My family and I recently took a day trip to New York City to watch The Phantom of the Opera on Broadway. Honestly, I had never been exposed to the story of the Phantom, so I did not know what to expect. However once the play began, I instantly fell in love. The Phantom of the Opera is a show that you absolutely have to see. There's no reason not to see it...but if you need an extra push, here are eight pointers to get you excited for the play.

1. It's the longest running show on Broadway.

And honestly, it's the best show on Broadway. Why do you think it's been there for so long (officially 29 years)?

2. James Barbour.

His voice is smooth, sleek, and sexy. It's extremely dominant and authoritative, and yet very soothing. He does a phenomenal job playing the phantom; in fact, he's the reason I want to see the play again. I need to watch him again.

3. Ali Ewoldt.

She is extremely talented and beautiful; she may be small, but she has a big voice and does a fantastic job portraying Christine Daaé. Like James Barbour, Ali Ewoldt brings an indescribable and irreplaceable presence to the play.

4. The music is beautiful, catchy, and will stay in your head for weeks.

The songs have extremely catchy beats. I specifically can't help but obsess over "Phantom of the Opera," "The Music of the Night," and "Masquerade," (keep in mind it's been 2 weeks since I saw the play!).

5. The humor.

I actually sat at the edge of my seat, smiling from ear to ear, while I watched the play (which is something I never do). Comedic relief is always enjoyable.

6. The suspense.

From the moment the play started, I didn't know what was going to happen next. It's not a predictable plot unless of course you've read the novel (written by Gaston Leroux in 1909), seen the films, or seen any of the plays.

7. The romance.

Christine, the protagonist of the play, has to choose between loving Raoul or the Phantom, and everyone has their own opinion on who she should love. I, personally, was rooting for the phantom. Yes, even though it was a creepy, Stockholm syndrome kind of love, I couldn't help but root for the Phantom to find and feel love. I can understand why others rooted for Raoul, though.

8. The props, costumes, and backgrounds.

From the second the play starts to the second the play ends, there is always something beautiful to look at.

9. The overall plot.

Honestly, I have so many unanswered questions about the play's story (and I'm sure you will too!), but that's the beauty of an incredible plot. After seeing The Phantom on Broadway, I know that I want to further research and involve myself with the story of the Phantom.