Arthur Darvill to join the West End's Once

Arthur Darvill is to join the cast of Once at the Phoenix Theatre from 17 March 2014. He will play the leading role of 'Guy', which he previously played in the Broadway production.

Arthur Darvill's London theatre roles include Our Boys at the Duchess Theatre, Soft Cops for Royal Shakespeare Company, Doctor Faustus at Shakespeare's Globe, Been So Long for Young Vic and Swimming with Sharks at the Vaudeville Theatre. On TV Darvill is best known for playing the Doctor's companion Rory in Doctor Who.

Once opened in London at the Phoenix Theatre on 9 April 2013, following previews from 16 March, to good reviews from the popular press: "the singing is powerful and evocative" (Londontheatre.co.uk); "charmingly funny and affecting production" (Independent); "has a delicate soulfulness and a truthful charm" (The Evening Standard). The musical is currently taking bookings to 4 July 2015.

Once has music and lyrics by Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova, with book by Enda Walsh and is based on the motion picture written by John Carney. Directed by John Tiffany, designs & costumes by Bob Crowley, lighting by Natasha Katz, sound by Clive Goodwin. Musical supervision and orchestrations are by Martin Lowe and movement is by Steven Hoggett.

When an Irish busker and a young Czech mother meet through a shared love of music, their songwriting sparks a deep connection and a tender, longing romance that neither of them could have expected.

"To celebrate its first birthday in the West End, St Patrick's Day and Darvill's first performance, Once will join forces with the charity Oxfam for a Gala Night on 17 March 2014. Specifically fundraising for Oxfam's Mother Appeal, the West End cast of Once will be joined by a VIP audience at the Phoenix Theatre. Oxfam's Mother Appeal celebrates mums around the world and aims to help mothers worldwide lift themselves and their families out of poverty for good. The appeal, which runs until the end of March, hopes to raise over £10 million for Oxfam's vital work. Tickets go on sale today for the Gala with prices from £30.00 - £200.00. Proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to Oxfam's Mother Appeal."