★ ★ ★ .5

Reviewer - Annie

*Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in return for an honest review

Last night saw the press night for ‘Once On This Island’ at Regent Park Open Air Theatre- and in true British fashion the weather could not have been further from warm, however, this didn’t stop the show from transporting the audience to the beautiful Caribbean. Wrapped up in jumpers and coats the audience took their seats and welcomed a new season at the Open Air Theatre.

Marking the start of their summer season, ‘Once on This Island’ feels perfectly set at this venue. With its many references to the natural world and elements, where better to watch the tale unfold than out in the open under the dusky sky and the breeze whispering around you (even if the breeze is not quite as warm as where the show is set!).

The show is a heartwarming coming-of-age story told through the narrative of multiple characters including personifications of the natural elements coming to life. It all feels rather natural, organic and humble, and the staging is reflective of this by being very minimal. In fact, the only real use of props comes in the form of the four elements and it is a lovely nod to the grounds of the show and creates more dynamics and height throughout the performance.

Continuing to champion black and minor ethnicity actors in shows - ‘Once On This Island’ is the perfect show to bring more opportunities to the West End - not only for the actors but for audiences to see a wider variety of styles, music and performance.

The music in the show is beautifully composed and really highlights the Caribbean styles and influences, which are wonderfully brought to life on stage - brimming with heart, soul and brightness.

Despite already having beautiful music, the actors take it to another level. Gabrielle Brooks as Ti Moune is sensational - her voice is beautifully powerful and holds the audience throughout. Matched in perfect harmony with Stephenson Ardern-Sodje, their glorious love medley brings a real passion to the show.

Tremendous applause to Anelisa Lamola’s goddess, as it is as close to divinity as we on earth will get - that is how you demand a room.

Second to the music, the dance and movement throughout are thoroughly enjoyable. Offering a blend between lyrical, interpretive and Caribbean influences - it adds a new layer of storytelling in a more expressive way.

Although there are many moments to celebrate in the show, I did feel that the story was a little lacklustre in comparison to the big numbers and voices within it. It felt a little disjointed and didn’t really seem to flow in a natural manner. The love story between the two leads sort of happens out of thin air and it felt difficult to connect to the story or the characters as a result. This however is not a reflection of the actor’s performances, which were consistently strong. It was rather unclear to follow the plot, and it seemed to speed up very quickly in the second half of the show which felt rather confusing again. It reaches a great climax but the journey there is rather complicated.

It is a shame that the show did not quite reach the heights I had hoped for, but the performances, direction and movement are to be hugely applauded and really celebrate the beauty of the world. It truly feels like a lovely show to be welcoming in the Summer season.

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