As a 1,000-pound chandelier swung toward me the other night, I felt a little shock and awe and finally understood why live-theater fans ought to see "The Phantom of the Opera" at least once in their lifetimes.

The rigging of the chandelier is so clever that it feels like it might crash down on the audience. This is just one of the many special effects in the mega-hit musical, which has drawn 80 million people over the years — many of them repeat phans and phanatics.

I’m now a phan since seeing "Phantom" for the first time. I’m not sure how many times I would need to see it to become a phanatic. But I get why there’s a "Phanomenon" and why "Phantom" is the longest-running show on Broadway. Some readers may recall my advance story about seeking the key to the phenomenon.

This musical has everything: hauntingly beautiful songs, an irresistible story line, breathtaking special effects and opulent costumes that would make any fashionista swoon. I caught myself humming the music for days, especially this song. I confess — I want a pair of the snazzy silver boots worn by Christine.     

I sat next to Star Tribune theater critic Rohan Preston and his daughter. He has seen the show in London, on Broadway and here. The headline on his review: " 'Phantom' still a thrill."

Across the aisle was Pioneer Press critic Dominic P. Papatola, a former colleague of mine from my days at the PiPress. He, too, has seen the show several times. The headline on his review: " 'Phantom’s' return to the Orpheum elaborate but empty.' "

Rohan and Dominic know a lot more about theater than I do, and I respect their critiques. I just took it as a good sign that they were in the audience even though they’ve both seen and reviewed "Phantom" in the past.

I’m also a firm believer that beauty is in the eye — and the ear, in "Phantom’s" case — of the beholder. My humble opinion: "Phantom" is worth seeing and hearing at least once in a lifetime, and I wouldn’t mind going again.

The musical runs through June 7 at the Orpheum. Ticket information here. Student rush tickets are available for $20.

Readers: Have you seen "The Phantom of the Opera"? Tell us what you think in Comments below.