The weather that day was beautifully clear. In fact, there were things to enjoy at the venue even before the show began. You could buy wine and food at the bar, then relax at outdoor tables while taking in the view. I had not known this beforehand and had originally planned to arrive just in time for the show, but getting there a little early turned out to be absolutely the right choice.
A friend and I found a small table, and the time we spent enjoying food with a glass of wine in hand while looking out over the harbor at dusk was worth it in itself. As the color of the sky slowly changed and the city lights began to sparkle, my anticipation naturally grew.
I bought my ticket about two months in advance, but because it was such a popular performance, most of the good seats were already sold out. Even so, I managed to secure a seat close to the stage.
Once the performance began, I was instantly drawn in by its power. The beautiful voices, the powerful orchestra, and the perfectly synchronized chorus. The stage sets and lighting were also wonderful, making me feel as though I had stepped right into the world of the story. At one point, fireworks lit up the sky, and the audience cheered at this kind of production that only an outdoor theater can offer.
The performance lasted about three hours, including an intermission, but I never felt the length of it. The feeling of wondering what would happen next stayed with me throughout, and before I knew it, the ending had arrived.
The Opera House under the night sky, and The Phantom of the Opera unfolding right before it. It was a night that made me understand why this musical has been loved around the world for so many years.
In recent years, AI technology has evolved rapidly and become deeply woven into our daily lives. But as I watched this performance, I was reminded once again of the power of live performance created by people, in the moment. The breathing of the performers, the sense of unity with the audience on that particular day, and the atmosphere of the venue. No two moments like these are ever the same, and that is precisely why they move people so deeply.
From time to time, I go to listen to live music or see musicals by myself. Recently, I also went to see Pretty Woman: The Musical. I had seen the movie nearly 30 years ago, but the stage version was so enjoyable that I rewatched the film after I got home.
Precisely because we live in such a convenient age, it may be important to make time now and then to experience music and performing arts in person. Live music, live singing, and live emotion. I believe these are the kinds of experiences that will continue to enrich people’s hearts.
