By SARAH SHMERLING | Editor-in-Chief
You know the songs, but do you know the story?
Palisades Charter High School students will take to the stage for its fall production, “Mamma Mia!”—inspired by the hits of ABBA—which is set to open on Friday, October 7, at 8 p.m.
Under the direction of Nancy Fracchiolla, with choreography by Hazel Clarke, the production includes more than 100 Pali High students in its cast and crew.
“More than 60 million people worldwide have fallen in love with the characters, the story and the music of ‘Mamma Mia!’ which chronicles bride-to-be Sophie’s search for her birth father in the few days remaining before her wedding,” according to a statement about the show. “All the action takes place at her mother’s rustic inn on the sunny, paradisiacal Greek island where Sophie grew up.”
When explaining what she is looking forward to about the show, Fracchiolla told the Palisadian-Post she hopes that everyone has a good time. She selected the show in part after watching what all of her students have endured over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I just want them to by happy,” she added. “That’s what this show does, it’s silly, it’s fun, it’s happy.”
Taking on the role of Sophie Sheridan is Annika Johansson, with River Tharae playing her mother, Donna Sheridan. In the roles of Tanya and Rosie—Donna’s two best friends and bandmates, forming Donna and the Dynamos—are Chantal Trent and Carlie Given.
“Palisades Charter High School’s production of ‘Mamma Mia!’ hopes to deliver non-stop laughs and explosive dance numbers in an enchanting performance,” the statement concluded.
Opening night is Friday, October 7, at 8 p.m., with performances scheduled for October 8, 9, 13, 14 and 15 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10 for students, $17 general admission. There is a VIP ticket option available for $25.
All performances will take place at Pali High, located at 15777 Bowdoin Street, in Mercer Hall.
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit go.palihigh.org/gofan.
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