This weekend, the Madison Dramatic Dodgers took to the stage for their performance of Mamma Mia! After months of rehearsals to perfect the energetic dances, costume changes, set design, and, of course, the ABBA music, the audience finally got to see all of their hard work pay off.
The show sold out for nearly every performance, and it truly was deserved. With the help of director Blake Spence, and choreographer Jaquelynne Radcliff, the cast and crew brought to life the story of love between mother and daughter, Donna (Isabella Rojas) and Sophie (Ava Vazquez), and the unlikely family that they created with the three men who could be Sophie’s father (Dylan Murray as Harry Bright, Lukas Kolega as Bill Austin, and William Marinovic as Sam Carmichael). The songs and dances were not only beautifully choreographed, but drew the audience into the story of life on the little Greek island that was home to just as much love as it was chaos. From solos performed by leading roles to songs that got the entire ensemble involved, the effort that was put into making this musical incredible was clear. While some songs were able to make the audience roar with laughter, others were filled with emotion, capturing the familial love between Sophie and her mother, as well as Harry, Bill, and Sam.
The orchestra that accompanied the cast in their songs throughout the musical deserves just as much credit for the performance as the singers themselves. Conducted by Russ Batsch, this small group of performers made the musical an even more impressive experience, and truly weren’t distinguishable from the original soundtrack. In addition to the musicians that performed during the show itself, members of the MHS band and orchestra performed a medley of Mamma Mia! music during intermission. This music made the experience of the show immersive, as did the Greek market that was set up in the cafeteria.
Not only did the cast and crew put together an amazing show, but they had fun while doing it. Dylan Murray, actor for Harry Bright says: “The musical is a place where you can make many new friends, sing and dance, and most importantly, have fun. It’s a lot of work, but in the end you have a product that you can be proud of.” Mamma Mia! was an amazing final production for the graduating seniors who have been a staple in the Madison plays and musicals throughout their years at the High School, and it certainly was a performance they should be proud of. Every song left the audience wanting to sing along, and they finally got the chance to do just that as the cast jumped down from the stage following their bows, encouraging them to sing and dance along with them. It truly was a show to remember.