"The band give us a vibrant rendering of the calypso, soca and reggae-packed score...So, a slightly uneven opening to the Park’s 2023 summer season, moodier in both tone and weather than might be expected, but it’s still well worth a trip to this thought-provoking island."
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"This production is full to the brim with splendid touches...A live band at the back led by musical director Chris Poon on keys gives the ever-vivacious singing a fine platform to reach the sky."
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"Regent’s Park Theatre’s 'Once On This Island' should not be seen as a fairytale. Ola Ince’s direction heightens the prejudices in this story which is important in giving this story a new intensity. However, the imbalance between issue and fairytale leaves this production feeling a little less satisfying."
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"For all its charms, ‘Once on This Island’ feels caught between a Disney-ish over-simplicity and a desire to say something a bit more profound about class and race...But the score is glorious, and the talent on display here is undeniable."
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" 'Once On This Island' is a brisk, energising piece of theatre. It’ll be even better on a hot night."
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"If this brisk, 90-minute show has a flaw it’s that much of the simple tale is told through the lyrics. Given the outdoor acoustics it’s possible to miss details."
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"With stunning songs and a remarkable cast, wonderfully led by Gabrielle Brooks, this is a great start for this years season at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre and has me excited for what the rest has in store."
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“It’s a shame that the book doesn’t quite hit the same notes as the music and lyrics, but ultimately this production of Once On This Island is eminently enjoyable and brings the French Antilles to the heart of Regent’s Park”
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