Left to right: Anusha Dasgupta, Asanti Lubika, Amber Ruiz, and Brandon Miller. Photo by Tristan Perkins, a student at Clarksburg HS.
A mother of the Earth. A beacon of love. A powerful torrent of rain. A demon of death. This island is a playground for the gods. Lively and colorful, this is Clarksburg High School’s “Once on This Island.”
From Broadway in 1990 and based on the 1985 novel, “My Love, My Love,” Lynn Ahrens “Once on This Island” tracks peasant girl Ti Moune as she sets out on a supernatural journey to charm the aristocrat, Daniel. With insurmountable determination, Ti Moune discovers that she not only faces the elements of the island but a dark history as well. Amidst lush Caribbean flora, bright sunny skies, and animated wildlife, “Once on This Island” is the story of one small girl’s persistence to love with her whole heart, as she navigates discrimination.
Elijah Beeler’s performance as Daniel graced the stage with a polished charm. Exhibiting an effortless vibrato, Beeler depicted Daniel as a loving, attentive boy in Ti Moune’s care. At first, when Ti Moune strolled into his room, Beeler, terrified, scrambled backward away from the intruding stranger. After spending weeks in the company of each other, the pair exhibited a natural, intimate chemistry as Daniel leaned on Ti Moune while learning to walk and held her as if they were true lovers during a ball. During his solo number, “Some Girls,” Beeler lamented about his materialistic world through a casual cadence. Beeler’s smooth vibrato carried the soothing song, leaving the impression of a warm, ocean breeze.
Brandon Miller undoubtedly provided the standout performance of the show. Miller lent his portrayal of the god of water, Agwe, a heroic and grounded power. During Miller’s solo number, “Rain,” he launched into a robust belt, heightening the drama of the song. As Miller hit notes with earth-shattering clarity, he swayed about the stage, fluid and intense.
Asanti Lubika, who played the lovable, spunky Asaka, glowed onstage. Throughout her playful number “Mama Will Provide,” Lubika depicted Asaka as an exuberant, joyful personality. Lubika dove unabashedly head-first into the intricate riffs that adorned her song, her voice proving to be a flowing waterfall, gliding gracefully over the demanding runs. All the while, Asaka danced around the stage, swaying rhythmically in the Afro-Caribbean dance style of the show.
Anusha Dasgupta’s Papa Ge exhibited intoxicating intensity. Dasgupta proved to be highly intimidating, menacingly stretching a hand to Ti Moune’s chest to demonstrate control. Dasgupta’s refined vocals paired well with the intense brooding nature while stalking across the stage.
The props, led by Alex Nicholson, brought the show to life. Everyday objects such as chairs, jugs, and a television soared through the air, representing a storm. Likewise, a car, made from two flashlights and a few wheels, suddenly roared to life across the stage. Clotheslines, wooden pallets, and other debris were strewn about the village, building a realistic world for the show. Likewise, the costuming, led by Molly Ridgeway, stood out in equal turn. Ridgeway dressed Ti Moune in an attention-grabbing red, highlighting her youthful nature and her head-turning presence. The island “feel” of the show was echoed by the costumes of the ensemble, who went about the stage barefoot in shorts, linen shirts, and flowing wraps. The costumes reflected the ensemble’s change from poverty to wealth, leading to an array of classy ballgowns and suits during the ball scene.
Playful yet full of heart, Clarksburg High School’s production of “Once on This Island” is a reminder that theatre can and should be fun for everyone.
The performance reviewed was presented on Saturday, March 11, 2023.
Review submitted by Hayley Asai of Quince Orchard High School.
