(by Don Meador)
Students interested in theatre, music, and dance at Allen County-Scottsville High School are preparing to bring energy, music, and storytelling to the stage with their upcoming production of Mamma Mia!, a beloved musical featuring the hit songs of ABBA.
Directed by AC-SH English educator Lesley Cagle, the production promises three entertaining afternoon and night presentations filled with well-known classics and lively performances. The show will run for two days, with a performance on Saturday, April 18 at 3:00 p.m., followed by two performances on Sunday, April 19. The first will be at 1:00 p.m. with a 6:00 p.m. finale.
The cast features a strong lineup of student talent. Kaitlyn Ausbrooks stars as Donna, alongside Raelynn Donovan as Sophie. Supporting roles include Emma Spears as Tanya and JoyDale Williams as Rosie, with Jack Smith as Sam, Nathan Carmack as Harry, and Zander Higdon as Bill. Additional cast members include Logan Daniels as Sky, Emma Charlton as Ali, Scarlett Gilliam as Lisa, John Walker as Pepper, Zander Gillian as Eddie, and Jonah Holland as Father Alex.
Behind the scenes, a dedicated crew is helping bring the production to life. Haley Dunn serves as assistant director, with Brianna Keen assisting as runner. Lighting is managed by Ann Groves, while Payton Pedigo leads as dressing room coordinator, assisted by Mattie Tyler Coffee. Props are overseen by Natalie McDermott, with assistance from Josie Duarte.
The chorus---Brianna Monge, Marshall Wilkerson, FaithAnna Williams, Sophia Borders, Zoey Brock, Bree Sullivan, Penny Brock, Sophie Ausbrooks, Laila Parrish, Riley Howard, Eden Morgan, Chloe Remington, Hadley Stinson, and Spencer Thomas----adds depth and energy to the production.
With a combination of music, humor, and heartfelt moments, Mamma Mia! is expected to draw a strong audience from the school and surrounding community. Organizers encourage everyone to attend and support the students as they showcase their hard work and talent on stage.
Community members can also support the musical’s production cost by becoming a sponsor or placing an ad to help bring this production to life. Sponsorship packages include Gold ($1,000+) with title recognition, full-page ad, and 10 reserved tickets; Silver ($500+) with a full-page ad, performance acknowledgment, and 10 tickets; and Bronze ($250+) with a half-page ad, acknowledgment, and 5 tickets. Advertising rates for the playbill are also available: full page ($100 business / $75 personal), half page ($70 / $50), and quarter page ($40 / $30). To participate, email high-resolution logos and/or ad inquiries to Lesley Cagle at lesley.cagle@allenikyschools.us. Make checks payable to “ACSHS Musical.”