Plenty to Sing About During Citadel's Mama Mia! Sing-Along

By Bailey Angel Citadel Theatre recently welcomed the community to its first Mamma Mia! Sing-Along, an outdoor fundraiser on the lawn of the Gloria Dei Center at Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart. Over one unforgettable July weekend, about 500 audience members packed elaborate picnic baskets, donned feathered boas and enjoyed music, laughter and community.

The fundraiser brought together an all-star cast made up of familiar faces from throughout the Citadel family, including Mainstage performers, Theatre for Young Audiences artists, education staff and students, and even Managing Director Ellen Phelps. Directed by Education Director Erin Ammer, with music direction by Chris Dockum and choreography by Grey Sindaco, the event invited audiences to sing along to ABBA favorites, including Mamma Mia!, Super Trouper, Dancing Queen and more. The disco-filled experience featured themed costumes, audience "BOA-ography," bubbles, raffles and even a visit from a shaved ice truck.

The evening showcased the talent of the Citadel family, with memorable performances from Melody Rowland, Ellen Phelps, Annie Beaubien, Bailey Angel, Tom Beck, Kyle Twomey, Perry Georgopoulos, Chris Dockum and education students who added an especially sweet moment with Thank You for the Music. As the sun set over the lawn and the audience sang together, it was clear that Citadel had created more than a fundraiser; it had created a community celebration.

Citadel Theatre's new season begins with Eureka Day on Sept. 11, followed by its 12th Annual Fundraising Gala, Dance830, on Sept. 26.