Michael was born on January 19, 1942 in Salisbury, Wiltshire, England. His mother, Doris Agnes Mary Pike, christened him Michael Patrick Dumble-Smith and when she married in 1945 he became Michael Ingram. It wasn't until he was 15 years old when he chose the name we all love today, Michael Crawford, off of a biscuit truck.
Crawford's credits span five decades (1950's - 1990's) and include his Oliver Award role in 'Barnum' (pictured left upper) and his Tony Award winning portrayal of 'The Phantom of the Opera' (pictured left middle). He became popular in Britain for his lovable character, 'Frank Spencer', in 'Some Mother's Do 'Ave 'Em'. His stage performances go back as far as 1955 when he played 'Sam the Sweep' in Britten's 'Let's Make an Opera'.
Since his beginning as a boy soprano Michael Crawford has recorded eight solo albums and has cast recordings of 'EFX' (EFX Master, etc.), 'The Phantom of the Opera' (Erik, the Phantom), 'Barnum' (P.T. Barnum), 'Billy' (Billy), 'Flowers for Algernon' (Charlie), 'Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum' (Hero), 'Hello Dolly' (Cornelius Hackl) and 'Let's Make an Opera' (Sam the Sweep). (If you know of any other recordings please let me know.) If you are interested in purchasing any of these, or just want to find out more about them go to Amazon online.
Michael has played the role of 'Erik, the Phantom' an excess of 1300 times. He was the Original Phantom in the London, Broadway and Los Angeles productions. Many know him from the Original London Cast recording, which has sold over 25 million copies to date.
Michael has recently finished his concert tour across the UK (program cover pictured left bottom) and released his autobiography 'Parcel Arrived Safely: Tied With String', which is now in both the UK and the United States. His book is very well written and genuinely one of the most moving books I've ever read. If you would like further information on Michael Crawford and his career check out the MCIFA Website.
For more information on Michael:
Michael Crawford International Fan Association - Official Fan Club, a wonderful group of people.
The Michael Crawford Phantom Movie Campaign - Very nice site, worthwhile and justifiable cause.
Michael Crawford Online - Comprehensive site on Michael from past to present.