Production shows calypso rhythms in island setting

    The South Campus musical theater workshop is preparing for its final production of this semester.

   A musical production set in the Caribbean, Once on This Island is based on love, faith, anger and forgiveness.

   Adapted from the book My Love, My Love by Trinidad-born writer Rosa Guy, Lynn Ahrens developed this story that is a twist on the tale Little Mermaid.

   It brings two cultures together when a dark-skinned peasant girl (Ti Moune) falls in love with a light-skinned, upper-class young man (Daniel), who happens to be engaged to debutant Andrea.

   Once on This Island presents serious themes of class distinction and racial prejudice.

   The music captures the flavor of reggae-calypso sounds.

   Ahrens had bought her copy of My Love, My Love from a used bookstore for $1.50. Her adaptation earned her eight Tony award nominations including best musical, best score and best book.

   Once on This Island runs Wednesday, Dec. 4, through Saturday, Dec. 7, at 8 p.m. with a 2 p.m. matinee performance Saturday in the Carillon Theatre.

   Ticket prices are $3 for senior citizens, children and other students, and $5 for general admission. TCC students, faculty and staff are admitted free.

   For more information, call the theater box office at 817-515-4642 or 817-515-4526.