Mamma Mia: Keeping the Charisma and Charm 

If you haven’t seen the GRHS Mamma Mia play, you missed out (you can find DVD copies don’t worry). The Mamma Mia series is a beloved late 2000s, early 2010s movie across many families, and its impact is just exemplified by a performance right in front of your face. I’ve in fact seen several Mamma Mia plays already, one which was from around 2017, about 5 or so years ago. Although I don’t remember its specific details from the play itself, I most definitely remember that I could hardly stop smiling. This play, the one performed by GRHS, brought back the same nostalgic feelings from when I was younger. It was a wonderful experience, the audience themselves seemed to have felt the same enthusiasm I did, people clapped at the end of every song, some of us singing along. The cast was stunningly fitting to each character, from their slight body movements, to their tone of voice, perfectly matching up with who they were supposed to be. The comedic jokes also, reflected the movie, if not exactly, brought in a more charming, lovable tone. The set also was creative, and fabulously floral (obviously) and made good use of the stage, especially since props do not come cheap. The attire was also amazing, just like the movie, Donna and her friends were dressed in glittery ’80s jumpsuits. The music as well as lights also set the scenes nicely, it was not overbearing or distracting but rather fitting with the scenes and the scene changes.   

There were a few revised scenes, which were slightly disappointing, but when it comes to plays, especially those performed by high school students, obviously not everything can be included, for the sake of time, labor purposes as well as family friendliness. I think it’s important to recognize that accuracy is not the most important thing about plays (in fact I think it makes it more interesting and enjoyable if a new scene is added), it is more so about the enjoyment for the actors and the audience. 

I’ll be honest, and say, I’ve seen a lot of GRHS plays, and this has definitely been one of my favorites. I am definitely biased: I believe the Mamma Mia series to be the perfect balance between comedy, drama, and romance, but I truly believe that the cast and the stunning work of the people who were a part of this play demonstrated their hard work, love and dedication to reenacting the Mamma Mia series and made it all the more worthwhile and memorable to those who are new or already have enjoyed the Mamma Mia.