Musicals Blog

Michael Crawford

by Claire J Rottenberg


As a child, Michael Crawford sang in a church choir and in school plays, but his professional acting career began in a non-musical role in a movie at the age of 16. His first major role on Broadway in "Black Comedy / White Lies" was also a non-musical role. However, that part led to his first major movie role as Cornelius Hackl in "Hello Dolly," a film that showcased Crawford's singing and dancing talents.

Crawford continued his career after "Hello Dolly" primarily on the London and Broadway stages, but not in musicals. He also appeared for five years (1973 to 1978) on a popular British TV comedy series, "Some Mothers Do 'Ave 'Em."

When Crawford finally returned to musical theater, he achieved his greatest successes with his lead role in "The Phantom of the Opera," both in the London and Broadway productions. Crawford won two prestigious awards for his performance - the British Olivier award in 1986 and the Tony award in 1988.

Crawford last appeared on Broadway in 2003 in a short-lived musical, "Dance of the Vampires."

In addition to his acting career, Crawford has appeared in concerts and he has recorded many albums that include a wide selection of Broadway songs.