You know a musical is onto a good thing when you find yourself irresistibly drawn into it’s rhythm and beat – hips swaying, heart dancing – and that’s exactly what happens in Curveball Creative’s bold reimagining of Once On This Island at Hayes Theatre Co.

This enchanting musical explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the desire to bridge worlds and social divides. It is deeply rooted in Caribbean folklore, rich with spiritual and communal dimensions that elevate it far beyond a simple star-crossed lovers journey. And, while it echoes The Little Mermaid with themes of longing and crossing boundaries, it confidently charts its own unique path.

Director Brittanie Shipway balances reverence for the 1990 original with a fresh reinvention, crafting a production that feels both timeless and relevant. Drawing deeply from the cast’s diverse backgrounds, including Australia’s varied Indigenous and multicultural communities, she infuses the show with authenticity and contemporary resonance, reaching well beyond its roots.

The open village square setting complements the dynamic and rhythmic score, crafting an immersive island atmosphere that transports the audience to sun-drenched beaches and lush landscapes. A warm colour palette paired with soft lighting enhances the show’s fairy-tale quality and naïve charm.

The score, by acclaimed Broadway duo Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty, features their signature blend of heartfelt lyrics and memorable melodies, balancing lively upbeat numbers with tender ballads. This musical journey pulses steadily throughout the performance, maintaining momentum and energy from start to finish – despite a few minor opening night technical gremlins. While the songs may be unfamiliar to some audiences, a careful listen to the lyrics reveals their depth and storytelling power.

The cast’s genuine camaraderie and cohesiveness transform this musical into a living, breathing communal ritual, filled with connection, grief, and hope. It’s a tight ensemble whose strength and intensity make this familiar story feel powerful and new. The intimacy of the Hayes Theatre is the perfect setting for such an emotionally resonant, close-knit production.

Thalia Osegueda Santos is a standout, brilliantly embodying Ti Moune’s journey with a genuine connection to both the music and her character. Her singing is strong and sweet and her dancing feels effortless and deeply internal, as if the rhythm lives inside her. There’s a delightful, almost Disney princess quality to her portrayal – innocent, hopeful and kind. In today’s world, where female agency and self-determination are increasingly celebrated, it can be difficult to watch a young woman with such strong conviction surrender herself so completely to an unattainable love. Osegueda Santos leans into that tension with grace, making Ti Moune’s choices feel both achingly romantic and quietly tragic, never losing her captivating presence.

Alexander Tye brings nuance to the role of Daniel, a character who could easily come across as unworthy – a privileged young man who falls for Ti Moune, only to reject her due to societal expectations. Yet Tye plays him with a quiet, youthful vulnerability, even as he bows to the pressures of class and tradition. Santos’ chemistry with Tye is authentic and adds warmth to their scenes together, making their bond feel sincere even as the story edges toward heartbreak.

The three gods Erzulie, Agwe, and Asaka, embody love, the sea, and the earth, guiding Ti Moune’s journey with their distinct powers and wisdom, weaving spirituality and folklore deeply into the story’s fabric. Cypriana Singh shines as Erzulie, the goddess of love and beauty, bringing a gentle warmth and charm to the role. Her solo, “Waiting for Life,” perfectly captures the yearning and hope of young love.

Googoorewon Knox embodies Agwe, the powerful god of the sea, with a commanding presence and calm authority, while Paula Parore delivers a knockout performance as the goddess Asaka. Her featured song “Mama Will Provide” showcases her fabulous, soul-stirring voice, leaving us wanting more – truly worth the ticket price alone.

Rebecca Verrier brings a more menacing edge to Papa Ge, embodying the character’s sinister and mysterious nature with a mesmeric mix of danger and intensity. Her portrayal raises the stakes – not necessarily a villain, but the darker side of nature.

Curveball Creative’s Once On This Island is more than just a musical. It’s a vibrant celebration of culture, community, and the enduring power of storytelling. With its infectious rhythm, dynamic performances, and rich layers of meaning, this production invites you not only to watch but to feel, connect, and surrender to the heartbeat. Get ready to be swept away on a magical journey – this island awaits.

For further details see: https://hayestheatre.com.au/event/once-on-this-island/

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