On March 9, Angela Smithhisler took drama students to Olney Theater to see the production of the musical Once. The class spent the day at the performance and talked with the actors after the show.

Once is a musical about a struggling musician living in Ireland performing on the streets. A chance encounter with a woman helps him get on his feet and make an album with a studio. This heartfelt story brought many of the students to tears.

Mackenzie Berry, who plays Belle in Beauty and the Beast, said, “It was definitely an educational experience, not just for the actors but also for the techies… especially with the talk back we were able to have with the cast and crew. We got to learn a lot  about what happens behind the scenes of the show.”

Once was an unusual show, because the cast played instruments. The students learned that different performances can require a wide range of talents.

Olney Theater will be performing Once until March 17 at 2001 Olney Sandy Spring Rd.