Payer: The visionary behind Mamma Mia!
MUSIC enthusiasts have watched, or will be watching, the Broadway musical Mamma Mia!, thanks to the visionary efforts of Michael Payer.
Born and raised in Western Sydney in Australia, Payer’s upbringing in a multicultural environment laid the foundation for his passion for the arts.
From his early days at Penrith Anglican College, where he was exposed to quality education and theatre productions, to his active involvement in community theatre, Payer’s journey has been marked by a deep-seated love for the performing arts.
Reflecting on his childhood and the influence of his upbringing, Payer says that growing up in Western Sydney, he was fortunate to have access to great schools and passionate teachers who nurtured his love for theatre.
“Those early experiences set me on a path to pursue my passion for the arts,” he says.
Payer’s foray into the world of theatre began with school plays, gradually leading him to explore various aspects of production, from acting to directing and producing.
“I really think everything starts with a good education,” Payer says.
His experience in community theatre, coupled with mentorship from industry professionals like Neil Gooding, equipped him with the skills and knowledge to embark on ambitious projects.
“The only way you grow is if you put yourself out there,” Payer stresses.
Recalling his journey in theatre, he remarks, “I’ve always been drawn to the magic of theatre. From my first school play to my recent endeavours in Fiji, each production has been a learning experience, shaping me as an artist as well as all the members of the Mama Mia team”.
Upon relocating to Fiji to work, Payer stumbled upon the Suva Civic Centre, a venue that sparked the idea of bringing musical theatre to the island nation. Despite the absence of a thriving musical theatre culture in Fiji, Payer remained undeterred, fuelled by a desire to create opportunities for local talent and foster a vibrant arts community.
Sharing his inspiration behind Mamma Mia! in Fiji, Payer explains, “When I first laid eyes on the Suva Civic Centre, I saw more than just a venue; I saw the potential to introduce musical theatre to Fiji and showcase the incredible talent here. It was a dream waiting to be realised”.
Collaborating with like-minded individuals, including Sharleen Ali, the director of The Festivals Company and former dancer for Vou, Payer embarked on a journey to make his vision a reality. The road to staging Mamma Mia! in Fiji was not without its challenges, from securing licencing rights to navigating logistical hurdles. However, Payer’s unwavering determination, coupled with the dedication of his team, ensured the success of the production.
“There was no challenge when we ever thought of giving up. I mean you always face challenges, whether you’re doing something for the first time or the 50th time,” he says.
Reflecting on the challenges they faced, Payer recalls that bringing Mamma Mia! to Fiji was no easy feat.
“We encountered numerous obstacles along the way, but our shared passion and commitment propelled us forward. It was a labour of love for everyone involved,” Payer adds.
What set Mamma Mia! apart was its commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. Recognising the diverse needs of the audience, Payer organised special performances with sign language interpretation and audio description, making the theatre experience accessible to all.
“From the get-go, inclusion and accessibility was something really important to us.
“It’s just about creating a space that makes it accessible and makes it inclusive.”
Speaking about the importance of inclusivity, Payer emphasises that theatre is for everyone, regardless of ability.
“We wanted to ensure that no one was left out, and that everyone could enjoy the magic of a live performance.”
The impact of Mamma Mia! has extended beyond the stage, resonating with audiences and artists alike. For Payer, the show was more than just entertainment; it was a catalyst for change.
“It’s really exciting to think that this might be the first step towards something very exciting for the future of Fiji.”
Payer says that by showcasing the talents of local performers and inspiring future generations, Mamma Mia! has laid the groundwork for a thriving arts scene in Fiji.
As the curtain closes this weekend on Mamma Mia’s successful run, Payer reflects on the journey that brought him to this moment. From the initial spark of an idea to the standing ovation on opening night, every step of the process reaffirmed Payer’s belief in the transformative power of the arts.
“Education, belief, passion and pursuit are the central elements to getting where I am now.”
Looking ahead, Payer remains committed to nurturing Fiji’s arts community and creating more opportunities for aspiring artists.
“Having those skills makes you a better businessperson, a better problem solver and more empathetic. All these skills are essential to a thriving society, and it all starts in school,” Payer says.
“Take the time and find your passion and pursue it.”
The future of musical theatre in Fiji looks bright, thanks to the vision and dedication of pioneers like Michael Payer.
As he puts it, “The arts are the essence of not being perfect but always looking for something better”.