"Once" was one of those rarities: a true sleeper. The 2007 movie by Irish filmmaker John Carney took years to develop and then was made in a scant 17 days on a budget of about $160,000. Its story was as modest as its budget: two musicians in Dublin meet, collaborate, and just maybe fall in love.

When "Once" opened in 2007, it became a crowd-pleasing success. None other than Steven Spielberg said, "A little movie called 'Once' gave me enough inspiration to last the rest of the year."

As is wont to happen with a hit movie containing music, the film was then reimagined as a stage musical. It opened on Broadway in 2012 and went on to win eight Tony awards, including one for best musical.

And now it's out on tour, and "Once" comes to the Garde Arts Center for a performance on Friday.

"Once," 8 p.m. Friday, Garde Arts Center, 325 State St., New London; recommended for ages 10 and up; $40-$65; (860) 444-7373.