The actors play their own music in Kansas City theater’s new show. Here’s what to know
The musical “Once,” based on the 2007 movie about two struggling musicians in Dublin, opened Kansas City Repertory Theatre’s 2024-25 season this week.
“Once” won the 2012 Tony Award as the best musical on Broadway and features the Oscar-winning song “Falling Slowly.”
Directed by KC Rep artistic director Stuart Carden, KC Rep’s show is an actor-musician piece, with all the music played by the 13-actor cast and all the characters playing at least one instrument. The show also will feature an onstage bar where patrons can buy drinks before the curtain rises.
Here’s what else you need to know if you’re planning to attend “Once” this month in Kansas City, or any of the theater’s other upcoming shows.
Who are the main characters?
This is the story of Guy, a musician busking on the streets of Dublin, meeting Girl, a Czech immigrant with a broken vacuum cleaner.
When will it run?
It opened Tuesday, Sept. 3, and runs through Sunday, Sept. 22. Here is the schedule:
- 7 p.m. weekdays, Sept. 3-5, 10-12 and 18-19
- 8 p.m. Fridays, Sept. 6, 13 and 20
- 2 and 8 p.m. Saturdays, Sept. 7, 14 and 21
- 2 p.m. Sundays, Sept. 8, 15 and 22.
Where will it play?
Spencer Theatre, 4949 Cherry, on the UMKC campus.
How much are tickets?
Seats range from $44 to $84 and are available on the theater’s website.
Where can I park?
Parking will be available in the faculty lot adjacent to the theater or on Levels 5 and 6 of the garage at 50th and Cherry streets. Hangtags, which are included with your mobile tickets, are required for weeknights.
Is it kid friendly?
The production includes the mention of suicide and adult language and is recommended for ages 13 and up.
Something special
Popular local Irish musician Eddie Delahunt will play in the lobby before Friday performances.
What else is KC Rep doing this season?
- “Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill,” Oct. 8-27, Copaken Stage
- “A Christmas Carol,” Nov. 23-Dec. 28, Spencer Theatre
- “Broke-ology,” Feb. 11-March 2, Copaken Stage
- “Emma,” May 6-25, Spencer Theatre.
Where can I get more information?
Go to kcrep.org.
This story was originally published September 1, 2024 at 5:00 AM.
