Mamma Mia!

By Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus. St Mark’s Theatre Company, St Marks Anglican School. Directed by Chris McRae. Barbara Godwin Theatre, St Marks Anglican School, Hillarys, WA. Aug 7-10, 2024

St Mark’s Theatre Company embraced the joy of the Abba Musical, Mamma Mia! with a big production with high production values, that involved a plethora of people in the St Marks Anglican School community.

This sold-out production included theming that spread into the foyer and even into the toilets! The show frequently broke the fourth wall and encouraged the audience to join in with the dancing at the finale.

Vocal performances were strong under Vocal Director Leah Guelfi, and while it is clear some of the male voices are still developing, the show sounded great. The cast were backed by a band made up of students and community members, under the leadership of Musical Director and Conductor Pamela Grubb, and the band was well placed and visible on stage.

Catalyst character Sophie was beautifully played by Rhianna Cole, blessed with a fine voice, and well immersed in character. She created a believable relationship with fiancée Sky, played with charm by Toby Green - and the age-appropriate intimacy co-ordinated throughout by Michelle Ezzy was well executed. Sophie’s besties and bridesmaids were played with spark by Emily Prestige and Ruby Spath.

Leading Lady Donna was given warmth, maturity, and stunning vocals by Philippa Kapp, in a gorgeous anchoring performance. Nicely supported by best mates Tanya and Rosie, with Lara Whitlam commanding the stage with outstanding presence and self-assurance and Ashlyn Cole, who like younger sister Rhianna is a great singer who acts her socks off.

The plot centres around Sophie’s three possible fathers, all of whom are given distinct characterisations and have a great rapport. Luke Carter has leading man style as Donna’s former fiancée Sam Carmichael; Joel Smith gives an honest open performance as former head-banger Harry. Seth Wilkin completes the trio with expertise as laid-back Bill.

Resort staff Eddie and Pepper are played with comedic strength by Blake Carter and Ryan Schultze, while Kurtis Worth steps out of the ensemble for a notable cameo as Father Alexandrios.

An ensemble of 39 sing with strength and dance up a storm with choreography by Carissa Tucker. Great to see some ballet en-pointe as well as some young men giving their all.

Costumes, predominantly in the traditional blue and white, looked stunning on the picturesque set by Rosie Martin of Maker Change Creatives. Lighting Design was bold and effective.

Great to see a strong production with such amazing school spirit, and while I have seen Mamma Mia! so often that I could probably prompt it without a script, this production was still a joy to watch - it felt fresh and new.

Kimberley Shaw

Photographer: Katie Fassom