When Emma Reynolds, director of the Lancaster Catholic High School (LCHS) spring musical, considered shows for 2022, she wanted something fun and fresh for the students, but she also wanted something that she and the cast members could relate to.

Reynolds chose "Once on This Island," because she and others involved in the show loved the message. "We loved the themes (of the show)," said Reynolds, who noted that the energy and catchy music were also draws. "There are a lot of strong themes of faith, hope, and love."

LCHS will present "Once on This Island" on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, March 17, 18, and 19, at 7 p.m. in the LCHS auditorium, 650 Juliette Ave., Lancaster.

"Once on This Island," written by Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty, combines "My Love, My Love" by Rosa Guy with Hans Christian Andersen's "The Little Mermaid." The story opens on a storm-tossed island as the inhabitants comfort a frightened little girl, played by Caroline Weber, by telling the story of an orphan named Ti Moune, who was destined to love too much for a human heart to bear. The villagers telling the story transform into the characters, including Ti Moune, played by Isabelle Titzer, and her rich, ill-fated love, Daniel, played by Henry Greiner. Daniel rejects her for Andrea, played by Murphy McCormick. Ti Moune's foster parents, Mama Euralie and Tonton Julian, are played by Hadley Davies and Zac Snyder, respectively, and Daniel's father, Armand, is played by Joseph Martin. Under the watchful eyes of Erzulie, portrayed by Annalise Kauffman; Asaka, played by Katie Lyle; Agwe, played by Anthony Calhoun; and the dreaded Papa Ge, portrayed by Lydia Fuhrman, the storytellers and Ti Moune discover love, rejection, prejudice, and even death-defying forgiveness.

Reynolds noted that most of the cast of 22 had not heard of the story before. She added that the styles of dance and acting methods required for the show are a good challenge for the students. Another challenge is having much of the cast on stage at the same time. "What's unique about this show is the ensemble," Reynolds explained. "They are considered the storytellers, and they are on stage almost the entire show." Directing the ensemble to stay busy acting and reacting is an important part of rehearsals.

The show boasts more than 20 songs, many of which carry a sense of joy that should elicit smiles from audience members. "The last song is called 'Why We Tell the Story,'" said Reynolds. "(They tell the story) because of love, faith, grief, pain, hope." Reynolds noted that it is the message of the last song she would like to see resonate with audiences. "I hope the audience walks away with the overall message that love is stronger than whatever we are going through in life. (Even in) death or sickness, there is hope and love."

Tickets may be purchased at the door prior to performances or at http://www.lchsyes.org.