Superb musicianship shines in this picturesque Highland staging, but the emotional spark never quite catches fire
⭐️⭐️⭐️
What’s it about?
Based on the beloved independent film of the same name, Once tells the story of an Irish musician and a Czech immigrant who form an unexpected connection through their shared love of music. As they collaborate on songs and navigate their own personal challenges, a tender and bittersweet relationship develops that explores love, hope and the roads not taken.
This production marks the first musical of Alan Cumming's artistic directorship at Pitlochry Festival Theatre as part of the venue's 75th anniversary season. It also reunites members of the original creative team behind the acclaimed stage adaptation for the show's Scottish premiere.
What we loved best
Firstly, the theatre itself. There can be few more picturesque locations for a theatre than Pitlochry Festival Theatre. Nestled at the foot of the Scottish Highlands beside the River Tummel, the setting alone makes the journey worthwhile.
Before the performance even begins, audiences are invited onto the stage to enjoy a drink at the working bar while the cast play some rousing tunes. This immediately gets everyone in a good mood and immersed in the show's world.
The set depicts a bustling Dublin bar, with wooden chairs lining the perimeter and the cast remaining largely onstage throughout the performance. The design supports the musical's intimate storytelling and reinforces its communal spirit.
The production features a remarkably talented company of actor-musicians, all playing multiple instruments as well as a variety of characters. While the story centres on Guy (Dylan Wood) and Girl (Lydia White), there is a strong ensemble feel throughout.
Of course, the highlight for many will be hearing the Grammy Award-winning "Falling Slowly" performed live and within the context of the story.
Anything we'd change?
Once is a deceptively difficult musical to stage successfully. On the surface, very little happens, but beneath that simplicity lies a rich tapestry of longing, restraint and unspoken emotion. The subtle shifts in the relationship between Guy and Girl are what ultimately elevate the piece.
While both central performances are strong, the emotional tension between the pair never fully elevates resulting in a production that feels a little flat.
Who would enjoy it?
Fans of the film, contemporary folk music, and anyone seeking a theatrical experience that celebrates live musicianship. It's also the perfect excuse to visit one of Scotland's most beautiful theatres.
Who Made It
Once features a book by Enda Walsh, based on the 2007 film written by John Carney. The music and lyrics are by Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová, whose song "Falling Slowly" won the Academy Award for Best Original Song.
This Pitlochry Festival Theatre production is directed by John Tiffany. The production also reunites members of the original creative team behind the stage musical – Bob Crowley (Designer), Clive Goodwin (Sound Design) and Natasha Katz (Lighting Design).
Verdict
Featuring a talented cast of actor-musicians and an unforgettable setting, Pitlochry Festival Theatre's Once is a warm and heartfelt evening of theatre. While the central relationship doesn't quite generate the emotional intensity needed to fully unlock the show's potential, there is still much to admire in this thoughtful production.