Christine Daae dance recital costume

The Phantom of the Opera Character Guide

Christine Daae

Christine Daae is a young chorus singer at the Paris Opera who is secretly tutored by the Phantom, whom she believes is the Angel of Music sent by her dead father. She is talented, vulnerable, and caught between two men who love her in very different ways.

Personality for Dance

Christine moves with lyrical fluidity. She is a trained ballet dancer and singer, so her movement should be technically beautiful. But she is also uncertain and torn. Her body language shifts depending on who she is with. Near the Phantom, she is drawn in, almost hypnotised, moving as if pulled by invisible strings. Near Raoul, she is more natural, lighter, freer. Alone, she is searching, reaching for something she cannot quite grasp.

The Outfit

Top

White or cream ballet bodice for the opera scenes. A simple fitted top with delicate lace or chiffon details. For the Masquerade ball, a more elaborate gown.

Bottom

A romantic tutu or flowing white skirt for the ballet and lair scenes. The fabric should move beautifully in turns and extensions. For Think of Me, a more structured performance costume.

Accessories

The Phantom's rose with black ribbon. A simple necklace or locket representing her father. A shawl or cloak for the rooftop scenes with Raoul.

Shoes

Pointe shoes or pink ballet slippers. Christine is a dancer at the opera house, so her footwear should reflect that training.

Hair

Long, loose curls for most of the show. Pulled back into a ballet bun for rehearsal scenes. The hair down versus up can show the difference between Christine the person and Christine the performer.

Special Details

For the Phantom's lair, consider a flowing white nightgown or robe over the costume. This transition from the opera world to the underground world should feel like crossing into a dream.

Movement Tips

  • Use ballet as the base vocabulary. Christine is classically trained and it should show in her lines.
  • Near the Phantom, let your movement become slightly trancelike. Slower, smoother, drawn toward him.
  • Near Raoul, move with more freedom and spontaneity. She is herself around him.
  • Think of Me should showcase technical ability. This is her audition moment, so dance it like one.
  • The final choice between Phantom and Raoul should play out in her body before her actions. Torn, pulled in two directions.

Age Recommendations

Best for ages 12-17. Christine suits a dancer with strong ballet or lyrical training and the ability to convey conflicting emotions. The role requires vulnerability and strength in equal measure.

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