Once: NOT a Musical

By Jonathan Jones

Thursday, May 17, 2012

The mere presence of music in a play does not make it a musical. In a musical, the songs are an integral part of the telling of the story. They express character, replace that which cannot be articulated through dialogue, and above all: further the plot. The music in Once does little of any of this, and thus, like War Horse and One Man, Two Guvnors (both of which feature just as much music), it should be categorized as a play with music.

Why is this a problem? Because the best musical of the season (Newsies) is all but being ignored why accolades are being put upon this mis-categorized show.

Having said all of that, Once  is indeed endearing. The characters of guy and girl are fully realized through considerable characterization on the part of the actors and the thorough and witty dialogue by Enda Walsh. Steve Kazee and Cristin Milioti are both incredible musicians and performers and deserving of every congratulations lauded to them both.

Once is playing at the Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre. Tickets can be purchased here.