Today (23 December 2010), an unsung hero of the West End will reach an unprecedented milestone. It's believed that Bob Norris will achieve a world record when he plays cello in the orchestra of the West End production of The Phantom of the Opera for the 10,000th time tonight. Norris, the only son of two professional musicians who studied music at Jesus College Cambridge, has been with the show since 1986, during which time he has missed only 76 performances (an average of three per year!). In addition to playing double bass, his father was also an instrument maker, and Bob has played on one of his father’s cellos throughout his time with Phantom.
David Burrowes, principal cellist with Phantom, said: “Away from his work in the show, Bob is often to be seen at organ recitals and supporting colleagues who are performing. His thoughtfulness towards his colleagues and pride in his job is much appreciated and admired by all the members of the orchestra. On December 23, the members of the orchestra and the cello deputies of Phantom will be holding a lunch in his honour. We salute him for this magnificent achievement.”
Many congratulations, Bob, from all of us at Whatsonstage.com!
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