Under the glow of rehearsal lights, the Encinal auditorium hums with brimming activity. On the stage, performers work together, moving in sync to perfect the choreography to a lively ABBA hit, while behind the scenes, crew members work on the smaller details found in lighting, sound, and set design. The production is chained together through their shared effort as they prepare for opening night of Mamma Mia! on March 14.
This spring, Encinal High School presents Mamma Mia!, as the drama program takes center stage to showcase its months of preparation. From intense rehearsals to detailing found in sets and costume designs, Encinal students and staff came together in order to ensure a standout success. The students are not only just covering Sophie Sheirdan and her journey to find out who her father is for her wedding but also infusing it with their own creativity and dedication to provide their own spin on the classic musical. With the iconic music of ABBA with standout hits such as “Dancing Queen” and of course, “Mamma Mia” serving as a backbone for the excitement to come, Encinal drama performers and crew are eager to deliver a theatrical experience to remember filled with energy, heart, and unforgettable memories.
The production boasts a talented cast of students who have worked tirelessly to perfect their performances as they bring these characters to life with Samantha Cleminshaw leading as Sophie Sheridan, Catalina Cabrera as Ali, and Phoebe Neff-Cooper as Lisa. Additionally, Ava Diener will portray Donna Sheirdan, Zin Arneson as Tanya, Amelia Ericson as Tanya, Kira Hannigan as Sky, Marco Garcia as Pepper, Colby Tong as Eddie, Samuel Burton as Harry Bright, Ava Brandt as Bill Austin, and Nuah Tristman as both Father Alexandrios as well as doubling as ensemble.
The featured dancers play an essential role in bringing Mamma Mia! to life as they enhance the energy of each iconic musical number by bringing their flair and charisma to every scene with: Ada Wiedlea, Camila Thach, Delilah Schriga, Jubilee Kaleikau, Katie Rumrill, Kimiko Bearde-Xisin, Kylie Franco, Remi Langwerowshi, and Scarlette James backing up each number with their own individual spin, flair, and creativity.
However, it’s behind the scenes where a dedicated crew has worked tirelessly on perfecting the visual and technical magic in order to capture the essence of the musical with Stage Managers Jett Webb and Rowan Vidal working to ensure production is moving forward. Additionally, Prop Leads Ella Halisy and Declan Daly employ their own individual creativity while Set Design Leads Leelou Leary and Mia Alvarez create stunning backdrops. Costume Lead Violet Sorenson is fitting each performer while Lighting Designer Katy Velasco illuminates the stage. Finally, a musical is not complete without sound design as Keira Kauv works behind the scenes to ensure a seamless experience throughout the production.
