💎 The Phantom’s Chandelier — “Ruthie”

Modeled on the original fixture at the Palais Garnier, the chandelier in The Phantom of the Opera is one of the most iconic props in musical theatre. It was nicknamed “Ruthie” (or “Ruthie II” in the Broadway production) after Ruth Mitchell, longtime associate of director Harold Prince. “Ruthie I” refers to the original London chandelier used before COVID-era updates.

🕯 International Dedications

Not every chandelier carries the same name. According to production sources, different chandeliers have been dedicated to Phantom legends:

“Maria” — designer Maria Bjørnson (Royal Albert Hall)
“Ruthie” — Ruth Mitchell (West End and many international runs)
“Hal” — Harold Prince (World Tour, including Singapore, where a plaque reading Hal is visible)
“Gillian” — Gillian Lynne (São Paulo)

🌍 Numbering Tradition

Some chandeliers also carry numbers — for example, “Ruthie 11” (Hong Kong). The 13th chandelier deliberately omitted its number, simply being called “Ruthie,” possibly avoiding “13” due to the show’s mysterious and superstitious themes.