A Phantom’s Farewell

Michael Crawford’s enormous popularity with theater audiences (“Phantom’s Farewell II,” April 27) should not have been measured by the actions of a few people who had the time and money to attend countless performances of “The Phantom of the Opera.” It is not unusual for zealous fans to return again and again to see any popular performer or show.

Your long account of the “Michaelmania” frenzy during Crawford’s tenure at the Ahmanson trivialized the work of a very fine actor. Worthy of more attention would be his talent, which created on stage an absolutely unforgettable character. Though cast in a very demanding role, he strove to make each performance his best and gained the respect and admiration of everyone who saw him.

Crawford’s popularity extends way beyond the adoring fans you described to everyone who saw “Phantom” and, thanks to him, will never forget that night at the “Opera.”

JAN HOLST

South Pasadena