MANILA — The Tony Award-winning Broadway musical “Once On This Island” is set to enchant audiences in Manila from September 6 to 29 at Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza in Makati City. 

“One On This Island” transports the audience to an island where a young peasant girl named Ti Moune falls in love with a wealthy young man from the other side of the island, Daniel Beauxhomme. The story delves into a tough journey, bridging the gap between two distinct worlds. 

Angela Ken and Thea Astley will alternate portrayals of the lead role of Ti Moune, while Sam Concepcion and Jef Flores will alternate as Daniel. Shania Gomez and Krystal Kane are set to take the role of Andrea Deveraux, Daniel’s fiancee. 

During a press preview on Thursday night, Ken and Gomez said being part of this musical is overwhelming, especially knowing that they have been entrusted with such roles. 

“To be part of this, it’s a big responsibility but at the same time we give our best and we always make sure that the people will love and enjoy the show,” said Ken. 

“It’s really exciting to be part of ‘Once On This Island’ especially after finally reading the whole script and seeing the alternate cast do it, it’s actually really really beautiful. It’s just really nice to know that you’re also part of it,” said Gomez. 

Gomez revealed that costume changes in between have been quite challenging due to the limited time available. 

“One person will play five different characters and will be wearing different clothes, and different wigs. Sometimes we have 30 seconds to change so we’re thinking all of that but it’s really exciting at the same time and it’s a really fun challenge,” Gomez said. 

Actress Shiela Valderrama-Martinez, portraying the role of Erzulie, the goddess of Love, said that the process of costume changes is quite fulfilling, particularly when it leads to a successful outcome, “Like yes we did it.” 

Valderrama-Martinez said she’s happy about meeting a new and younger group of theater actors and actresses who will be leading the future of the stage. 

Talking about her role as Erzulie, she said “This is something I’ve always wanted to do because Erzulie is a role that has been on my bucket list so I’m glad to be doing it now,” she said. 

The musical also stars Lani Ligot, Raul Montessa, Noel Rayos, Lorenz Martines, Radha Cuadro, Garret Bolden, Shiela Vaderrama-Martinez, Jasmine Fitzgerald, and many more.  

Jordan Andrews, Fay Castro, Samantha Libao, and Jonjon Martin will alternate as storytellers. 

"Once On This Island" is presented by theater company 9 Works Theatrical under the direction of Robbie Guevara. 

The ticket prices range from P2,200 to P3,900 through Ticket2Me.