Shea GuntherMaher
I’m not one to over-hype the mediocre, but I am one to enthusiastically endorse the excellent. So, I apologize in advance for the abundance of exclamation points you’ll find in this review, because I can’t help but applaud the musical ONCE!
I’ve been to a few Broadway performances now and every time I’m amazed by the talent of the performers. It’s one thing to be a talented singer, or coordinated dancer, or well-trained actor. It’s another thing altogether for one person to have all three talents! The performers of ONCE are such individuals, gracefully rotating between the three disciplines, with one big difference…. they each play instruments as well! Yes, that’s right. Throughout the entire production, the artists are singing, dancing, acting, and creating their own musical accompaniment with hand-held guitars, violins, percussion etc! Are you as jealous as I am? I can’t even imagine what it’d be like to show up at an artsy-fartsy party and be like, “Ya, I do it all. No big deal.”
The story of ONCE takes you deep into the life of an Irish street musician struggling to find himself. He collides with a charming young woman who reminds him of the healing power of music and they collaborate to bring his songs to life. If you’re a folk or indie music fan, you’ll love this show! The songs range from upbeat folk to emotion-filled rock to hauntingly beautiful ballads. At many points during the musical, I found myself melting into my chair, eyes closed, soaking in the syrupy melodies and harmonies.
Creativity abounds throughout the production. You know how, in most plays and musicals, when there is a scene change, they drop the lights to move props and switch positions? Well, not so for ONCE scene changes. Instead of dropping the lights, they keep them on, play music and dance around the stage while they rotate the props and their stage positions! It’s all very creatively choreographed, like moving a drum set on and off stage as part of a coordinated and effortless dance.
You’re probably getting the idea, the musical production of ONCE is filled with artistic expression and stunning talent. I HIGHLY recommend that you get tickets to the show before the traveling tour leaves town. This is a musical you have to see at least “once,” if not “twice.”
Schedule of Performances
Thursday, April 16: 8:00 PM
Friday, April 17: 8:00 PM
Saturday, April 18: 2:00 PM & 8:00 PM
Sunday, April 19: 2:00 PM
Click HERE to purchase your tickets.
