text: My wife and I have been together for 25 years, and this trip to las Vegas, specifically to see PHANTOM was my gift to her.\n\nI had called months in advance, and spoke to the person in the box office, who assisted me in purchasing the VIP package (more on that later). The VIP package isn't cheap, but worth every penny. VIP tickets were $250 each...again worth every penny.\n\nWe arrived in Vegas, did all the Vegas-y things, and dressed to the nines to attend the show. We took a gondala ride before the show outside (fun!!), then made out way to the theater. We was one of the first ones in line, and was seated wil almost no waiting.\n\nThe theater is amazing! The decorations and layout is way more detailed than I expected.\n\nWe was seated in the middle of the theater, directly under the chandelier. Literally the best seats in the house. The chandelier plays a major part in several scenes, and where you sit is important. Sit under the chandelier if you can.\n\nAs we sat waiting for the opening number as others were being seated, I was approached by an usher who welcomed us as VIP ticket holders. We received large glossy programs for free (also available in the gift shop for purchase), and was told to meet the VIP group near the stage after the show.\n\nLet me say now that I was not much of a POTO fan. I could take it or leave it. I have seen the movie on DVD, and it was okay. My wife, on the other hand, is a Phantom nut. She knows all the lines, sings all the songs, and can recite the dialog with the movie like she is watching Rocky Horror. It was going to have to be god to keep my attention, and out of this world to live up to expectations.\n\nAs soon as the opening number started, I knew that this play was going to be something really, really special. I was awestruck. The music, the production, the actors, the singing. I was absolutely converted into a fan, and my wife was on a whole different plane of nirvana. Everything about this show stopped our hearts (in a good way).\n\nAfter the show, we met the other dozen of VIP ticket holders and out guide. The VIP tickets allow you too take a guided tour though the theater. You get to see and learn all the tricks, tips, mechanization, and artistry of the production. The tour lasted longer than the show...2 hours, but it went by so fast!!\n\nWe got to have a meet and greet with ANTHONY CRIVELLO, who plays The Phantom. It wasn't a cheesy 10 minute \"I want to get home already\" meet. He sat down, took pictures, told stories, and answered every question. He didn't leave until he was sure everything was signed and every photo taken.\n\nThe tour was amazing...you have no idea what goes on behind the scenes at that show. You get to see the costumes, the wigs, the makeup, the sets, the props...everything!!\n\nI have no idea what I'm going to do on our 50 anniversary to top the 25th...this show was legendary.