By Amanda VanNostrand.
Fun facts surround Walnut Street Theatre’s latest musical: on any given day, approximately 7 performances are taking place around the world; a movie sequel is set to appear in movie theaters in July; it has been translated into 22 languages and premiered in more cities in a shorter time span than any other musical in history; this is Mamma Mia! Playing now through July 15th, ABBA’s music fills Walnut Street Theatre and brings to life a show that surpasses the description of ‘entertaining’ – it is a classic and once again, Walnut Street does not disappoint!
Mamma Mia! is the story of women – the men are a side note, and these female characters take their moment and run with it. Sophie Sheridan (Laura Giknis) is a bride-to-be eagerly wishing for information about her father, whose identity is unknown to her. Upon finding her mother’s diary from around the time of her conception, she narrows the possibilities down to three potential ‘sperm donors’. Encouraged by the desire for her father to walk her down the aisle, she invites all three men to her wedding on the Greek island where her mother, Donna Sheridan (Anne Brummel), has raised her. As the characters meet again they experience both musical and emotional flashbacks. Friendships, lost loves, missed and second chances all take place on the stage, and they are wrapped up in a beautiful cast and score.
Musicals have the potential to reach some and not others, but chances are, regardless of the somewhat basic plotline, most viewers will be pleasantly entertained and surprised to enjoy such a show simply because the music and cast take it and make it something terrific. Although the plotline will likely appeal exclusively to those who enjoy a good chick flick now and again, the rest of the audience will find themselves reminiscing and smiling over the tunes that pop up throughout. The music in this show is both catchy and familiar – the perfect combination. From “I Have a Dream” to “Take a Chance on Me” and “Super Trouper”, the quality never subsides. Possibly the most popular favorite is “Dancing Queen”, performed by three friends thinking back to simpler, younger times in their lives. It is clear that the three actresses enjoy performing and their joy emanates through to the audience. Every song is like this; this score is exhilarating. Add the phenomenal dancing of both the main cast and the ensemble, and there you have it – sheer perfection. (This show even presents a kick line consisting of all men in flippers. Confused? Go see it. It is superb.)
The cast of Mamma Mia! is brilliant! Some familiar faces grace the stage: Laura Giknis in her role as Sophie is superb – her voice, dancing, and demeanor fit precisely into her character; Schyler Conaway, playing Sophie’s fiancé Sky does a phenomenal job easing the audience into his naïve, superficial (yet somewhat loving) character; Jonas Cohen plays the part of Harry Bright, one of Sophie’s potential fathers, and brings his good looks and debonair persona to the fitting character he plays. New faces appear in Mamma Mia! too, and they are perhaps the most impressive. Anne Brummel plays the role of Donna Sheridan, and her acting and singing skills make Donna into the inspirational, cool mom she is meant to be. Brummel is a pleasure to watch and has been well chosen for this role. A favorite actress is sure to be Charis Leos as Rosie. Her hysterics on the stage combined with her impressive voice bring her to the top of this cast.
Scenic design (Peter Barbieri) includes wavy, pastel backgrounds to complement the Greek hotel, beach, and bedrooms where our characters reside. Just the right touches dot the simple scenery. Though not made up of much, it does the trick. Costume design (Gail Baldoni) fits well, making the scenery pop as the audience is never tempted to glance away from the appeal. Mamma Mia! is a truly visually appealing show.
Two and a half hours of relentless, valuable entertainment waits for you at Walnut Street this spring and summer. Somewhat chaotic and certainly comical, Mamma Mia! brings a night of laughter, smiles, and seat dancing to the audience. This production is one that any lover of ABBA, music, dancing, theater, or stories should see. Take advantage and go enjoy!