The highly anticipated musical Once which is based on a film by the same name and is the only Broadway show in which the music has won Academy, Grammy, Olivier and Tony Awards, finally premieres in Sydney.
It’s the story of an Irish singer-songwriter named Guy who simply isn’t being taken seriously in the music industry. He meets a Czech girl named Girl, who is a piano player and a strong relationship builds, which rejuvenates his life.
Cameron Daddo who leads a fine cast of 11 plays the role of Da (Irish way of saying dad), Guy’s father who is a widower, runs a vacuum store and lives on top of the store with his son.
“Our production is not the original Broadway show. This is the same play, but we are basically workshopping a brand-new show,” explained Daddo. “This show has received such accolade because it has heart, it’s humorous, it’s sad and the music has also won eight Tony Awards. It’s cleverly woven and I feel that given all the actors on stage are playing instruments we are the orchestra and that gives it a point of difference. The style of music given it’s mostly played with acoustic instruments including fiddles, cellos, and guitars, delivers a good thumping rhythm and you feel part of it.”
Ultimately, is this show suitable for all audiences? “I don’t think it’s for little kids because there is some Irish profanity in it – a little bit, not too much – but every word is very well placed and for that reason, I think my 13-year-old daughter will come along and see it. It’s a show for anyone who wants to be moved by theatre at any age beyond that – but for kids no, it’s not Aladdin. It’s not a kid’s musical.” (MMo)
Until Jul 21. Eternity Playhouse, 39 Burton St. Darlinghurst. $58-$76+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.darlinghursttheatre.com
