(author's note: I am damn well aware that Shakespeare wrote Romeo and Juliet. However, this is the opera version I am referencing with this this chapter, so I have to write it as Gounod's "Romeo and Juliet". I did this so I would not have stupid reviews that say "wait you idiot, Shakespeare wrote "Romeo and Juliet"!)
Chapter 13: Management
By: PittsBurghFuzz
The manager received the letter from the Phantom, through the services of Madame Dubois. The Phantom had this to say:
My managers,
I see you have received my letter(that is if you are indeed, reading it). Anyway, I have chosen Madame Dubois as our method of communication. She has her references, and I will leave it at that. I will expect my modest salary of 20,000 Francs for this month this Friday! If you cannot pay 20,000, then at minimum, I can only accept 10,000. I suggest you tap into a certain opera, known as Gounod's "Romeo and Juliet". It is a lovely opera, and I do suggest you use it for your next project. I have also enclosed several costume designs for the proposed show. I will send a few of the major costumes within the next few days.
Your Obedient Friend,
O.G.
The managers replied:
O.G.,
We do agree upon the settled amount, and the Madame Dubois decision. We don think she is a splendid choice. As for this week, we can only give you 15,000 Francs. We are struggling a bit and we do hope you understand. For next month, however, we will give 30,000 Francs. We thank you in advance for your cooperation and understanding.
Regards,
The management.
The Phantom gave another note on Friday.
My managers,
Thank you for the generous 15,000 Francs. You do not have to pay the overly generous promise of 30,000, but it is not needed. Just give me the settled 20,000 Francs next month. I have sent the costumes I was able to make, and I hope you can send me more designs that I would agree with. If you need me, just call for Madame Dubois.
Your Obedient Friend,
O.G.
The mangers gave the Phantom this next note:
O.G.,
Enclosed are several designs for the production of "Romeo and Juliet. We hope that these are to your satisfaction.
Regards,
The management
The Phantom replied.
My managers,
I am very much satisfied with the designs. There are some minor changes I will make to these costumes, but remember, they are small changes for the costumes benefit.
Your Obedient Friend,
O.G.
The costumes for Romeo and Juliet were made, and the only thing needed were two people needed for the title roles. The management was going to use its Prima Donna, but Aricin had a better idea.
My managers,
Its seems that you wish to use your Prima Donna for the role of Juliet. Now, I understand why you would choose her, better box office assurance. However, I do not think she is right for the part. Don't get me wrong, she is great singer, and doesn't look unattractive, but I think we need someone of youth Someone who can not only sing well, but also carry with her a sense of innocence, which is very integral to the character. I think the chorus girl, Annabelle Girard. I heard her sing and she has a beautiful voice. She is also very youthful looking. So I would highly recommend this choice. However, I think the Prima Donna could play the part of Juliet's mother, I think in that she would be superb.
Your Obedient Friend,
O.G.
Practice went on, and the managers had this to say:
O.G.,
We have been practicing for the upcoming production of "Romeo and Juliet". We cannot believe how right yo were. The Girard girl had a splendid voice! You were also right about our Prima Donna! Not only does she excel at the part but the great Garcia loves it! We don't know how to thank you, except by saying, well, thank you!
Regards,
The management
The Phantom sent this:
My managers,
I am glad that everything went as I expected, and that you were satisfied with the results! Anyway, with the show coming in two days, I just want to remind you of a few things. I do not want an attendant at Box Five, other than Madame Dubois. This also comes to my next point, please do not allow anyone to purchase Box Five. I would really appreciate it.
Your Obedient Friend,
O.G.