ACT of CT, “Mamma Mia!”, and Ridgefield
– A Note from Director Daniel C. Levine
It is hard to believe that the day that Katie and I visualized just two years ago is finally here. “Mamma Mia!” is our inaugural production in our brand-new space, and we could not be more excited that you are here with us today. What a journey it has been! From creating the company (ACT of CT), to securing the most remarkable board members, to working with the town in order to move into this Schlumberger property, to enlisting the help of the finest architects and theater technicians, to renovating the building, to fundraising and sponsorships…the list goes on (and on!!!). I struggled with which show would be best to open the theater. There are so many amazing musicals to choose from, it was very hard to decide. During my weekly walk on Main Street, or my weekend trip to Stop & Shop, or my running into CVS, I would ask people, “what is your favorite musical?”. And, while Ridgefield seems to have VERY sophisticated taste, the majority of people that I asked (sometimes embarrassed to admit) answered with “Mamma Mia!”.
I have been a part of “Mamma Mia!” since the original Broadway production. It is a show that I performed in from 2000 – 2003, and it was a magical show to be a part of. I believe that (especially in today’s climate) everyone could use an escape to a little Greek Island with the songs of ABBA just making you feel good. “Mamma Mia!” never fails to bring a smile to your face. And what a cast we have assembled! This is by far the best “Mamma Mia!” company that I have worked with to date. Not only great actors, fantastic singers and dancers – but wonderful people.
The building has been a construction zone (literally) up until June 3. It certainly was “challenging” trying to rehearse ‘The Winner Takes It All’ with the sound of bulldozers outside the window. Or trying to stage ‘Money, Money, Money’ with the seats (that you are sitting in) being installed and secured to the floor (yes, our seats arrived three days before opening night). Or choreographing ‘Waterloo’ with the faint smell of paint fumes wafting by. Did I ever hear one complaint from this cast? No. They were all professional, excited, supportive, and game. And we could not be more grateful to this very first company of actors, musicians, and technicians.
We at ACT of CT have some incredible things planned for our audiences over the next few years. Next season: “Evita”, Stephen Schwartz’s “Working”, and “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee”. Some titles you will know, others you might not be too familiar with. I assure you, all will make you laugh, cry, think, grow, and will start conversations and discussions. We all need to be entertained and we are grateful that you have welcomed ACT of CT into our community.
The first four words in “Mamma Mia!” are ‘I Have A Dream’. Very fitting for us today. We thank you Ridgefield, for helping to make the dream of ACT of CT a reality!
– Daniel C. Levine, ACT of Connecticut Artistic Director
