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Once on This Island

Presented by Stratford Senior High School at Stratford Senior High School

May 1-May 9, 2009

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The award-winning Stratford Playhouse presents their final show for 2008-2009 on May 1 – 9.  Escape your worries with Stratford Playhouse’s Once on This Island.

Once on This Island is the musical story of two star crossed lovers with an island twist. “This show speaks of how legends are passed down from generation to generation, how love has power over adversity, and exposes inequality that has existed throughout history” says vocal coach Julie Stone Cortez.  With few spoken lines, the show is like other contemporary musicals in that it is told almost entirely through song and dance.

Director Dave Clayton explains how the production is the last in a season of creative, outside-the-box performances, “Using both the stage and the orchestra pit floor, Once on This Island tries to break free of the confines of the stage and bring the songs and dance as close to the audience as possible”.

Choreographer Monroe Moore accomplishes that with his unique style of jazz, street and musical theatre dance. "In this particular show, it is very important that the style and dance steps contribute to the setting of the mood and convey the specific emotions the characters are feeling" adds Moore.

In 1991, the Broadway production of Island received 8 Tony Award nominations. The show is filled with Caribbean-influenced choreography and a score that includes upbeat calypso numbers and beautiful, yet haunting, ballads. Julian Cerana (Papa Ge, Demon of Death) states, “At our first vocal rehearsal, we were dancing in our chairs because the music was so catchy. The harmonies are very tropical sounding, which is a really cool thing to learn.”

Katherine Madeley (Erzulie, goddess of Love) agrees, “This show is truly special because everything about it is fun. The entire cast gets excited for rehearsals - it's a privilege, not a chore. It's a blast to escape away to an island to dance and sing after a long day at school. “

You too will be swept away at this show! Performances will be at 7:30 pm on May 1-2 and 7-9 with a matinee on May 9 at 2:30 pm. The Box Office opens April 22nd for ticket sales. Please call 281-560-7550, ext. 8 or go to www.shsplayhouse.com.