On the evening of April 26th, the Parkdale Players unveiled their much-anticipated production, Once On This Island, to a captivated audience. Adapted from the novel My Love, My Love by Rosa Guy, this musical extravaganza promised an evening of magic and emotion.
Opening night commenced at 7 PM, with subsequent performances scheduled for Saturday, April 27th at 1 PM, and a final closing night at 6 PM. Set against the backdrop of a Caribbean island, the narrative follows the journey of Ti Moune, a fearless young woman, in a tale of love, loss, and the resilience of the human spirit. With a stellar cast and crew at the helm, expectations were high for an unforgettable theatrical experience.
Once On This Island, brought to life by the talented cast and crew of The Parkdale Players, delivered a mesmerizing performance on its opening night. From the captivating storytelling to the impeccable vocals and stunning visuals, this production enchanted the audience from start to finish.
Naia Benitez, in the role of Ti Moune, delivered a performance that was both emotionally resonant and vocally powerful. Her expressive acting and broad vocal range were a delight to behold. Brianna Polio, as Asaka, mesmerized the audience with her enchanting voice and stable vocals, drawing them deeper into the narrative. Iraima Rodriguez, portraying Erzulie, showcased exceptional storytelling abilities and a commanding stage presence. Avery Nolan, portraying Papa Ge, brought tension and laughter in equal measure with an amazing laugh that left the audience in stitches. Taimarah Livingston, as Mama Euealie, delivered an incredible performance, displaying realistic facial expressions and conveying deep emotions effortlessly. Zinwoa Fontem, as Tonton Julie, portrayed a protective yet supportive parent with authenticity and warmth.
The production was not only well-organized but also ushered the audience into a world of magic and wonder. Unexpected entrances of actors from surprising places kept the audience on the edge of their seats, while a young actress appearing from the audience to play the younger Ti Moune added an extra layer of enchantment. The seamless transformation of the younger Ti Moune into the older version melted hearts and added a fairytale-like quality to the performance.
Under the direction of Mr. Kenneth Carter, the creative team behind Once On This Island delivered a visually stunning and emotionally resonant experience. From creative props to unexpected scenes, every aspect of the production was meticulously crafted. Mr. Antuan Hairston’s musical direction, Mr. Franklin Blankenship’s band direction, and Ms. Casimir’s choreography elevated the performance to new heights, while the costume design and flawless makeup added authenticity to the characters.
Throughout the performance, the audience experienced a rollercoaster of emotions, from laughter to tears. Impressive plot twists, relatable lyricism, and exceptional storytelling kept viewers engaged, while moments of humor provided much-needed breaks. The physical and verbal interaction with the audience further enhanced the immersive experience, making them feel like active participants in the story.
Once On This Island, presented by The Parkdale Players, was a magical journey filled with love, forgiveness, and the enduring power of the human spirit. With its unforgettable performances, stunning visuals, and timeless message, this production left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of witnessing it. As the curtains closed on closing night, tears flowed freely, a testament to the profound impact of this extraordinary tale.
