5 Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Miss 9 Works Theatrical’s "Once On This Island" Musical

There is an island where rivers run deep—and you can see it in 9 Works Theatrical’s latest production of Once on This Island!

Based on the novel “My Love, My Love” by Rosa Guy (which is actually a retelling of Hans Christian Andersen’s The Little Mermaid), it’s one of the shows you definitely wouldn’t want to miss. 

The Tony- and Olivier-nominated musical tells the story of Ti Moune (Thea Astley and Angela Ken), a peasant who falls for the affluent Daniel (Sam Concepcion and Jef Flores) living in the upper-class part of an island known as the “jewel of the Antilles.” With Robbie Guevara’s direction, the show offers a charming retelling of a classic story.

Metro.Style got to experience the retelling of this classic story in the production’s press night at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium in RCBC Plaza. 

Here are some of our favorite parts of the show: 

The captivating performances 

It’s one of those stories where everyone in the cast shines. The ensemble was a whole unit in itself, wearing different hats—and wigs, literally—while bringing vivacious life into the amazing choreography. There’s a sense of togetherness that’s palpable in each performance. 

In an interview after the show, Sam Concepcion revealed thoughts on sharing the stage with the cast. “It’s an amazing cast,” he says. “Personally, that’s what made it so exciting for me. We have a great mix of vets and new artists.”

Though of course, leads Thea and Sam nevertheless did a wonderful job. Thea Astley, for one, captures the innocence of Ti Moune exploring the world outside her home while also touching on the heartbreaking parts of the show with ease. Her own vocal prowess was on full display as she navigated each song. Meanwhile, Sam Concepcion (fresh from his One More Chance run) charmed audiences with his version of Daniel. Anyone in the audience could clearly see his experience as a veteran performer.

The summer fashion vibes 

For anyone missing the sunny mood of summer—especially in the gloomy rains of the Ber months—the musical takes audience members back to a warmer season. Between the ruffled skirts and the tropical fabrics, it almost feels like a beach vacation. The color palette in the many costumes throughout the show made for a warm feeling even in the current season.

But what was it like going through all those costumes? Shanaia Gomez, who plays Andrea, revealed that the quick changes were not easy. “It’s a very (ensemble)-heavy show,” she says. “One person will play five different characters and will be wearing different clothes, different wigs. And sometimes you have 30 seconds to change.” The cast agrees though that it’s a fun challenge to add, which feels fulfilling once they’ve done it.

The experimental set design

One of the most noticeable parts of the show actually captures attention even before the show starts. The stage features an O-shaped elevated platform, with an assortment of props sprinkled throughout that gives it the island feel. It also highlights the campfire-story aspect of the musical, as the play is about telling a story within a story. The sheer curtainsーcoupled with screen projections of the changing weatherーalso make the storytelling feel real.

The catchy songs

Many of the songs had a number of audience members nodding along. Besides, with a lively opening number that’s literally called “We Dance,” it’s pretty hard not to. Other songs like “The Human Heart” and “Ti Moune” are more ballad-like in nature, putting the cast’s melodic vocals at the forefront. 

The story of hope and community

As a troupe, the one of star-crossed lovers is something that many of us are very much familiar with. And yet 9 Works Theatrical has elevated it in such a way that touches the hearts of audiences. For one, the musical highlights the sense of community and family that almost cannot be separated from the main Romeo and Juliet story. 

Jordan Andrews, who plays one of the storytellers, pointed out how the theme of community felt very personal to the cast. “We love community,” he says. “Being onstage, it feels like a family. It feels like a real community. This show is just a reminder to cherish and love your own community.” With such values that are so deeply Filipino, 9 Works Theatrical’s Once on This Island becomes a musical that somehow feels like home. 

Check out the cast schedule below and don’t miss the LIMITED run of Once on This Island, running from September 6 to 29 at the RCBC Plaza, Makati City.

Visit bit.ly/OnceOnThisIslandMNL or contact their showbuyers.

Text by Tim Marasigan

Photos from @9workstheatrical