By: Isabelle Yang, Sports Editor
For the 2025 spring musical, the Mills drama department will be performing its own version of Mamma Mia!, featuring the iconic music of famous pop group ABBA, energetic choreography, and heartfelt scenes. Although the production will be performed in late March, the cast and crew have been preparing since selective auditions last semester.
Mr. Hudelson, head of the Mills drama department, attests to the cast and crew’s hard work since Thanksgiving break. With weekly music, dance, and acting rehearsals, Hudelson believes the show will top those performed on Broadway or the West End. “There’s some more interesting scenic elements, and we’re really highlighting the idea of Greece and the idea of ABBA as key components of the play,” says Hudelson.
Hudelson also credits the production to everyone involved, from crew to teachers. Mr. Gregoric and Ms. Himes are respectively coaching the students through the music and dance aspects of the musical. “[Mr. Gregoric] is the only music director at any of our schools in the district who chooses to do the musical conduct and work with the kids,” says Hudelson. “He’s passionate about it. He’s a wonderful teacher.” He also mentions Ms. Himes’ knowledge of each student’s capabilities and supportive nature.
Additionally, the crew’s talent behind the scenes is essential to the musical’s success. “We have a super experienced crew with stage manager, Michelle Young, who’s done it before, two ASMs who have done it before, Mia Khan and Maya Eidson, and then a wonderful group of kids behind the board,” remarks Hudelson.
With ABBA being such an important role in the musical, auditions were held earlier to allow cast members to prepare for the complex songs over break. Naia Germain (11), acting as Sophie, listened to the songs and watched the film multiple times to prepare. Attending other high school productions of Mamma Mia! has also given her more insight into the musical. Brianna Kei (12), who will be playing Donna, highlights “The Dancing Queen”, “Slipping Through My Fingers”, and “The Winner Takes it All”.
Another crucial aspect of this production is the lively dances. Choreographed by Ms. Himes, the Mills dance teacher, the cast members have expressed their excitement about learning and performing the dances. “I’m really excited to learn and see the choreography [Ms. Himes] comes up with,” says Germain. “So far, we’ve only had one dance rehearsal, but the two songs she taught us looked really really good.”
The cast conveys their appreciation for Himes, who has been constantly preparing numbers for the show. “I expect the students to do their best to pick up choreography fast, review on their own time, and absolutely kill it on stage!” says Himes. Along with her expectations, she aims to make dancing fun and build confidence for the cast.
Furthermore, Kei looks forward to seeing the completed costumes and elaborate set, which features elements of Greece, where the musical takes place. “This year, the audience should expect a show that will bring them to the islands of Greece through stunning visuals, dances, and timeless songs,” says Kei.
With four consecutive shows in one weekend, the musical will be an exhilarating and interactive experience. “It’ll stay with you for, who knows, your whole lifetime. You’ll be a fan of ABBA and Mamma Mia,” concludes Mr. Hudelson.
