Behind the Scenes of Once On This Island
Originally an Off-Broadway Production with a One-Month Run
Before making its Broadway debut in 1990, Once On This Island was first staged Off-Broadway. It played a limited one-month engagement from May 6 to May 27, 1990, at the intimate 198-seat Playwrights Horizons Theatre. Later that same year, it transferred to Broadway’s Booth Theatre, where it officially opened in October.
The original Broadway production was nominated for three Tony Awards, including Best musical, and ran until December 1991. When the show returned to Broadway about 26 years later, it earned another round of Tony Award nominations, proving its timeless appeal.
Revival Brought Back the Original Tony-Nominated Creators
The revival reunited the creative team behind the 1991 Broadway production. Composer Stephen Flaherty and lyricist Lynn Ahrens, who were nominated for Best Original Score at the Tony Awards for the show, returned to provide the music and lyrics once again.
The duo has become one of Broadway’s most celebrated songwriting teams, known for works such as the Tony Award-winning Ragtime and the stage adaptation of Anastasia. Their music is known for its delicate, heartfelt melodies that stay with audiences long after the curtain falls.
Lighting design for the revival was led by Jules Fisher, a Broadway legend who began his career in 1963. Over the years, he has been nominated for 10 Tony Awards for productions such as Chicago (1996) and has won nine, including for Pippin in 2013.
Inspired by The Little Mermaid and Romeo and Juliet
Once On This Island is based on Rosa Guy’s 1982 novel My Love, My Love; or, The Peasant Girl. Her story was itself inspired by timeless classics, including Hans Christian Andersen’s The Little Mermaid and Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet.
Like those stories, it portrays young lovers from different worlds who must fight prejudice and social divisions for love, even at great personal cost. What sets Once On This Island apart is its vibrant Caribbean setting, where the story is told through music and dance filled with joy, sorrow, and resilience.
The result is a moving tale that not only explores themes of race, class, and inequality but also celebrates the beauty of love and the strength of the human spirit. It remains a heartwarming Broadway musical that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.
Once On This Island – FAQ
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Can I buy tickets for Once On This Island (Broadway show) on the day of the show?
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How much are tickets for Once On This Island (Broadway show)?
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Is the English in Once On This Island (Broadway show) hard to understand?
The musical Once On This Island is an enjoyable show even if you don’t understand English. We recommend reading the synopsis before you go. For other recommended shows, please refer to the Broadway Musical Selection Guide. You’re sure to find a show you’ll love from among the many musicals in New York.
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Do you have a summary or synopsis of Once On This Island (Broadway show)?
The story and synopsis of the Broadway musical Once On This Island are introduced in the Once On This Island Story section. Reading this beforehand will help you easily understand the storyline.
How are tickets for Once On This Island (Broadway show) delivered?
After purchasing through our website, you will first receive a confirmation email. Then, about two weeks before the performance, a link for QR code e-ticket will be sent to your email. Detailed instructions can be found in the confirmation email.
The story follows two lovers who defy long-standing traditions and choose love over social divisions, crossing boundaries of race and class. Once On This Island was not only a celebrated Broadway revival but also a production with a remarkable award history. The original 1991 Broadway run earned three Tony Award nominations, including Best musical, and the revival went on to receive eight nominations at the 2018 Tony Awards.
