BWW Reviews: ONCE, Phoenix Theatre, April 10 2013

How important is an authentic accent in theatre? They can be tricky at the best of times, and I'm told the Dublin accent is one of the more difficult ones to pull off (being a native mine comes fairly easily).

And so, while one might make allowances for the Broadway production of Once - the new musical based on the low budget surprise hit 2006 film of the same name - surely the West End cast would be awash with genuine Dubliners or spot-on soundalikes...? Not quite, although how much it matters is up for debate.

While Declan Bennett (the nameless Guy) never manages to sound like someone from Dublin's North Strand - or any other part of the city - he has charisma, likeability and vocal talent in spades. From his opening number, the plaintive 'Leave', it's not difficult to see why the Girl (Zrinka Cvitesic) silently falls for him, thus setting up the framework of what is a slight but affecting and tender love story. And while I can't pass judgement on her Czech accent, Cvitesic is excellent in the role, making the Girl feistier and more involved than her cinematic counterpart, and all the more loveable for it.

One might argue that chemistry between romantic leads is the most important element in a show like this, but it's not the only area in which Once succeeds. Within the curved walls of its simple, constant pub set, there is a great deal to admire. From beautiful choreography and scene changes (if you doubt you could be moved by the dismantling of a drum kit, think again) to Natasha Katz's gorgeous lighting design (including a breathtaking representation of the lights of Dublin from afar), it is very often a visual treat.

That's not to say the score is lacking; Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova's music and lyrics sound terrific, though not overwhelmingly varied. 'Falling Slowly', the film's Academy Award-winning signature tune, is given even more prominence here and is beautifully effective. That said, the standout moment of the evening is the stunning, a cappella 'Gold', sung in near whispers by the entire cast.

And a very strong cast it is too; Aidan Kelly and Gareth O' Connor add much humour and authentic Dublin flavour to proceedings, but the entire ensemble deserves high praise, particularly as they frequently multi-task with singing, precise movement and playing all of the instruments.

It's not completely flawless; some of the humour is a touch too broad - nothing involving the Bank Manager quite works - and a revelation in Czech by the Girl feels like unnecessary signposting, but it seems impossible not to find oneself becoming hopelessly invested in this would-be couple as the music swells. Chances are you'll emerge from The Phoenix Theatre misty-eyed and with an enduring sense of sentimental longing, a slightly shoddy accent the furthest thing from your mind.

To post a comment, you must register and login.