BWW Reviews: ONCE is an One of a Kind Theatre Experience at the Fisher Theatre

Once is an extraordinary theatre show. It is an experience that is unlike any other to watch, hear, feel, and live through, as it is unique from beginning to end. The talented actors sing and speak like in typical theatre experience, but in Once, they also are the band and play all the instruments on stage during the entire performance.

Most theatre shows follow a pattern: the lights go down, the audience quiets, the show begins, the lights come up, intermission, the lights dim again, and when they rise, the show is finished. Once breaks a lot of those rules and it makes it a magnificent experience for it. Before the show starts, and at intermission, the audience is actually invited on stage visit the bar in which the show is set to get immersed in the production as the cast warms up and plays Irish music, which transitions into the show starting.

The show begins in unique way and it draws the audience in. The cast is absolutely spectacular. They are talented in every way possible in their performances: from their vocals to their playing of their instruments. Stuart Ward is Guy and Dani de Waal is Girl, and, together, they have an incredible chemistry on stage. When they sing, the audience is completely captivated by the emotions that the two of them express. Notable stand outs in the cast as well are Matt DeAngelis, Tina Stafford, and Erica Swindell who all make their roles stand out, but it really is a fantastic ensemble cast because they work so well together as a whole. The entire cast is strong, feeds off one another's energy, and sends their emotions into the audience throughout the entire performance.

The music of Once is worth a special mention because it is easy for most people to enjoy, but it is also very passion filled and tells a story. Heavily driven with acoustic guitars, violins, and an Irish folk sound, it had a beautiful mellow, vibe with songs like "Gold," "Leave," and "Falling Slowly" that get under the skin and stay with the audience as they leave.

Once is an amazing theatre experience and should not be missed! Take it in while it is here in Detroit. Arrive a little early, about a half hour, to enjoy going on stage beforehand to take in the view and get immersed in the show before it starts. A small menus of drinks are available at the on stage bar for cash before the show and at intermission.

Once is now playing through February 15th at the Fisher Theatre in Detroit. For more information or tickets, visit www.broadwayindetroit.com.

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