The Middletown Press (Middletown, CT)
Musical ‘Once’ opens Sept. 19
Contributed story
IVORYTON — On Sept. 19, the Broadway smash hit “Once” opens at the Ivoryton Playhouse Sept. 19. On the streets of Dublin, an Irish musician about to give up on his dreams and a beautiful young Czech immigrant are drawn together by their shared love of music. Over the course of one fateful week, an unexpected friendship and collaboration quickly evolves into a powerful but complicated love story, underscored by the most beautiful, emotionally charged music.
Winner of eight 2012 Tony Awards including Best Musical, “Once” is a truly original theatrical experience. Featuring an impressive ensemble of actor/musicians who play their own instruments onstage, it is an unforgettable story about going for your dreams and the power of music to connect us all.
Based on the 2007 movie of the same name, written by Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova, the show features all of the haunting songs from the critically acclaimed film, including the Oscar-winning “Falling Slowly.”
The show includes Ben Hope*, who has performed here in “Million Dollar Quartet” and “Stand By Your Man.” Hope is making his directorial debut with this show which is near and dear to his heart since he performed the role of Guy on Broadway many times. Hope is directing his wife, Katie Barton*, in the role of Girl. Katie has also performed in Ivoryton, playing the lead role of Tammy Wynette in “Stand By Your Man.”
Joining them in this production are Sam Sherwood*, last seen in Ivoryton in “The Road — My Life With John Denver,” as Guy; Steven G. Anthony* as Billy; Jonathan Brown as Svec; Margaret Dudasik* as Reza; Andreina Kasper as Bank Manager; Marcy McGuigan* as Baruska; John Mervini as Eamon; Morgan Morse as Andre; Rachel Mulcahy as ExGirlfriend; Don Noble* as Da; Victoria Wepler as Emcee and Cadyn Malary and Lizzie Pantano as Ivanka.
“Once” through Oct. 14. Performance times are Wednesday and Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. Evening performances are Wednesday and Thursday at 7:30 p.m., Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m.
Tickets are $55 for adults; $50 for seniors; $25 for students and $20 for children and are available by calling the Playhouse box office at 860-767-7318 or by visiting our website at www.ivorytonplayhouse.org Group rates are available by calling the box office for information. The theater is located at 103 Main Street in Ivoryton.