Stuart Ward, Dani De Waal Take Leads in ‘Once’ Tour

Stuart Ward and Dani De Waal will star in the national tour of the Tony Award winning musical Once. Previously an understudy in the West End version of the show, Ward will play the role of Guy. His previous stage credits include a debut in the off Broadway production of The Hired Man as well as roles in Donmar Warehouse’s The Recruiting Officer and Playhouse Theatre’s Dreamboats and Petticoats.  De Waal will play the role of Girl. Her previous stage credits include a debut in the revival of Picnic and an appearance in the West End production of Mamma Mia!

Additional cast members include Ray Bokhour as Da, Matt DeAngelis as Švec, John Gardner as Eanon, Donna Garner as Baruška, Evan Harrington as Billy, Ryan Link as Emcee, Benjamin Magnuson as Bank Manager, Alex Nee as Andrej, Erica Swindell as Ex-Girlfriend, Kolette Tetlow as Ivanka, and Claire Wellin as Réza.

Once is based upon the 2006 Indie movie of the same title. It tells the tale of a Dublin based musician who is discouraged and tempted to let go of his dreams. Seemingly suddenly, he meets a lovely woman who takes interest in his songs and inspires him to continue the pursuit of his musical passion. As his music gradually progresses so does his connection with the woman which turns out to be more complex than expected.

The show is directed by John Tiffany. It features a book by the award-winning Irish playwright and screenwriter Enda Walsh, music and lyrics by Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová, music supervision and orchestrations by Martin Lowe, and movement by Steven Hoggett. Clive Goodwin handles sound design, Tony Award winner Natasha Katz handles lighting design, and five-time Tony Award winner Bob Crowley handles set and costume design for the production.

The tour will make stops in several major cities including Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Cleveland, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Miami, Orlando, Philadelphia, San Diego, and San Francisco among several others.

Once will launch October 1 at the Providence Performing Arts Center in Providence, RI.