Mamma Mia!

An outstanding looking production, the beautiful set, created by Wayne Herring of Serasi Entertainment, instantly transported us to a Greek island. The Greek theming was continued into the foyer, where costumed front of house staff sold Greek wedding biscuits, raffle tickets and programmes, and audience members could admire a gorgeous mural created by Michelle Hyland, Adam Derums and St Hilda’s art students.

A strong orchestra comprised of St Hilda’s students and community members was led by Jackson Griggs. And the show sounded great, with developing voices sounding very impressive.

The cast consisted of St Hilda’s students with a handful of guest performers in male roles.

Sasha Browne was lovely in the catalyst role of Sophie Sheridan, who invites three men, each of whom might be her father, to her imminent wedding. Olivia Rock brought maturity and depth to Sophie's mother Donna, anchoring the show beautifully.

Great camaraderie between the three potential fathers, Nic Cradock genuine as Sam Carmichael, Kyan Mathews Sounding amazing as Harry Bright and Emma Bosley convincingly switching genders to play Bill Austin with impact.

Abby Colgan, with admirable spice and Aimee Irvine with enviable presence play Donna’s friends Tanya and Rosie. Brock Klompmaker was charming as groom to be Sky, while Grace Newton, Mia Shapland, and Monique Hashem all nicely played the male roles of Pepper, Eddie, and Father Alexandrios respectively.

A highly focused and very well drilled ensemble performed with energy throughout, singing with verve and executing Alli Jane Sutcliffe 's choreography with panache.

A production with lots of heart, St Hilda’s Mamma Mia! delighted its audience and was a lovely celebration of community as well as being a top-notch school production.

Kimberley Shaw.