5 Questions for THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA's Derrick Davis!

(Matthew Murphy)

• Kevin Ray Johnson

I would like you to meet Derrick Davis. Derrick will be returning to the title role in the North American tour of The Phantom of the Opera beginning June 6th at Los Angeles Hollywood Pantages Theatre and will remain with the restaged production through the final national tour engagement in Toronto, Ontario at the Princess of Wales Theatre. Mr. Davis was seen in the Broadway revival of Carousel as well as the National Tour of The Lion King. It was quite an honor and a privilege to have the chance to interview Derrick as he discusses his journey.   

How old were you when you knew you wanted to be a performer? 

I was younger than 10 years old when the performance bug bit me.  I can remember pressing my parents to enroll me in dance lessons and to allow me to be a part of the church’s children’s choir.  I didn’t realize theater was my passion specifically until I saw The Phantom of the Opera with my family around age 11. 

Where did you study? Are there any mentors that truly helped make you the performer you are today?

I studied at LIU.  Larry Wurtzel and Alexander Dashnaw are my musical mentors.  They have always encouraged me to do more than I thought I could and exposed me to the depths of wonder music has to offer. 

Congratulations for once again taking on the role of The Phantom in The Phantom of the Opera. What does performing this iconic role truly mean to you? and do you have any favorite moments in the show? 

Thank you.  Performing this role is a thrill and a challenge and I love both. The Phantom is deeply complex like all of us are and I truly enjoy bringing light to the humanity behind the masked figure.  One of my favorite parts of the show is when he is teaching Christine face to face for the first time and the complexities that accompany that moment in “Music of the Night.” 

Are there any shows (other than Phantom) that you have done in your career that will always be near and dear to your heart? 

Though I will always have a deep appreciation for all of the works I’ve been a part of, (especially The Lion King) Phantom will always be my first love and forever holds that special place in my heart. 

What advice would you give young performers who want a career in this business? 

It is the hardest and most consuming work there is, but it is also the most satisfying. Work as hard as you can and then work harder. Success in this industry doesn’t come over night and it isn’t easy, but if you are consistent in practice and diligent in work, you can find a place in this business.  

To learn more about The North American Tour of Phantom of the Opera make sure you visit - https://ustour.thephantomoftheopera.com and to learn more about Derrick Davis please visit his official website at www.therealderrickdavis.com