I love architecture almost as much as I love my musicals.

In this lighthearted yet sincere quote, Cameron Mackintosh, one of the most successful theatrical producers of all time, shares his deep appreciation for architecture, placing it on nearly the same level as his lifelong passion for musicals. Known for producing legendary shows like Les Misérables, The Phantom of the Opera, and Miss Saigon, Mackintosh has spent his career immersed in the world of stagecraft, where the design of space—both physical and emotional—is essential. His quote reflects how architecture, like theater, is an art form that shapes experience, emotion, and storytelling.

By saying he loves architecture almost as much as his musicals, Mackintosh suggests that the two disciplines share creative parallels. Just as musicals use sets, lighting, and spatial arrangement to support narrative and mood, architecture designs environments that influence how people feel, move, and interact. Both forms rely heavily on composition, structure, and visual impact, whether it's a soaring stage backdrop or a grand concert hall.

Mackintosh’s enthusiasm for architecture likely stems from his involvement in theater design and renovation. Over the years, he has invested in and helped restore historic theaters, such as London’s Prince Edward Theatre and Queen’s Theatre (now the Sondheim). These projects show his dedication not only to producing shows but also to preserving and enhancing the architectural heritage of performance spaces. His love for architecture is therefore both personal and professional, rooted in a belief that the space itself contributes to the magic of performance.

Ultimately, this quote is a tribute to the interconnectedness of the performing arts and architectural design. For Mackintosh, both are about crafting experiences that move people—whether through a moving song or a beautifully designed building. His words celebrate the idea that great environments, like great musicals, leave a lasting emotional and cultural impact.