Mamma Mia! mania at Empire
THERE was plenty of enthusiasm and laughter at the Empire Theatre on Monday night, as the cast of Mamma Mia! the musical took to the stage for a dress rehearsal ahead of opening night.
And it is this energy the cast is preparing to bring to their performances tomorrow night, according to leading lady Diana Holt.
“It’s great to be performing it on the 20th anniversary of the show in 2020,” she said.
“We’re all itching, ready to go and looking forward to having a big audience here.
“We want to get everyone up and dancing so they leave on a high.”
Ms Holt said she had been excited when she received the role of mum Donna Sheridan in the musical, but the character had also taken her by surprise.
“I never expected it to be as meaty and to have as many layers as it did,” she said.
“She’s definitely a full character of highs and lows, drama and stillness - it’s a pretty amazing role to play.
“Our director, James Shaw, said the script was deceivingly simple, but it isn’t at all.”
Actor James Taylor, who plays Sky, said the musical had been one of his career highlights.
“Originally I didn’t apply for the part of Sky, I didn’t think it was for me, but I was very humbled to have received it,” Mr Taylor said.
“It’s been such a great experience, made better by the creative team, the actors I work alongside and the sets.”
As the dress rehearsal wrapped up, Mr Taylor said the team had opening night in mind.
“The nerves haven’t kicked in yet, I’m sure they will in the coming days, but I am feeling quite confident in my ability and the ability of those I work with,” he said.
“It should be a fantastic ride - I think the Toowoomba audience will love this show.”
Mamma Mia! will be at the Empire from March 5 - 15.
For tickets, visit empiretheatre.com.au.