REVIEW: TUTS wows Houston audience with adaptation of ‘Mamma Mia’

Theater Under the Stars (TUTS) began the second half of its 50th Anniversary Season by presenting its own adaptation of the beloved musical “Mamma Mia!,” and the exceptional performance did not disappoint.

Millions of people around the world have fallen in love with the story about the hard-working mother, the righteous daughter, and the three possible fathers. Artistic Director Dan Knechtges did a wonderful job ensuring audiences had a marvelous time.

Houstonians attended the show, which ran from Feb. 19 through March 3, 2019, at The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts.

Aside from being my favorite films of all times, I also have a personal connection to “Mamma Mia.” In 2012, my high school presented its own adaptation of the musical and though it is hard to believe, I was “Tanya”, one of the main characters in the play.

That being said, going into the Hobby Center I knew every line, every song, every choreography, and my expectations were high.

To top it off, this was the first time I attended a play at the Theater District, so I did not know what to expect.

The Cast

The cast was the epitome of Houston’s diversity; there were talented actors from all ages, races and shapes. I went in thinking I would see actors similar to the characters in the play, but I was thrilled to see the diversity of Houston’s performing arts. All different, and all talented.

My favorite character was “Donna,” or Meryl Streep in the film. Actress Sally Wilfert performed a delightful adaptation of the character, and her voice was one of the ones that stood out to me the most.

The Orchestra and Songs

 It took about 30 minutes for me to realize the orchestra was playing from underground. The music was as seamless as the sound of a light breeze. There is no doubt the talented musicians shined at the ABBA-fueled show.

My favorite performance was, without a doubt, the song “Dancing Queen.” I like the concept behind the lyrics, the playfulness of the choreography, and the chemistry between the characters.

The Adaptation

TUTS’ adaptation of the play was another pleasant twist. Unlike the movie, the show had a bit of contemporary-dark humor, and there were a couple of adult jokes here and there. The audience was laughing all throughout the show while singing along to their favorite ABBA songs, which was satisfying to watch.

I have attended several plays in the past, and TUTS’ adaptation of “Mamma Mia” is now one of the tops on my list. If you have not had the chance to experience a TUTS’ production, I highly recommend you set the time to do so.

For more information on Theater Under The Stars click here.

For a list of upcoming performances, click here.