First of all, I'd like to wish everyone a Happy Easter weekend, and a blessed Passover week as well!

Well, it's official -- the Phantom is indeed back, and in full form. Thanks to Alex for the excellent birthday present. What a treat it was!

Rob Lorey did a superb job filling in for John Cudia as the Angel of Music himself, and Marnie Raab was thrilling as the songbird Christine. We were also taken with Kyle Barisich, who stepped with confidence into the role of Raoul. Needless to say, we woke this morning humming Music of the Night, and a number of other scores that have altered the fabric of our modern experience.

I am in awe of any individual who, like Andrew Lloyd Webber and Charles Hart, are able to forever influence an entire culture through their absolute devotion to their art. And Toronto's latest rendition of the work, which is running from February to June 2007, is simply outstanding.

From the first note the audience is enthralled, not only by the music, but by the set, the costumes, the lighting, the form of the singers, dancers and acters on the stage -- each detail lends itself completely to the drama that we anticipate will unfold.

Phantom lovers will already know what I am talking about. For the uninitiated I can only say that this is an event that is well worth attending.