Melbourne will soon get a taste of Dublin soul when the Tony Award-winning musical Once takes over Chapel off Chapel this May.
Widely celebrated for its raw emotion and live musicianship, the production promises an intimate night of storytelling steeped in music, romance and Irish charm.
A Musical That Made History
Adapted from John Carney’s beloved 2007 indie film, Once made Broadway history in 2012 when it scooped eight Tony Awards and became one of the only shows to achieve the coveted quartet—an Oscar, Grammy, Olivier and Tony for its music.
The now-iconic song “Falling Slowly,” written by Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová, remains the show’s emotional heartbeat, weaving through a story about two souls who find connection through song rather than words.
This new Australian staging comes from Melbourne’s acclaimed independent company AG Theatre, the team behind recent sell-out productions of Avenue Q and Mamma Mia!.
Under the direction of veteran performer and director Pip Mushin, Once will transform the Prahran stage into the cobbled streets of Dublin—where a busker and a young Czech mother find hope, heartbreak and harmony in each other’s company.
“What I love about Once is that the music isn’t just accompaniment,” Mushin says. “It’s the language the characters use to reveal who they truly are. When the actors create the music live on stage, it creates a beautifully intimate theatrical experience, and I’m super excited to bring its spirit and heart to the stage.”
A Perfect Fit For Chapel off Chapel
Specifically, for Mushin and Executive Producer Andrew Gyopar, Chapel off Chapel’s character-filled theatre space is the perfect backdrop for a show built on authenticity and connection. “Once is one of the most heartfelt musicals ever written,” Gyopar says.
“Audiences are craving genuine, human stories—and this piece lets the music speak for itself.” With live music, an actor-musician cast and the rhythm of Irish céili coursing through every scene, audiences can expect a production that wears its heart—and its melody—on its sleeve.
Key Details
- Venue: Chapel off Chapel — The Chapel
- Where: 12 Little Chapel St, Prahran, VIC
- Dates: 8th–23rd May, 2026 (Wednesday to Sunday)
- Duration: 2 hrs 30 mins, including a 20-minute interval
Ticket Prices
- Pre-sale: $89 (until 30th March)
- Allocated seating: $109
- Restricted view: $65
Tickets are available here.
Finally, Once The Musical plays Chapel off Chapel from 8th to 23rd May, 2026, running Wednesday to Sunday.