Once

Overview

Musicals are without a doubt one of the most divisive types of performance out there. When it comes down to it, you're either all for for spectacle and jazz hands or you ain't. But, where most musicals deal in nostalgia or novelty (think Jersey Boys or Wicked), Once is set in working-class Dublin with a modern, original soundtrack. With a Grammy and a whole swag of Tony Awards to its name, this unlikely Broadway hit makes its mark on audiences through the humble means of folk music.

Based on John Carney's 2006 indie flick of the same name, Once follows the short and complicated near-romance of an unnamed man (Tom Parsons) and woman (Madeleine Jones). After hearing the man busking, the mysterious Czech girl — whose accent is frequently hammed up for comedic effect — takes an interest in his music and provides him with the support and inspiration he needs to get his life together. She's basically the closest the stage has seen to a manic pixie dream girl.

With both characters conflicted by previous heartaches, the story is definitely one for romantics. But, without the intimacy and lo-fi realism that was offered in the film, Once comes off a little corny on stage. Emotions run very high very quickly, and if you're the least bit cynical your eyes are going to roll back in your head at least once.

Luckily, the show isn't defined by its finer plot points but by its music. Packed with violins, guitars, a piano and accordion, the stage is constantly alive with likeable folk, and each of the actors effortlessly double as extremely talented musicians. Decked out as a fully-functioning Irish pub (open to the audience at interval), the set is truly a world unto itself and each member of the cast give incredibly high-energy, loveable performances that constantly impress. Seriously, at one point someone does a jig while playing the freakin' cello. It's impressive.

Occupying a bittersweet ground with its upbeat tempo and downtrodden lyrics, the soundtrack of the performance is the real drawcard. Pocketing a Grammy from its run on Broadway, it came as no surprise to see copies of the CD being snapped up outside the theatre doors. Even those not familiar with the story would know the tune of its standout hit 'Falling Slowly'.

Though it falls well within the bounds of your average romantic comedy, Once is somehow still enjoyable even if you don't like musicals. Give yourself over to the sentimentality of the story or mentally check out and concentrate on swaying your Guinness in time with the frenetic fiddling of the violin — either way, you'll leave with a smile on your face.