ONCE Begins Performances at Le Petit Theatre In June
Patrick Cragin and Josie Oliva lead the New Orleans production, directed by Conner Wilson.
Le Petit Théâtre du Vieux Carré will present ONCE from June 4–21, 2026, marking the first New Orleans production of the musical.
Based on the Academy Award-winning film by John Carney, ONCE follows the relationship between an Irish musician and a Czech immigrant who connect through music on the streets of Dublin. The stage adaptation features a score by Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová and is known for its actor-musician staging, with cast members performing live music throughout the production.
Patrick Cragin will star as Guy opposite Josie Oliva as Girl. The cast also includes Charlie Antis, Alec Barnes, Owen Callahan, Ani Dean, Molly Graham, J.J. Hammerle, Noah Hazzard, John Jabaley, Lillian Miller, Brian Sanford, Judy Lea Steele, Emma Velasquez, and Jake Wynne-Wilson.
"Once is a musical that speaks to the power of music in our most challenging moments in life. It is a heartwarming story that we are proud to present for the first time in a New Orleans-originated production," says A.J. Allegra, Le Petit Theatre's artistic director. "We live in a city fueled by music, so the ability to bring 14 actor-musicians to the stage to tell the story of Once is both a unique privilege and, I hope, a special gift to our audience."
The production is directed by Conner Wilson, with music direction by Ainsley Matich and choreography by Chase Kamata. The creative team also includes scenic designer William Boles, Costume Designer Kaci Thomassie, lighting designer Daniel Zimmer, sound designer James Lanius, properties designer Deborah Bommer-Morrissey, and dialect coach Amy Chaffee.
Performance Information
Preview performances begin June 4, with opening night scheduled for June 5 at 7:30 p.m. Performances will continue through June 21 at Le Petit Théâtre du Vieux Carré in the French Quarter.
Regular performances are scheduled Thursdays through Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 3:00 p.m., with a special matinee on June 20 at 2:00 p.m. A student matinee will also take place June 11 at 10:00 a.m.
Single tickets range from $40–$95, with discounted student tickets available for all performances and group discounts offered for parties of 10 or more.
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