The Weiner Takes It All

Last night I had the honor of shadowing the Stage Management team for the North American tour of Mamma Mia who is here in Pittsburgh performing at Heinz Hall for a week.  As per the standard non-disclosure of being backstage on a Broadway tour I can't share a lot of details, but it was fascinating to talk to the team about how the show (especially the tour) has changed in the past 10 years that it's been running.

One striking takeaway was the power of the ensemble.  In the audience you can often tell there are actors singing who aren't on stage and they are used to help round out and give depth to songs.  In Mamma Mia, the ensemble often sings offstage just before and just after their entrances.  During "The Winner Takes It All", however, the entire ensemble stands just offstage next to the SM console and backs up the principal female vocalist onstage.  The sheer power of all those voices singing one of the more beautifully arranged pieces in the show while they were literally standing right in front of you was mind blowing and chill inducing.  There aren't a ton of benefits to being stuck behind a console in the wings without a view of the stage, but this is a definitive perk. 

Although the storyline is mostly fluff, it is certainly an energized show that is the perfect upper after a long day at work.  If you have the chance this week, I'd consider it well worth your time.