As Urbana High School continues celebrating its 30th anniversary production of Mamma Mia!, it’s clear that the excitement goes far beyond the spotlight. While the first article focused on the scale of the show and its lead performers, this piece explores the teamwork, dedication, and energy that bring the entire production to life.
Ademide Akinsola, the Boys’ Vocal Captain and understudy for Sam Carmichael, plays a dual role in the production. “Which lets me help lead the guys vocally while also learning one of the most emotional roles in the show,” he explained. “I love getting to build tight harmonies with the boys and explore Sam’s vulnerable, heartfelt journey.” For Akinsola, the bonding process has been just as meaningful as the performance itself. Long rehearsals, the chaos of tech week, and hours spent singing the music of ABBA have brought the cast closer together. “Working toward the same goal has made us feel less like a cast and more like a little family,” he said.
That sense of unity extends beyond the lead roles and into the ensemble, where students work together to create the show’s most high-energy moments. Denzel Rivera, a member of the ensemble, said he loves being part of the big dance numbers that bring the Greek island setting to life. “There’s something really special about creating those huge, powerful group scenes together,” he shared. Rivera also pointed out that audiences may not realize how much effort goes into the details. From cleaning harmonies to perfecting choreography and timing backstage quick changes, every transition must run seamlessly. “There’s a ton happening backstage with mic swaps and set moves that have to be timed perfectly,” he said.
For fellow ensemble member Jonas Christiansen, one standout moment is the song “Lay All Your Love on Me.” He calls it his favorite because of its dramatic energy and exciting choreography. “It’s one of those numbers where everyone fully commits, and you can feel the excitement onstage,” he said. Christiansen believes audiences will be drawn to the show’s nonstop energy and heartfelt performances from start to finish.
Ella Chicoine, an ensemble member and show captain, echoed that enthusiasm. She said she was excited from the start because the musical is packed with upbeat, familiar songs. “Even as an ensemble, I get to be in huge dance numbers and feel like part of something really fun and powerful on stage,” she explained. For those unfamiliar with the story, Chicoine describes it as a “feel-good musical set on a sunny Greek island where a bride secretly invites three men to her wedding to figure out which one is her father. With comedy, romance, and nonstop dancing, the show keeps audiences smiling while celebrating themes of love and family.”
Josh Solomon, the boys’ dance captain and Eddie’s understudy, says that’s exactly why people should come see it. “The energy is unreal, especially in the dance numbers where the whole cast goes all out,” he said. “It feels bigger than just a typical school production.”
With passionate student leaders, a tightly bonded cast, and a soundtrack filled with timeless hits, Urbana’s anniversary production of Mamma Mia! promises to deliver not only island sunshine but also a powerful sense of community. As opening night approaches, one thing is clear: this show is more than a performance; it’s a celebration of 30 years of theater and the students who continue to bring it to life.
