The ultimate feel-good show hits the stage as Hartland Drama Club presents jukebox musical “Mamma Mia!” Friday through Sunday, April 11-13, and April 25-27, at Hartland High School, 10635 Dunham Road in Hartland. Showtimes are Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2:30 p.m.
In this worldwide favorite, ABBA’s iconic hits tell the hilarious story of a young woman’s search for her birth father. This sunny and funny tale unfolds on a Greek island paradise. On the eve of her wedding, a daughter’s quest to discover the identity of her father brings three men from her mother’s past back to the island they last visited 20 years ago.
Hartland Drama Club’s production of “Mamma Mia!” features 86 talented cast and crew members, along with non-stop laughs, explosive dance numbers, an impressive set, and dazzling costumes. The story-telling magic of ABBA’s timeless songs propels this enchanting tale of love, laughter and friendship, creating an unforgettable show for the Hartland community and beyond.
“With such fun ABBA songs as ‘Dancing Queen,’ ‘Super Trouper,’ the title song, ‘Mamma Mia,’ and so many more, how can you not love this show?” asks artistic director Scott Usher. “Our wonderful choreographer, Karen Whittaker, has again outdone herself choreographing some of the most fun and entertaining dances that have appeared on our stage. The enthusiasm and excitement the students both onstage and backstage have for the show will be very apparent when you see this wonderful story come to life at Hartland High School.”
HHS senior Ruby Landacre, who plays the role of Donna Sheridan, says, “‘Mamma Mia!’ is a touching story about a mother and daughter, as well as of their hilarious journey. This upbeat musical is a feel-good experience for the whole family.”
According to senior Tatum Wakeman of the ensemble, it’s been a rewarding experience to see the show take shape. “Working with the rest of the cast and the directors to build this show has been a lot of hard work, but it really pays off seeing what we can all do together,” she says.
Freshman Elyse Watson, also in the ensemble, agrees. “Performing in ‘Mamma Mia!’ has been the most fun I’ve ever had while doing theater,” she adds. “This show is one that you won’t want to miss, for sure.”
A mother. A daughter. Three possible dads. And a trip down the aisle you’ll never forget!
Tickets are available online at www.hartlanddramaclub.org and at the door. Individual tickets purchased in advance are $16 for adults and $14 for students and seniors. Tickets purchased at the door are $18 for adults and $16 for students and seniors.
For more information, contact Scott Usher at (810) 626-2360 or scottusher@hartlandschools.us.
This production is licensed by Music Theatre International.
The “Mamma Mia!” CAST INCLUDES: Ruby Landacre as Donna Sheridan; Maya Griffon as Sophie Sheridan; Felix Sleeman as Sam Carmichael; Ethan Stang as Harry Bright; Logan Clark as Bill Austin; Jackson Albers (student director in training) as Sky; Saige Ellis as Rosie Mulligan; Ryleigh Harris as Tanya Cresham-Leigh; Samantha Landacre as Lisa; Olivia Kolke as Ali; Barrett Walaskay as Pepper; Megan Patrick as Eddie; Anthony Liloia as Father Alexandrios; and many other members of Hartland Drama Club in the talented ensemble. Alayna Miller serves as student producer and Paige Reck as student director.
We talked with some of the students involved in the production below:
Ruby Landacre as Donna Sheridan
Parents: Jennifer and Brett Landacre
Grade: Senior
“Mamma Mia!” Crew: Hair and Makeup*
Activities: Choir, winter guard, drama
Hobbies: Singing, dancing
Future Plans: Go to University of Michigan-Flint for psychology (specializing in ABA therapy), with either an additional major or minor in music
What will you miss most about Hartland Drama Club after graduation, and what lessons will you take with you?
This club has completely brought me out of my shell and taught me how to be a leader.
What is your favorite scene or song to perform in this show and why?
My favorite song to perform would probably be “Winner Takes It All” because of the high-stakes emotions and the story told using the song.
If you were to describe your character in three words, what would they be?
Strong, witty, and loving.
What is something this show has taught you about your craft and yourself?
Honestly, every show comes with its own set of challenges and this being such a well-known show with ABBA songs, it’s been most cast members’ goal to do these iconic songs justice.
What role does your crew play in making this show come to life?
The hair and makeup crew assists in making our characters realistic to the show, their personality, and the time period the show is set in.
How do you maintain your energy throughout this upbeat show?
Cherishing this show and staying in character helps keep the energy up. It’s not always easy, but having fun with all my friends in the club makes it a lot easier.
Felix Sleeman as Sam Carmichael
Guardian: Dianne Jackman
Grade: Senior
“Mamma Mia!” Crew: Props*
Activities: Drama, choir
Hobbies: Watching movies/TV shows, video editing, animation, singing
Future Plans: College for film and theater
Why do you believe “Mamma Mia!” has been such a hit with millions of people worldwide?
I believe “Mamma Mia!” is a hit from its story that anyone can get invested in. The characters are so fun and, personally, making the characters our own and fitting into the world of “Mamma Mia!” is even more fun. But the undeniable highlight is ABBA’s timeless music, with every song being a family favorite.
What are some challenges of preparing for a role in a jukebox musical? How have you overcome them?
The biggest challenge I faced was the characterization throughout songs. While there is something to be learned through the music, it’s not stated explicitly through its lyrics. I worked through it by fully developing Sam’s character. I found places to express his character through lyrics, as well as understanding the places where characterization was more impactful.
What can audiences expect when they come to see this musical?
Four months of hard work that we put 110% of our best ability into. No matter what aspect of the show, whether onstage or backstage, the love for “Mamma Mia!” is expressed in such a compelling way that our drama club always succeeds in showing our audiences.
If you were to describe your character in three words, what would they be?
Proud, devoted, optimist.
How has being the head of your crew impacted your life?
I always wanted to be the props crew head for our club, even before I was a freshman. I was given the opportunity this year. It felt like big shoes to fill and without the amazing crew we accumulated it couldn’t have been done. The crew really impacted the way I treat my projects. I wasn’t alone in working, which meant I could be proud of the work that I, our parent lead, Mrs. DeBolt, and our team have done. The bigger picture came together so much more with a whole team. Even though it was only for one year, I loved being in charge of such a fun, creative, and problem-solving crew. I’d do it a million times over.
What will you miss most about Hartland Drama Club after graduation, and what lessons will you take with you?
I will miss the people; they are what make our shows special. It’s a home away from home for me. I think a lesson I’ve learned from drama club the past four years is that you never realize how fast it’s over. The people I’ve met and said my goodbyes to have personally impacted my life in such a way they might not even realize. My only hope is that I do the same for my underclassman peers — to inspire them, laugh with them, and cry with them. I know this club will be an important building block after graduation and I will always hold that close to me.
Ryleigh Harris as Tanya Cresham-Leigh
Parents: Jillian and Ernie Harris
Grade: Junior
“Mamma Mia!” Crew: Hair and Makeup
Activities: Theater and pom
Hobbies: Reading
Future Plans: Major degree in history
What makes Hartland Drama Club’s production of “Mamma Mia!” special and/or unique?
I think what makes our production of “Mamma Mia!” special is all the work and dedication every single person puts into the show. The cast works very hard on characterization and bringing the story to life but would have no story to tell without the set, lights, costumes, props, and every crew that helps put on the show. My favorite thing about Hartland Drama Club’s shows is the variety of talent every person brings to the table.
What can audiences expect when they come to see this musical?
Audiences should expect to see really fun dance numbers and catchy songs. “Mamma Mia!” is such a fun musical because it is told through hit ABBA songs.
What is your favorite scene or song to perform in this show and why?
My favorite is the scene in Donna’s room with her and Rosie because it has “Chiquitita” and “Dancing Queen.” The scene is also my favorite because I feel like it accurately shows our dynamic. These songs are so fun because they’re iconic ABBA songs.
If you were to describe your character in three words, what would they be?
Rich, witty, mature.
What are some challenges of preparing for a role in a jukebox musical? How have you overcome them?
One thing I never realized when watching other interpretations of “Mamma Mia!” is how difficult jukebox musicals are. There needs to be seamless transitions into songs, which can sometimes be difficult because the songs were not written originally for this musical. I think the way to overcome this is to make your song special to your character, because everyone has a special song that means something to them. The goal is to find how your character would relate to that song and portray it on stage!
How has participating in Hartland Drama Club affected your high school experience?
I truly cannot say enough good things about Hartland Drama Club. I was so nervous to join freshman year during “Fiddler on the Roof,” but I’m grateful my mom convinced me to audition. Since joining, I have made many friends and grown so much. Drama club has helped me grow as an actress because there are so many things I am able to do in this show that would’ve never been possible freshman year. My directors and scene partners have taught me so much about acting, and singing the vocals for each show has helped me evolve as a singer. With that being said, drama club is created by the people in it. Hartland Drama Club has truly left a handprint on my heart.
Logan Clark as Bill Austin
Parents: Elizabeth and Steven Clark
Grade: Sophomore
“Mamma Mia!” Crew: Set
Activities: Choir and theater
Hobbies: Acting, singing, playing video games
Future Plans: Go to school for acting/go into law
Why do you believe “Mamma Mia!” has been such a hit with millions of people worldwide?
People come from all over the place to watch “Mamma Mia!” if it’s a Broadway show or a high school production like ours. People worldwide enjoy the story, but they’ll really love hearing the cult-classic songs and watching the memorable dances performed by our wonderful cast.
Which ABBA song best describes you and why?
If I had to pick one ABBA song it would have to be “Dancing Queen.” This song has the ability to put anyone in a dancing mood. It describes me for the one reason that when I’m alone and that one song I love comes on, I can’t help but dance to the lyrics.
What is your favorite scene or song to perform in this show and why?
My favorite scene and song to perform is “Voulez-Vous.” When we perform this, I really do feel like it’s the night before a big wedding and everyone is just enjoying themselves — and the dance that goes along with this scene will make the audience feel like they are also at the party with us.
If you were to describe your character in three words, what would they be?
Bill Austin is many different things, but if I had to pick three words they would be: charming, content, and adventurous.
What are some challenges of preparing for a role in a jukebox musical? How have you overcome them?
When this show was announced and I heard that we would be using preexisting songs, I was already preparing for the difference that would come along with not having a pit perform the songs. The challenge of doing a jukebox musical is that there is no easy way of changing the songs to be faster or slower like you could with a pit. I figured out early on that I would have to work on my timing for songs and lines or the whole scene would be off and ruin the song/dance. So, I kept listening to the songs I needed to work on with and without the lyrics until I had my timing to a crisp.
What role does your crew play in making this show come to life?
I would say set crew has the most important role for any show. This is because people in the audience use the set to help them see what the actors on the stage are trying to tell in the story. They have put so much into making sure the stage is set (ha ha) for the performance and will still be adding small details right up to opening night of “Mamma Mia!”
Grace Pantelas, Dance Captain
Parents: Catherine and James Pantelas
Grade: Junior
“Mamma Mia!” Crew: Props
Activities: Band, baton twirling, winter guard
Hobbies: Playing bass, dancing
Future plans: Go to medical school to become a pediatric anesthesiologist
What can audiences expect when they come to see this musical?
There will be lots of lights … lots of really cool and fun lights. That and an incredible set, incredible dance numbers, and an even more incredible cast. So incredible their socks are getting knocked off. Look out!
What is your favorite scene or song to perform in this show and why?
My favorite scene to perform is bows (in Act 2) because it is three dance numbers back to back, and I don’t know if you can tell, but I love dancing. It’s so fun to have everyone out on stage dancing, and I loved taking a step back to watch them.
How do you maintain your energy throughout this upbeat show?
I just have fun with it. Genuinely, I just enjoy doing it. I have my “off” days, I make my mistakes, but simply enjoying what I do keeps my energy up. Easy as that.
What is something this show has taught you about your craft and yourself?
This show has taught me how to be a better leader by a huge margin. Ensuring that a group of over 30 people listens to you and actually processes what you’re saying can get really overwhelming, so the show has truly helped me deal with large groups a lot better.
How has participating in Hartland Drama Club affected your high school experience?
Being a part of this club has definitely consumed my time after school, but I love every second of it. It is so incredibly rewarding to put so much work into such an amazing club and have a great set of productions to show for it.
What is your dream role and/or your dream job, in theater or otherwise?
I’m no singer, so I’m not too keen on any particular role, but I would love to be part of a show with a tap number. So, really any role with a featured tap number would be my dream role.
Hannah Morgan, Ensemble
Parent: Michelle Morgan
Grade: Junior
“Mamma Mia!” Crew: Costumes*
Activities: Theater, dance, and choir
Hobbies: Costume design, art, reading, and writing
Future Plans: Become a high school art teacher and costume designer on the side
What role does your crew play in making this show come to life?
Our crew, costumes, helps set the environment for a scene you’re seeing on stage. Sure, the backdrop can be a beautiful villa, but what are the people at the villa there for? Are they at a funeral? If so, they’ll be wearing formal black clothes. Is it a party? If it is, everyone will be wearing bright and fun clothes. They’re on a beach? Swimming suits, it is! We make sure the scene you’re seeing onstage makes sense. I mean, we can’t just have Sophie pretending to wear this beautiful wedding dress; that would be weird.
What is something surprising or interesting about your crew that people may not realize?
A couple of the costumes you’ll see onstage are handmade! Many of the dresses, suits, and other articles of clothing you see are items that have already been in our costume closet for a while. Some are donations and occasionally we rent costumes from other troupes. But those super suits you’ll be seeing Donna and the Dynamos wearing? Those were made by us! I did the first and last stage concept designs, but we all worked together to put our ideas into real live fabric. I’m proud of what we’ve created, especially after my long hours of research and drawing. It’s gonna be so cool to see them on the girls!
What do you hope the audience will experience as a result of your crew’s hard work?
I hope the audience will be able to feel the vibrance and life of the characters through our choices of fashion and accessories. The actors are so talented; they bring their characters to life so beautifully. We as a crew want to aid them in their mission, and we want you to really believe they are these larger-than-life characters. We make distinct choices for every character’s wardrobe, spending hours sifting through bins of blouses and pants just to find the right thing. We truly want the audience to be able to see a character onstage and pinpoint exactly who they are seeing. We try to bring a character full circle.
What can audiences expect when they come to see this musical?
Raw talent, in all departments. From the actors, to set, to costumes, to house — we have all worked so hard to make such an amazing production like this. We have spent countless hours toiling over scripts, paint cans, large wood set pieces, and little details in the costumes. I believe every detail is worth it. The audience will experience the hard, unadulterated work of many, many teens and helpful adults. You as the audience will see the full collaboration of an entire community on the stage.
What is your dream role and/or your dream job, in theater or otherwise?
I would love to design costumes professionally for live theaters. I make costume designs for plays and musicals in my free time and I took some of my designs to Michigan Thespian Festival last semester, winning a “superior” in costume design. I am so proud of what I did while I was at the festival, and I only hope that I can make my dreams at the very least come partly true. I’ve been warned by hundreds of people that costume design isn’t a “true” career, so I’ve strayed from it professionally. But, no matter what, I will always help local theaters tell their stories. A dream show to make costumes for would be “Cabaret,” as there’s so many options and stark differences. It starts as a colorful mesh of fun burlesque fashion and delves into a mix of dark outfits with militaristic inspiration. I would absolutely die if I got the opportunity to even design one costume for a show like that.
Why do you believe “Mamma Mia!” has been such a hit with millions of people worldwide?
It tells a fantastic story of family, girlhood, and finding oneself. It’s a show almost anyone can relate to, old or young. Sophie is trying to find herself in the midst of her early young adulthood, unsure of where to go next. She jumps into so many spontaneous moments and actions and eventually finds herself in a tough spot. That’s a story many of us onstage are on the verge of experiencing as we grow into adults. But then there’s Donna and her friends, a group of older women who might as well be just as lost as Sophie. We go through our whole lives living in the spontaneous, bright moments that get us into hard situations. The whole musical is a testament to humanity and its wildness; how life isn’t just black and white. It tends to be a weird neon streak of lightning. So, I think it’s been a hit because it tells the story of everyone. We’ve all been in one long ABBA concert.
* Crew head or co-head
