NKU’s production of Mamma Mia! is a feast for the eyes and ears.
The Plot
Mamma Mia! is a popular jukebox musical that utilizes the hit songs of the Swedish pop group ABBA to tell a romantic comedy story penned by author Catherine Johnson. During this two and a half hour musical, a young woman’s quest to discover the identity of her father brings three men from her mother’s past back to the island they last visited twenty years ago.
The Production Team
Mamma Mia! is directed by Ken Jones and produced by Jamey Strawn and Alexandra Mahorney. Along with the scenic designer, Eric Barker, they bring to life a feel good musical set in a believable Greek courtyard. The fly systems are well leveraged to bring two of the four keyboards (manned by Jacob Priddy and Jamey Strawn) into the action on set for some of the more exciting numbers. Hats off to Jacob for also Music Directing this show which is full of harmonies throughout.
The star of this show is the dancing. The lead Choreographer is Tony-recognized Arts Educator Roderick Justice. Joining him are Rachel Curlee, Janette Bruce, Maddie Jones, Sarah Peak Raumaker, Marlo D’Ascenzo, and Emma Hackworth. Kudos to all for the creativity brought to the songs throughout the show. The cast delivers each with energy and accuracy that brings joy and spirit to one number after another.
Kudo’s to the costume designer Ronnie Chamberlain and her assistants Lee O’Roarke, Tessa Holified, and Ari Demoss. The cast sports believable island wear throughout the show. What makes it even better is simple but consistent color pallets used for different sections of the show. This creates a cohesiveness to the visual elements on stage and enhances the stage pictures and choreography throughout the production.
The Cast
The entire cast of Mamma Mia! is quite strong, performing the classic ABBA tunes with heart. The layered harmonies throughout are a joy to listen to.
Grace Owen brings Sophie Sheridan to life with equal measures of youthful enthusiasm and sincerity. She is well complimented by Zach Petrie who plays the fiancé, Sky Rymand. Donna and her Dynamos are Mabrey Rice, Emily Lamping, and Alexa Morelle. The trio delivers a solid portrayal of middle-aged friends reviving the escapades of their youth. The complementary three dads are Bodie Moore, Luc Vandenbroek, and Jathan Briscoe. These gentlemen bring heart to their roles and believable middle-aged energy.
Standout performances are by Alexa Morelle and Jathan “JB” Briscoe. Their portrayals of Rosie Mulligan and Bill Austin provide comedic and emotional support to their companions throughout the show. But when their solo number, “Take a Chance on Me” takes place in act two it is a show stopper! You can’t stop smiling nor grooving in your seat.
The Bottom Line
The hits of ABBA can’t help but make us smile. Mamma Mia! strings these into a Greek adventure with humor and heart. NKU’s cast delivers a standout performance of sight and sound that transports us to a land of joy. Don’t miss your chance to join the trip!
Get Tickets
Mamma Mia! runs April 11, 15, 16, 17 at 7:30 pm and Sun April 12 at 2pm. Adult tickets are $20 with discounts for students and seniors.
For more information and link to sales, visit nku.vbotickets.com/events
