David Shannon to Play the Title Role in London's Phantom

David Shannon will be the next star to step into the title role in the London production of The Phantom of the Opera, the show's West End producers have announced. Shannon began performances on November 9, replacing previous star Ramin Karimloo, who exits in preparation for his involvement with the show's upcoming sequel, Love Never Dies.

Shannon joins fellow newcomers Rebecca Locke as Carlotta, Nicky Adams as Madame Giry, Emma Harris as Meg Giry and Tabitha Webb who plays Christine at certain performances, all of whom joined the show in September. The show continues to star Gina Beck as Christine, Simon Bailey as Raoul, Barry James as Monsieur Firmin, Gareth Snook as Monsieur Andre and Rohan Tickell as Piangi.

Shannon recently completed a successful run as Jean Valjean in Les Misérables at the Queen’s Theatre. His other West End credits include creating the role of John in Webber’s The Beautiful Game, for which he was nominated for an Olivier Award for Best Actor in a Musical, Miss Saigon at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane, Whistle Down The Wind, as well as roles in Cats and Martin Guerre. He also received critical acclaim for playing the title role in Sweeney Todd at the Gate Theatre in Dublin.

Phantom recently celebrated its 24th birthday at Her Majesty's Theatre in London. The show became the longest-running hit in Broadway history on January 9, 2006, when its celebrated its 7,486th performance, surpassing previous record holder Cats.