Catholic Central High School presents the iconic musical Mamma Mia!, which runs Friday until Mar. 22.
The musical features the unforgettable hits of ABBA, while the production transports audience members to a sun-soaked Greek island with a unique set design.
According to Director Braden Dalton, the “in-the-round” format of the production brings the action closer to the audience, creating a truly immersive theatre experience. “The actors have been working really hard to make sure they’re moving differently than they would in a traditional play and engaging the audience on all sides.”
“There are moments in the musical, which bring the audience in and create an interaction between the cast and playgoers,” Dalton adds.
There will also be three special sing-along performances Mar. 15, 19 and 22, where the audience will be encouraged to join in.
“It’s a fun way to engage our audience in a very different way by encouraging them to sing. The songs are so catchy and fun to sing, because if people are big into theatre or Broadway they know Mamma Mia! If they know pop music, they know Mamma Mia! If they’re just listening, they’ll learn the songs,” notes Dalton.
Additionally, $5 from every ticket purchased for the sing-along performances will be donated to the Chinook Child and Youth Advocacy Centre, who will have staff on-hand at these performances. Plus, the donation from ticket sales will be matched up to 50 per cent by Rogers Birdies for Kids.
“We’re so excited to be involved with this production,” says Cheryl Patterson, manager of the Centre. “Education is a huge focus for our organization, so partnering with CCHS fits in well with our mandate. Plus, the donations provide us with critical resources to support children and youth when they need it most.”
Stage Manager Michael Schmidt says having an opportunity to give back to the community is important. “It also highlights some of the themes present in the musical that kind of connect with the work the Child and Youth Advocacy Centre does – such as resiliency and responding to traumatic events or negative circumstances in our lives in a positive way.”
Over 50 students at CCHS are involved in all aspects of the Mamma Mia! Production, including on-stage performances, sound, lighting, music, hair, make-up, costuming and set design. Plus, a dozen more staff and adult volunteers are involved.
Tickets are available via Eventbrite. Performances are at 7 p.m. in the Knights of Columbus Eggplant Theatre. There will also be three matinee performances Mar. 15, 16 and 22 at 1:30 p.m.
