Newlands students join Mamma Mia!

Newlands College is one of four Wellington schools who will contribute cast members to Queen Margaret College’s production of the smash-hit musical Mamma Mia!

Patrick Saunders from Newlands College is a member of the ensemble.

Mamma Mia! will be performed at Queen Margaret College Hall from Thursday 30 March to Saturday 1 June at 7pm (and a 2pm Matinee on the Saturday).

Featuring ABBA’s hit songs such as “Dancing Queen,” “Take a Chance on Me,” and “The Winner Takes It All,”

Mamma Mia! has become a global phenomenon since its premiere in 1999.

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Set on a picturesque Greek island, Mamma Mia! famously chronicles the story of a single mum and her daughter on the eve of her wedding who dreams of having her father walk her down the aisle.

The only problem is, she has no idea who her father is.

Determined to find out, she invites three men from her mother’s past to her wedding, leading to a hilarious and touching journey of love, friendship, and family.

The production will feature a cast of exceptional student performers from Queen Margaret College as well as Newlands College, Wellington College, St Patrick’s College and Hutt Valley High School.

Under the direction of Julie O’Brien, the cast has been rehearsing complex dance routines, vocal harmonies, and dramatic scenes that make Mamma Mia! such a beloved production.

Julie is an accomplished director with nearly 40 years of experience in the performing arts industry having directed and performed shows in New Zealand, Australia, London, and New York.

In addition to the talented cast and crew, the production of Mamma Mia! has also been supported by the expertise of Musical Director, Mark Stamper.

Mark, who also is Queen Margaret College’s Senior Choir Director, has been a choral conductor for over 40 years, working with singers of diverse genres, ranging from Opera to Musical Theatre.

The choreography created by Step Out Dance Company’s Director, Molly Gare, is a particular highlight, blending classic disco moves with Greek-inspired flourishes to create a unique and engaging performance.

“These performers train as hard as elite athletes, and their performances show this as they work tirelessly to perfect every aspect of this production, from the singing and dancing to the acting and storytelling,” Queen Margaret College’s Principal Jayne-Ann Young says.

“I am so excited to work with such a talented cast,” Julie O’Brien says.

“They have truly embraced the essence of this fantastic musical and brought their own flair and creativity to the production.”

Tickets to Mamma Mia! are available at qmc.school.nz/events.