THIS January, one of musical theater’s most beloved voices returns to Shenzhen. John Owen‑Jones, the Welsh tenor celebrated as the youngest-ever Jean Valjean in West End history and the longest‑running Phantom in “The Phantom of the Opera,” brings his show “Unmasked — JOJ & Friends” to Shenzhen Poly Theater. This marks Owen‑Jones’s third visit to China and a rare opportunity to hear a true West End legend live.

“Unmasked” takes its name from Andrew Lloyd Webber’s memoir and reflects Owen‑Jones’s aim to step out from behind the characters he has played. “I’ve played the Phantom who wore a mask all his life; Valjean who spent his life seeking redemption; and Wolfshiem who covered himself with social polish. What I want the audience to see is the John beneath the mask — an ordinary man who loves singing, loves people, and loves China,” Owen‑Jones says.

Joining him is a glittering cast of West End stars. Gina Beck, praised by the British press for her “angelic” voice, is known for roles such as Christine in “Phantom,” Cosette in “Les Misérables” and Glinda in “Wicked.” Danny Whitehead — a gifted singer‑dancer — has played Raoul in “Phantom” and Inspector Andre in “Les Misérables.” Lara Martins, hailed as an operatic powerhouse from Portugal, brings dramatic intensity and a bright, metallic soprano. Also featured are Joseph Claus, Rhidian Marc and Samantha Thomas.

Audiences can expect a feast of familiar favorites and stirring musical theater moments. The program will revisit classics from “Les Misérables,” “The Phantom of the Opera,” “The Greatest Showman,” “West Side Story,” “Wicked” and more.

Owen‑Jones’s reputation is built on both critical acclaim and audience devotion. Voted by fans in online polls as the best Valjean of today and one of the finest “Les Misérables” performers, he has led special anniversary finales at the O2 and Royal Albert Hall, and has performed the “Phantom” nearly 2,000 times. Known affectionately by Chinese fans as “Bear Daddy,” he also boasts seven studio albums and a global concert and media career spanning television, radio and live stages.

Fans can also expect “Unmasked” to be more than just a string of hits — the concert is presented in an intimate, storytelling format that pairs sweeping orchestral arrangements with personal anecdotes and playful onstage banter. Backed by a full live band and featuring ensemble pieces as well as stripped‑back solos, the evening promises dynamic contrasts, emotional climaxes and a few surprises tailored for Chinese audiences.

Time: 7:30 p.m., Jan. 23; 2:30 p.m., 7:30 p.m., Jan. 24

Venue: Shenzhen Poly Theater, Nanshan District (深圳保利剧院)

Metro: Line 2, 11 or 13 to Houhai Station (后海站), Exit E (Tang Li)