I’ll wager you know the lyrics to at least a couple of the irresistible ABBA songs from one of Broadway’s longest-running musicals (5,773 performances) – “Mamma Mia!” – which opens at Riverside Theatre this coming Tuesday, April 10. The jukebox musical phenom that sprang from a collection of the Swedish pop group’s mega-hits has been seen, says the theatre promo, by more than 60 million people in 50 countries since opening in London’s West End in 1999. This joyful musical is, of course, the story of Sophie, a young woman whose mom Donna, a single parent, has raised her on an idyllic Greek island, where she runs a picturesque but dilapidated old resort. When Sophie becomes engaged to the handsome and charming Sky, she dreams of having her dad walk her down the aisle, but Donna has never disclosed his identity. When Sophie discovers her mom’s diary, from her wild girl-band days, she learns that her dad could be one of three men, and decides, unbeknownst to Donna, to invite them all to the wedding, believing she’ll recognize her real Dad immediately. They all accept. With Donna’s two bandmates and Sophie’s two besties providing advice and an island full of wedding guests, locals, the potential dads, who returned to the island they had last visited two decades ago – and great ABBA tunes “Dancing Queen,” “Knowing You,” “Waterloo,” “Money, Money, Money,” “The Winner Takes It All,” “Mamma Mia” and over a dozen more – this one’s an absolute Must-See. “Mamma Mia!” runs through April 29. Tickets start at $35. 772-231-6990.
A gifted young musician with a “fervent love for the trombone,” VBHS senior Lance Lunceford will be featured in the Vero Beach Choral Society’s “Songs of the Soul Spring Concert” this Sunday at Community Church of Vero Beach. The Society’s Artistic Director Jason Hobratschk describes Lunceford as demonstrating maturity of musicianship, sensitivity in his playing and prodigious technical ability that is “remarkable to see in a young musician.” These characteristics led to Lunceford being awarded the Choral Society’s annual scholarship, first in a field of 12 outstanding applicants. “Songs for the Soul” was composed (but not named) by Mozart in 1780 for liturgical use in Salzburg. The second work on the program is the folk song cycle “The Sprig of Thyme” by John Rutter. Throughout its existence, the Choral Society has dedicated itself to enriching the community through performances and by providing educational opportunities, both of which will be clear in this uplifting spring presentation. Music begins at 4 p.m. Tickets are $20. 772-494-5011.
If you’re in the mood to rock your Friday night in a fun home-town way, with live music in a beautiful park right on the Indian River, circle Friday, April 13, on your calendar. Sebastian River Area Chamber of Commerce’s Concerts in the Park series has been rockin’ certain Friday evenings for 19 years now, with a variety of musical genres from popular area talent. Bring your chairs or blankets to Riverview Park on the 13th and enjoy the upbeat music of Ladies of Soul and their Ladies of Soul Band. Food (New York Nick’s Hot Dogs, Woody’s BBQ, Louie G’s Italian Ice, and Lions Club of Sebastian popcorn) and bevs are also available, and there’s most always a raffle. Admission, sunset and river breezes are free. Concert time: 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
