Once On This Island
Flaherty's melodies are firmly grounded in the Broadway musical vernacular, infused with Caribbean rhythms... And Ahrens' lyrics have that mix of wonder and plainspoken simplicity that characterizes stories handed down among generations.
Hollywood Reporter
Why see Once On This Island?
The Modern Musical Fairytale Comes to town
A cross between Romeo and Juliet, The Little Mermaid, and modern Disney classic Moana, Once On This Island first garnered critical acclaim during its first Broadway and West End runs in the early 90s, and again for its Broadway revival in 2017. The bittersweet, modern musical fairytale now enjoys a local Premiere during your 2023/24 season!
What is the story?
With an effervescent score by Stephen Flaherty and a book by Lynn Ahrens, the family-friendly fable is set on a Caribbean island divided by prejudice and battered by violent storms. Ti Moune, a poor peasant girl, and Daniel Beauxhomme, a boy from the socially elite grands hommes clan, fall in love after fate brings them together.
Of course, tragedy and hardships follow with help and hindrance from mighty island gods, as well as the prejudiced inhabitants of the island. A tale of romance, unrequited love, and redemption, as well as a reminder of the fragility of our ecosystems, all wrapped up in the music and dance of calypso.
Key Information
Audience
Might not be suitable for children under 10 years of age
Run Time
One hour and 40 minutes
Dates
Finished Mar 24
Reviews
Customer reviews
2 reviews, average rating: (5.0 Stars)
Mr. Rosamond Kay
See Once on this Island
Kind of a Romeo and Juliet and also Cinderella musical, with a tragic yet hopeful ending in spite of unrequited love. Set on a Caribbean Island (Haiti, or some other former French colony) where social class is a barrier to true love. Staging is colorful, the singing is vibrant, and the acting is wonderful.
See this performance!!!! ... Read more
Howard
Once On This Island
This is a wonderful musical - well directed and well presented and acted. It is very moving. The music is authentic and the choreography is well done. This is one of the Arden’s best. ... Read more
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