"Steve Barton became known to theatregoers for originating the role of Raoul in Andrew Lloyd Webber's West End production of 'The Phantom Of The Opera' in 1986. He later went on to star as the Phantom in the Broadway production in 1990. Most of his career was spent in Europe where he starred in 'Cats', 'Beauty And The Beast' and the phenomenally successful 'Tanz Der Vampire'. Tragically, Steve passed away on July 21st 2001 at the age of 47."
Of all his roles, I would have LOVED to of seen him perform the role of 'Graf Von Krolock' from 'Tanz de Vampire' that he made famous. I had tears streaming down my face the first time I heard his voice singing this in sharing one earplug of a friend's ipod. Not the ideal of listening circumstances, and I didn't understand the German lyrics, yet a fond memory, and Steve's voice was akin to a religious experience!
