So once again last night I had the tremendous pleasure of attending/reviewing the opening of ABBA'S smash musical hit "MAMMA MIA" at the Academy of Music. I was in shock of how amazing this show was. I am not a "die hard" MAMMA MIA! fan, and although I have the soundtrack on my IPhone, some of the songs can get to be a little of 'the same' for me. However, I was proved totally wrong last night! This was by far an awesome show, and LITERALLY had everyone in their seats singing and dancing to every song.The show itself and the energy that the cast gives off during their performances really makes the crowd want to join in and sing their favorite hits.
For those of you who are unfamiliar with the story line here is a little run down: "Set in a beach resort in the Mediterranean, Mamma Mia! tells the story of Sophie, a bride-to-be with one wish: to have her absent father walk her down the aisle. After reading passages about three old lovers in her mom’s diary, Sophie sends each a wedding invitation in hopes of learning which is her dad. The arrival of the men from her past is surprising to Donna, Sophie’s fiercely independent mother, who prides herself on getting through life without a man, and highly amusing to Donna’s two best gal pals. The more Sophie and her mother struggle to find truth and understanding, the more it threatens to tear them apart and wreck Sophie’s dream wedding." (Broadway.com)
A few of my favorite songs in the show were "Money, Money, Money", Mamma Mia!, and Super Trooper (Which by the way, they BLEW IT OUT OF THE PARK ON!) Especially when they break into harmony, #DYING!!! The cast itself (which may I add are all non-equity) were so amazing it's not even funny! Here are some of Rye's Favorites from the night:
Sophie (played by Chelsea Williams) was very good as Sophie, and although she was suffering from a cold or allergies throughout the show, she still played her part really well!
Donna (played by Georgia Kate Haege, whom by the way is from the very warm continent Australia PLEASE BRING US THAT WARMTH!!) was an amazing Donna. She not only fit the part well, she SANG IT well also, nailing and belting her hit solo song "The Winner Takes it All". Sky (who is Sophie's fiance is played by Chris Stevens) who was an awesome Sky! He was great, and I kind of have a little connection to him as he graduated from Triton Regional High School, my former high school! We always knew he was going to be doing something great, and he is the nicest guy out there! Tanya and Rosie (Donna's best friends, are played by Gabrielle Mirabella, and Carly Sakolove). These two women were a class act, they were FREAKING HYSTERICAL! They really played their parts so well, and had the audience cracking up the entire show! Bill Austin, Harry Bright, and Sam Carmichael (Sophie's possible dads, are played by Micheal Colavolpe, Mark A. Harmon, and Jeff Drushal). These three are the heart of the show with their witty, humorous, and charming personality! They really casted three great gentlemen to play the roles, and they clearly made the right choice! Kudos to the ensemble whose dancing, and singing where phenomenal, you all were equally as good!
The night ended with me meeting the cast and them signing a few things for me. I love doing these things, and The Academy of Music's stage door is awesome because there are no guard rails to hold you back, you get to walk up and chat with the cast right as they come up, talk about FUN!
The show only has 6 shows left before they depart out of Philadelphia, and I recommend EVERYONE go and see this spectacular production. Experience the magic for yourself, and see what over 54 Million people have seen worldwide with 39 productions in 14 languages! Also a side note MAMMA MIA! is currently the 10th longest running Broadway show and now resides at the Broadhurst Theater in NYC! For tickets to see the show visit www.kimmelcenter.org/broadway or visit the shows website at http://www.mammamiaontour.com/mm/
Thanks again for reading, and be sure to keep up with me as I have a few exciting months ahead! Next up: Phantom of the Opera on Tour, which I hope to have a lot of coverage on! You can see a little sneak peek with the star of the show Julia Udine (Christine Daee) as she gives me her take on the show, and all about the new production at my site: www.ThePositivityProject.org
Love & Light,
xx Rye
Encourage. Inspire. Empower.
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