Lynn Ahrens’ “Once On This Island” closes out the Black Rep’s mainstage offerings and audiences will feel they are experience a Caribbean remix of an age-old African fable set to music for the last hoorah for Season 38.
The production relies on a couple of faithful members of the company, but mostly fresh faces to tell the tale of Ti Moune, an orphaned girl who relies on her faith and willingness to love as she seeks purpose and partnership.
Orphaned by a storm that hits her small island, she is taken in by a loving couple before her life comes full circle when she rescues a young man named Daniel – who is from the other side of the island, which segregated by wealth and skin complexion.
Ti Moune sees the healing of Daniel as an opportunity to bring unity to the island and shatter the caste system that has separated the haves from the have nots and the lighter-skinned from the darker hued inhabitants for generations.
Everything she holds dear, including her faith, is challenged as she commits to what she believes her life’s journey.
Through song, dance – sprinkled with a bit of traditional storytelling – Ti Moune’s incredible journey is told by a talented, well rounded ensemble.
The production starts at a manic pace with an extended ensemble musical number that individually highlights the vocal prowess of most within the group.
Director Ron Himes paced the production so that the audience is on their toes, but they may stumble if they don’t play close attention.
Linda Kennedy and Robert McNichols instantly charm as the adoptive parents of young Ti Moune – and their natural chemistry continues as caregivers/protectors.
Ashley Jenkins has the audience’s attention from her opening notes as the grown up Ti Moune and she never disappoints as a powerhouse soprano that stage legends are made of.
Her rich tone and fearless command of her vocal range is one of the most refreshing elements of “Once on this Island.” One can’t help but feel as if they are witnessing a star on the rise as she sings, dances and connects with the cast – and the audience.
Each of the Orishas (Gods) who are charged with either counseling, supporting or challenging Ti Moune on her life’s journey are formidable talents in their own right, but Scheronda Gregory’s Erzulie and Billy Flood’s Agwe are particularly noteworthy.
Timmy Howard makes his Black Rep debut opposite Jenkins as Daniel. While he and Jenkins don’t necessarily have the best onstage chemistry, their voices melt together during the musical numbers – making it impossible not to appreciate them sharing the space of their respective roles.
The Black Rep’s presentation of “Once on This Island” continues through May 3rd at Washington University’s Edison Theatre, 6445 Forsyth Blvd. For more information, visit www.theblackrep.org or call (314) 534-3810.
