Grace, Grantie Katy, Carson
Emerald City Theatre Summer Camp presents MAMMA MIA!
After two weeks of Abba immersion, the Mamma Mia – Group B premiered their production at the Royal George Cabaret Theatre. Their show was a reconstructed version of the well-known musical. The plot focused on the lead’s former band life instead of her love life. As Donna’s twin daughters are forming their own band, Awesome Sauce, they come across a poster of their mom’s group, The Dynamic Disco Divas. The girls scam a plan to reunite their mom with her gal pals.
Under the direction of Katie Gonring and assisted by Leah Tirado and Jared Rein, the show is a compact 40 minute, fun musical jam. The ensemble exude a youthful vibe as they bounce and sway to the classic tunes from the 70s. One of the best numbers is the title song, “Mamma Mia.” It features The Dynamic Disco Divas reuniting.
Whenever The Divas appear, their moxie fills the stage with high-spirited energy. Most notable is Grace Eitler* (Queenie). In her Chicago theatre debut, Eitler shines with the confidence of a seasoned veteran. She perfectly projects in banter and song. Not only does Eitler hilariously nail her one liners, she transforms into more of a dancing diva with each tune. The choreography has a little extra oomph under her execution. A hand rolls up, a hip bumps out, and there she goes again… Mamma Mia! Her presence indeed radiates a “Dancing Queen.” I look forward to seeing Eitler’s theatrical career progress.
*Full disclosure: Grace Eitler is my great niece.
Running Time: Forty minutes with no intermission
Based on the musical “Mamma Mia!”
Directed by Katie Gonring
Assistant directed by Leah Tirado and Jared Rein
August 8th at 2pm
For more information, visit www.emeraldcitytheatre.com