Mamma Mia
at San Clemente

Reviewed on April 11, 2019

Elena Plumb
St. Margaret's Episcopal
Submitted for publication to OC Register

Take a Chance on San Clemente's "Mamma Mia!"
written by Elena Plumb, a senior at St. Margaret's Episcopal School

Sophie has a charming groom, a beautiful setting on the cliffs of a Greek isle, a fraught mother ensuring every detail is in place, and three utter strangers in attendance, any of whom may be her father – sounds like the recipe for a perfect wedding! Marked by ensemble cohesion, student-orchestrated technical elements, and plenty of dancing and jiving, San Clemente's "Mamma Mia!" is infectiously energetic.

Carlie McCleary commands the stage as Donna, portraying a complex character with unwavering vivacity and power. Whether fearlessly dancing atop her bed or quavering her voice as she embraces Sophie, McCleary evolves like a chameleon, humanely and gracefully capturing her character's every facet.

Speaking with high-pitched intonation and prancing with a bouncy gait, Emma Rhoades (Sophie) embodies the discernible naiveté of a young bride-to-be. In contrast, Justin McCoy smugly grins and puffs out his chest as he swaggers across the stage, playing to the impudence of her fiancé, Sky.

Zack Mallgrave (Harry), William Brown (Bill), and Braxton McGrath (Sam) eventually exhibit the same openness toward fatherhood, yet each actor establishes a distinct character. While Mallgrave and McGrath maintain upright postures and composure, Brown contorts his face and flails his arms in frenzy upon discovering Sophie may be his daughter.

Viviana Moiso is seductive as Tanya, sassily strutting and tossing her bobbed hair while her bumbling counterpart Rosie (Lainey Reyland) hobbles behind her. Despite her character's age and subtle physical frailty, Reyland exudes confidence and sensuality when lusting after a bewildered Bill in "Take a Chance on Me."

Lighting (Addy Awtry, Matt Condon, Kayleigh Cassidy, Tony Diaz) mimics the island sun, illuminating the stage with a consistent warm glow. Additionally, given the glitzy nature of the show, the team heightens the overall spectacle with flashing beams during "Gimme Gimme Gimme" and black lights during "Under Attack."

Not only does Hair and Makeup (Sophie Wehr, Abby Staffieri, Riley Arata, Tristen Wallace, Grace Browne) reflect the laid-back island culture, with the women of the ensemble wearing their hair in braids or beachy waves, but it highlights specific character traits. Rosie's face is painted with wrinkles, while Tanya rocks glittery eyeshadow and bold red lipstick.

Though upbeat and chock-full of talent, San Clemente's production provides more than an entertaining experience; it emphasizes the importance of female unity and empowerment, no matter which chapter of life one may be facing.

Elena Plumb
St. Margaret's Episcopal
Submitted for publication to OC Register

Take a Chance on San Clemente's "Mamma Mia!"
written by Elena Plumb, a senior at St. Margaret's Episcopal School

Sophie has a charming groom, a beautiful setting on the cliffs of a Greek isle, a fraught mother ensuring every detail is in place, and three utter strangers in attendance, any of whom may be her father – sounds like the recipe for a perfect wedding! Marked by ensemble cohesion, student-orchestrated technical elements, and plenty of dancing and jiving, San Clemente's "Mamma Mia!" is infectiously energetic.

Carlie McCleary commands the stage as Donna, portraying a complex character with unwavering vivacity and power. Whether fearlessly dancing atop her bed or quavering her voice as she embraces Sophie, McCleary evolves like a chameleon, humanely and gracefully capturing her character's every facet.

Speaking with high-pitched intonation and prancing with a bouncy gait, Emma Rhoades (Sophie) embodies the discernible naiveté of a young bride-to-be. In contrast, Justin McCoy smugly grins and puffs out his chest as he swaggers across the stage, playing to the impudence of her fiancé, Sky.

Zack Mallgrave (Harry), William Brown (Bill), and Braxton McGrath (Sam) eventually exhibit the same openness toward fatherhood, yet each actor establishes a distinct character. While Mallgrave and McGrath maintain upright postures and composure, Brown contorts his face and flails his arms in frenzy upon discovering Sophie may be his daughter.

Viviana Moiso is seductive as Tanya, sassily strutting and tossing her bobbed hair while her bumbling counterpart Rosie (Lainey Reyland) hobbles behind her. Despite her character's age and subtle physical frailty, Reyland exudes confidence and sensuality when lusting after a bewildered Bill in "Take a Chance on Me."

Lighting (Addy Awtry, Matt Condon, Kayleigh Cassidy, Tony Diaz) mimics the island sun, illuminating the stage with a consistent warm glow. Additionally, given the glitzy nature of the show, the team heightens the overall spectacle with flashing beams during "Gimme Gimme Gimme" and black lights during "Under Attack."

Not only does Hair and Makeup (Sophie Wehr, Abby Staffieri, Riley Arata, Tristen Wallace, Grace Browne) reflect the laid-back island culture, with the women of the ensemble wearing their hair in braids or beachy waves, but it highlights specific character traits. Rosie's face is painted with wrinkles, while Tanya rocks glittery eyeshadow and bold red lipstick.

Though upbeat and chock-full of talent, San Clemente's production provides more than an entertaining experience; it emphasizes the importance of female unity and empowerment, no matter which chapter of life one may be facing.

Hannah Frank
Tesoro
Submitted for publication to OC Facebook

Take a Chance On San Clemente's "Mamma Mia!"
written by Hannah Frank, a senior at Tesoro High School

On a small island in Greece, a young girl, Sophie, eagerly approaches marriage. But, upon the arrival of three men who may or may not be her father, who will be the one to walk her down the aisle? San Clemente's "Mamma Mia!" expertly brings life to the catchy music of ABBA while unveiling the heartwarming reality of a mother struggling to let her daughter grow up.

Stomping across the stage with purpose, Carlie McCleary portrays the fiery Donna Sheridan with a spunky yet maternal nature. McCleary's strong vocals and exaggerated, wide-eyed facial expressions grab focus in numbers such as "Mamma Mia," where she goes from man to man, grasping them close to her by their clothing, developing her clear, unresolved love.

Perfectly executing the young bride to be and her fiancé, Emma Rhoades and Justin McCoy exhibit the giddiness and flirtatiousness of a young couple as Sophie Sheridan and Sky. Rhoades bounces around the stage in an adolescent manner while McCoy remains grounded and gazes admirably into her eyes. Rhoades holds a sweet, genuine tone while singing and keeps up her bubbly energy to develop her evident youth. McCoy proves to be the alpha of his friend group with his overconfidence, leading the pack and showing off his backflip in "Lay All Your Love on Me."

A vivacious heartthrob, Viviana Moiso plays the sultry Tanya with elegance and poise. Speaking in a low, seductive tone, Moiso stands perfectly upright with pursed lips and a slight smirk, exuding confidence. Moiso schmoozes the ensemble with her suave movements and the seductive raising of one eyebrow.

Detailed props by Emily Colson decorate the set masterfully in pieces such as Harry's guitar and Donna's diary. Each prop displays extravagant detail and adds personality to the beachy Greek aesthetic of the show with bright colors and band stickers from the 1970s.

Marketing and Publicity by Kiana Reid promulgates the show by creating a GeoFilter on snapchat for the student population to see and use. Reid also crafted intricate wedding invitations on yellow stained paper and dispersed them across campus to make word of the wedding that takes place in "Mamma Mia!"

San Clemente's "Mamma Mia!" masterfully combines the bright colors and energy of the disco era with a lively cast to create a phenomenal show complete with the importance of love and family.

Hannah Frank
Tesoro
Submitted for publication to OC Facebook

Take a Chance On San Clemente's "Mamma Mia!"
written by Hannah Frank, a senior at Tesoro High School

On a small island in Greece, a young girl, Sophie, eagerly approaches marriage. But, upon the arrival of three men who may or may not be her father, who will be the one to walk her down the aisle? San Clemente's "Mamma Mia!" expertly brings life to the catchy music of ABBA while unveiling the heartwarming reality of a mother struggling to let her daughter grow up.

Stomping across the stage with purpose, Carlie McCleary portrays the fiery Donna Sheridan with a spunky yet maternal nature. McCleary's strong vocals and exaggerated, wide-eyed facial expressions grab focus in numbers such as "Mamma Mia," where she goes from man to man, grasping them close to her by their clothing, developing her clear, unresolved love.

Perfectly executing the young bride to be and her fiancé, Emma Rhoades and Justin McCoy exhibit the giddiness and flirtatiousness of a young couple as Sophie Sheridan and Sky. Rhoades bounces around the stage in an adolescent manner while McCoy remains grounded and gazes admirably into her eyes. Rhoades holds a sweet, genuine tone while singing and keeps up her bubbly energy to develop her evident youth. McCoy proves to be the alpha of his friend group with his overconfidence, leading the pack and showing off his backflip in "Lay All Your Love on Me."

A vivacious heartthrob, Viviana Moiso plays the sultry Tanya with elegance and poise. Speaking in a low, seductive tone, Moiso stands perfectly upright with pursed lips and a slight smirk, exuding confidence. Moiso schmoozes the ensemble with her suave movements and the seductive raising of one eyebrow.

Detailed props by Emily Colson decorate the set masterfully in pieces such as Harry's guitar and Donna's diary. Each prop displays extravagant detail and adds personality to the beachy Greek aesthetic of the show with bright colors and band stickers from the 1970s.

Marketing and Publicity by Kiana Reid promulgates the show by creating a GeoFilter on snapchat for the student population to see and use. Reid also crafted intricate wedding invitations on yellow stained paper and dispersed them across campus to make word of the wedding that takes place in "Mamma Mia!"

San Clemente's "Mamma Mia!" masterfully combines the bright colors and energy of the disco era with a lively cast to create a phenomenal show complete with the importance of love and family.

Elise Sorenson
Tesoro
Submitted for publication to OC Facebook

Gimme Gimme More of San Clemente's "Mamma Mia"
written by Elise Sorenson, a senior at Tesoro High School

Passion, love, and confusion tumble together to produce "Mamma Mia" at San Clemente. As one bride-to-be attempts to figure out who her father is, her mother does everything she can do avoid the sticky situation and focuses all her attention on her daughter's wedding.

Only wanting the best for Sophie (Emma Rhoades), Donna (Carlie McCleary) pushes through the turmoil albeit with minor struggles. McCleary portrays the perfect motherly form as she clings onto Rhoades and does not let her wander. By dancing, singing, and rolling herself up in a comforter to hide from reality, McCleary depicts the young mother who never truly grew up. On the other hand, Rhoades pushes her away with her strong voice and bold hand gestures. However, their smiles and sparkling eyes toward one another illustrates the love that will always last between a mother and daughter.

Just a boy in love, Sky (Justin McCoy) will do anything in his power to make Sophie content. McCoy steals the stage as he glides through his scenes with his charming smile. Effectively representing an alpha male, McCoy steers the boys in their dances and commands the way with pointed fingers. Smug and juvenile, he sways his way around Rhoades and lures her along by the hand as they go about displaying young affection for one another. Their story evolves as he frolicks around before the marriage, his eyes never once leaving her.

Always energetic and spritely, "Lay All Your Love On Me" emphasizes the playful atmosphere as the boys run out in wetsuits and flippers. The excitement shines on everyones face throughout the songs entirety.

Hair and makeup, designed by Sophie Wehr, impeccably evokes the island vibe and simplicity from the time period.

To further fabricate the beachy environment, costumes, designed by Gwen Mitrevski and Chloe Schweer, molds a unique look for everyone. The various patterns, jumpsuits, and bathing suits demonstrate the blissful surroundings.

Joy sparkles at San Clemente's rendition of "Mamma Mia". The lively atmosphere fosters an entertaining show that leaves everyone wanting more!

Elise Sorenson
Tesoro
Submitted for publication to OC Facebook

Gimme Gimme More of San Clemente's "Mamma Mia"
written by Elise Sorenson, a senior at Tesoro High School

Passion, love, and confusion tumble together to produce "Mamma Mia" at San Clemente. As one bride-to-be attempts to figure out who her father is, her mother does everything she can do avoid the sticky situation and focuses all her attention on her daughter's wedding.

Only wanting the best for Sophie (Emma Rhoades), Donna (Carlie McCleary) pushes through the turmoil albeit with minor struggles. McCleary portrays the perfect motherly form as she clings onto Rhoades and does not let her wander. By dancing, singing, and rolling herself up in a comforter to hide from reality, McCleary depicts the young mother who never truly grew up. On the other hand, Rhoades pushes her away with her strong voice and bold hand gestures. However, their smiles and sparkling eyes toward one another illustrates the love that will always last between a mother and daughter.

Just a boy in love, Sky (Justin McCoy) will do anything in his power to make Sophie content. McCoy steals the stage as he glides through his scenes with his charming smile. Effectively representing an alpha male, McCoy steers the boys in their dances and commands the way with pointed fingers. Smug and juvenile, he sways his way around Rhoades and lures her along by the hand as they go about displaying young affection for one another. Their story evolves as he frolicks around before the marriage, his eyes never once leaving her.

Always energetic and spritely, "Lay All Your Love On Me" emphasizes the playful atmosphere as the boys run out in wetsuits and flippers. The excitement shines on everyones face throughout the songs entirety.

Hair and makeup, designed by Sophie Wehr, impeccably evokes the island vibe and simplicity from the time period.

To further fabricate the beachy environment, costumes, designed by Gwen Mitrevski and Chloe Schweer, molds a unique look for everyone. The various patterns, jumpsuits, and bathing suits demonstrate the blissful surroundings.

Joy sparkles at San Clemente's rendition of "Mamma Mia". The lively atmosphere fosters an entertaining show that leaves everyone wanting more!