things Phantom on BlogTalkRadio. I'm curious what others think about the subject, and I hope you'll join us.

The Phantom's Student

All Things Phantom on BlogTalkRadio

Doubt

2009-08-08T07:59:00.000-07:00

Not long ago, I rented a movie entitled “Doubt,” staring Meryl Streep and Philip Seymour Hoffman. The movie contains a powerful message and an ending that I frankly found haunting. The theme, of course, is doubt and the power it possesses.

Leroux skillfully wields doubt throughout the Phantom of the Opera. He uses it in various forms. His characters express their uncertainty, distrust, and skepticism over certain matters, and he speaks of his own doubts as well. Let’s take a look at a few instances.

Raoul is one character riddled with doubt over Christine. He doubts her love, the truth behind her statements, and even her virtuous conduct as a woman. The most glaring doubt he harbors is whether or not she truly loves him. It’s quite obvious, her words say one thing, but her actions display another. As a result, Raoul expresses his doubts.

"I doubted your love for me, during those hours."

Though Christine tries to assure him his doubts are unfounded because she acted out of fright with regard to Erik, Raoul continues to question her sincerity.

"You are frightened...but do you love me?
If Erik were good-looking, would you love me, Christine?"

Of course, then comes the infamous kiss between Christine and Raoul on the rooftop as she attempts to convince him of her love. Was Raoul convinced or did he still harbor his doubts?

Christine harbored her own doubts over Raoul’s ability to free her from Erik’s influence. As they ascended to the rooftop, Leroux says she entertained the possibility and allowed herself this doubt. What doubt? Apparently, she was convinced that no one could save her from Erik’s power, and for one brief moment she allowed herself to believe that there could be freedom, rather than doubting.

"I will remove you from his power, Christine, I swear it. And you shall not think of him any more." "Is it possible?" She allowed herself this doubt, which was an encouragement….”

Philippe, as we all know, vehemently opposed the union between Raoul and Christine. Did he have doubts that Raoul was totally crazy for loving Christine? Apparently, but when he attempts to run away and elope with her, Philippe’s doubts are dispelled and he truly thinks his brother is mad!

“And the count, who no longer entertained any doubt of his brother's madness, in his turn darted into that infernal underground maze.”

Of course, the most doubt expressed in the story swirls around the Opera Ghost, our dear Erik. A few of our characters have their doubts about Erik. It takes Christine’s disappearance for Raoul to no longer doubt Erik’s power:

"Raoul's first thought, after Christine Daae's fantastic disappearance, was to accuse Erik. He no longer doubted the almost supernatural powers of the Angel of Music, in this domain of the Opera in which he had set up his empire."

The managers at first doubted the antics of the Ghost, until they were finally convinced of his powers as well.

"Richard and Moncharmin turned pale. There was no longer any doubt about the witchcraft. 'The ghost!' muttered Moncharmin."

The Persian often doubted Erik’s words. Regarding the fate of Christine and Raoul, it took tears to convince him otherwise:

"The Persian asked him no questions. He was quite reassured as to the fate of Raoul Chagny and Christine Daae; no one could have doubted the word of the weeping Erik that night."

Our author is definitely the weaver of doubt, but the biggest one he toys with throughout the entire story is whether Erik truly lived! He tells of his investigations into the fable, his discussions with the Persian, his discovery of the famous bundle of letters written by Christine, and then makes the statement that he no longer has doubt the Ghost truly existed and pens the following:

"I was at first inclined to be suspicious; but when the Persian had told me, with child-like candor, all that he knew about the ghost and had handed me the proofs of the ghost's existence--including the strange correspondence of Christine Daae--to do as I pleased with, I was no longer able to doubt. No, the ghost was not a myth!"

Of course, that is the one big question that surrounds this story. Is it truly an investigation by Gaston Leroux into the existence of the Ghost? Is the prologue and epilogue truth, and the middle merely his fanciful fiction rendition of the events as they transpired? Or dare I say is the entire thing a fabrication and the result of his wild imagination as he writes the novel?

As I look at the book sitting upon my desk next to my computer, the pages appear wrapped in an aura of mystery. As stated in the play, perhaps it is a strange affair that will never fully be explained. Will any of us ever know if it was a carefully crafted story of illusion to make you think it was real? Did Erik truly live or is he just the figment of Leroux’s imagination? As I stated before, Leroux lived in an era when illusion was big business. Was this just another illusion as a means of entertainment?

Do my questions create doubt in your heart? What evidence do you have there is an ounce of truth in the story? Do you believe or do you doubt that Erik, the Phantom of the Opera, truly existed? Perhaps Leroux was just weaving a tale after all. Oh, excuse me, I'm sowing seeds of doubt. One small planting, a little watering, doubt will grow, and truth will be become shades of gray.

Doubt – a five letter word packed with power.

As always, your obedient servant. I hope you never doubt that!

The Phantoms' Student

All Things Phantom Show

2009-07-31T13:57:00.000-07:00

As a matter of follow up, I'm happy to report that our show, "All Things Phantom" on BlogTalkRadio has taken off like wildfire!

We are blessed with fascinating guests booked through the end of October 2009, with others just waiting to finalize appearances. In fact, we have our own resident Opera Ghost.

If you are on Facebook, make sure to join our Group - All Things Phantom Show Group. In addition, links to past shows are on this blog for your listening enjoyment.

This week we're talking about obsession. So if you're an obsessed fan, visit our blog and show page for more information. Join us weekly at 5:00 p.m. PST.

Blog Link

Heaven or Hell

2009-07-18T15:51:00.000-07:00

Leroux weaves a tale in the Phantom of the Opera that is filled with underlying elements. Religion is one dominant theme, which Webber certainly carries on in the stage play. As I discussed in my book, the story itself and lyrics by Charles Hart are riddled with scriptural references.

Everyone in the story has a belief system of one type or another. Heaven, hell, and superstition are everywhere. Let’s take a quick look at heaven and hell in the Phantom of the Opera and the belief systems that influenced the characters’ behaviors.

France during the time of 1870 just entered into the Third Republic, and Catholicism was the state religion, though there were Protestants and Jews in France as well. Raoul makes a statement, while being interviewed by the public prosecutor, that he is Catholic. In fact, he’s a bit insulted when the prosecutor asks if he’s superstitious!

“Are you superstitious? No Monsieur, I am a practicing Catholic!”

Why the obvious horror at the question? Those who were educated and rich characterized the superstitious as feeble-minded individuals. No wonder Raoul is appalled at the prosecutor's question, which is a blatant insult to his class and title as Vicomte.

Was Christine Catholic? Probably not. Remember she came from Sweden, and during that time period the Church of Sweden, which is a branch of Lutheran Christianity, was the state religion. Leroux writes that Gustuv Daae was, “a peasant who lived there with his family, digging the earth during the week and singing in the choir on Sundays,” which leads me to believe she was Protestant.

I find it quite interesting that Raoul wonders about Christine’s belief system commenting on Madame Valerius’ influence of a simple-mind woman and her dead father who he calls a “superstitious fiddler," perhaps referring to her Protestant roots. Raoul thinks they are foolish to believe in the Angel of Music who comes down from Heaven to haunt the dressing rooms of the Opera.

The theatrical characters are riddled with fear and driven by superstition. As I researched this article, I found some interesting historical references to various theatrical superstitions and especially those involving opera. Leroux states that Sorelli was very superstitious, as well as Gabriel. Theatrical residents were clearly influenced with superstitious fears of ghosts, demons, saints, and angels that resided in their world at the opera house. No wonder having a resident Opera Ghost was such a big deal!

What about Erik? He seems to use religion and superstition to his advantage. Here’s an interesting statement about using superstition as a means of control:

“Poligny was superstitious and Erik knew it. Erik knew most things about the public and private affairs of the Opera. When M. Poligny heard a mysterious voice tell him, in Box Five, of the manner in which he used to spend his time and abuse his partner's confidence, he did not wait to hear any more. Thinking at first that it was a voice from Heaven, he believed himself damned….”

Erik was also a master at using scripture and religious tones to entice and mesmerize Christine. He plays upon her weakness in believing in the Angel of Music. Christine confesses his influence in the following:

“And then the voice began to sing the leading phrase, "Come! And believe in me! Whoso believes in me shall live! Walk! Whoso hath believed in me shall never die!...' I can not tell you the effect which that music had upon me. It seemed to command me, personally, to come, to stand up and come to it.”

What about Erik’s personal beliefs? Well, clearly he thought himself damned, an Angel of Hell, rather than of Heaven, for which there was no redemption.

What religious terms did Christine use to describe him? She goes from heaven to hell.

"No, he is not a ghost; he is a man of Heaven and earth, that is all."
“He is a demon!”

Then, of course, the references continue from Raoul, the Persian, and everyone else that Erik is akin to the Devil and looks like Satan himself with death's head.

Religion in our lives and our belief systems are a very personal matter, however, it’s very obvious in Leroux’s work, as well as Webber, religion and superstition are influencing all the key players. The Phantom of the Opera is a story of light and darkness, heaven and hell, love and hate, redemption and damnation. Each person’s belief in their own personal way reflects their actions and emotions throughout the story, from Raoul being a practicing Catholic, the simple-minded beliefs of Christine, to the superstitions of the cast. Religion for some of the characters is a guiding light or for others a tool of manipulation. It can comfort the heart at the thought of heaven, or bring terror to the soul at the thought of hell.

Each of us possess some type of personal belief system, and it's those beliefs that guide are lives, morals, and actions in life. You may be deeply religious, a non-believer, or the superstitious type. Even if you believe in nothing, you still believe in something!

I've returned to poke at you again!

The Phantom's Student

Follow to Debut Show - All Things Phantom on BlogTalkRadio.com

2009-07-11T21:55:00.000-07:00

Teresa and I would like to thank everyone for catching our show live on July 11th. We had a few technical difficulties with sound qualities, but we know what the problems are and will have a clearer show, we promise, next week on July 18 @ 5 p.m. PST.

I cannot believe how many people showed up! We had 19 live streaming the show, and nearly half were in our chat room. 47 have downloaded the archived show already. Special thank you to those who joined us from Spain and England, and another special thank you to the brave souls who phoned in.

Next week we'll talk Christine Daae, so be ready for a lively discussion as Teresa and I learn to overcome dead air time! We'll allow several on the lines at once, and we're going to look for guest next week as well. Keep checking our blog or the show page.

Also, thanks for your patience with a couple of amateurs trying something new! We hope you'll grow with us in this new venue weekly. Next week we won't be so nervous....hopefully.

Cyber Hugs,
Vicki and Teresa

All Things Phantom Show Reminder

2009-07-10T21:25:00.000-07:00

Our show debuts tomorrow Saturday, July 11 @ 3:30 p.m. PST. Here's a promo video with more information. Visit our show page at All Things Phantom on BlogTalkRadio.

My co-host and I are very happy to bring this new medium to Phantom fans worldwide. We truly hope it makes your night!

Cheerfully yours,
Vicki

Shared via AddThis

Lloyd Webber Confirms Boggess And Karimloo For Leading Roles In 'LOVE NEVER DIES'

2009-07-07T10:01:00.001-07:00

Lloyd Webber Confirms Boggess And Karimloo For Leading Roles In 'LOVE NEVER DIES'

Shared via AddThis

From Leroux to Webber - We'll Talk!

2009-07-01T21:03:00.000-07:00

Check out our new site! We'll be using this for the Internet talk radio show on BlogTalkRadio.com debuting July 11 @ 3:30 p.m. PST. On this blog you'll be able to check out show news, information on upcoming episodes, and links to past recorded airings.

I'm happy to report we have received a lot of interest from Phantom fans. Also, requests are pouring in from those who would like to be guest speakers on all sorts of Phantom-related matters.

All Things Phantom Show Blog

Blog of the Day Award

2009-06-24T09:13:00.000-07:00

Today my blog is being recognized with the Blog of the Day Award.

Thank you everyone for the acknowledgment. I've poured my heart and soul into this blog for 18 months, and it's very encouraging to receive such kindness. Hopefully, my posts have blessed you and will continue to do so!

Cheerfully yours,
Vicki

Blog of the Day Award

Intimidation - The Sneaky Way to Control

2009-06-19T18:54:00.000-07:00

Writing strictly about Leroux is interesting. While examining Webber’s version, sprinkled with Leroux as a backdrop, the story is more romanticized. However, with Leroux alone, without the Webber content, I find the story dramatically taking on a different form in a myriad of ways – especially when it comes to some of the darker sides of Erik.

He is a master of many things, and one of his tools to get his way in life is through intimidation, which he uses as a means of control. He can be polite as the next person, as long as you do his bidding, but wrathful as hell if you dare to do otherwise. Consider the following: (1) he’s territorial, (2) he demands obedience, (3) he declares war should you dare ignore his commands, (4) he uses intimidation and threats to get his way, and (5) he ultimately punishes you for daring to defy him.

His first threat arrives as he insists on maintaining his territorial rights! The managers must learn his ways, and he threatens through that conditional little “if” word.

"If you wish to live in peace, you must not begin by taking away my private box."

Secondly, he manipulates obedience through ultimatums. I call it emotional blackmail. You must do this or I’ll do that.

"If you still care for peace, here is my ultimatum.
It consists of the four following conditions..."

His conditions, of course, overflow with musts and wills: “You must…” “I will…” “Shall be…” “I absolutely insist…” “You will…”

Thirdly, he intimidates you by giving dire warnings in order to instill fear as a means of control:

"Take my advice and be warned in time. O. G."

Finally, the threat of impending doom arrives should you dare to disobey:

"If you refuse, you will give FAUST to-night in a house with a curse upon it."

I do find it quite amusing that he signs his name, “Your Most Humble and Obedient Servant, OPERA GHOST.” Yes, humbly yours, as long as you stay on his good side.

Well, it’s obvious, our Ghost has some personality issues. What are they? Intimidation is not a new tactic by any means. Basically, it’s instilling fear in another in order to control their will either by coercion or threats. You can call it skillful manipulation. We usually intimidate people to dominate and control, as O.G. did. The new managers threatened his domination, and his only means of keeping it was by intimidation. It’s a means to an end, whether we do it consciously or subconsciously. However, those on the receiving end might not necessarily like it. The managers were a bit peeved.

"'Look here, I'm getting sick of him, sick of him!' shouted Richard,
bringing his fists down on his office-table."

Those who use intimidation as a means of control eventually find out if their tactics are successful or not. If the person at the receiving end is weak, dependent, easily preyed upon, prone to fear, and has low self-esteem, it’s success indeed. However, if they find someone who doesn’t respond to their intimidation and threats, it usually ends up in a war of wits. Believe me, no one wins.

I've always used this powerful analogy in a number of ways. Negative things in our lives can be likened to a weed - unwanted, distressful, or a nuisance. The trouble with weeds, as you know, is if you continue to water them, they grow and deepen their roots. When you try to pull the dang thing out, it's a struggle to get it out of the ground, if not impossible. Usually when you do pull it out, the weed grows back again because the root system is still intact.

It’s the same with those who use the Opera Ghost’s masterful techniques. Seeing their wiles feeding that growing weed, gives great satisfaction. Their recipient folds, obeys their demands, is filled with distress, and surrenders and obeys out of fear. On the other hand, psychologists suggest not to respond or address their demands. It feeds the weed, makes it stronger, and gives back the craving attention to the controller. Just like anything else, when you fail to feed something, it will shrivel up at the roots and die.

Below is a link to a wonderful article entitled, "Eliminating Intimidation." When you read it, you’ll probably see plenty of our dear Erik. It may help you as well if you’re in a situation with others that wish to dominate and control. A lot of times people don’t realize what motivates them as individuals. Self-realization is a huge part of growing as a person. When you understand what makes you tick, you really become a better person in many ways, because then you can then try to modify the negative behavior.

Well, enough said.

As OG would say…. Your Most Humble and Obedient Servant,
The Phantom’s Student

LIVESTRONG.COM - Health, Fitness, Lifestyle - Article: Eliminating Intimidation

Shared via AddThis

"All Things Phantom" - New Show on Blog Talk Radio

2009-06-11T12:08:00.000-07:00

Blog Talk Radio - "All Things Phantom"

Here it comes, a huge announcement for all my readers and Phantom fans in cyberspace. I have decided to host my own Internet radio talk show entitled, "All Things Phantom." My first airing will be on July 11, 2009 at 3:30 p.m. PST.

Why Internet talk radio? Well, actually I stumbled across this medium earlier this week and started listening to a few shows myself. Shows are built around themes and subjects, and it dawned on me what a great venue for Phantom fans! Every week I'm trying to click on Phantom related forums, boards, websites, blogs, and groups to interact with my readers. To be honest, I'm spreading myself too thin trying to keep in touch with the Phantom community. I have made some endearing friends along the way, and I wish to interact more closely. After all, we have a common bond and love - The Phantom of the Opera.

What will the shows entail? Well, I'm sure over time they will evolve and become more professional as I learn the hosting ropes, but in the meantime this is my vision:

Discussions regarding the story. Everything from Leroux to Webber. We can discuss the characters, symbols, emotions, events or other topics. I'm sure Webber's sequel "Love Never Dies" will be a hot topic after it opens, and my phone lines will be flooded with calls.
We will interview Phantom authors. You are more than welcome to plug your book, if I get the chance to interview you! I truly want to give equal time and support to others in this venue.
We will spread Phantom-related news. If you know of Phantom events you want announced over the show, shoot me an email and I will make sure to include them.
Special guests. This one I’m tucking under my hat, and we’ll see how it pans out. I have ideas.

If you have ideas, send them my way. I want this internet radio talk show to belong to the Phantom fans as a place to share. Perhaps you’ll finally be able to hear the voice of one of your friends you’ve corresponded with for years on some forum board! My only requirement inside the talk show is that we "all play nice," and I'm sure you get my drift. I am not in this alone, as there will be co-hosts and close friends working along side me to make this a success.

How does it work? It's pretty easy. Click the link above to my show page. You can send yourself a reminder or choose the RSS feed just to listen. I will announce upcoming episodes. If the talk show time is too inconvenient, the show is archived so you can listen to it at a later time. When the show is live, you can phone in like any other talk show and join the fun! The telephone number to dial in will be posted on the episode information.

I am extremely excited about this new medium to bring Phantom fans closer together. You'll see the information posted everywhere on my other sites, as soon as I painstakingly visit them all. Hopefully, the word will get out quickly; and if not, I'm a patient soul knowing it may take time to grow. Feel free to share with your friends too. I love you guys and am always thankful for your continued support!

As always, I am your obedient servant...
The Phantom's Student

Visit Blog Talk Radio and Sign Up for An Account Today

The Cranky Phantom?

2009-06-09T06:03:00.000-07:00

We all need a bit of humor in our lives, and because my "great tutor" deserves some attention, I'd like to share with you a new website/blog entitled, "The Cranky Phantom."

Now you can talk to Erik (the Phantom, OG, or Angel - whichever you prefer) anytime you wish! Ask questions, read his daily blog (warning...he does dastardly things to Raoul) post comments, and perhaps have a good laugh in the process. I warn you though, he really can be a bit cranky!

Your cheerful Student!

Click Here to Visit: The Cranky Phantom

Skeletons, Skulls, and Roses

2009-06-03T08:11:00.000-07:00

"They were marvelous red roses that had blossomed in the morning, in the snow, giving a glimpse of life among the dead, for death was all around him."

I’m starting this post with a warning – this is going to be a morbid subject. Don’t blame me! It’s Leroux’s fault. He’s the one who wove this theme into the story, and it’s the subject most of us avoid - death. He penned the word often enough to make you face it at the turn of nearly every page. He uses the word death 79 times and dead 49. Is he trying to make a point here or just use scare tactics for a horror story? The subject is not only forced upon its readers, it's forced upon its characters. Let’s look and see how they perceive death’s door.

In my first set of posts, now in book form, I talk about Christine’s walk through the graveyard. It’s obvious Christine’s experience with death encompasses one overwhelming element - grief. Her life profoundly changes by the death of her father. In fact so much, Leroux writes that she lost with him, her voice, her soul, and her genius. She struggles throughout the story mourning her father's passing.

Raoul, on the other hand, has his own graveyard experience. His encounter with death revolves around another element – fear. His close encounter with the Ghost in the graveyard scares the daylights out of him - literally. Skulls roll at his feet, he follows a cloaked figure, touches his hem, sees what he describes as the face of Satan, and passes out. Later in the story he is faced with death again, and finds himself in the torture chamber of mirrors about to go insane from fear.

Leroux also weaves into the story another element - experience. We have two characters who unfortunately taste death for themselves – Joseph Buquet and Philippe de Chagny. Of course, there are numerous references to others who die at the hand of Erik either through strangulation or his trap doors and torture chamber.

The Persian, on the other hand, avoids it at all cost. He knows Erik is capable of inflicting death. He worries about others and warns them that death could be waiting should they encounter Erik and his trap doors and torture chamber. He's careful, and he uses caution so he doesn't meet death before his time.

Finally, we have Erik. I can think of one description when it comes to death. He embraces it. Death is everywhere in his persona as the Opera Ghost. He calls himself Red Death Stalking Abroad, and is constantly referred to as possessing death’s head. To top it off, his bedroom looks like a funeral parlor, and he sleeps inside a coffin! As I stated in my earlier post on Red Death, I believe Erik thought that death was the one place of equality he found with the rest of humanity.

Curiously though, Leroux doesn’t leave us in the midst of death without weaving another theme throughout. It’s how we deal with death; hence the inspiration for my title, “Skeletons, Skulls, and Roses.” The following paragraph tells it all.

"Raoul walked away, dejectedly, to the graveyard in which the church stood and was indeed alone among the tombs, reading the inscriptions; but, when he turned behind the apse, he was suddenly struck by the dazzling note of the flowers that straggled over the white ground. They were marvelous red roses that had blossomed in the morning, in the snow, giving a glimpse of life among the dead, for death was all around him…. Skeletons and skulls by the hundred were heaped against the wall of the church, held in position by a wire that left the whole gruesome stack visible. Dead men's bones, arranged in rows, like bricks, to form the first course upon which the walls of the sacristy had been built."

Leroux attempts to bring reprieve about all this talk of death through the use of flowers. There are roses in the graveyard for Raoul to glimpse life among the dead. Madame Giry tells the managers the Opera Ghost leaves roses behind in his box for her to discover. Christine states Erik’s drawing room is decorated and furnished with nothing but flowers!

When you think of it, we do leave life among the dead. Funeral homes are filled with flowers during services, and traditionally we leave flowers when visiting a grave. Even Erik in the movie version, leaves a glimpse of life on Christine's grave, a red rose. Perhaps flowers are not for the dead, but for us who are left behind. They bring a sense of comfort and life among death.

Yes, I know, it’s a morbid post, but it’s Leroux! He's the one poking at you this time to face the inevitable, not me. Death is an underlying theme throughout the story Leroux does not wish you to escape.

Your obedient servant,
The Phantom’s Student

As a post note, you might be interested in knowing a little about French burial practices in the 19th Century. Leroux writes, “…skeletons and skulls by the hundred were heaped against the wall of the church…” In my research regarding death for my fiction novel, I discovered the following. The extremely poor, who could not afford a burial plot, were buried in unmarked common graves, which could contain more than one body. Those who could afford to purchase a burial plot had two choices – a temporary plot or one in perpetuity. A temporary plot allowed you a place to rest for five years, and then afterward your body was exhumed and your bones were piled high with others like this churchyard scene. If you lived in Paris, your bones were placed in the catacombs beneath the city. If you were rich, you could buy a plot in perpetuity, which meant you wouldn’t be dug up and discarded. You would rest in peace in a crypt or plot marked with a tombstone.

Comte Philippe de Chagny

2009-05-24T14:55:00.000-07:00

Dare I write about Comte Philippe de Chagny, the elder of brother of Raoul? (Inhales deeply and picks up quill with shaking hand to find the courage within to tread upon sacred ground.)

Philippe de Chagny is a Comte revered by many in Leroux’s original version. He’s a man I find everywhere on the Internet. He continues to be written about in Phantom books and sequels. He is played by multiple individuals in roleplay groups around the Internet, and there’s even a YouTube video made in his honor.

Here is a short description of his character as penned by Gaston Leroux:

Philippe Georges Marie Comte de Chagny was just forty-one years of age. He was a great aristocrat and a good-looking man, above middle height and with attractive features, in spite of his hard forehead and his rather cold eyes. He was exquisitely polite to the women and a little haughty to the men, who did not always forgive him for his successes in society. He had an excellent heart and an irreproachable conscience.

Philippe, of course, is the head of the de Chagny family. He’s inherited from his deceased father a large prosperous estate containing a great deal of property. His mother passed away upon the birth of his younger brother Raoul; and his father passed away when he was 32 and Raoul 12. His life is suddenly thrown into the management of the estate, which Leroux states was “no easy task.” In addition, he is faced with the duties of raising his younger brother and caring for his two sisters.

The sisters have little mention, but Philippe’s relationship with Raoul is expounded upon. He is devoted to his younger brother’s education. Philippe spoils him, but is very proud and pleased of Raoul’s naval career. When Raoul comes home on furlough, he introduces him to Parisian luxuries and delights, but makes sure that he does not set a bad example for his younger brother. He’s balanced in work and pleasure, and his outward demeanor in public is faultless.

Philippe, however, is opposed to the match between Raoul and Christine Daae, calling her “little baggage” believing she is only after Raoul’s money since she has no benefactor to care for her. Philippe and Raoul argue over the matter often, according to the household servants. Even their disagreements are noted in the local news: “The two brothers are said to adore each other; but the count is curiously mistaken if he imagines that brotherly love will triumph over love pure and simple."

As a result, the two go head to head. Raoul plans to run away with Christine, and Philippe intends to stop him at all costs. As usual, in the heat of conflict personality traits loom large, and we are able to see what possibly makes this charismatic man tick.

I’ve already written in formers posts that I believe Raoul to be head over heels in love with Christine, so much so he was willing to die to save her life. What about Philippe though? Why is he so hell-bent on stopping the union between his brother and Christine? I came across an interesting quote that I thought fit Philippe quite well.

"There is nothing to which men cling more tenaciously
than the privileges of class."
(L. Woolf )

Philippe de Chagny comes from an aristocratic world, filled with expectations, and codes of social behavior. Remember, Philippe is 20 years Raoul’s senior. His background was no doubt heavily influenced by his father and mother, and the generations of de Chagny’s that date back to the 14th century. The coat of arms hangs in his residence, along with portraits of ancestors reminding him of the way things have always been done.

Raoul, however, is threatening the old ways. He’s daring to marry beneath his status in society, and Philippe will not hear of it. To keep the way things have always been, he reverts to control tactics as he screams at his brother, “I SHALL know how to prevent you!" He is tenaciously clinging to the class in which he was birthed unwilling to accept change.

No doubt Philippe de Chagny was a complex man struggling with a changing world both politically and socially. I often wonder about his life prior to becoming the head of the family. He was 32 when his father passed way. Why hasn’t he married? Why has he no children of his own? You would think by that age he would have accomplished those two tasks in life, but he had not; and we are given no explanation as to why.

Philippe, I believe, struggles with a changing world that grates against his ingrained beliefs. He clings to the way of life he knows, resists change, and desperately attempts to control his brother who wants to break away from the mold.

Philippe, unfortunately, fought change and attempted in vain to stop his brother from running away with Christine Daae. His careless pursuit to stop him results in his own death. His body is discovered on the bank of the Opera lake. A sad ending indeed for a man with an excellent heart and an irreproachable conscience, who lost a battle with change.

As we all know, change is an inevitable part of life and most of us resist it on the spot rather than embracing its arrival. We tenaciously cling to what we have always known. We don't want our apple carts upset, or life to be different when we are comfortable. It will knock on your door one day, if it hasn't already. The question is, will you fight or embrace change? I like to think of Raoul and Christine as two that embraced change, for they left and built a new life together. Unfortunately, Philippe resisted change, and the end result was his demise.

Phantom Fans Week - Las Vegas

2009-05-23T08:14:00.000-07:00

For the first time ever, there will be an international Phantom Fans Week in Las Vegas, Nevada September 16-20, 2009. It sounds wonderful and I'll be there! I've already registered, booked the hotel and flight. If you want to attend, I encourage you to do the same. Here are some of the exciting highlights!

You can see the play from one to four times, depending upon the package you purchase.
You get to meet the Phantom cast.
There is an afternoon session with Anthony Crevillo, the Phantom.
Thursday evening is a Masquerade Ball, which the cast will attend! (Can't wait for that. Still trying to decide what character to choose.)
A session to view the costumes and makeup.
Vegas Chandelier Experience - how it works. It does fall 35 mph over your head and stops 10 feet above. It's a rush.
Dinner with the Phantom Producer, which costs an extra $80 to attend.
Tour of the entire theater, which I've been on before. It's a wonderful experience.
Afternoon session with Hal Prince.

Tickets for the shows and Phantom events range from $225 to $450, which includes admission to all events. They can be purchased through Ticketmaster only. They are giving discounts for early registration. I must admit though, the Ticketmaster site is a big goofed up, and I've been in email contact with the show arrangers to get things straightened out. Seats for the shows are not assigned during the purchase of the event tickets. They will be assigned upon registration when you arrive at the hotel. Also, the tickets are being issued at the wrong level. I purchased one for two performances of the play, and it printed out three performances. They are working on that as well.

I'd love to meet any of you who plan to attend! I'll be on hand to autograph books and will take a few with me, however, this being the first year they are not allowing any other vendors except from the show itself. Next year, I may be able to purchase a venue place and do a book signing as well.

Hope to see you there!

Love Never Dies Slated for March 2010 Release

2009-05-22T05:40:00.000-07:00

I thought I would share this article regarding Webber's upcoming sequel. Interesting words like, "best work Andrew has produced in decades." Andrew is taking the sequel very serious both personally and for the fans. Not everyone will be happy, and he realizes that. The story is apparently filled with passion, longing, and regret.

Love Never Dies Slated for March 2010

"My lies were hideous..."

2009-05-16T17:05:00.000-07:00

"What more can I tell you, dear? You now know the tragedy.
It went on for a fortnight--a fortnight during which I lied to him.
My lies were as hideous as the monster who inspired them;
but they were the price of my liberty."

Reading Leroux once again is inspiration indeed! Just this morning a few statements made by Raoul and Christine flew off the pages revealing topics and character motivations I have not touched on before. Christine’s statement above was certainly one of them.

Lies

If you have not studied the original novel, Leroux will shock some of the die-hard fans of Webber’s portrayal of the story. I’ve used quite a bit of Leroux’s written work to expound on the motivations of the characters we see in Webber’s version, but there are other aspects of the story that might surprise you. Christine’s lies to the hideous monster might be one of them.

Christine is a very complex woman, to say the least, and so is her relationship with Erik. How she interacts with him throughout the original book is one bipolar experience to put it mildly. She thinks him a supernatural being, an angel from heaven, and then discovers he’s not an angel, but a man. She admires his genius, is horrified by his appearance, fears his actions, and declares to Raoul she does not hate him and that he fills her with horror. Christine confesses that horror was the motivation behind her lies to Erik in order to buy her liberty.

It's interesting that only a few chapters earlier Leroux pens these words when Christine answers a question from Raoul, “She was incapable of lying.” Was she incapable of lying to Raoul, but capable of lying to Erik? Or did she lie to Raoul that she lied to Erik? Now I have your head spinning.

Whatever the reason for her lies, we can conclude that any lying is birthed from some motivation, or the deceit would never fall from our lips. I can think of five reasons, and no doubt you can think of more!

We lie to protect ourselves as Christine did in the situation with Erik. She feared for her life, so she lied in order to find favor.
We lie to protect others so they won’t get hurt by some truth we feel would be detrimental.
We lie with the intent to deliberately deceive others for our gain.
We lie to cover our actions. Started with Cain and Abel, “Where is Abel your brother?” asks God. “I do not know,” responds Cain. Oh, sure, you just killed the dude. Liar.
We lie because we are just habitual liars, which is an evil inclination. The Devil is the liar of them all, "...for he is a liar and the father of lies." (John 8:44)

Well, we’ve all been lied to, and we’ve probably all told lies either big or small. The resultant outcome of those lies can vary in our lives. I know I've been devastated by lies told to me by people I've trusted. So why do we do it? How come we just can’t come out with it! If truth sets us free, why do we bind ourselves in lies? An interesting analogy that Christine felt her freedom would come from lies instead of truth.

There are multiple inferences of lying throughout the story. So whom do we believe? Wait! There’s another post coming down the line as to what the characters believed to be truth, but in the meantime I leave you with this quote to ponder:

"A lie told often enough becomes the truth." (Lenin)

See you then. No lie.

The Phantom’s Student

Poor Unhappy Erik

2009-05-08T11:58:00.000-07:00

Poor, unhappy Erik! Shall we pity him? Shall we curse him? He asked only to be "some one," like everybody else. But he was too ugly! And he had to hide his genius…when, with an ordinary face, he would have been one of the most distinguished of mankind!

Gaston Leroux, Fantôme de l’Opera

My book has been published, however, I’m still getting emails “don’t stop posting”! You all know how much I love this story, and if I can squeeze any more life lessons out of it, I will try. Occasionally, as inspiration calls and I read again Gaston Leroux’s original work, I will post. Maybe someday I'll publish an updated version to my book. Hopefully, the new posts will be unique and fresh. As you all know by now I don’t write from a literary viewpoint. My posts come from my heart and human viewpoint, so that life lessons can be gleaned from the characters in the story.

The above quote from the original novel poses two questions to its readers regarding Erik. After you’ve read the story, Monsieur Leroux wants to know how you feel about the Opera Ghost. Shall we pity him? Shall we curse him? His next statement is a profound truth of mankind, that Erik was deemed unworthy because he was too ugly. He was a genius in his own right, but was forced to hide because he did not possess an ordinary face. Society would not accept him based on his outward appearance, and hence his talented gifts never distinguished him with mankind.

It’s no secret that beauty is revered and rewarded, and ugliness is disdained and shunned. We judge abilities, worth, and talents by the outward appearance of man, rather than the inward gifts they may possess. If talented gifts are not wrapped in a visually appealing package, we rarely pay any attention. I think the phenomenon of Susan Boyle is a prime example of gifted talent without beauty that went unnoticed.

I love beauty just as much as the next person, and I often wonder when we look upon another person what makes them attractive to us or not? Why does our brain distinguish between beauty and ugliness? Long ago when the Twilight Zone was a big hit on TV (boy that dates me), I distinctly remember one episode where the tables were turned. All the ugly people were deemed beautiful, and all the beautiful people were deemed ugly, and as a result they suffered prejudice in society due to their appearance.

So the question still stands? Shall we pity him? Shall we curse him? When you see a deformed person, do you pity them for their lot in life or do you turn way in disgust because of their ugliness? Remember once again, that the true value of beauty is determined by what’s in our heart. One can be beautiful on the outside, and truly ugly on the inside.

As always, I'm back to poking at you!

The Phantom’s Student

Book Released in United States

2009-05-01T09:29:00.000-07:00

Hello dear friends! Today Lessons from the Phantom of the Opera was released through Xlibris in the United States. Here is how the process works.

It's been posted on my author site at: Xlibris - Vicki Hopkins, Author and is now available for purchase. (When you see the author page, click the little dot to select the book for purchase then it will take you to the cart. Otherwise you get an error message.)

The next step in the process is worldwide distribution. Registration has been submitted to Ingram, and that submission process takes 30 days to complete. Afterward Lessons From The Phantom of the Opera will be available on Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble.com, and Borders.com approximately 30-60 days later.

Xlibris will only fill orders placed in the United States. They do not process international orders. For those, you must wait until worldwide distribution is complete.

The price is $19.99 through Xlibris and $11.99 through resellers.

Once again, I want to thank everyone for your support and kindness. My dream has come true, and I hope you enjoy my words, pick up your pen, and write all over it! The book contains all of my posts on my blog and is 163 pages in length. After each post there is a page called Box 5 that contains a section of questions for you to ponder on how the story reveals itself to you, along with a place for you to write your own personal reflections. I guess you can call it your Phantom of the Opera journal.

Big hug to you all who have followed me on this journey through Phantom-land.