This book examines the themes and variations of ""Phantom of the Opera"", demonstrating why Phantom has appealed to multiple generations through numerous incarnations. After discussing Gaston Leroux's original 1910 story, the work turns first to Phantom on film from Lon Chaney's 1925 ""Phantom"" through Dario Argento's 1998 film. Stage versions of ""Phantom"" are covered in detail, including Webber's spectacular 1986 production and its lesser-known predecessors and competitors, and those that followed. A final section looks at novels and miscellaneous adaptations ranging from erotic fiction to the 2002 ""Veggie Tales: Sumo of the Opera"".