Mamma Mia! @ Highland Regional High School

Donna revives her youth with best friends Tanya and Rosie, Sky tries to prove himself husband-material amid the Sheridan family drama, and Sophie just wants a father to walk her down the aisle—but which one? Highland Regional High School captures the chaos-filled, iconic story of Mamma Mia in a production that's impossible not to love.

Set on the fictional Greek island of Kalokair, the story follows Sophie as she invites three men to her wedding, any of which could be her father. When they arrive, Donna confronts her past with each and ultimately rekindles her love for Sam, marrying him in an unexpected twist. Written by Catherine Johnson, Mamma Mia is a "jukebox" musical featuring ABBA's music, primarily from their self-titled 1975 album with music and lyrics by ABBA members Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus. Premiering in the London West End in 1999, it was nominated for "Best Musical", moved to Broadway, and later became a film franchise.

This production thrives on its dedicated ensemble, whose energy and enthusiasm elevate the show. The 19-person ensemble shines in numbers like "Mamma Mia!" striking poses in windows and walkways, infusing the show with vibrancy, especially when the leads' energy wanes.

While the ensemble brings vital energy, the leads shine with compelling, dynamic performances. Victoria Jefferson captures Donna's evolution from resilient and headstrong in "Money, Money, Money" to maternal and fulfilled in "Slipping Through My Fingers," conveying her desire for her daughter's happiness. Similarly, Jake Corsi's Sam Carmichael shows a remarkable transformation, moving from hesitant and burdened by his past to assertive and yearning for Donna's love, especially in Act II's "S.O.S." Additionally, Sadie Frame's interpretation of Sophie mirrors Amanda Seyfried's from the films, evolving from juvenile and unsure to mature and selfless, sacrificing her own wedding so her mother can experience the one she never had. This shift is reflected in Frame's vocal growth, as her voice becomes fuller and more powerful in numbers like "I Have a Dream" in the second act.

Sara Stevens and Joss Tomeo, as Rosie and Tanya, shine with impeccable chemistry, especially in "Dancing Queen," where their infectious popping-and-locking dance moves and passionate vocal growls enliven the stage. Stevens elicits roars of laughter with her hilarious chase sequence with Bill Austin, played by Ayodeji Victor Akilude, particularly when she crawls across chairs and adlibs comically. Both Stevens and Tomeo embrace their characters' adulthood and iconic mannerisms, grounding their performances in realism and perfect comedic timing. Featured dancer Giavanna Monaco also impresses in every number, particularly in "Does Your Mother Know," where her flawless execution of a split earns audible gasps from the audience.

Despite some technical glitches, the tech crew delivers impressive work. Standout elements include sharp green lighting in "Money, Money, Money," paired with striking silhouettes, creating a fierce visual effect during the number. A clever set extension in the form of boat docks also adds intimacy to "Honey, Honey," making the audience feel personally invited into the unfolding story.

As the final notes of the bows sing-along ring out, "Mamma Mia, does it show again?" is what everyone asked themselves after seeing Highland Regional High School's infectious and spectacular production of Mamma Mia!