USCHS Musical
USCHS to stage “Mamma Mia!” March 12-15
- Thursday, March 12: 6 p.m. (Family Night)
- Friday, March 13: 7 p.m.
- Saturday, March 14: 1 p.m.
- Saturday, March 14: 7 p.m.
- Sunday, March 15: 2 p.m.
More than 150 students are involved in the production, both on stage and behind the scenes, with additional students performing in the orchestra pit. The show marks the third year Dr. Stephen Torquato has directed the high school’s spring musical.
“With nearly 120 students in the ensemble, the 23 fun, upbeat, ABBA classics provide students a variety of opportunities to participate and the audiences a chance to sing along and dance in the aisles with our talented cast, crew and pit,” Dr. Torquato said.
The performance at 6 p.m. on Thursday, March 13 is billed as the Family Show. In addition to earlier start time, the show offers the chance to interact with the cast and crew.
“This year, we will continue our tradition of giving backstage tours to families and providing opportunities for younger students to get to learn about the musical process,” Dr. Torquato said.
Mamma Mia!’s high-energy, dance-driven score challenged students to sing, act, and move with constant focus, stamina and teamwork.
“Many performers continue to push beyond their comfort zones as they balance choreography with strong vocal and character work,” Dr. Torquato said. “These challenges became opportunities for growth, building confidence, discipline and a deep sense of ensemble.”
Audiences can look forward to several standout moments that capture the heart and energy of Mamma Mia!. Fan-favorite numbers like “Dancing Queen,” “Voulez-Vous,” and “Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!” bring infectious energy and unforgettable choreography, while songs such as “Slipping Through My Fingers” and “The Winner Takes It All” offer moving, intimate storytelling moments.
Whether on-stage or behind the scenes, students are learning important lessons in discipline, time management, collaboration, and how to persevere through challenges as part of a team.
“The high-energy, ensemble-driven nature of the show fosters confidence, resilience, and open-mindedness as students take risks and support one another,” Dr. Torquato said. “Most importantly, the experience builds a strong sense of community and shared accomplishment that students carry with them into their academic, personal, and professional lives.”
Dr. Torquato hopes audiences leave the show feeling joyful, energized, and deeply connected – to the music, the story, and to one another.
“Mamma Mia! is a celebration of love, family, and community, and we want that sense of warmth and shared happiness to linger long after the curtain closes,” he said. “Ideally, audiences walk out smiling, humming the music, and remembering the power of live theater to bring people together.”
Synopsis...
Get ready to say “I do, I do, I do” to the ultimate feel-good musical!
On a sun-drenched Greek island, young Sophie Sheridan is preparing for the perfect wedding. She’s got the groom, the gorgeous venue, and a heart full of hope—there’s just one thing missing: the father who’s supposed to walk her down the aisle. There’s only one problem… she has no idea who he is.
When her free-spirited mother Donna—once the powerhouse lead singer of Donna and the Dynamos—keeps the past tightly under wraps, Sophie launches a bold plan of her own. After uncovering hints in Donna’s old diary, she secretly invites three possible dads to the big day, convinced she’ll recognize the right one instantly. But when all three men arrive on the island, Sophie’s once-simple dream spins into a whirlwind of surprises, secrets, and sparkling chaos.
Set to the iconic smash hits of ABBA, Mamma Mia! is the global musical phenomenon that turns every performance into a celebration. With irresistible music, heartwarming comedy, and a story bursting with love, laughter, and the unexpected, this is a joyous island escape that will have audiences dancing in their seats!