Bonney Lake High School’s Mamma Mia! Delivers a High-Energy Production Led by Standout Performances
- The Insider
- 14 hours ago
- 4 min read
It doesn’t take long to realize Bonney Lake High School’s production of Mamma Mia! is something special.
From the opening number, Emma Brown commands the stage as Sophie Sheridan, delivering a confident and captivating vocal performance that immediately pulls the audience into the story. It’s the kind of presence that feels rare for any performer, let alone a freshman, and it sets the tone for a production filled with energy, precision, and heart.
Under the direction of Dr. Dan Lysne, the production is both polished and well-paced, balancing high-energy ensemble numbers with meaningful, emotional moments. That balance allows the show to flow naturally, keeping the audience engaged from start to finish.
Backed by a live orchestra under the direction of Lucas Webster, the music carries a richness that elevates the entire performance. Vocal director Amy Fuller, who is also on piano throughout the show, plays a key role in bringing the score to life while guiding the cast’s strong, layered harmonies. Together, the orchestra and vocal direction create a full, balanced sound that enhances each number from start to finish.
Emma Brown leads the production as Sophie Sheridan, anchoring the story with a steady and consistent performance throughout. Alongside her, Clara Parrish delivers a commanding performance as Donna Sheridan, bringing powerful vocals and emotional depth, particularly in the second act, creating a dynamic where both performers share the spotlight in different but equally impactful ways.
That chemistry is on full display in the show’s biggest moments.
Clara Parrish reaches the emotional peak of the production with a stunning performance of “The Winner Takes It All,” singing directly to Carlos Gil as Sam Carmichael in a scene filled with vulnerability and strength. It’s a standout moment that showcases her control, presence, and ability to fully connect with the audience, marking one of the most memorable performances of the night.
The bond between Donna and Sophie also shines in a heartfelt moment late in the show, where Parrish’s solo transitions into a brief duet with Brown. The pairing of their voices creates a touching mother-daughter exchange that blends emotion and vocal strength in one of the production’s most impactful scenes.
Beyond the leads, the full cast contributes to a well-rounded and engaging performance.
Kia Tower and Sienna Cacciatore shine as Rosie and Tanya, delivering strong harmonies and lively performances throughout, including a standout rendition of “Dancing Queen” alongside Parrish. Tower’s comedic timing is especially evident in “Take a Chance on Me,” where her charisma and playful delivery provide one of the night’s most entertaining moments.
Cacciatore, also a freshman, emerges as another standout, combining strong vocals with confident stage presence and sharp choreography in a high-energy number that highlights her as one of the production’s rising talents.
The supporting cast continues to add depth and balance, with Keegan McRae as Harry Bright, Ezekiel Castro as Sky, Aaron Hansen as Bill Austin, and others delivering meaningful performances that contribute both humor and emotional weight. From lighthearted scenes, such as the comedic pre-wedding antics of the three potential fathers, to emotionally driven moments like the duet “SOS,” performed by Clara Parrish and Carlos Gil, the show maintains a strong sense of pacing and variety.
That pacing is one of the production’s greatest strengths.
The cast moves seamlessly between emotional storytelling and high-energy ensemble numbers, with transitions that feel smooth and intentional. Full-cast performances are consistently tight, with everyone in step and fully engaged, a testament to the work of choreographer Meagan Hood.
Behind the scenes, the production is just as polished. The audio throughout the show is clear and well-balanced, allowing each vocal and musical moment to land effectively, while the lighting design enhances both the energy of large ensemble numbers and the intimacy of quieter scenes. The technical crew plays a crucial role in bringing the entire production together, and their work does not go unnoticed.
The show builds to a joyful and fitting conclusion with “I Have a Dream,” as Brown returns to the spotlight before the full cast joins in, creating a heartfelt and uplifting finale. As the cast takes their bows, the energy continues with a fun reprise of “Mamma Mia,” with the entire group dancing and celebrating together, clearly enjoying the moment and leaving the audience on a high note.
Adding to the experience is the Bonney Lake High School Performing Arts Center itself. With excellent acoustics, comfortable seating, and an inviting atmosphere, it provides the perfect setting for a production of this caliber. It’s the kind of venue that makes attending a show feel like more than just a school event, it feels like a true night at the theater.
In the end, this is more than just a well-executed musical. It’s a production filled with talent, energy, and heart, from a standout freshman lead to a cast that works seamlessly together to bring the story to life.
For the Bonney Lake community, Mamma Mia! is well worth the time. Between the strong performances, polished choreography, live music, and overall production quality, this is a show that deserves a full audience.
