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Interactive Irish play to kick off Grand Theatre season in London

The cast of ONCE offers a sneak peak of their show, Tuesday afternoon. Marty Thompson/AM980

The story of a Dublin street musician will entice audience members onto the stage, as the Grand Theatre kicks off its 2017/2018 season Tuesday night.

ONCE, a Tony-award winning musical, tells the story of Guy and his chance encounter with Girl — just as he’s about to give up on his dreams. The pre-show begins with an on-stage bar that’s open for business.

“The audience is welcome to come buy a beer, and hang out with us,” explained Nathan Carroll, who plays Andre in the show.

“We start the musical with just about half-an-hour of live jamming on stage… then all of a sudden, we’re telling the story to them, through music.”

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The cast is comprised of 13 actor/musicians who play over 27 different instruments throughout the show, ranging from guitars to violins, a harmonica, and an accordion.

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It’s directed by Tracey Flye, who says the enchanting tale is one that’s “both timely, and timeless.

“It’s a powerful reminder, given the divisiveness we find in our world today, that common ground is possible…that love is possible…that dreams can be rediscovered…and that sometimes, something as simple as a melody can bring us together and allow us to find solace where healing and hope seemed impossible.”

ONCE is on the Spriet Stage October 17 to November 4, with opening night set for Oct 20th.

Tickets range from $29.95 to $84, and are available online, by phone at 519-672-8800, or at the Box Office, 471 Richmond Street.

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