On the heels of the professional run of Mamma Mia!, the Met bring us the first amateur production in Adelaide. Fans of ABBA and Mamma Mia! will no doubt flock
to this production and they won’t be disappointed. The tale is set on a Greek Island paradise as a daughter seeks to discover who her father is by inviting all three possible Dads to her wedding, hurling them back into the life of her unwitting mother.
Director Selena Britz adapts this heart-warming musical to the smaller stage of the Arts theatre without losing any of the spectacle. She captures the wonderful party atmosphere of the piece. The set by Bianka Kennedy and her
team is effective, with projections adding to the requisite colour and the
scene changes are notably smooth, never interrupting the flow of the story. Costumes are bright, eye-catching and have the right level of glitz. The Dynamos
costumes are a highlight. However, it is the choreography of Carmel Vistoli
that takes this production to another level. Highly entertaining, well executed
and a pleasure to watch.
The music of Mamma Mia! is what draws the crowds and Musical Director Jennifer Trijo has successfully coached the cast in their harmonies and in creating the overall ABBA sound. The band are slick, never drowning out the vocals so the audience can enjoy every nostalgic moment.
The talented production team are fortunate to have had a strong cast to work with. Trish Hart, has a biography that could be a program in itself, and she is captivating as Donna. She delivers strong vocals and emotional integrity which adds a depth to her character.
Cassidy Rae Gaiter steals the show as daughter Sophie, perfect casting, every
bit as good as her professional counterpart. I was less taken with Daniel
Fleming as Sky. Although a fine performer, he does not quite fit as the dashing
young suitor who has won Sophie’s heart.
There are many other fine performances. Natasha Scholey brings her long legged, worldly charms and fine voice to the role of cougar Tanya. Trish Hendrick is lovable and funny as Rosie. The three Dads are wonderfully portrayed by Nial Venning as Sam, Lance Jones as Bill and Brad Martin as Harry. Martin is especially endearing.
The show ends in a concert style finale, and you’ll be expected to get on your feet and dance to popular tunes such as ‘Dancing Queen. Thankfully, by this stage it is hard not join in the party.
Grab some friends and go along. This is a great night out.
Mamma Mia!
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