The Fiji Times

Show delights crowd

Mamma Mia musical showcases local talent

- By JAKE WISE

FIJI’s very own Broadway show, Mamma Mia, proved to be a crowd pleaser over the two weekends the talented cast and crew took residency at the Suva Civic Centre.

Last night, the final show showcased months of rehearsals and training for Fiji’s homegrown talents who proved that they could stand alongside some of New York’s very best.

Spearheade­d by the Festival Company, the two-weekend theatrical extravagan­za captivated audiences, receiving rave reviews from those lucky enough to attend the soldout shows.

Festival Company director Michael Payer said they were grateful for the immense support shown towards their over 75 strong cast and crew.

“It’s been fantastic to have audiences that are now sold out through our final shows,” said Mr Payer.

“All of our sponsors have been the legs behind the work that the artists have been putting on stage.

“The only way now is up and we are excited to see where this heads as we look forward to new and exciting opportunit­ies.”

One of the government agencies supporting the musical was the Department of Heritage and Arts.

Director of Heritage and Arts Sipiriano Nemani said they were proud to have been part of the event.

“From the government’s perspectiv­e, one of the key initiative­s we’re working on is providing a policy platform to engage with our artists’ community and creative,” said Mr Nemani.

Fiji Performing Rights Associatio­n director Laisa Vulakoro said the past few weeks had been a dream come true.

“It’s been my dream for many years to have Broadway brought to our country,” she said.

“I care deeply about the artist developmen­t of the youths, and it makes me emotional all the time to see the commitment they have put into this.

“I love working with young people and young minds. It keeps me young as well.”

I care deeply about the artist developmen­t of the youths, and it makes me emotional all the time to see the commitment they have put into this

– Laisa Vulakoro

 ?? Picture: Facebook/ Paulini Bautani ?? The cast of
Mamma Mia Broadway musical.
Picture: Facebook/ Paulini Bautani The cast of Mamma Mia Broadway musical.

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from Fiji