Mamma Mia! returns to Kelowna stage thru Aug 17

For the first time since 2018, the Kelowna Actors Studio (KAS) is presenting "Mamma Mia!," the beloved romantic comedy musical centering around the songs of ABBA.

It features iconic hits like "Super Trouper," "Lay All Your Love on Me," "Dancing Queen," "Take a Chance on Me," "Money, Money, Money," and "Mamma Mia.”

The story follows Sophie Sheridan, who is about to get married on a picturesque Greek island. She wishes for her father to walk her down the aisle, but the catch is she doesn't know who he is. After reading her mother Donna's old diary, she discovers there are three potential candidates: Sam, Bill, and Harry.

As these three men arrive on the island, chaos and comedy ensue, weaving a tale of love, family, and self-discovery.

Joanne Ryan, who is playing Sophie Sheridan, was in the audience six years ago when KAS last did this show, and noted there’s lots of infectious energy when it comes to the spectacle of the whole thing.

“It's such a fun show to come watch because it's songs that you know, there's some nostalgia in there, and there's some fun in there too,” she said. “I was in the audience in 2018, and I just felt like I was at this amazing concert. The energy was just above and beyond the usual expectation of coming to see a musical.”

Michael Esposito II, who plays Sky Rymand in the show, said there will be an enduring appeal to the audience, not just with the music, but in its theme.

“There's going to be an ABBA song that you know and that you love, that's a part of this musical,” he said.  “It's also a very universal story about learning who you are, finding out where you came from and knowing how to forge your own path despite what your history might have been. And I think there’s a little something for everyone in that.”

Amid all the excitement surrounding Mamma Mia!, KAS continues its tradition of hosting summer productions at the Kelowna Community Theatre (KCT).

This year is particularly special, as KCT celebrates 60 years in Kelowna with an added incentive for audiences: an extra week of shows. This marks the first time KCT has extended a production run beyond its usual schedule.

"We're beyond excited to add an extra week of performances because of the amazing demand for tickets! This will be the longest-running show in the Kelowna Community Theatre's 60+ year history”, said director Randy Leslie.  “We're giving a nod to our original 2018 presentation, but with a fresh twist—completely reimagined staging, sets, lighting, a few familiar faces and some incredible new talent."

The show runs from Aug. 1 to 17. Tickets can be purchased here.