“Once on This Island,” Limelight Theatre’s new upcoming production will run from Thursday, May 7, to Sunday, May 24. To learn more and purchase tickets, go to limelight-theatre.org/calendar/on-stage/once-on-this-island-1.
Director Rhodie Jackson spoke to The Recorder about the production.
Tell us a bit about the origin story of the musical.
“Once on This Island” is based on Rosa Guy’s novel “My Love, My Love; or, The Peasant Girl,” and features a book and lyrics by Lynn Ahrens and music by Stephen Flaherty. Inspired by Caribbean folklore, the musical weaves together elements of myth, history and storytelling traditions from across the islands.
It first premiered in 1990 and has since become a beloved work known for its vibrant score and powerful themes of love, resilience and colorism. In short, “Once on This Island” grew from a novel into a stage work by artists who wanted to honor Caribbean culture and storytelling traditions, creating something both timeless and culturally specific.
Will this be Limelight's first adaptation of the musical, and how long has it been in progress?
Yes, this marks Limelight Theatre’s first production of “Once on This Island.” The show has been in development for several months, with early creative conversations beginning well in advance of casting. From the start, there was a strong intention to approach this production with authenticity, care and a deep respect for the cultural roots of the story.
What does this production offer that differs from previous versions?
What makes this production especially meaningful is the fully multicultural cast and creative team composed of artists of color. That perspective brings a level of authenticity and lived experience that deeply informs the storytelling. With this performance being performed in the Black Box, it allows us to have the feel of immersive staging and movement which allows the audience to feel as if they are part of the island community itself.
What is this story about and how does this production convey that message?
At its core, “Once on This Island” is about love, sacrifice and the invisible lines that divide us — whether through class, culture or circumstance. Through the journey of Ti Moune, we explore what it means to love without boundaries and the cost that sometimes comes with that. This production conveys those themes through music, movement and a strong sense of ensemble, creating an emotional and visually rich experience.
What is the desired atmosphere for the audience?
We want audiences to feel transported — to step into a world that is both magical and deeply human. There’s an intimacy to the storytelling, paired with high energy and vibrant visuals. The goal is for audiences to feel connected not only to the characters, but to each other through the shared experience.
What do you like best about this production?
What stands out most to me about “Once on This Island” is how intimate and communal it feels. Instead of relying on a big spectacle, the production pulls you into the story like you’re sitting around a fire hearing a folktale. The actors often play multiple roles, create the environment with their bodies and simple props and directly involve the audience in the storytelling.
That choice makes the show feel alive and shared, not distant. Along with the sense of community among the cast and creative team, there is a shared passion and respect for the story that is experienced in rehearsal and then onto the stage. It’s a collaboration that feels both joyful and purposeful.
What do you hope audiences take away from the musical?
What I hope that audiences take away from this show is something that is deeper than just the plot. I hope that they take away that it's really about how love, community and resilience is shown and given.
Ti Moune’s journey isn’t a fairy tale that has a neat happy ending. It shows that her compassion and sacrifice will change the world around her. That kindness and love matter even if they are not rewarded in the way we expect.
I want audiences to think about the impact social divisions such as color, privilege and class can shape people’s lives. This story puts that thought front and center. It challenges the audience to imagine something more humane. I want audiences to leave feeling a little more empathetic and a little more aware of inequality and more connected to the idea that stories matter.
What would you like our readers to know about “Once on This Island”?
That “Once On This Island” is more than just a simple love story. At its heart, it’s a folktale about humanity. For your readers to know how culturally rooted this show is. That within cultures, there is also a divide by color. The different shades people of the same culture embody. This is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant production that celebrates culture, storytelling and community. Whether you’re familiar with the show or seeing it for the first time, it offers something meaningful for everyone.
