Review: Once at the Phoenix Theatre

Once

Phoenix Theatre

Reviewed on 11th April 2013

Once is a brave new show which takes everything back to basics. The cast rarely leave the stage and the set barely changes, which makes the show feel extremely focused. Once is a story of friendship and love, the  musical follows an Irish busker and a Czech mother who share a love for music. Together they write songs which brings them close together.

The entire company are extremely talented. All the music is produced live on stage by the cast who play a variety of instruments. When they play together the result is mesmerising powerful and extremely unique. Before seeing the show I had not seen the film or heard the soundtrack. As all the songs are fairly similar they blurred into one, I would  like to have heard a little more variety. However two musical numbers that did stand out were Falling Slowly (which I have already downloaded and have on repeat) and Gold, an a cappella number performed towards the end of Act Two. It was incredible to see the cast put down their instruments and just sing. It was so simple and the harmonies sounded absolutely stunning.

Declan Bennett gives a very honest performance as 'Guy', a charming character with a vulnerable side. Zrinka Cvitešić also shines as 'Girl'. The character is not afraid to speak her mind which provides many comical moments. The chemistry between 'Guy' and 'Girl' is extremely special and towards the climax had me sitting on the edge of my seat. The vocal performances were not consistently perfect, but each song was sung from deep within.

I was disappointed that the storyline did not draw me in sooner. During the interval I felt slightly underwhelmed and let down. Act Two is far stronger but ultimately I wanted to emotionally connect with the show sooner. Many audience members were left in floods of tears. While I felt slightly moved by the powerful climax of the piece, I didn't feel overcome with emotion. I fell in love with the characters but not with the story which is a little weak in places.

Once is a very atmospheric production. If you arrive at the Phoenix Theatre early enough you can use the on-stage bar while the ensemble sing and dance to Irish folk music. I think Once will divide opinions, some people will adore it and some people will not. It is wonderful to see something so new, fresh and diverse in the West End. Once is performed with a glimmer of style and class. 

Reviewed by Andrew Tomlins (Editor)
andrew@westendframe.com

Click here to book tickets.

Once is currently booking at the Phoenix Theatre until 30th November 2013.

Photo Credit: Manuel Harlan

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