Phantom premieres August 8 at The New Candlelight Theatre and will run for nine weeks. Based on the classic 1910 novel by Gaston Leroux, this Phantom tells the story of a mysterious masked man living beneath the catacombs of the Paris Opera House who, after hearing the astonishing voice of Christine Daae, falls madly in love with her and vows to help her become an opera star. With book by Arthur Kopit and music and lyrics by Maury Yeston, this Phantom is sure to thrill audiences with its enchanting music and fascinating characters. Leading the cast of 16 in this New Candlelight production is the award-winning actor Mr. John D. Smitherman as the Phantom.

Mr. Smitherman is no stranger to the character, having played the Phantom in all three popular renditions. Other credits include over 100 productions on both the professional opera and musical theatre stages including Oklahoma, Out of Order, and The Secret Garden. Mr. Smitherman is also a published playwright.

Performing opposite Mr. Smitherman is Ms. Rebecca Schall as Christine Daae. Many may remember Ms. Schall from Candlelight’s recent production of Gypsy, for which she received critical acclaim for her performance as Louise/Gypsy Rose Lee.

The supporting cast includes: Greg Cantwell as Carriere, Melissa Joy Hart as Carlotta, Brian Peeke as The Count De Chandon, Tony Gruszczyski as Cholet, Joseph Kinsolving as Inspector Ledoux, Holly Becker as Belladova, Paul Goodman as Jean-Claude, Jordi Wallen as Fleure, Jenna Bracciale as Flora, Lauren Rooney as Florence and the members of the ensemble: Timothy Lamont Cannon, Brian Couch, Maureen T. Cotellese, and AJ Garcia.

The production team is lead by resident director and lighting designer Chris Alberts along with Barrymore-nominated choreographer, Jody Anderson Miller. Musical direction is by Steve Weatherman, set design by Peter Tupitza, costume design by Gina Scarnati, and production stage management by Jackie Goldwurm.

The New Candlelight Theatre is located in historic Ardentown, DE—five minutes from downtown Wilmington and 30 minutes from Center City, Philadelphia. Phantom will open on August 8, 2008 and run until October 5, 2008. To purchase tickets, please call The New Candlelight Theatre box office at: 302-475-2313. For more information on The New Candlelight Theatre, please visit www.newcandlelighttheatre.com.