PREVIEW
Mamma Mia!
St. Albert Catholic High Musical Theatre
Feb. 11 at 7 p.m. and Feb. 12 at noon and 7 p.m.
Arden Theatre
5 St. Anne Street
Tickets: $15 at the door, or visit www.sachs.gsacrd.ab.ca
It may be winter outside, but come Monday and Tuesday, the Arden Theatre will be tricked up like a Greek island floating in the Mediterranean’s blue waters.
Mamma Mia! has arrived. It’s poppy. It’s saccharine. It’s the ultimate feel-good show. Yes, St. Albert Catholic High is presenting the two-act show with all of ABBA’s hit songs, trademark sparkly sequins, leather fringes and bell-bottom pants.
Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus’ music captures the energy and soul of youth and globally has enjoyed sold-out audiences. Songs like Dancing Queen, Mamma Mia, Voulez Vous and Waterloo are among some of the best pop songs written with melodies so broadly appealing they fill dance floors worldwide.
The SACHS musical theatre program has stepped into some big shoes in its efforts to showcase a top-shelf production.
However, the 42-member cast and crew have worked diligently for months to create an idyllic Greek taverna surrounded by pillars and a pier, and an island of people filled with song in their hearts.
“It’s a beautiful story with bright scenes of laughter, friendship and fun, and it encompasses a community. It’s about all types of love, friendship and diverse families,” said director Jennifer Koehler (High School Musical and Willy Wonka).
Catherine Johnson’s book starts with bride-to-be Sophie planning a wedding. She wants her father to attend. However, Sophie has no idea which of her free-spirited mother’s three boyfriends is the guy.
So she invites the trio, shocking her fiercely independent mother and her loyal friends, and setting in motion a series of unexpected events.
Both Koehler and Grade 12 student stage manager Haley Kuchar believe the casting is spot-on across the board.
“The auditions were tricky. Everyone was so incredibly talented. This year by far we have the most vocal strength and actors with the ability to wow us,” said Kuchar.
Koehler added the harmonies are particularly strong.
“They’re spectacular at blending and supporting each other and their ability to create and be the character,” Koehler said.
Sophie (Brenda Zazulak) and her fiancé Sky (Aaron Krips) set the party in motion. Jenn Ethier plays Donna, Sophie’s mother, while her two best friends are Tonia (Teagan Gomes) and Rose (Manjeet Gill).
The dads include Thomas Slocombe (Harry), Josh Looker (Bill) and Colin Salcedo (Sam).
Expect to see some blazing, full-cast dance numbers choreographed by a handful of students: Kaityln Stabile, Alex Seibl, Sophie Kurphjuweit and sisters Holly and Hannah Klotz.
“This play celebrates acceptance. Sophie realizes she doesn’t need to know her biological family. It’s about the people around here. And all three men love her for who she is. Family is about the people that care for you, look after you, support you and love you unconditionally.”
Mamma Mia! runs three shows on Monday, Feb. 11, and Tuesday, Feb. 12.
