J. Clarke Richardson has had many musicals over the years, ranging from movie recreations to plays inspired by masterpieces. This time, for the year of 2025, JCR has decided to put on the iconic musical, Mamma Mia. Mamma Mia was written by British playwright Catherine Johnson, based on songs recorded by Swedish group, ABBA and composed by members Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus. This play is well known for its interpretation of many kinds of love – whether it is romantic, platonic or familial. The different themes of love makes the play a memorable one as it evokes joy and nostalgia among the audience, in addition to celebration and happiness.

Set on a picturesque Greek island, this story follows Sophie who is a young bride-to-be, as she secretly invites three men from her mother (Donna’s) past in hopes of discovering which one of them is her father. Along with arranging a musical comes an unforgettable adventure of joy, friendships and long-lasting memories and experiences. Eye on the Storm asked a few questions for the main cast to answer, based on their experiences, personal feelings and work balance. While some questions were easier to answer, some questions really got them thinking! 

The poster that was made by the artistic students of JCR.

The cast’s questionnaire

How did you feel when you found out about your role in the cast?

Adrita, playing the lead role of Sophie, said that she felt “totally shocked,” to the point where she woke up the next morning and checked the final cast members!

Dash, playing the role of Donna (Sophie’s mother and Sam’s wife later on), said that she found it “unbelievable and exciting”.

Praveane, playing the role of Sam (Sophie’s father and Donna’s husband later on), said that he “wasn’t surprised because there wasn’t much competition for the role”.

How is this character similar or different to you?

Adrita said that both herself and Sophie were “rays of sunshine”. However, she also said, “Sophie tends to be impulsive and gets emotionally attached very quickly whereas I think things through.”

Dash said that Donna was similar to her as they share “hard working skills and care for loved ones”

Praveane said that Sam was quite different compared to him because “Sam was very stern and strict”.

Is it easier to play this character or to be yourself on stage?

Adrita said it is “a good mix of both,” as Sophie and herself had a lot in common.

Dash said “playing the character was pretty much being myself,” since Donna had a lot in common with her.

Praveane said that being himself was definitely a lot easier as “Sam is very stern and I’m quite chill”.

What do you love about this character?

Adrita said that she loves Sophie’s personality and she also “loves that Sophie has lots of love to give”.

Dash said she “loves the songs, costumes and lines,” of Donna.

Praveane said he “likes that even though Sam is stern, he is also pretty chill.”

Without giving anything away, what’s your favorite line of dialogue?

Adrita adores the prologue of the play, where Sophie sings the song, “I have a dream” as she posts the letters to the three men who are her potential fathers.

Dash loves the line, “Every morning I wake up and thank Christ that I don’t have some middle aged menopausal man to bother me.” Donna seems to be quite the feminist!

Praveane’s favorite line of dialogue is actually a small conversation among the potential fathers of Sophie, when they’re singing “Mamma Mia”:

BILL – Age does not wither her.

HARRY – I was expecting a rather stout matron.

SAM – No, she’s still Donna.

If you could play any other character in this show, who would it be?

Adrita said that she “could pull off Sam easily”. 

Dash said she “would probably play the character Harry”.

Praveane said that he “would play Pepper”, because it would be a different experience as Sam is stern whereas Pepper is goofy.

What do you think is going to surprise the audience the most?

Adrita thinks that the plot twists are going to surprise the audience the most.

Dash thinks that the chemistry and bond between the characters would surprise the audience the most.

Praveane, on the other hand, thinks that the play’s unhinged content would surprise the audience as it is a high school musical.

How did you feel when you were rehearsing for the first time? Did you feel confident or nervous?

Adrita felt nervous during her first time as “it is one thing to perform alone but it’s another thing to perform in front of an audience on a big stage”

However, Dash felt excited since she was confident with her parts in the play.

Praveane felt nervous as he was unsure.

Is balancing your school work and the musical stuff easy? What are some tips you would give for people struggling with work balance?

Adrita said that it’s “manageable” as “the musical activities are part of the course”. She also likes to listen to the play lines as she works on her other tasks.

Dash said that it’s “balanceable” and “partitioning your assignments” for each day would be a good strategy.

Praveane said that it’s “enjoyable” because it’s something that everyone loves to do, making it easier and fun. 

“Mamma Mia!” is a vibrant show that is guaranteed to make you feel good about life with heartwarming moments, and unforgettable songs by ABBA like “Dancing Queen”, “Money Money Money” and “Mamma Mia”. It will be a night of joy, energy, and dazzling performances by the talented students of J. Clarke Richardson Collegiate! Tickets are available on School Cash Online, starting December 18th, so make sure to get your tickets as early as possible! Prices are $10 for under 18 and $15 for adults to have a memorable night of fun, enjoyment and music!