**** Recommended **** Unlike most of my colleagues, I’d never seen “Mamma Mia” before, so the new production at the Paramount Theatre in Aurora was all brand new for me. While I loved hearing ABBA’s music, the orchestra overwhelmed the singers at time, and due to a microphone issue, the singers, especially the women, sounded downright screechy. Since ABBA requires sequins, costume designer Matt Guthier put the entire cast in sparkling white and silver for a glitzy encore including “Dancing Queen Hymn”, “I Do, I Do, I Do” and “I have a Dream”. The story, however, was entirely too predictable. I give “Mamma Mia” 3 ½ Spotlights.
“Mamma Mia” runs through October 30th at the Paramount Theatre, 23 E. Galena Blvd, Aurora. Running time is 2 hours, 30 minutes, with an intermission. Performances are Wednesday at 1:30 and 7:00 pm; Thursday at 7:00 pm; Friday at 8:00 pm; Saturday at 3:00 and 8:00 pm; and Sunday at 1:00 and 5:30 pm. Tickets range from $44-$59. Valet parking for a fee as well as free street or garage parking is available. FYI (630) 896-6666 or www.paramountaurora.com.
Read the rest of my review on www.spotlightonlake.com.
