Once - Phoenix Theatre (review)
Review by Lizzie Guilfoyle
On March 21, 2015, after a little under two years at the Phoenix Theatre, Once The Musical will complete its West End run. It was, therefore, somewhat belatedly that I went along to see this extraordinary show that has not only won the theatre industry’s most prestigious awards but also captivated audiences both here and in America.
But what is it about this relatively simple story that tugs so at the heart strings?
Maybe it’s simplicity itself. Based on the much-loved Oscar-winning film, Once is about an Irish busker and a young Czech mother, who meet purely by chance; their love of music sparking a deep connection and a tender, longing romance that neither of them could have expected.
Could it also be because the script is both witty and bitter-sweet, cleverly depicting two young people who are obviously falling in love with each other but are afraid to admit it for fear of rejection? That’s something we can all empathise with.
Or could it be because the roles of Guy and Girl are currently played with such disarming sincerity by Ronan Keating and Jill Winternitz
Keating, here making a very creditable West End debut, captures the charm and insecurities of a young man disillusioned by love and fearful of breaking away from the monotony of his every day existence. Moreover, his unique voice more than does justice to the songs, among them the haunting Oscar-winning Falling Slowly.
Winternitz, too, is superb and imbues her character with both charm and vulnerability thereby ensuring that her determination to help isn’t misconstrued as, at best, interference, at worst, downright bossiness. No mean feat given the enormity of the undertaking. More importantly, the onstage chemistry between her and Keating is totally and utterly believable.
Could yet another reason for the show’s success be the combined talents of the remaining cast members, actor/musicians all, who present a formidable entourage of Irish and Czech characters? As so often is the case in a West End production, to mention one and not another would be to do them all a grave injustice. Suffice to say none disappoint.
Bob Crowley’s simple set design with its surrounding mirrors is inspired and adds a whole new dimension to proceedings; another reason perhaps why Once continues to delight West End audiences. And I haven’t even mentioned John Tiffany’s skilful direction…
So what is it that makes Once so appealing? Personally, I think it’s a combination of all six of the above (plus a few I haven’t mentioned) but whatever, one thing is certain, it is a remarkable show and with just two weeks remaining, I’d urge you to go along to the Phoenix Theatre and buy a ticket. You won’t be disappointed.
Read more about Once l Read our exclusive interview with Jill Winternitz