Mamma Mia!

Mamma Mia!
Music & Lyrics by Benny Andersson, Bjorn Ulvaeus & Stig Anderson. Book by Catherine Johnson. Holiday Actors. Director: Angela Kenna. Vocal Director: Elana Agnew. Choreographer: Beth Loft. Musical Director: Nikki Nuske. Sets: Lyle Russell & Angela Kenna. Lighthouse Theatre, Warrnambool. January 7-11, 2020.

Another outstanding summer show from an onstage cast of almost 60 performers aged between 13 and 20.  The popularity of this 35 year old company has ensured a sold out season even before curtain up on opening night. (No mean feat selling over 3,500 tickets!)

What struck me from the outset was the precision of the 10 piece band under the skilful direction of Nikki Nuske. Each musician, including four keyboardists (this is ABBA music after all) was on the mark.’

High praise to Angela Kenna in her directing debut at only age 21.  Angela, along with her directorial team, have achieved a show of very high caliber. The Greek island set (designed by Lyle Russell & Angela Kenna) is beautiful to say the least and changes character due to brilliant lighting choices throughout the show.

Choreography by Beth Loft was sleek, original and added high energy from the ensemble.

Kaitlyn Gust (Donna Sheridan), at only 16, played a perfect single mum, whose epic ballad “The Winner Takes It All” had the audience in both tears and rapturous applause. Zara Lukeis (Sophie Sheridan) portrayed amiably both the sweet and tenacious nature of Donna’s daughter Sophie. Megan Radley (Tanya) and Aislinn Primmer (Rosie) as Donna’s somewhat zany lifelong friends gave standout performances during “Does Your Mother Know” and “Take A Chance On Me”.

Keelan Mast (Sky), Demby McKenzie (Sam Carmichael), Kodey Pfeiffer (Harry Bright) and Harrison Price (Bill Austin) shared the stage with equal talent and appeal.  Demby’s performance of “Knowing Me, Knowing You” was a standout of the night. Although playing a small role, Liam King (Pepper) impressed with his dance skills and charm in “Does Your Mother Know”. 

The ensemble and featured dancers (special mention Connor Gurry) had high energy throughout and were in character at all times.  Scene changes were slick and seamless. The night ended with a well-deserved standing ovation for a company whose shows just get better and better.  If you want to see their next production Cats you’d better book early.  These tickets are “Slipping Through My Fingers”. “Thank You For The Music” Holiday Actors!

Jonathan Cox

Photos: Greta Punch 

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