Here we go again

by Makayla Secrist Staff Writer

Mamma Mia! The original musical from 1999 is coming to Iowa Lakes Community College’s Performing Arts Center on April 2-4. Auditions to star in the show were held this week by the music department.

“People come in and sing a song that they choose,” said Brett Fuelberth, “and then also do a dance audition… After they read the lines [from the script], dance, and sing, we look to see who is the best fit for each role.”

Carol Ayres explains, “We need a minimum of six weeks with multiple rehearsals each week” to prepare for the final performance.

“There are so many parts of a musical – set construction, costumes, lights, sound, make-up, dancing, singing, memorizing lines, etc. – it requires many people and a lot of time to produce,” said Fuelberth.

“Casting decisions are absolutely the hardest part,” said Ayres about preparation for the annual musical. When asked what goes into deciding the musical for the year, Ayres said, “It is a group decision based on the strengths of our current music students.”

Ayres expressed great excitement when mentioning the musical will be held in the soon to be finished 500 seat Arts Center, ” I think it is going to be amazing to do our production in the new performing arts facility!  It’s such a beautiful space!”

Fuelberth had a slightly differing opinion on what he found most exciting in putting on a musical, “This show has some great ‘catchy’ songs that people grew up with and love.  It is fun seeing the audience (and the cast) really get into these fun songs!”

It’s not hard to see the excitement building in Iowa Lakes Community College music department as one of the first parts of production launched this week.

Anyone chosen to participate in the musical will be contacted directly and tickets go on sale no later than March 15.