Merry Christmas from Access London

Welcome back to Access London and Thank You once again for helping to support Access for All to the Arts. Firstly, Merry Christmas to all the readers and supporters and here's to more changes and improvements to Access in 2013. 2012 has seen many positive changes and feedback from theatres and arts venues on Access. This includes the Royal Albert Hall who do have some serious issues to look at in terms of physical access as well as communication. However, they've made a positive start on it this year after many of the issues raised by Access London have been looked at and I thank you all for sending me stories of your experiences there. I am hopeful things will continue to improve in 2013. Other Arts venues continue to improve their already excellent Access lists and schemes including, Southbank Centre, The Barbican and The National and I hope that some of these ideas can one day be transferred to West End theatres/groups. Thank you once again to everyone who sends in feedback of theatres and venues you've visited and their Access, whether good or bad.

As passionate as I am about Access London and the issues it raises and fights for, I couldn't do it without the support of singers, actors and dancers who give their time and show support for what Access London aims to achieve. Below are Christmas messages from some who have been amazing with their support and I'd like to take this opportunity to again thank every single one of them, it really is much appreciated. To the readers, I hope you enjoy reading the messages as much as I did. Merry Christmas Everyone. x

Michael Xavier: "Sending lots of love and Christmas cheer to all those who support Access London. Thank you for your efforts and may 2013 be a lucky year for you all. x" Michael is currently playing Cornelius Hackl in Hello, Dolly! at the Leicester Curve until the 19th January 2013. To book tickets, see their website www.curveonline.co.uk . You can follow Michael on Twitter @michaelxavierMX

Rebecca Caine: "One of my New Year resolutions is not to take anything for granted. The fact I am able to see any show I want is something I never thought about until I realised that many venues are not accessible to disabled people. Something that is so easy for me and gives me such joy should be accessible to everyone. Thankyou Claire for all your work in this area. And let's hope that 2013 sees more and more venues making sure that theatre is accessible to everyone." You can keep up to date with all of Rebecca's concerts for 2013 on her website www.rebeccacaine.com . You can also follow her on Twitter @RebeccaCaine

Nick Wyschna: "Happy Christmas to all readers and supporters of Access London from all of us at Guildford Fringe Theatre Company. It's a pleasure to be associated with Claire and I pledge our support in any way we can in the coming years. Much love, Nick Wyschna." You can keep up to date with Guildford Fringe's shows and news by signing up to their newsletter HERE . Or check out their website www.guildfordfringe.com . You can also follow Nick on Twitter @NickWyschna

AJ Callaghan: "Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year. Please spread the festive cheer and remember those less fortunate with a simple gesture of buying someone, cold and alone, a hot drink and a sandwich and don't forget our four legged friends by donating a can of food to an animal rescue centre. It's the small gestures that make Christmas special." AJ is currently in Les Miserables at Queens Theatre, London and covers the role of Fantine. Her next Fantine dates are the 11th and 12th January 2013. To book Access tickets for Les Miserables, call the Access line on 0844 482 5137. You can also follow AJ on Twitter @AJCallaghan1

Will Barratt: "Very Merry Christmas to all the readers of Access London. Thank you for enjoying and supporting the arts, as I fully support Access for All. x" Will was part of the cast of Sweeney Todd at The Adelphi this year. To keep up to date with his news and projects, follow him on Twitter @willbarratt83

Jo Loxton: "Wishing everyone at Access London a fantastic Christmas and wonderful new year and here's to more support for Accessible Theatre in 2013! Much Love xxx" Jo will be joining the cast of Dear World as it makes its UK Premiere at the Charing Cross Theatre from the 4th February 2013. For tickets, visit their website www.charingcrosstheatre.co.uk . You can also follow Jo on Twitter @Joloxton

Chris Jenkins: "Huge Season's Greetings to Claire and all her lovely readers. Eat, Drink and be Happy!" Chris is currently performing in Spamalot at the Playhouse Theatre in London. To book Access tickets to see Spamalot, call the Access line on 0844 871 7677. You can follow Chris on Twitter @chrisjenko

Sofia Escobar: "Christmas is a magical time, a time for love, for family, for music and all round happiness! I wish you all a wonderful Christmas filled with joy and sparkles!" Sofia is currently playing Christine Daae in Phantom of the Opera. To book Access tickets to Phantom, call the Access line on 08444 124648. You can also follow Sofia on Twitter @sofia_escobar

Lee Bowen: "Wishing everyone involved and all readers of Access London a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Let's make 2013 an even bigger year for Access London, and push out the message that theatre is for everyone, and we all have the right to enjoy the rich variety of the arts." Lee will be playing Mr Upfold in Benjamin Britten's Albert Herring during Britten's centenary year and celebrations in 2013 with Mid Wales Opera that will be touring to London. You can follow Lee on Twitter @LeeBowenTenor

John Owen-Jones: "To all at Access London....Nadolig Llawen! JOJ" For details of John's concerts in 2013, see his website HERE . John's newly released single 'May Each Day' can also be purchased from HERE . You can follow John on Twitter @johnowenjones

Danny Whitehead: "Dear readers of Access London, I would like to take this opportunity to wish you a very Merry Christmas and hope that 2013 will bring health and happiness. I am a firm believer that Theatre and the arts play a vital role in our communities and that is why I am so passionate about performing and enjoy it so much. "The role of theatre in our society is difficult to define, for the theatre has almost an infinitive number of functions". Because of this, the importance of how accessible theatres, concert halls and arts venues are for absolutely everybody is extremely high. The fantastic work Access London do in highlighting this fact to theatres and venues is something that is particularly close to my heart as my mum and dad have worked and cared for adults and children with mental and physical disabilities for over twenty years. I have become very close to a lot of the people they work with and they have wanted to come and support me in many of the shows and concerts I have performed in, this has been getting easier to organise over the past year or so with venues improving their access and hospitality for all audience members. This improvement is down to the likes of Access London sharing information and bringing the issue of equal access to the theatre Management. I hope that 2013 is the year when all theatres realise how important it is to have Access for All! Have a fantastic Christmas!! Danny Whitehead xx" Danny was in the recent production of South Pacific that was at London's Barbican before touring the UK. To keep up to date with Danny's news and projects, follow him on Twitter @DannyWhitehead_

Victoria Farley: "As a professional actress, I understand the importance of supporting the arts, and I thank everyone who keeps this industry flourishing by their continued interest and support. I would like to believe that every person has the opportunity to participate in the rich culutural and artistic sector this country has to offer, regardless of any given disability. Earlier this year I was made aware of the Access London scheme and was shocked to realise how many London theatres/institutions are unable to accommodate certain disabilities. Learning about the scheme has given me the determination to help make a difference, and to encourage people to give some support to the people who support us. I would like to wish all readers a very Merry Christmas. I hope you enjoy some festive cheer and sparkly celebrations. I wish 2013 to bring love and support to this important scheme and equal opportunities for all. Lots of love and a big Christmas smile, Victoria x" Victoria played Rosa in The Mystery of Edwin Drood earlier this year at the Arts Theatre and is currently Wendy in Peter Pan at the Towngate Theatre. To book tickets, see their WEBSITE . You can follow Victoria on Twitter @victoria_farley

Richard Halton: "To all readers of Access London, Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a happy and healthy 2013! xx" Richard is a singer, both opera and musical theatre, and a vocal coach. To keep up with all of Richard's news and projects, see his website HERE . You can also follow him on Twitter @richiehalton

Simon Shorten: "Wishing all the readers of Access London an amazing Christmas and new year. Thank you all for your continued support. x" Simon is currently in Phantom of the Opera and is House Cover for The Phantom. To book Access tickets for Phantom, call the Access line on 08444 124648. You can keep up to date with Simon's news and projects for 2013 on his website HERE . You can also follow Simon on Twitter @SiShorten

Claire Cook: "Wishing all at Access London a wonderful Christmas and a Happy and exciting New Year! Best wishes to all, Claire xxx" Claire is currently Dance Captain for Phantom of the Opera at Her Majesty's Theatre. You can follow Claire on Twitter @CookClaire

Paul Keating: "Wishing everyone a wonderful Christmas & New Year. I hope you get to enjoy some time off! I'm making the most of life without the '8 show week' this year and intend to gorge myself, whilst relaxing with my family & friends. Thank you all for supporting London Theatre Access throughout 2012!" Paul played the Scarecrow in the recent production of the Wizard of Oz at the London Palladium. To keep up to date with Paul's news, follow him on Twitter @1PaulKeating

Merry Christmas To All From Access London

Welcome back to Access London. A huge Thank You to everyone that has followed and supported this blog and cause in 2011 - Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

With lots going on in the Capital in 2012, it should be a year to remember. Thank you for all your Christmas messages this week and emails on what you're looking forward to seeing next year. To answer one question many of you asked me in those messages: I'm starting off the new year by seeing Matilda, Pippin and Tosca (ENO) in January.

At the end of January, Access London will be holding an online auction with lots of great theatre treats, hopefully you can join in and I look forward to seeing you there - more details to follow at the beginning of the new year.

I believe I've answered most messages sent to me up until Thursday this week, if you sent me one after this day, I will get back to you shortly after Christmas. All that's left for me to say in this post is Merry Christmas and enjoy the day wherever you are and whoever you are spending it with.

I'll leave you with a few messages from some MT performers who have been kind enough to show support for Access London this year. Once again, a Huge Thank You to them all, your time and support is always so much appreciated.....


"I wish you all a wonderful Christmas filled with Joy, Love, Magic and Music! Thank You for all your love and support!"

"Desejo a todos um Feliz Natal cheio de alegria, amor, magia e musica! Muito obrigada pelo vosso carinho e apoio!"

From Sofia Escobar, Phantom of the Opera.

Sofia is currently playing Christine Daae in Phantom of the Opera at Her Majesty's Theatre and has extended her contract there until September 2012. You can see her perform Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday evening performances and Thursday and Saturday matinees. To book Access rate tickets to see Phantom, call: 0844 412 4648.You can follow Sofia on Twitter @sofia_escobar


"A Merry Christmas from the UK tour of South Pacific. Thanks to Access London for their support. Lots of Love and Festive Cheer to you all! x"

From Nick Wyschna, South Pacific.

Nick is currently playing Buzz Adams in the UK tour of South Pacific at The Oxford New Theatre until 31st December and then moving to The Mayflower Southampton 17 January - 4 February 2012.
You can buy Nick's album 'Lost In The Wilderness' from his website HERE
And follow him on Twitter @NickWyschna


"Nadolig Llawen to all Access London readers! See you on tour next year!"

From John Owen Jones, Phantom of the Opera 2012 Tour.

John will be playing the role of The Phantom during its 25th Anniversary 2012 tour which opens in Plymouth 27 February - 31 March 2012. He also has a new album coming out in Spring 2012. You can buy his current album from Dress Circle HERE
You can follow John on Twitter @johnowenjones


"Happy Christmas everyone! Here's hoping 2012 will bring total access to ALL theatre goers."

From Rebecca Caine, Musical Theatre & Opera Soprano.

Rebecca will be performing with the 3 Phantoms once again in February (10 and 11) at the Chichester Festival Theatre - to book tickets, including access rates, call 01243 781 312. Rebecca also has her own concert on 25 March at The Pheasantry, London - booking information to be released in the new year, definitely one for the diary although unfortunately the venue is only accessible via a flight of alomst 30 steps. If you can manage these though, please do book and go.
You can buy Rebecca's album 'Leading Ladies' from Dress Circle HERE
You can also follow her on Twitter @RebeccaCaine


"Merry Christmas & Happy New Year to all you lovely people! Look forward to exciting things happening in 2012 for Access London! x"

From Lee Bowen, Musical Theatre and Opera Tenor

Lee will be appearing at Iford Arts Festival in 2012 singing Dr Caius in Verdi's Falstaff. For more information, visit www.ifordarts.co.uk You can also follow Lee on Twitter @LeeBowenTenor


"To all the Phantom fans.....Thanks for your ongoing support. Wishing you all a very Happy and Peaceful Xmas and a fabulous 2012!! xxLove Scottyxx"

From Scott Davies, Phantom of the Opera & Tosca

Scott is currently stand-by Phantom at her Majesty's theatre until September 2012. He is also currently performing at the English National Opera (London Coliseum) as Spoletta in Tosca. Final performaces are on 17, 21, 24 and 29 January. To book Access tickets, you can join the ENO's Access Scheme for free to be entitled to the Access rate, call 0871 472 0666.


"Hi all! Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a happy and prosperous New Year. Hope to see you at Her Majesty's very soon. Lots of Love, Jo."

From Joanna Loxton, Phantom of the Opera

Jo is currently playing Madame Firmin in Phantom of the Opera at Her Majesty's Theatre. She also covers for the role of Madame Giry. To see Jo perform as Madame Giry, these are the next dates that she is on: 2-4 February and 26 March - 4 April 2012. To book Access tickets to Phantom of the Opera, call: 0844 412 4648. You can follow Jo on Twitter @Joloxton


"From the sunny South Pacific to Access London and all your readers, a very very Merry Christmas to you all."

From Chris Jenkins, South Pacific

Chris is currently Swing and Assistant Dance Captain on the UK tour of South Pacific at The Oxford New Theatre until 31st December and then moving to The Mayflower Southhampton 17 January - 4 February 2012.
You can follow Chris on Twitter @chrisjenko


"Hi Everyone. Australia is great, nice to be home for Xmas! Hoping to be back in the UK very soon! Hope you all have a fantastic Christmas."

From Daniel Gourlay, Dancer, Singer, Actor

Daniel was part of the London 'Love Never Dies' cast. He is currently at home in Australia but hopes to be back in the UK soon.
You can follow Daniel on Twitter @DanielGourlay89



"For all of you who have any relationship with the fantastic Access London, have a very Merry Christmas and a fabulous 2012! Please keep going to the theatre and challenging and enjoying not only yourselves but those who create the work! Mx"

From Michael Xavier, Actor and Singer

Michael will perform opposite Connie Fisher on a 3 month tour of Wonderful Town from March 2012.
To keep up to date with all of Michael's news, please have a look at his website, where you can also listen to soundclips of him singing.... MICHAEL XAVIER
You can also follow Michael on Twitter @michaelxavierMX


"Hope you all had a Happy Christmas. Wishing everyone a healthy, bright and wonderful 2012. X"

From AJ Callaghan, Les Miserables

AJ is currently performing in Les Miserables at the Queens Theatre and also covers the role of Fantine. To see AJ as Fantine, these are the next dates that she is covering: 2-11 January and 6-8 February 2012.
To book Access tickets to see Les Miserables, call 0844 482 5137.



"Here's hoping you have a very Happy New (Olympic) Year filled with exciting and stimulating theatre experiences. May you continue in your fabulous, undying support of the arts and look forward with me, to a raft of new shows and concerts in 2012. With love, Richard Halton"

To keep up with all of Richard's news, visit his website www.richardhalton.co.uk
You can also follow him on Twitter @richiehalton

Access London - 1 Today!!

Welcome back to Access London and a huge Thank You once again for your continued support for disabled access to the arts in London.

Today's post is somewhat different as Access London is celebrating its first birthday today!! I can't quite believe it has been a year since I launched this blog and posted the first welcome post - it's been a fantastic year, a lot learnt, hopefully some things achieved and help provided to those needing to know more about access to the theatre and arts in London.

This last year has seen many theatres, galleries, museums and venues reviewed on their access and I'd like to send out a huge thank you to all the staff at all the venues for their help and support over the last year, providing information, interviews and images.

My next Thank You goes to every reader of Access London for your loyal support and for helping to spread the word about it - it is so much appreciated. I do read every single one of your messages, comments, emails and tweets sent and I hope have managed to reply to them all (if I haven't yet, I will very soon, I promise). As I have mentioned on previous posts, if you have any questions about access to any venues, please don't hesitate to get in touch, if the venue hasn't yet been reviewed, it doesn't mean that I don't know details of the access there or the best person for you to contact, but more likely that I haven't yet gotten around to reviewing if officially. If however, you have any questions for people that have been interviewed on Access London (and many of you have sent me questions) it really would be best for you to send them to the person involved, so you can get the most accurate answers and information. I'd also like to thank everyone who has supported Access London and its posts on both Twitter and Facebook - I couldn't have done it without you!

This year Access London noted some important access issues at the Royal Albert Hall -after fairly extensive discussions with management at the Hall, specific changes and improvements were promised - some immediate and some on a more medium-long term plan. I am going back to see a concert there just before Christmas and will hopefully be able to come back to you with good news on some changes that have been made since the Phantom 25 celebrations in October this year. Another venue that presented access issues was the Palladium - not so much in terms of physical access but of disability awareness, staff training and treatment of those with disabilities. Again, various discussions have been had and letters corresponded (of which I received an extremely helpful and supportive one from Andrew Lloyd Webber's office) and once again, I hope to bring news of improvements made at that theatre very soon.

Some of the venues that have proven to be well geared up to help those with disabilities include: The Palace, Her Majesty's, Criterion, Gielgud, Southwark Playhouse, Royal Festival Hall, National Theatre, Victoria Palace, Haymarket, The Barbican and the Adelphi. There is still much to be done to improve the access for all to our theatres and arts venues in London but these theatres are some that have made an excellent start to being accessible and are showing a good example to others that really do need to look at their access: both the policies they put in place and the physical access to the theatre too.

Access London was recently lucky enough to work with Degrafik, a great young designer who has designed Access London's new logo - a huge Thank You to Damion for all your help. Access London feels it is a fitting time as any to reveal the new logo to you (although my Facebook friends have had a sneak peak at it a couple of weeks ago!)




Access London has been fortunate enough to be able to interview lots of cast members from some truly fabulous shows over the past year and I'd like to take this opportunity to say a huge Thank You for the time and support of: Rosemary Ashe, Gina Beck, Kieran Brown, Lee Bowen, Patrick Burbridge, Rebecca Caine, AJ Callaghan, Earl Carpenter, Steven Cleverley, Scott Davies, Stephen John Davis, Janet Devenish, Killian Donnelly, Cynthia Erivo, Sofia Escobar, Sophie Evans, Daniel Gourlay, Celia Graham, Richard Halton, Cameron Jack, Chris Jenkins, John Owen Jones, Paul Keating, Daniel Koek, Joanna Loxton, Myrra Malmberg, Frances Ruffelle, Simon Shorten, Emily Tierney, Katy Treharne, Tabitha Webb, Nick Wyschna, Michael Xavier.

Finally, a special Thank You to some for their continued support and fabulous generosity: Lee Bowen, Sofia Escobar, John Owen Jones, Rebecca Caine, AJ Callaghan, Myrra Malmberg, Nick Wyschna, everyone at The Cavendish Hotel, Her Majesty's Theatre, Palace Theatre, Adelphi Theatre, V&A Museum, and some special Twitter mentions for @LugiLou @inlondonguide @AboutLondonNews @kaydub89.

Access London has at least 2 awareness and fundraising events planned so far for 2012 including, an online charity auction for the beginning of the new year (to include lots of great theatre related items including signed cds and posters) and a charity concert for next September to coincide around the time of the paralympics. Details of the auction will be around from very early on in the new year and the concert throughout 2012, thank you for any and all support you can show for either event.

On that note (and after receiving many requests that I include it in this birthday post), I'll leave you with a video that has been taking Twitter and Youtube by storm over the last week - no, not the trailer for the Phantom25 dvd but, the latest challenge in the johnvskillian battle from the fabulous John Owen Jones and Killian Donnelly - watch for a great laugh and see The Phantom and Raoul as you've never seen them before - check out the rest of the challenges on their Youtube channel....

Phantom of the Opera & Interview with Christine Daae, Sofia Escobar

Welcome back to Access London and Thank You once again for continuing to support disability access and awareness to the arts in London.

Access London has been posting about Phantom of the Opera's 25th Anniversary on and off for the last 6 weeks. Today saw the final Tuesday matinee ever at Her Majesty's theatre. As of next week, the mid-week matinee will be on Thursdays at 2.30pm. There are no other changes planned for the evening performances or Saturday matinee.

It's certainly been a big few months for Phantom with a major cast change and anniversary rehearsals in September, three anniversary celebratory performances at the the Royal Albert Hall in October, changes to the schedule of its mid-week matinee and announcements about its brand new 2012 tour that will see John Owen Jones leaving Her Majesty's to don the mask from February-Setember, after which Earl Carpenter will reprise his role as the Phantom. The cast also includes current London alternate Christine, Katie Hall, playing Christine.

Our next post on Phantom will include some Access information for the first stop on the Phantom's tour, Plymouth, tickets for this venue go on sale from 27 October.

Back to London and Her Majesty's Theatre, Access as always, is pretty strong and FOH staff are some of the most helpful and disability aware I know of in any London theatre. There is level street access for those using a wheelchair, scooter or cannot manage stairs, through a side Exit door on Charles II Street - simply inform someone at the front of the theatre and they will open these doors for you. This entrance leads into the rear of the stalls.

Access Facilities at Her Majesty's include: 4 wheelchair spaces in row S in the stalls, storage for wheelchairs and scooters, transfer to aisle seats, accessible WC, gentle rake in the stalls, very helpful ushers, 2 assistance dogs per performance allowed, hearing loop with 10 headsets available, seats with extra leg room ( E1, E25, F1, F25, G1, G25, N1 and N28 in the Stalls).

For Blue Badge Holders, there are spaces located in both Charles II Street and St James' Square. Both of these locations have 3-4 hour time restrictions on them up until 6pm, after which they are unlimited in time allowance until the early morning.

To book Access tickets for Phantom of the Opera, please call: 0844 412 4648. For all other ticket types, please call: 0844 412 4653.


Access London is delighted to share with you another interview to celebrate Phantom's 25 years. Today's is with our fabulous London Christine, Sofia Escobar. We'd like to take this opportunity to say a huge Thank You once again to Sofia for taking the time to answer some questions and for all her continued support.


AL: You've just extended your contract at Phantom for another year, until September 2012, are you excited about staying on during its 25th year?
SE: Very excited indeed! I wanted to stay for what I'm sure is going to be a very exciting time for Phantom of the Opera and all the Phans out there. It's a great honour to be part of such a magnificent production!


AL: Phantom is loved by audiences worldwide - why do you think it is so well-loved and has people coming back to see it time and again?
SE: It's a timeless piece of Musical Theater, it's got all the magic ingredients that have made it such a success all over the world, the story, the music, the love! It's pure magic. I'm sure it will be here to stay!


AL: The show has some truly spectacular sets and costumes - do you have any favourites?
SE: Christine's costumes are truly gorgeous but my personal favorite is the Blue Managers dress and cloak, I'd love to take it home with me after the contract! :)


AL: Phantom is getting a new UK tour for 2012 - are you aware of any changes to the show happening in London?
SE: Not that I know of, I dont think there will be any changes to the London production.


AL: The show has many special effects and technical elements throughout. Do you have a tale to tell of something going wrong/mishap during a performance?
SE: The other night in the final lair scene the boat didn't move so Phantom had to drag me out of the boat and did the scene walking in what should have been the lake... It was quite funny!


AL: What is the atmosphere like backstage during a performance?
SE: It's intense! Everyone knows what they're doing but there's always an awful lot going on backstage during a performance, it's quite a show! Lots of people running around with costumes, props! Actors in quick changes! A lot of fun! But I'm sure that for an outsider the whole thing would seem madness!


AL: Christine has rather a roller-coaster ride of emotions throughout the show. By the time the final lair scene arrives, what do you believe she is thinking and feeling?
SE: I believe she is extremely confused, hurt, sad and generally feeling lost. She doesn't know what to believe or who to turn to, I think she also feels alone but finds the strength within her to pull through and make her decisions. It really is a roller-coaster of emotions.


AL: You have played alongside several Phantoms during your time at Her Majesty's. Do they all play the role differently? And do you have to change the way you play Christine to suit their Phantom?
SE: Every actor brings their own way of playing the part to the show and that makes it very exciting when someone new comes in. I dont necessarily 'have' to change the way I play Christine but it happens naturally because I will be reacting to whatever the actor playing the Phantom gives me. It's more of an 'organic' change rather than a premeditated one.


AL: There have been productions of Phantom all over the world. If you could play Christine anywhere, where would it be and why?
SE: To be honest I wouldn't change where I am now. I always wanted to be in the London production, this is where it all started 25 years ago. Gives me shivers to think of it.


AL: Do you have a Birthday Message for Phantom and its fans?
SE: A huge thank you to all of you who love and support the show and have been doing so all through these years. Phantom turning 25 wouldn't have happened if it wasn't for all of you out there and all the wonderful audiences who keep coming to the show all over the world. Lots of love to all!


Thank You once again Sofia for that. You can see Sofia perform as Christine Daae at Her Majesty's until September 2012. Sofia performs 6 shows a week (currently Katie Hall performs the other 2) - as of 31st October, Sofia will not be performing on Mondays or Fridays. She is also on holiday from 27th October until 6th November.

To keep up with all of Sofia's news SEE HER WEBSITE
You can also follow her on Twitter @sofia_escobar
Sofia also has a page on Facebook






COMING NEXT: Dreamboats & Petticoats plus Cast Interview
COMING SOON: The Globe, London Coliseum, The Lion In Winter, More from Phantom 25 and cast Interviews

Phantom of the Opera's 25th Anniversary & Interview with Original Meg Giry, Janet Devenish

Welcome back to Access London and thank you for continuing to support disability access and awareness to the arts in London.

Continuing with Access London's celebrations for Phantom of the Opera's 25th Anniversary and the brilliant Access at Her Majesty's theatre, today saw the release of the 2012 tour information. The 2012 tour will star John Owen Jones (the current London Phantom) in the lead role from the tour's start in February (Plymouth) until half way through the Edinburgh run in September. After this, former Phantom and co Three Phantoms star, Earl Carpenter, will take over the role on tour. Christine is to be played by the current London alternate, Katie Hall. Access London would like to take this opportunity to wish John Owen Jones, Earl Carpenter and Katie Hall all the very best for the tour next year!

For all the information on dates and booking info, please see the OFFICIAL SITE HERE

Although Access London predominately focuses on events and venues in London, we will be providing readers with as much Access information as we can on the venues hosting the 2012 tour as we realise that not everyone can make the journey to London to enjoy the show at Her Majesty's.

John Owen Jones was originally scheduled to play the Phantom in London until 17 March 2012. Due to the exciting news that he will be playing the role in the tour, his final performance at Her Majesty's Theatre will be on 10 December 2011. Between then and March 2012, Earl Carpenter will play the role of the Phantom in London until Peter Joback takes over, as originally planned, in March. Watch this space for more Access info on the tour venues.

John Owen Jones has also announced that his new album will be released around the same time that the tour commences.
You can also catch Earl Carpenter, John Owen Jones, Matthew Cammelle, Rebecca Caine (and at certain performances Rohan Tickell) in the Three Phantoms concerts. For concert dates and booking information, see the OFFICIAL THREE PHANTOMS WEBSITE

If you can't get to any of the tour dates next year, don't forget, you can always watch the original show in London at Her Majesty's theatre. Access information for this theatre is as follows....

If you are a wheelchair or scooter user, or cannot manage stairs, then there is a side entrance on Charles II Street that has level access to the rear of the stalls and also a storage area for chairs and scooters and an accessible WC. When you arrive at the theatre, simply ask someone at FOH (usually people outside from about 30-45 minutes before a performance starts) and they will escort you around to this entrance.

There are 4 wheelchair spaces (with companion seats) in Row S in the stalls. If you can transfer then any aisle seat in the stalls can be booked (subject to availability of course!). The stalls have a relatively gentle rake. People making an access booking are assigned an usher to assist them, although a companion must accompany each access booking made and both are entitled to the Access booking rate.

Charles II Street also has several blue badge bays along it - these are time restricted until 6.00pm but not afterwards. There are also several blue badge bays in St James' Square which is a few minutes walk away down Charles II Street.

Her Majesty's has an infra red system with 10 headsets available (a receipt needs to be signed at time of collection) - ask at the box office or any member of staff if you wish to use one. Assistance dogs can be looked after by staff during the performance - a maximum of 2 dogs per performance. Large print programmes and braille cast lists are also available upon request.

To book your access tickets for Phantom of the Opera, please call: 0844 412 4648.


Access London is delighted to be able to share with you another interview we did with a former cast member for the show. Today's interview is with Janet Devenish who was the original Meg Giry in the London production. We'd like to take this opportunity to once again say a huge thank you to Janet for takign the time to answer some questions.

Phantom was very different to any other productions that opened in the 80s. Did you have any idea at the time how well loved and huge it would become?
Not at all! Really - I could see it was a great show but I did not foresee how hugely popular it would become.


Were you required to be pretty skilled at ballet in order to audition for the role of Meg?
Yes - there was a lot of pointe work in the show and you cannot gain that skill overnight. I did a lot of work with Gillian Lynne during the audition process which confirmed my ballet skills and I loved it!


What was your favourite scene to perform in the production?
I loved dancing Masquerade, but I also loved working with the wonderful Mary Millar as my mother - so any time on stage with her was special time.


Have you seen the show since you left? If yes, has it changed much since you performed in it?
I have seen it few times, and each time it has been different. I think it has varied depending on the cast, but I was not aware of huge changes that had been made to the actual content of the show.


Would you ever have considered going back to Phantom after you left, perhaps as Mme Giry?
If only my vocals would allow.... I could not sing that role, but I could bang a mean stick!


I understand that you now teach and choreograph but, do you still perform aswell?
No - I train the talent of tomorrow!


Did you seen the Phantom sequel, Love Never Dies? If yes, what did you make of Meg's character in it?
I found it very hard to just watch the show and appreciate it for what it was, as I found myself thinking 'Meg wouldn't do that' or 'Mme Giry would not have expected that of Meg'. I saw it very early days into the run, perhaps I could be more detached now, having seen it once, but it was too personal at the time - all those years later I still felt the character in me.


Do you have a Birthday Message for Phantom of the Opera and its fans?
Keep the magic alive. Phantom was a truly memorable part of my life, and it has brought great pleasure to so many. Happy Birthday to the greatest show!


Janet is the Deputy Principal and teaches Dance and Musical Theatre at the Stella Mann College. She also teaches at the Rugby Youth Theatre - teaching and inspiring the performers of tomorrow.

COMING SOON: The Globe Theatre, The Lion In Winter, The Lyric Theatre, Phantom 2012 Tour Access Info, More from Phantom 25 including interviews with Sofia Escobar, Stephen John Davis and more...

Phantom of the Opera's 25th Anniversary & Interview with former Christine, AJ Callaghan

Welcome back to Access London and Thank You once again for supporting disability access and awareness in the Capital.

Access London has been running a special series of posts over the last month or so in the lead up to Phantom of the Opera's 25th Anniversary celebrations in October. Thank You to everyone for your kind comments on the posts and access information provided and also your feedback on the interviews - although these Thank You messages go to all the lovely cast members who have given their time to answering the questions. These posts will continue throughout the Anniversary month of October. To read past interviews and posts, please scroll down.

The anniversary concerts are being held at The Royal Albert Hall on the 1st and 2nd October. The majority of the tickets have now been sold but I believe there may still be a few available - although be warned, they may well be in the higher price bracket of around £250! If you are looking for accessible seating, your best bet is to call the dedicated access line at the Hall on 020 7070 4410 as there may be some accessible seats available at a more reasonable price. You can also use this number to pre-book one of the Hall's disabled parking bays to be able to park for free from up to 2 hours before a performance.

The Hall has its own Access Scheme which allows you to register your details and requirements so that the access box office can better assist you in booking seats for you and your companion/carer. For most events at the Hall (including Phantom 25), a companion/carer can go in for free with every full paying disabled visitor. Prices will differ depending on where you are sitting and which event you are going to see. For more information and to register for the Access Scheme, please contact the access box office line on 020 7070 4410. For all other ticket types, please call the main box office on 0845 401 5034. All of the restaurants and bars are accessible at the Hall for those using a wheelchair or scooter. These must be booked in advance of any event and tables can be booked from 2 hours before the performance. For wheelchair and scooter users, again please use the access box office line to book a table and make enquiries to any of the restaurants at the Hall on 020 7070 4410.

Throughout this series of posts we've been lucky enough to bring you interviews with current and former Phantom cast members and today is no different. We're delighted to share with you an interview with former Christine, AJ Callaghan. Access London would like to take this opportunity to say a huge Thank You to AJ for her support and taking the time out to answer the questions.

AL: You were involved with Phantom of the Opera between 2001 and 2004 playing cover, alternate and stand-by Christine Daae. Why did you choose to stay with the production for that amount of time?
AJ: Initially I was hired as first cover Christine for which I completed two nine month contracts. I was then asked back as the alternate for a few months in 2003. It wasn’t until 2004 that I went back as standby Christine. At the time I was actually in Les Miserables, they needed someone to standby, as both the Christine’s at the time were ill. It was brilliant going back to the show and rehearsing Christine again but unfortunately I didn’t get to actually perform.


AL: Now approaching its 25th birthday in London, why do you think that Phantom has been the worldwide success it has?
AJ: For me personally it is the marriage of characters. The love story of Christine and Raoul but also the bittersweet twist of the Phantom and what he brings to the dynamic of the relationship. On the one hand you have this wonderful relationship between Christine and Raoul, which is the typical princess finding her prince analogy and then darkly underlying this is the parallel story of the tortured soul of the Phantom. Reflecting on this from an audience perspective, the story helps the audience relate on a personal level, as it takes a journey from innocence through to broken dreams and aspirations as we watch the characters develop, change and grow. I also think it taps into the every day psych of the fact we all love an underdog and those whose story is so much more challenging than the norm. Then of course, this inter cut with the relationships, twists and turns is a great story set to the most beautiful and incredible score, although quite dark in places it is still a very romantic piece.


AL: Who played opposite you as The Phantom and Raoul?
AJ: I was very fortunate to have two very talented, incredibly supportive and very lovely Phantoms in John Owen Jones and Richard Halton, who was the standby. Equally, my Raoul’s were just as good in Matt Cammelle, who later went on to play the Phantom, and Rob Finlayson. When I returned as standby in 2004 I was lucky to rehearse with Ramin Karimloo, with whom I was later to work with in Les Miserables.


AL: When you were the alternate Christine, are you still involved with the show on the nights you aren't playing her or are you free to pursue other projects?
AJ: As alternate you perform two shows a week. However, each day you are on standby until 3pm, but the company manager will try to let you know as soon as possible if you are performing. When the main Christine is on holiday, as alternate you take over her six shows and the first cover performs your two, which is great as first cover as you are guaranteed to perform the role within the contract.


AL: What was your favourite song/scene to perform in the show and why?
AJ: Christine was my ideal role and part of what helped me decide to choose a career in musical theatre. ‘Think of me’ is a beautiful song to perform as it’s the first time the audience hears Christine sing, starting from a shy nervous ballet girl to a blossoming future opera star by the end of the song. There are many individual lines in the show I particularly enjoyed, ‘and through music my soul began to soar’ on the roof top to where Christine grows in confidence as she questions Carlotta with ‘how dare you’ in the build up to ‘the point of no return’. Christine is confused as she questions her love for Raoul and begins to understand the deeper thoughts of the Phantom with ‘twisted everyway.' I particularly like this as it’s the point in the show we see Christine take a shift from the innocent ingénue to a more mature persona. Ultimately, I loved the final scene, for me, this is the most emotive, passionate and intelligent we see Christine. Her journey has finished and no longer is she scared or naive. I would say she is actually, by the end of the show, the strongest character and shows the audience she has lost all fear of the Phantom and his hold over her and realised her love for him was a confused manifestation of love for her father who she deeply misses. She is now free to love Raoul as she understands he is the one she truly loves, this is highlighted as she finally, and freely, kisses the Phantom goodbye. It really is such an incredibly powerful and poignant scene.


AL: The song 'Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again' is an iconic moment in the show for Christine. What do you believe she is feeling and thinking at this time?
AJ: During this scene Christine takes a very compelling internalised, personal journey. At first she is facing her demons of the Phantom, questioning who he is and why he is there, this soon becomes more significant as she realises she is talking to her father. She has spent so long wanting to see and hear him she has convinced herself the Phantom is an angel sent in a metaphysical manifestation of him. Upon realising this by the end of the song she has freed herself from the Phantom’s clutches by acknowledging finally her father is dead and that she has to go on with out him, thereby engaging finally in her internal strength to face the Phantom and become the force in the situation.


AL: Phantom has many special effects and technical elements in it. Do you have a tale to tell of a mishap or something funny happening during a show?
AJ: One time, the trap doors were open due to a malfunction during the second managers scene. Whilst reading the score walking in circles and singing, I could hear someone in the wing calling out to me, I saw stage management telling me don’t walk straight downstage as the trap door was open. I had to take a strange convoluted route around the stage in order to confront Carlotta which lead to many smirks and hidden laughter by the other cast members and probably confused the audience as to what exactly I was doing.


AL: If you could choose any other female character to play in Phantom, apart from Christine, who would it be and why?
AJ: Definitely Carlotta, she has a fiery and passionate personality which is a great contrast to Christine, they are like Ying and Yang. Christine the calm and intelligent thoughtful one and Carlotta the wild and passionate one, its almost the other side of the same character and would be very interesting to visit the role with this in mind having played Christine. She has some great numbers in the show and her costumes are truly outstanding. Nan Christie was my Carlotta and at the same height as me, 5ft, proved in her fantastic portrayal that Carlotta can be larger than life and a noticeable character regardless of height through portraying the passion and understanding deserved of the role.


AL: Phantom has had many successful productions staged worldwide. If you could choose to perform as Christine anywhere in the world outside of London, where would it be and why?
AJ: Obviously being Welsh my first place would be Cardiff; I would like to bring the character home for the Welsh audiences. Other than Wales, the Netherlands, I love the country and spend a lot of time there. As I am also learning Dutch I would love to sing the role in another language, which would probably bring a whole new dimension to my character analysis and portrayal and could prove a very interesting challenge. Having worked in Sweden and other countries, I know audience reaction changes from country to country so it would also be interesting to see how the reactions to the show form a different perspective to the characterisation.


AL: Do you have a Birthday Message for Phantom and its fans?
AJ: Well obviously to say happy 25th birthday and hope it will live for many more. I also would like to add how wonderful it is that the amateur rights have been released for schools and amateur groups taking the show to a whole new audience for future generations. May it live on for a very long time with new and renewed energy and interpretations! See you at the 50th!


Again, a huge Thank You to AJ for answering the questions, I hope you enjoyed reading them. AJ will be performing in the 25th Anniversary Concerts next weekend. She is also in the current London cast of Les Miserables at The Queens Theatre in ensemble and cover for Fantine until 16th June 2012, so make sure you go and see her perform there also. The cast of Les Mis are also performing a charity concert on Thursday 8th December called Les Mis Gives at Christmas in the Delfont Room at the Prince of Wales Theatre, tickets will go on sale soon.

Remember that the Phantom 25th Concert on 2nd October will be broadcast across cinemas in the UK and worldwide so check with your local cinema to see if it is being shown there. There will also be a DVD and CD release in November. Plus, you can always book tickets to see it at Her Majestys. Please note: There will be no performances at Her Majestys on Friday 30th September and Saturday 1st October because of the anniversary celebrations. Also, as of the beginning of November, the mid-week matinee performance will be on Thursday and not Tuesday!


COMING SOON: The Globe Tour and Exhibition, Priscilla, Les Mis, Billy Elliot, more from Phantom 25 with interviews....

Phantom of the Opera's 25th Anniversary & Interview with former Christine, Myrra Malmberg

Welcome back to Access London and Thank You once again for supporting disability access and awareness in the Capital.

Today's post is the next in our series that is celebrating Phantom of the Opera's upcoming 25th Anniversary in the West End. Please scroll down for previous posts that include Access information to both Her Majesty's Theatre and The Royal Albert Hall.

Her Majesty's Theatre, located on The Haymarket, has great access to its stalls area which has - a fairly shallow rake, handrail along the wall, accessible WC, storage space for scooters and wheelchairs, wheelchair spaces, transfer seating and some of the most helpful staff I have known in any London theatre.

The accessible entrance is on Charles II Street and leads you straight into an area at the rear of the stalls - simply ask a member of the FOH team on arrival (there is always someone outside the front entrance before a performance) and they will escort you around to this entrance. Charles II Street also has several blue badge parking bays (after 6pm there is no time limit on these) and there are also several spaces on St James's Square.

If you are looking for other accessible attractions in the area to visit before a performance, the National Gallery and National Portrait Gallery on Trafalgar Square are 5 minutes away and for younger visitors, Ripley's Believe it or Not is also a short distance away on Piccadilly Circus.

To book Access Tickets for Phantom of the Opera at Her Majesty's (current rate £22.50 for disabled visitor and companion/carer in the stalls!), please call: 0844 412 4648. For all other tickets for Phantom, please call: 0844 412 4653.

Since our previous post on Phantom's 25th, there has been a cast change at Her Majesty's (although several of the previous cast have remained including, John Owen Jones (The Phantom) and Sofia Escobar (Christine Daae)) - so now is a great time to go and show support for the new cast in the lead up to the anniversary date. Please note, there are no performances at Her Majesty's on Friday 30th September and Saturday 1st October 2011 because of the anniversary celebrations at The Royal Albert Hall.

It has also been announced that the anniversary will be screened to cinemas in the UK live on October 2nd 2011 and to various cinemas worldwide throughout October and November. There will also be a DVD and new CD recording released in November.

Previous posts on Phantom's Anniversary have shared interviews with former cast members including, Michael Xavier, Richard Halton and Katy Treharne, please scroll down if you wish to read these. In today's post, Access London is delighted to share with you an interview with former Christine Daae, Myrra Malmberg. Access London would like to take this opportunity to once again thank Myrra for taking the time to talk.

AL: How did you land the role of Christine Daae?
MM: I was in The Music of Andrew Lloyd Webber with the wonderful conductor and composer Michael Reed who worked closely with Sir Andrew and had been Phantom's musical supervisor for years. He introduced me to the then current Musical Supervisor Anthony Inglis. One thing led to another, I auditioned for Hal Prince, and suddenly found myself on stage as Christine at Her Majesty's.

AL: Who have you played alongside as The Phantom and Raoul?
MM: My lovely Phantom was Peter Cousens. My Raoul was Mike Sterling. I was very fortunate to work with a great cast and crew, some of whom have remained close friends.

AL: In your opinion, why do you think that Phantom is the success that it is and has run for so long?
MM: Phantom is a fortunate blend of fantastic music and an intriguing plot, well directed by the amazing Hal Prince. And the late Maria Bjornson's set and costumes are visually stunning.
I think that Phantom speaks to us on many levels; you can feast your eyes and ears and leave it at that, you can flow with the romance; but you can also delve deeper into the psychology of it.

AL: What was your favourite song/scene to perform as Christine?
MM: Oh, I had several favorite scenes and songs... "Think of Me" was always a wonderful moment in the show. I enjoyed the boatride and the scene after. The handing back of the mask was a lovely moment... and the whole emotional ending. Oh, yes, and "Wishing." Happy memories!

AL: How different is it to perform on stage in London/UK to Sweden?
MM: I have performed in many different countries, and in every country the audiences have been different. I was in Italy at the Rome Opera playing Maria in West Side Story for instance and was thrilled by how very romantic the audiences were, but less thrilled by the fact that they were allowed to smoke during performances...
In Sweden, the audiences are usually less demonstrative during the performance (although thankfully non-smoking!) but then they might surprise you with a long standing ovation at the end.
In the UK, there is an theatrical tradition among the general audience that is almost palpable; I have a feeling that people have been brought up with the theatre as a part of their lives. They listen intently, you can feel them with you at every twist and turn of the plot. In the West End obviously you get a mixed crowd of international theatregoers, but I have played regional theatre in the UK as well, and think that I could also detect influences from the Panto tradition in that, once in a while, someone in the audience would yell out a comment to what was happening on stage... Not quite "It's beind you!" but not far from it...

AL: Lastly, do you have a Birthday Message for Phantom of the Opera and its fans?
MM: Happy, happy birthday! Spending a quarter of a century together is something to be treasured and celebrated!


Thank you once again to Myrra Malmberg. To keep up to date with all of Myrra's news VISIT HER WEBSITE
Myrra has released several albums already, all of which can be found on iTunes HERE
Myrra has a new album, being released on 21st September 2011, entitled "Another World". Myrra had this to say about the soon to be released album "it is a foray into the classical crossover world, together with conductor Paul Bateman and one of Scandinavia's top orchestras: The Norrköping Symphony Orchestra. Songs by Benny Andersson (of Abba fame), Jörgen Elofsson (songwriter for Celine Dion, Kelly Clarkson, Britney Spears, etc), Per Magnusson (songs for Il Divo, Josh Groban, Katherine Jenkins, etc) and other wonderful composers. (Including a piece or two by myself...) I am also honored to be the first allowed to record a vocal version of Samuel Barber's Symphony for Strings opus 11."
You will be able to buy Another World from 21st September via iTunes and her website. You can listen to sounds clips right now from the new album HERE


COMING NEXT: The Tempest at Theatre Royal Haymarket
COMING SOON: Priscilla, The Globe and Exhibition, Dreamboats and Petticoats