Karimloo's extensive theatre work includes playing Enjolras in Les Misérables at the Queen's Theatre in London and Chris in the U.K. tour of Miss Saigon. As Enjolras, Karimloo performed in front of the Queen at Windsor Castle in a special concert production of Les Misérables.

Alex Rathgeber, who has performed widely in his native Australia, will also join the Phantom company Sept. 10 in the role of Raoul. Phantom will mark the actor's West End stage debut.

Phantom became the longest running show in Broadway history last year when it celebrated 7,486 performances, surpassing the previous record holder, Cats.

The cast of the London production, which opened at her Majesty's in 1986, currently features Robyn North and Leila Benn Harris sharing the role of Christine as well as Wendy Ferguson as Carlotta, James Barron as Monsieur Firmin, Sam Hiller as Monsieur André, Heather Jackson as Madame Giry and Lyndsey Wise as Meg Giry. Benjamin Lake will take over the role of Piangi on Sept. 10.

For more on Phantom of the Opera, call (0)870 890 1106.