'Mamma Mia!' Lincoln-Way West Cast Set To Shine In Pop-Studded Show

NEW LENOX, IL — Lincoln-Way West Theatre Company and Music Department are bringing the vacation vibe to New Lenox, with the popular musical, Mamma Mia!, set for performances April 10–12.

Featuring all the hits of ABBA, Mamma Mia! is the story of Sophie, a 20-year-old bride-to-be living on a Greek Island and her mother Donna. After reading her mother's old diary, Sophie secretly invites three men from Donna's past in hopes of finding her biological father. While comedic chaos and romance ensue for Donna and her pals Rosie and Tanya, Sophie determines she doesn't need to find her father and instead finds herself.

From ensemble roles to lead characters, pit orchestra to stage crew, and even a few guest athletes, the students, directors and auditorium staff have been working hard to bring this musical to life on stage, said Director Connie Johnson. The show promises everyone attending will leave with a smile on their face and an ABBA song in their heart!

"My favorite thing about being in 'Mamma Mia' is that I get the opportunity to do one of my favorite musicals with the most talented castmates," said Zoe Kyriacopoulos, who plays Ali. "Since we have started rehearsals, it has been so fulfilling to see how this show has taken shape and I am beyond proud to show everyone what we’ve accomplished."

Dylan Hurley, who plays Sam Carmichael, said the cast's passion for the show shines through.

"My favorite thing about Mamma Mia is the blast we all have with our dances and solos," Hurley said. "There’s always an evident joy on stage from all actors, and it’s really special."

In final preparations leading up to curtain, the cast spent long hours in rehearsal.

"The fourteen hours total tech days are not an easy feat," said Aidan Casey, who plays Harry Bright, "but I couldn't ask for a better group to experience it with."

Shows are set for April 10 at 7 p.m., April 11 at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m., and April 12 at 3 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online or at the box office before the show. Souvenirs and snacks will also be available.

"Our crew, cast and pit have worked so hard to bring this together," said Ava Sandrzyk, who plays Tanya, "and you’ll have the time of your life if you come see the show."

"This show is some of the most entertaining theater you’ll see!" said Dylan Hurley. "There’s so much excitement on stage, along with a great emotional plot, that there’s something here for everyone.

"This show is so special because while you’re watching, you’ll see and understand how much of a community we’ve all built with each other."

Hurley said he's found a new sense of confidence through his work in the show.

"I was very nervous at first," he said, "these pop songs might seem simple, but they are definitely vocally challenging. Since auditions, I feel completely secure in myself and my abilities."

Tickets still remain. Tickets can be purchased online or at the box office before the show.

Shows are:

• April 10 at 7 p.m.
• April 11 at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.
• April 12 at 3 p.m.

CAST

May Frank, Abby Hamilton, Dylan Hurley, Ryder Doty, Aidan Casey, Carter Wendland, Ava Sandrzyk, Becca Stefanelli, Ginny Frank, Zoe Kyriacopoulos, Charlie Salazar, Lilie DeFrancisco, Grace Miller, Natalie Drozdek, Michelle Herrmann, Zoey Ruiz, Sadie Smith, Olivia Zic, Brooke Barajas, Madison Gray, Aubrey Kakos, Jalina Klingler-Doyle, Haley Neudecker, Avery Otway, Rileigh Pearson, Mia Volanti, Jaden Williams, Jolene Baker, Summer Bethman, Eve English, Kaleb Fowler, Sophia Gerges, Sophia Hennings, Mellanie Hernandez, Alex Huskins, Brooklynn Ludwig, Domenico Maglione, Ryela Meyer, AJ Murino, Brayden Niemeyer, MJ Pahnke, Ava Peters, Collin Ryan, Mallory Schueler, Natalie Twardak, Jacob Veach, Lucy Wallenberg, McKenna Williams, Vivian Williams

CREW

Ms. Hannah Nicks, Blake Albert, Ariana Jerding, Emalia Kinsch, Kaleb Fowler, AJ Murino, Collin Ryan, Macie Hartong, Ben Enriquez, Casey Frank, KC Burklow, Lydia Cumbo, Juliana Dresden, Maxwell Grude, Reagan Griffin, Darby Layman, Benjamin Martinez, Ryan Medel, Charlie Snyder, Kylie Butt, Ava Coit, Noah Christie, Cecilia Crosse, Lucas Coyle, Alexa Gilbert, Sid Heabel, Chloe Jack, Alyssa Kois, Abby Kois, Vee Newcomb, Rachel Steinberg, Ryan ZeitlerSTAGE CRAFT
Kylie Butt, Ava Coit, Noah Christie, Cecilia Crosse, Lucas Coyle, Alexa Gilbert, Sid Heabel, Chloe Jack, Alyssa Kois, Abby Kois, Vee Newcomb, Rachel Steinberg, Ryan Zeitler

PIT ORCHESTRA

Mr. Tom Venutolo, Audrey Pearson, Nora Ader, Maritza Orozco, Mr. Nate Jackson, Juliana DeBoer, Jackson Brewe, Ralph Teare, Isabella Bolek, Van Smith

STAGE CRAFT

Kylie Butt, Ava Coit, Noah Christie, Cecilia Crosse, Lucas Coyle, Alexa Gilbert, Sid Heabel, Chloe Jack, Alyssa Kois, Abby Kois, Vee Newcomb, Rachel Steinberg, Ryan Zeitler

PRODUCTION/CREATIVE TEAM

• Director: Mrs. Connie Johnson
• Music Director: Mr. Tom Venutolo
• Choreographer: Mrs. Jodi-Ann Kasky
• Stage Manager: Ms. Hannah Nicks
• Lighting Designer: Mr. Tyler Dawson
• Sound Designer: Mr. Gabe Seemann
• Technical Director: Mr. Jacob Fisher
• Set Construction: Mr. Tom Haug