Did Cameron Mackintosh say that as they are “very expensive” England’s performance this evening will be “fresher and brighter” with just the 6 players?

VERY disappointing to read this from @OfficialALW who was always appreciative and pre Covid had praised us as sounding better than ever. Many players kept fresh by playing as guests with our amazing UK Orchestras, on sessions and in chamber music.

Some of the physical set might be going to be in better shape but the cast, crew and orchestra were in excellent shape when it closed. Presumably 50% audience is “identical” to 100% too?

"Come on @phantomorch get stacking those shelves." @OfficialALW @PhantomOpera

A year ago we made a video from home in lockdown with the lovely @KellyMathieson. A month later everyone on "Phantom" was sacked including the orchestra. 24 musicians are no longer required. Here we all are saying "goodbye"! Full video youtu.be/rvUhTVp0SHw

It looks like the Phantom has decided not to let Ellie bring her Eb clarinet. A wonderful clarinettist and, although small in stature you certainly made up for it with personality. You will be sadly missed by us all 👏😘😢

The Phantom makes the last trip to his lair with Susana. The biggest surprise is that, as the most wonderful bassoonist and great asset to our orchestra, you are not being invited back. It was our pleasure to play with you for the last few short years. 👏😘😢

The Phantom punts away Peter with both his clarinet and flute. Totally committed and loyal to the show and your colleagues, it is sad that you will not be required anymore. You will be much missed by everyone above and below stage. 👏😢

Expecting a stormy ride to the Phantom's lair, Chris obediently takes his seat. Joined just before the 1st birthday party but 34 years and 8,454 fun shows later, you are NOT invited to the party. A sad end to a charmed career, you knew how lucky you were #whataband #livemusic 😢

The amazing Callum, deputy conductor and keyboard player is carted off to perform his magic @ Phantom's lair. Joined near the start and greatly valued by us all, you managed to diffuse tense situations with a smile and a reminder that it's entertainment! We'll miss you. 👏😘😢

No! He's even taking our leader. Surely John must hold the world record for shortest engagement in a West End show? Phenomenal violinist whom we were lucky to have for the few shows you played, we will miss you. Good job you seem to be dressed for the trip to Phantom's lair! 👏😢

Wow, so sad! Our very own young international soloist, Ani sailing off with Eric. You were only with us for a few years but we were incredibly lucky to have you as a deputy leader. Thank you for your beautiful playing and company, we will all miss you. 👏😘😢

There he goes again! We have been so fortunate to have had amazing players like Debbie in our orchestra. You always played brilliantly whether on the solo violin part or in the section. We will all miss you but are sure you will continue your deserved busy career. 👏⭐😘😢

Another fantastic character and amazing musician sails off, our much valued violinist, Bagsy. You could play the entire show from memory and perfectly even with your eyes closed! We hope your busy freelancing will still allow you time to paint. You'll be much missed. 👏😢

The Phantom sails away with our principal viola, Tim. A very fine and reliable player. You played no small part in why the orchestra was sounding so fantastic when we had to close. What a shame you are no longer required but thank you for everything & we will all miss you. 👏😢

Today we say farewell to half of our viola section, Penny. Over 30 years service to our orchestra, thank you. As you near the Phantom's lair the unmistakable voice of your late colleague, Brian Mack can be heard shouting: "FILER! WHERE'S MY COFFEE?" 👏😢

He's still at it! Today David our principal cellist plays his way down to the Phantom's lair. Thank you for your loyalty and all your wonderful playing over the years. Another wonderful character and dedicated member of the interval poker school. 😢👏