BEHIND THE MIC

Clark Wren - editor, writer, researcher, co-lyricist, language consultant, all around problem solver 

​

On Writing Zariya Hollow: The Ghost in the Opera House—or A Collaboration in Shadows

 

Bringing Zariya Hollow: The Ghost in the Opera House to life has been an extraordinary journey—a collaborative effort defined by passion, creativity, and a shared love for stories that linger long after the final note fades. From its inception, this project was never just about The Phantom of the Opera. It was about exploring the haunting spaces where history and humanity intertwine, and creating something that both honors the past and feels alive in the present.

 

At the heart of this endeavor was a creative partnership that grew stronger with every step of the process. Working alongside Alexiel, whose vision and dedication have guided Zariya Hollow from the very beginning, was a privilege. Together, we crafted a world that feels as immersive as it is intimate, blending sound, silence, and storytelling into a seamless experience.

 

Another vital part of this process was the extraordinary Sylent, known as Phantomstheater and SylentFantome. Their contributions shaped The Ghost in the Opera House in profound ways. Sylent’s unabridged translation of Le Fantôme de l’Opéra, based on the original newspaper serialization, became a cornerstone of this adaptation. This was no ordinary translation—it was a labor of love spanning over two decades, enriched by historical research and detailed annotations that provided invaluable context for every creative decision.

 

Sylent’s passion for Leroux’s work and their unmatched expertise brought layers of depth and authenticity to this project. Their meticulous attention to detail ensured that we could remain true to the spirit of the original story while exploring new dimensions of its themes. Beyond the written word, Sylent’s visual artistry—showcased on platforms like DeviantArt—captured the haunting beauty and emotional complexity of Phantom in ways that inspired every step of this adaptation.

 

Our writing sessions were marked by collaboration at its best. Whether it was refining dialogue to strike the perfect emotional note or crafting soundscapes that could make Erik’s subterranean world feel as vivid as any stage set, every element of The Ghost in the Opera House was approached with care and intention. Together, we delved into the shadows of the Paris Opera House, letting its history guide us while imagining what its ghosts might say if they could speak.

 

Creating Zariya Hollow was never just about retelling The Phantom of the Opera. It was about asking deeper questions: What is the cost of longing? How do we connect with stories that feel timeless, yet deeply personal? And how can we reimagine something beloved while letting it remain its own?

 

To those who pick up these liner notes and listen to this story, know that every moment of The Ghost in the Opera House was crafted with you in mind. It’s not just a story about Erik and Christine—it’s about all of us who have ever felt drawn to the shadows, who have ever yearned to understand the ghosts of the past, and who have found pieces of ourselves in the stories we love.

 

And to Alexiel and Sylent: this project would not exist without you. Your vision, talent, and unwavering commitment to storytelling have made The Ghost in the Opera House more than just an adaptation. You’ve made it a living, breathing piece of the Zariya Hollow anthology—a testament to the power of collaboration and the enduring magic of stories.

 

Thank you for letting me walk this path with you.