AG Theatre’s production of Once at Chapel Off Chapel delivers a deeply emotional and immersive theatre experience filled with vulnerability, music and powerful performances.
Review by Craig Lawson
One night at Once simply wasn’t enough.
There’s something magical about walking into Chapel Off Chapel and instantly feeling transported into another world, and opening night of Once did exactly that. From the very first note, the intimate smoky atmosphere and live pub-style music created a theatre experience that felt deeply personal, immersive and emotionally honest.
Soulful. Vulnerable. Captivating.
Set on the streets of Dublin, Once follows the story of an Irish busker, Guy, played by Mark Taylor, and Czech immigrant Girl, played by Sian Fuller, who are brought together through music, connection and vulnerability.
This production is so powerful because of its raw authenticity. The cast don’t simply perform the music — they live it. Watching the actors seamlessly move between scenes while playing instruments throughout the performance added an incredible layer of realism and intimacy that made every moment feel genuine.
The second half is where the production truly hit its emotional highs. Guy delivered a solo performance filled with rugged vulnerability that completely drew the audience in, while Girl mesmerised with her emotional piano performance and soaring vocals. You could feel the entire theatre sitting in silence, hanging onto every note.
And then came “Falling Slowly.”
The final song delivered one of those rare theatre moments where the music, emotion and storytelling aligned perfectly. Heartfelt, raw and absolutely absorbing, it brought the audience to its feet for a massive standing ovation.
What I loved most was how the intimacy of the venue made the emotional moments feel even stronger. Sitting so close to the stage, you genuinely felt part of the experience rather than simply watching it unfold.
Once isn’t about flashy spectacle. It’s about connection, vulnerability and the beauty of music-driven storytelling. Opening night left me completely immersed in its world and honestly, one night at Once simply wasn’t enough. I already can’t wait to see it again.
Presented by AG Theatre, known for its recent sell-out productions of Avenue Q and Mamma Mia, Once is directed by Pip Mushin and is playing for a limited season at Chapel Off Chapel from May 2026.
Once is the eight-time Tony Award-winning Irish musical based on John Carney’s 2007 film and features Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová’s spellbinding score, including the Oscar-winning song “Falling Slowly.” From Broadway to the West End,Once remains one of the most emotionally resonant modern musicals ever staged.
Please visit for tickets and more information https://chapeloffchapel.com.au/show/once/
