Once

For anyone who has seen the movie (add it to your Netflix queue immediately if you haven't), there's a certain hesitance in thinking of Once as a musical.  The intimacy of a close-up seems like it would be lost in the expanse of live theater.  How do you translate all those heart-sparking moments, often communicated with a glance from a piano, to the back of the house? For one, you cast beautiful vocal talents and genuine musicians and you somehow (miraculously?) transform a stage into an intimate space where the audience feels equal parts privileged and guilty to eavesdrop on a love story.

The movie, Once, introduced me, and the rest of the planet, to Glen Hansard, already a well-loved Irish songwriter by people more in the know than myself, and Marketa Irglova, who together penned the music and lyrics for the musical. I've since seen Hansard in concert as well as obsessed over The Swell Season's haunting/rocking (how often do those go together?) melodies. So my love for the story, the music, and the personalities aligned with this Tony Award-winning musical set me up for some pretty astronomical expectations and I'm thrilled to note that I was not disappointed. This short run at the Orpheum is a must-see for anyone in need of a love story, a sweet song, or proof that the dreams that matter will be bolstered by those that love you.  So really, it's a must-see for everyone.

Following an improbable meeting of a down-trodden Dublin busker and a music-loving (and gifted) immigrant, the audience watches as our heroine nudges our hero back into songwriting. With each song the would-be lovers step a bit closer to a shared dream and the success of that dream is deeply woven into the strength of their connection. Are they soul mates? Mutual saviors at a specific point in time? How would the answers to either question impact a lifelong dream?

These actors aren't alone in their travels.  Far from it, they're surrounded by a community of musicians of such grit and talent, every duet is underscored by a beautiful chorus of warmth. Each actor plays their own instrument and there's no question that the heft of this story lies as much in the connection between our lovers and in the character of a Hometown (in this case, Dublin), as personified by a pack of Czech immigrants and native Irishmen and women who answer life's trials with music.

Once is only in town through April 6th so don't delay on this one! And if you're a student/educator, don't forget to take advantage of rush seats, available at every performance.

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