Described as a “love song to Dublin”, Once the Musical is one of Ireland’s best-known and loved productions.

After three years on Broadway, two years in the West End, the show – which is based on the film of the same name – is returning to the Olympia Theatre this summer. However, for the first time the show boasts an all-Irish cast, including Belfast actress Niamh Perry, who plays Girl.

“It’s a wonderful play about a guy and a girl who meet on the streets of Dublin. They share a passion for music and both have their own issues in life to do with love and relationships and family. They get to know each other and love each other through their passion for music,” explains Niamh.

“I’ve been a huge fan of the film for years – I’m a huge Glen Hansard fan – and I’d seen elements of the show, but I’m excited to put my own spin on it.”

Such is the popularity of Once the Musical, it is estimated that €10m of additional revenue was generated in the local economy in 2016 as a direct result of the tickets bought for the show. There are expectations that the figure will be surpassed in this year.

No pressure on the cast, then.

“There is always pressure. I think anyone who does this puts pressure on themselves constantly. We just want to do the best we can do, and we’re going to be working really hard over the next few weeks to make sure that we do.

“I’ve never performed in that theatre before (the Olympia) … I’ve only ever heard amazing things, so I can’t wait to get up there.”

no stranger

Niamh is no stranger to the stage. In 2008, at the age of 18, she competed in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s I’d Do Anything on BBC, competing for a spot on the West End production of Oliver. Though she did not win the show, she has worked with Andrew Lloyd Webber since.

“I’ve done a few of his shows – he’s been a great support and mentor to me,” she says. “[I’d do Anything] was an incredible experience. I was 17 and got thrown into this crazy world in London and was very fortunate to meet the people that I did and to get the experience and exposure that I did, and I’m very indebted for that experience.”

Another notable role was Sophie Sheridan in Mamma Mia in 2015, which led to a tour of the production and extensive travel across the world.

“My sister had come back from travelling and was trying to convince me to live a little and go out and experience things, because I had worked from such a young age,” she explains.

“Within a matter of days I was offered the international tour and I went to Hong Kong and Singapore and Dubai and South Africa and Istanbul. I never would have had the opportunity to see all those places any other way.”

Niamh is now happy to be based closer to home for a few months during Once the Musical’s run.

“I’ve been based in London since 2008. It’s really wonderful to come to Dublin and spend the summer in Ireland and be able to see my family,” she says. “I’m glad that I’m here for three months so I can get to know the city a bit more.”

the cast

Niamh is one of a cast of 12 actors, including Brian Gilligan, who has played the lead role in The Commitments for over a year.

“He’s wonderful, he’s so lovely. We met a few months ago, actually, when we did a photoshoot for the show. He’s such a sweet guy and I think we’re going to have such a laugh together,” says Niamh.

“We’ve got a month in rehearsals and then we play for eight weeks straight. It’s a quick turnaround and we’re raring to go.” CL

Once the Musical runs in the Olympia Theatre from 30 June to 26 August, 2017.