Broadway performer and vocalist David Gaschen chatted about his experience in “The Phantom of the Opera” over the years, and he shared his future plans.
How was “The Phantom of the Opera” experience for you?
The Phantom experience was truly one of the most fulfilling chapters of my life. I was cast at a pretty young age as the Phantom Alternate in Switzerland, and at just 26, my wife and I suddenly found ourselves living in Europe, traveling to incredible places, and I was performing my dream role. It all felt a little surreal.
After Switzerland, I spent two amazing years in Hamburg, Germany, playing the Phantom, and then went on to spend six years on Broadway in the cast. When I look back on it, I really did get to live a dream.
What do you like most about playing ‘The Phantom’?
What I love most about the show is that beneath the beautiful score, it’s really the story of a desperately lonely man just trying to be loved by Christine. He goes to extraordinary lengths for that love, and there’s something incredibly human about that.
The music is haunting and unforgettable — full of soaring melodies — and it reaches people in a very deep way. It’s one of those shows that stays with you long after you’ve seen it.
What are some of your current projects that you’ve worked on now?
Right now, I’m working on some possible new recordings — either in the Christian or adult contemporary space — which I’m really excited about. At the same time, I’m staying very busy with my voice studio.
I currently have about 65 students, and that number keeps growing, so it’s been a wonderfully full season.
I’m also honored to be a presenter at the Josie Music Awards in Nashville on September 20th. The day before, on the 19th, I’ll be leading a masterclass on vocal health and conveying stories through song at the JMA Conference.
How does it feel to be an artist in the digital age? (now with streaming, technology and social media being so prevalent)
It’s kind of a mixed bag for me. On one hand, I think it’s wonderful that independent artists can build real careers now without a record label taking most of the profit. That’s a huge shift, and it’s empowering.
But on a personal level, I’ve always loved having something tangible when I buy music. I miss CDs and vinyl — opening them up, reading the liner notes, looking through the inserts.
There was something special and personal about that experience that feels a little lost in the digital age.
That said, it’s definitely easier now to get your music out into the world and reach people, which is a big positive. So for me, there are definitely pros and cons.
What do your plans for the future include?
Right now, I’m in the process of creating and launching a new solo concert show that I can take on the road across the country, which really excites me.
I absolutely love teaching and working with kids, but at my core, I’ve always been a performer. Live concerts just feed my soul in a way nothing else does.
I’m so grateful that God has given me a gift to share, and I truly feel it’s my responsibility to use it — to give the glory back to Him in everything I do.
If I can take an audience on a two-hour journey and help them forget about life for a little while, if I can move them or lift their spirits even briefly, that’s what fulfills me.
What is your advice for young and emerging artists?
My advice to young artists — whether you’re a singer, actor, or working in any part of the arts — is to start by really knowing who you are and surrounding yourself with the right people. Those first decisions can make or break the start of your career.
Next, trust your talent and always be prepared for whatever comes your way. Never stop working, never settle, and always strive to be your best.
But perhaps most importantly: be kind. You never know the battles someone else is facing that day, and a simple word or gesture of kindness can make a huge difference. In this crazy industry, I can tell you — kindness and caring go a long way.
Were there any moments in your career that have helped define you?
I’m not sure there was one single moment that defined me, but there have been many smaller moments that shaped who I am.
Watching people I respect and seeing how they treated everyone around them with kindness really had an impact on me.
I also think the moment I auditioned for The Phantom of the Opera in front of the legendary Harold Prince, and he offered me the role of the Phantom that very day, set me on a path I’m incredibly grateful for.
But mostly, it’s the people I’ve met and the friendships I’ve made over the years in this business that have shaped my life in ways I could never have imagined
What does the word success mean to you? (My favorite question)
I bet this is your favorite question! It’s such a great one. I think success is really relative in so many ways.
For me, true success comes from using the gifts and talents God gave you and loving what you do. It’s not always about money or fame — it’s about the impact you have.
If my singing can bring someone joy, or if my Christian songs can bring someone closer to God, then I feel like I’ve truly succeeded.
“Making it big” is relative — whether you’re singing in a church choir, acting in community theater, or performing on Broadway and concert stages around the world, what matters most is using your gifts to serve others.
I feel incredibly blessed that I get to do what I love and be paid for it. That, to me, is success.
What would you like to say to your fans?
I feel so blessed that people out there enjoy my music, my voice, and my concerts. Without them, I truly wouldn’t have had the opportunities I’ve been given.
The appreciation I feel goes far beyond just buying music or attending a show — it really touches my heart.
It tells me that people believe in me and my talent, and that keeps me motivated to be the best I can be. So, from the bottom of my heart, thank you.
To learn more about Broadway performer and artist David Gaschen, check out his official website and follow him on Instagram.
