5 reasons to see the local staging of 'Once On This Island'

Is love really stronger than death?

"Once On This Island," a play produced by local production company 9 Works Theatrical, attempts to answer this very question.

Based on Rosa Guy's 1985 novel "My Love, My Love" or "The Peasant Girl," which is a Caribbean reimagining of Hans Christian Andersen's "The Little Mermaid," the play tells the story of Ti Moune, played by Thea Astley, a bright, lovely young girl living on the island who falls in love with a rich boy named Daniel Beauxhomme, played by Sam Concepcion.

It is well worth it to join the trip to the island, and here's why:

1. Ti Moune is lovable with her innocence and bravery

In "Once On This Island," Ti Moune bravely ventures out of the island, her comfort zone, and conquers the world.

She is the perfect embodiment of what it's like to see, learn, and feel what it is to be in love for the first time. She reminds audiences of the girl you used to be, filled with innocence, curiosity, and the urge to do everything for love.

Moreover, she is a perfect reminder that we all can have courage and make mistakes, sacrifices, and regrets.

2. Thea Astley fulfills her dream role in theater

For most people, it might be a surprise to see Thea dance so gracefully, a must-have talent for someone portraying Ti Moune.

In an interview with GMA News Online during a press visit to their rehearsal, Thea said that Ti Moune is her dream role, and she wants to portray it truthfully — which she flawlessly and undoubtedly did.

The audience was also charmed and touched during her beautiful rendition of the song "Waiting For Life."

3. The stage is a must-see!

9 Works Theatrical really showed how it should be done, amusing audiences with its impeccable set design. The stage matches the vibe of the cast as they dance gracefully on the island.

Additionally, the choreography is outstanding, and the songs are iconic.

4. A classic will always be a classic

During the special preview night, Robbie Guevarra, the director, shared that the local staging of Rent was their signal to revive the Broadway classics.

"I wanna bring back the classics. But what to expect is we will revive this in a way that not just to educate youngergeneration but also to help them see why theater has evolved in such a way. Because it went through phases," said Robbie.

He admitted that they fear about exhausting the market since various theater productions are all over the place this year.

Still, they decided to take the risk and trust the piece.

"Once On This Island" is a classic for a reason — it birthed musical gems such as "We Dance," "The Human Heart," "Waiting For Life," and "Forever Yours."

5.  It will teach you the magic of forgiveness and hope through love

The story proves that love is the greatest power. "Once On This Island" sets out to remind audiences that love comes with hope and forgiveness that is even stronger than death "Once On This Island" — the world may have been cruel to her, but Ti Moune chooses to forgive and still be an image of hope.

With race and class being the main issue on the show, the lessons make it relevant to the present time.

According to Robbie, they want to be highlighted and show that "the message is universal."

"Despite it being written in English, the message is universal. Doesn't matter if you speak English or not, I think people who will watch this, they will get it. By the movements, by the music, it's very, very communicative," he added.

The local staging of the Tony Award-winning musical of the island folk story just opened last week at the RCBC Theater in Makati and will run until September 29.

Thea plays the lead role alternately with Angela Ken, while Sam will alternate with Jef Flores as Daniel.

Also among the cast members are Radha as Asaka, Garret Bolden as Agwe, Lorenz Martinez as Papa Ge, Shiela Valderrama-Martinez and Jasmine Fitzgerald as Erzulie, Raul Montesa and Noel Rayos as Tonton Julian, Lani Ligot as Mama Euralie, Shanaia Gomez and Krystal Kane as Andrea, PJ Rebullida as Armand, Jonjon Martin, Sam Libao, Jordan Andrews, and Fay Castro as the Storytellers, and Bianca Estacio and Reese Iso as Little Ti Moune.

Ticket prices range from P2,200 to P3,900, available via Ticket2Me.

Grab your tickets and get ready to dance to the music of the gods! —JCB, GMA Integrated News