Monday, August 12, 2019

Mamma Mia! is almost a total ‘sell-out’ at the Alhambra!

Photos: Jamie Iames Repper
The show Mamma Mia! hasn’t been in Jacksonville, Florida since 2013 and this presentation, at the Alhambra Theatre, is by far the best that any town could render.  The highlight of the show is the wonderful harmony and dancing from the entire Ensemble.  A standing ovation goes out to Rodney Holmes*, Victoria Elizabeth, Taylor Hilt Mitchell*, Kaléa Leverette, Mitchell Burnes, Hailey Hendrickson & Sam Brown, under the experienced direction of Choreographer, Shain Stroff*; Musical Director, Cathy Murphy Giddens and Producer/Director, Tod Booth*.

If you are an avid theatergoer, you would know the excitement that the song “Memory” (from the musical CATS), sung by Grizabella the cat, brings to an audience.  Well, there is the same thrill from the Alhambra stage when Kelly Atkins* (who portrays Donna Sheridan) belts out the song, “The Winner Takes It All” - drop the mike!  That’s all that needs to be said.  You’ve got to be there and hear it for yourself.

The other two mature lead females: Lisa Valdini* (Rosie) and Karen Coughlin (Tanya) have some great moves on the dance floor.  Lisa and Jim Ballard take the stage and show off when they preform “Take a Chance on Me”.  There is so much comedy between these two actors during this particular number in the second act.

I don’t recall seeing the three male lead actors donning such bright disco apparel in other productions of Mamma Mia! but these guys have the moves to go along with the colorful costumes.  Kudos go out to seasoned actors Jim Sorenson* (Sam), Jim Ballard* (Bill) and Billy Clark Taylor* (Harry).

All the Mamma Mia! songs are enjoyed by the crowd, who naturally sings along with the music of ABBA.  Gala Night was almost sold-out, with only a few seats available; so, you may want to check the Alhambra links below and see if there have been any cancellations for this marvelous show.

   ***denotes Actors’ Equity Association***


Mamma Mia!
DATES:
August 7, 2019 through September 15, 2019

SHOW TIMES: Evening shows Tuesday through Friday start at 7:50 p.m.  Doors open at 6 p.m., and dinner is served until 7:30 p.m.  Saturday Matinees begin at 1:15 p.m.  Doors open at 11 a.m. and the brunch served until 12:30 p.m.  Sunday Matinees are at 1:50 p.m.  Doors open at 12 p.m. and the meal is server until 1:50 p.m.

DRESS: “Business Casual”, or “Sunday Best”.

TICKETS: Prices range from $40 – $66.  Ticket prices include: a plated three-course meal that changes for each show, and is served directly to your table; a Broadway-style performance and complimentary parking.  Tickets may be purchases on line, or by calling (904) 641-1212.
     **Prices do NOT include gratuity, professional photos, or orders from the bar**

LOCATION: Alhambra Theater & Dining
       
12000 Beach Blvd.
       Jacksonville, Florida 32246
       (904) 641-1212