Once On This Island
The family-friendly modern musical fairytale enjoys a brand new production from Pittsburgh CLO!
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
Once On This Island
The family-friendly modern musical fairytale enjoys a brand new production from Pittsburgh CLO!
Why see Once On This Island?
The Modern Musical Fairytale Comes to pittsburgh
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 Pittsburgh production from Pittsburgh CLO this summer at the Benedum Center!
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
90 minutes, no intermission
Dates
Finished Jul 30, 2023
Reviews
Customer reviews
2 reviews, average rating: (5.0 Stars)
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
Jeffery L. Lloyd Sr
Courtnee Carter is a Siren
Just experienced the musical at TPAC last night. Absolutely wonderful... I enjoyed the setting and the delightful talented cast. The songs and dancing echos throughout the African diaspora. Courtnee Carter is beautiful, sings like an angel and dances with the passion of her ancestors. ... Read more
Shabba Jamz
CAPTIVATING & MOVING, AMAZING CAST, BEAUFITUL SETS AND COSTUMES
Watched the show last night - what an amazing performance!!! The cast is incredible, so vocally gifted, and each actor gives great life to their role (keep an eye out for Papa Ge). The story is very moving, and the performers convey the emotion effectively. The Costuming, lighting & staging are very creative and visually appealing. The set is incredibly imaginative, but be aware that if you're sitting in the first two rows, you may get a little "sand" on you.
The show also touches on the issues of classism as well as shadism/colourism, which are still important issues today.
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To the reviewer asking for a refund: It's not the fault of the company if you didn't like the story. Do you ask for a refund at the movies each time you don't like the plot? Both the synopsis and soundtrack of this musical are readily available. Caveat emptor. ... Read more
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