Mamma Mia! @ Winslow Township High School

Sail down the Mediterranean waters to an island looming with secret love affairs while Winslow High School blasts ABBA's greatest hits!

The iconic musical "Mamma Mia" first premiered on the West End in 1999 and later opened on Broadway in 2001. However, the musical is most notably recognized for its screen adaptation in 2008 starring Meryl Streep. The story takes place on a Greek island, following Donna as she plans her daughter Sophie's wedding. Without her mother's permission, Sophie invites three men who could be her father to the wedding, and the celebration of love spirals into a chaotic trip down memory lane as Donna faces her past summer flings.

This enthralling cast exploded on stage, seizing every opportunity to fill the room with radiance and vibrant melodious harmonies. The show was anchored by the ensemble's eruptive dance skills throughout every song. In addition to the talents exhibited by the cast on stage, the technical elements turned the stage into an immersive piece of artwork for the actors to live in.

Leading the cast as the strong, independent mother of Sophie, Shilo Garnett showcased her impressive range in the complex role of Donna. Her voice melted through the audience as she serenaded them with her powerful vocals and unique riffs. Garnett displayed her contrasting range of dynamics in "Money, Money, Money" and "Slipping Through My Fingers," adding peaks and valleys to her character. Soaking up the stage with her vulnerable acting chops and charismatic personality, Shilo Garnett proved herself as the winner who took all!

Rosie and Tanya, played by Cass Juarez and Amaya Albarran, respectively, exemplified the beautiful balance of comedy between the two best friends. Juarez and Albarran completed the iconic Donna and the Dynamos trio alongside Shilo Garnett with their masterful chemistry. Similarly, Daniel Aasa proficiently carried out witty one-liners in the hilarious role of Harry. His character never failed to provide a bit of comic relief to each of his scenes. The dance ensemble was the true standout of this production, executing expressive choreography in "Gimme Gimme Gimme" and "Voulez Vous." Rilissa Mazzeo and Hannah Velez captured the essence of talented background dancers with their effortless wave-like movements.

The technical aspects carried the production to another level, creating an enchanting world for the audience. The gorgeous set painted a picture of Donna's charming Mediterranean-style motel with string lights draped across the top of the stage, adding dimensions to the intricate structure. Additionally, vivacious hues engulfed the stage to mark the transitions of climactic moments. The illuminated space completed the storytelling of the show as a way to gather all of the technical elements into a melting pot of meaningful choices.

Winslow High School, "Thank You for the Music" and for giving an energetic performance of Mamma Mia filled with captivating dancing, stunning vocals, and unique character choices.