Batons at dawn over orchestra cut

ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER and

theatre producer Cameron Mackintosh are not happy with each other. The row broke out after Lloyd Webber said it was Mackintosh’s decision to cut the Phantom of the Opera orchestra by half. Mackintosh shot back yesterday, saying that was “absolutely untrue”. He told The Stage: “It was a joint decision by Andrew’s own company, the Really Useful Group and myself, in order for us to be able to afford to bring back this spectacular musical.” While praising Lloyd Webber, Mackintosh pointed out he “naturally has full contractual control of his music”. Skirmishing with a smile.