From singing in the subway to starring in The Phantom of the Opera

By Ruth Ferguson, NDG Editor

Musical theater was not Quentin Oliver Lee’s first musical passion. But after being discovered while singing in the New York Subway, his career and life went in a totally different direction. He now finds himself starring as the Phantom in the touring production of Phantom of the Opera opening this week at the Dallas Summer Musicals. This is only one of the most desired roles in theater for more than three decades.

“I was studying specifically opera and I moved to New York City because I thought that was you did,” Lee jokes. “It was rough going, you do a lot of things to survive in New York while trying to figure out. But someone saw me singing in the subway and I ended up in Porgy and Bess, the rest they say is history.

Although he never imagined himself starring in Phantom of the Opera, Lee drew inspiration from Norm Lewis, who made history as the first African-American to star as Phantom on Broadway.

“I have seen Norm Lewis do great work,” Lee shared. He felt confident that if Norm can do it so could he. “The role itself it could be anybody,” Lee pointed out.

In fact this is Lee’s second visit to perform in Dallas during the holiday season. Two years ago he was on tour with Porgy and Bess in December. Although now a veteran, a long tour is very demanding.

“Anytime you are expected to perform at a high level eight times a week, it can be tricky to maintain excellence,” Lee acknowledged. “It is essentially the next level. It is like going from the minor to the major leagues and comes with its own challenge emotionally, physically and spiritually. Lee is grateful his wife is able to travel with him, but does miss the comforts of home and his church family.

Even if you have seen Phantom of the Opera before, Lee believes you will enjoy the latest production.

“There are so many reasons to see this production and enjoy a moving experience,” Lee stated. “The costumes, the sound, literally every element, but when you get all of it together it is really something special.”

Lee believes with the rancorous headlines of the day, the message of the play remains timely.

“The show has touched the hearts and minds of people, there is a message that is important,” Lee added, “compassion, love and listening to each other.” He invites local theater goers to, “Just enjoy this.”

The Dallas Summer Musical’s Phantom of the Opera is onstage December 19, 2018 – January 6, 2019. Although there is not a show on Christmas Eve, after you finish opening presents and eating your holiday meal, you can enjoy the show on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day also. For tickets and showtimes visit DallasSummerMusicals.org.