“Once” is not your traditional broadway musical — in the best way: No extravagant moving set pieces, no jazz squares and no orchestra pit. Based on the movie of the same name written and directed by John Carney, what “Once” truly provides is a breathtaking musical experience with multi-talented artists and a simple — yet fulfilling — story.
The pre-show opens with a live bar and music with the cast onstage, crafting a high-energy concert that appeals to young theatre-goers. Anyone with a ticket can walk right up to observe the set up close at the Orpheum Theatre that makes the audience feel like a part of a special, exclusive jam session. The pre-show music flows right into Act One without an announcement but instead with the dimming theatre lights to indicate the start of the show. All of the actors are brilliant string musicians and percussionists, playing pop-like songs with a folk twang that complements the story perfectly.
The cast truly works as an ensemble, and each member eventually gets their own spotlight. The entire cast is onstage almost the whole time — watching, playing and moving when their part is not featured. This contributes to the connection of every character to the story, in which a man (played by Stuart Ward) has lost touch with musical inspiration and meets a girl (Dani de Waal) who encourages him to make music again. With the help of all the other characters, the young man rediscovers his musical passions and together they create his new album.
The lead man and woman are not named, they are simply “guy” and “girl.” This instills the idea that it does not matter who they are, but that they are strangers who make beautiful music together and connect with one another on a deep level through art.
The show is extremely intimate, which is surprisingly effective in the large theatre space. The set stays unchanged and is covered in mirrors, allowing the audience to see every facet of the artists. Set pieces are moved in a visually appealing way by the cast members during musical movement transitions. The dialogue is quick-witted despite being occasionally hard to understand. For the most part, however, the actors’ projection and diction are excellent.
“Once” would be a difficult show to produce in theaters in the way it was presented on tour. It requires actors who can master various European accents who can also sing and play a variety of instruments. But, when produced successfully, “Once” is nothing short of magic. The musical brings new and exciting ideas to theatre; it presents the extent of artistic talent single individuals can have when they are completely in control with their body, voice and their instrument. A celebration of community, love and self-expression, “Once” is a must-see for theatre, music and art lovers alike.
For more information on the “Once” national tour, visit www.oncemusical.com.
Contact Bella Wilcox at belwic ‘at’ stanford.edu.