Susan Granger’s review of “Mamma Mia!” (ACT of CT)
There’s a new Equity theater in Southern Connecticut – an absolute gem, situated deep in suburban Ridgefield. It’s ACT – A Contemporary Theatre – of CT. And if its opening musical is any indication of its intent to bring Broadway to Ridgefield, local theater-goers are in for a treat!
After a long New York run, national tours and a Hollywood musical starring Meryl Streep, it’s undoubtedly familiar. Originally conceived by Judy Craymer, It’s a jukebox musical by Benny Andersson and Bjorn Ulvaeus, showcasing ABBA, the Swedish rock group that dominated the charts from the mid-70s to the early ‘80s.
Set on a sunny Greek island, the paper-thin plot revolves around bride-to-be Sophie (Emily Rogers), who yearns to have her father walk her down the aisle. Problem is: her feisty, free-spirited mother Donna (Juliet Lambert Pratt) never told her who her father is.
When Sophie discovers Donna’s diary, she realizes that, when she was conceived, her mother was romantically involved with three different men – Sam (Michael Hunsaker), Harry (Victor Hernandez), and Bill (Craig Ramsay). So she secretly invites all three of them to her wedding.
Chaos ensures and complications inevitably arise, yet Donna and her wickedly zany BFFs (Jodi Stevens, Sheri Sanders) sing and dance their way through the celebration.
Opening and closing the show, Emily Rogers’ “I Have a Dream” ballad melts your heart. Juliet Lambert Pratt’s “The Winner Takes it All” has irresistible poignancy and her exuberant “Dancing Queen” gets your toes tapping. Jodi Stevens’ seductive “Does Your Mother Know?” is sheer fun, while Sheri Sanders pleads “Take a Chance on Me.”
Under the leadership of founders Katie Diamond, (director) Daniel C. Levine, and Bryan Perri, the professional quality is top-notch. There isn’t a bad seat in the house – and members of the audience have no problem deciphering every word of each song. (Other CT theaters could take some pointers here.)
By popular demand, “Mamma Mia!” has been extended through July 1. And unless you’re familiar with the area, set your GPS to 36 Old Quarry Road in Ridgefield. For further information and tickets, visit www.actofct.org.