photo credit: Jon Blea

Written by Zach Johnston

Electric Company Theater has revived its acclaimed production of the musical hit Once, this time at a new venue but with some familiar faces. Many of the cast members are reprising their roles from the show’s first run in 2023. They’re joined by some new, incredibly talented actor-musicians who help bring this deeply touching piece of theatre to life.

Story:

Directed by Brian Johnson, Once is the story of two strangers (known simply as Guy and Girl) who begin an unlikely collaboration after one convinces the other not to abandon his musical ambitions despite personal turmoils surrounding it. What results is a complicated, yet devastatingly relatable story of modern love between two creative souls.

Adapted by Enda Walsh from the beloved 2007 film featuring the sensational music of Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova, Once is a special form of live theatre that can paint such a vivid picture with so few colors. It celebrates not just the music itself, but the act of music-making and what that can do for tender hearts.

Set Design/Music Direction:

ECT’s new production is housed in The Charleston, a rustic, elegant venue hall in the historic Williams Building in Fullerton that feels right on par with the story’s Dublin setting. In lieu of a traditional stage, the show unfolds in the center of the room, with no clear point at which the audience stops, and the stage begins, inviting viewers into a more intimate perspective on the story. Open seating lines the large room, with a few select spots reserved for the show’s musicians.

This setup allows for the room to be enveloped in beautiful sounds throughout the show. Under Greg Haake’s direction, the players come together to create undeniably powerful music. While also having the space to stand out individually. It’s a remarkable presentation of the sweet harmonies and rhythms that make the show what it is, and every performer brings joy and creativity, whether it be through acting or in their music.

Acting:

Wesley Chavez (Guy) leads the performance with unyielding dedication to his character’s soft-hearted bitterness as it relates to his music. The performance truly begins at the door where the actor is spotted busking for passersby on Commonwealth Avenue. His vocal talent and musicianship are on full display throughout the entire show.

Mercy Thorton (Girl) builds upon layers of comedy and sincerity in her performance as she balances Chavez’s more stoic character. Her acting is matched only by her flawless piano skills.

As these characters build on their almost reluctant relationship around a shared love of music, the remaining cast deliver memorable performances, helping tell the story and backing unforgettable songs.

Once plays at The Charleston through Feb. 25.

Exceptional Show! OCR Recommended! Feb 1 – 25,2026.