Hemet High to stage ‘Once on This Island’

BY KEVIN PEARSON

 

STAFF WRITER [email protected]

 

The play was originally inspired by the Hans Christian Andersen musical, “The Little Mermaid,” and is set on an island in the French Antilles.

 

During a violent storm, islanders try to ease the worry of a young child by acting out a story about the power of love through song and dance.

 

“It deals with the themes of love and how love can conquer everything,” instructor Ron Murray said. “The kids are having fun because they get to take on these different roles. It has a real Caribbean music flavor to it, along with some Latin flavor to the music.”

 

The performance features an ensemble cast, with freshman Maria Perez playing the lead role of Ti Moune. Alec Norman will play the role of Daniel, who becomes the love interest for Ti Moune.

 

Sarah Baeckel will play Mama. Papa Ge, the primary antagonist in the show, will be played by Andrew Balisi.

 

The play will run nightly at 7 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, and tickets are $8 for general admission or $6 for children 12 and younger.

 

Hemet High is located at 41701 Stetson Ave., Hemet.

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