Once on This Island returns to Broadway in Fall 2017

Ken Davenport and Hunter Arnold will present the Broadway revival of Once on This Island, directed by Tony nominee Michael Arden, this coming Fall. Previews begin at a yet-to-be-named Broadway Theatre on November 9, 2017, ahead of an official opening on December 3.

Once on This Island features a book & lyrics by Lynn Ahrens and music by Stephen Flaherty, who are currently represented on the Great White Way by the Broadway premiere of Anastasia.

Synopsis: "Once on This Island is the extraordinary story of a fearless young dreamer named Ti Moune. After a massive storm rages through her village, a ray of hope appears through a young man from the wealthy side of the island. An unexpected romance blossoms. But when their different cultures threaten to keep them apart, Ti Moune—guided by the island gods—sets out on a journey to stay beside the man who has captured her heart. The musical transforms the reality of post-storm Haiti into a fantastical world bursting with Caribbean rhythms and dance."

This new production will feature choreography by Camille Brown, scenic design by Dane Laffrey, vocal designs by AnnMarie Milazzo and new orchestrations by the musical's original orchestrator Michael Starobin.

Director Michael Arden commented:

"I am so thrilled to be bringing one of the finest pieces of American musical theatre back to Broadway this fall. Ahrens and Flaherty have created a perfect combination of music and words that has inspired an entire generation of artists and theatre-goers alike. This tale of how love can conquer death and break down (literal) walls between races and social spheres is both timeless and incredibly timely. I am excited for audiences to witness the work of this incredibly talented and diverse creative team and company as well as experience the beloved score in a completely new way through the genius of AnnMarie Milazzo (vocal orchestrations) and by Michael Starobin (instrumental orchestrations). There will certainly be some surprises along the way and I look forward to everyone joining us on the island."

Casting will be announced at a later date, after an extensive international casting search which begins in Port-au-Prince in Haiti on April 7 and end in New York on May 2.

Once on This Island premiered off-Broadway at Playwright's Horizons in 1990 and transferred to Broadway in October of the same year. The Broadway production ran for a total of 469 performances and received an impressive total of eight Tony nominations including 'Best Musical.' The musical staged its West End premiere in 1994 and won the Olivier Award for Best New Musical at the 1995 ceremony.