This elegant, historical theatre was built in 1911. It was completely remodeled years later for the original production of "CATS. This site originally held the American Horse Exchange stables.My daughter and I approached the concierge at the New Yorker Hotel on Saturday @ l:35pm and inquired about tickets for that evening's performance of "MOMMA MIA!" Tickets cost $180 each but only single, balcony seats were available. For l/2 that price we could get 2 excellent mezzanine seats together, 5th row, center. THE CATCH: They were for the matinee show, which began at 2:00pm! We paid, took a cab to another hotel (where the tickets were), hoofed it two city blocks to the theater, and had 3 minutes to spare!
THE CAST:
Louise Pitre, well-known to Toronto theatergoers, made her B'way debut in this show. In the lead role of Donna, she portrays a vivacious, loving, highly emotional mother. NOTE: She'll be leaving the show on October 20th.
David Keeley is a very convincing Sam, former lover of Donna's. Past performances include a role on Broadway in "Mikado" as well as several Canadian shows.
Tina Maddigan, cast as the youthful bride-to-be, Sophie originated this role in Toronto. She brings an energy and sweetness of voice to this character.
Joe Machota is well cast as Sky, the groom-to-be. He too is making his B'way debut.
THE STORYLINE: The curtain opens to a tiny Greek island. It has been the home to Donna and Sophie for 20 years. Sophie does not know who her father is but is determined to find out and have him walk her down the aisle on her wedding day. There's a playful scene with Sophie and her two friends, Lisa and Ali, reading and acting out Donna's diary. Sophie learns the names of Donna's 3 former lovers and sends them wedding invitations falsely signed, "Love, Donna".
Things take on a frenzied pace when Rosie and Tanya, 2 of Donna's old friends and singing group partners arrive, soon followed by the 3 "candidates for fatherhood". Sophie finds creative ways to get the candidates alone and cross-examines them.
The show has a "surprise ending". The magical music of ABBA makes this show. The voice of Louise Pitre rocks the audience. The humor and pure joy elicited by Donna, Rosie, and Tanya's Dancing Queen number was enhanced by the glitzy, outlandish costumes.
INFORMATION:
Location: between 50th and 51st Sts
Tickets: ph #(212) 239-6200 or #800-432-7250. Website - TELECHARGE.
SHOWTIMES: Matinees @ 2PM, Evenings @ 8PM(except Sundays @ 7PM). 15 minute intermission for all performances.
SUGGESTION: Prior to your New York City visit, go to BROADWAY for listings of currently running shows, ticket prices/availability, locations, reservations, package deals w/hotels, etc.