About the show

The award-winning Barrie theatre company, Kempenfelt Community Players’ (KCP) presents, Mamma Mia!, live, on stage from February 6th through the 16th, 2020 at the Georgian Theatre at Georgian College.   

Featuring familiar favourites from the Swedish super-group ABBA including Dancing Queen, Lay All Your Love On Me, and of course, Mamma Mia, this smash hit musical will have you jumping out of your seat, laughing until you cry, and singing along at the top of your lungs.
Set on an idyllic Greek island, Mamma Mia! tells the story of Donna, an independent, single mother whose daughter, Sophie, is getting married…tomorrow! For Sophie’s wedding, Donna has invited her two best girlfriends to celebrate the occasion, but Sophie has secretly invited guests of her own – three men from Donna’s past … in the hopes that one of them will be the father she’s never known. 

This vivacious musical comedy showcases love in its many forms: new friends, old friends, mothers and daughters, one-night flings, and life-long love. It makes for a perfect girl’s night out, mother-daughter date, or Valentine’s Day night-out.  

MAMMA MIA! is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). www.MTIshows.com

Show Gallery

The Production Team

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Janet Ness - Director

When 10-year old Janet first sang at a fashion show she fell in love with the stage. High school was filled with theatrical experiences. She went on to major in theatre. It was “on the road” singing after that, until she knew she had to share her love of the arts. Enter teaching music, art, and drama and joining community theatre. Regularly now you can find her as vocalist with the Baytowne Big Band or the Cadillac Crew dance band or rehearsing with cohorts in community theatre. Not there? I guess she’s upstairs painting or cooking in the kitchen.

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Chris Ness - Music Director

Chris loves living in Barrie. Gigs and rusty old motorcycles keep him happy. Now retired from full-time music teaching, team directing community theatre projects with Janet is the icing on his cake. Resident pianist with the Baytowne Big Band, straight guy with Moonglow, and subbing in with Wreckroom Elvis still allow time for Chris and Janet to perform in The Cadillac Crew. 

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Kieren Day - Choreographer

Kieren’s passion for the arts started at the young age of five and he has since turned that passion into his career. Kieren attended York University as a dance major and then returned back to Barrie to teach dance and theatre at Moving Art, and has been doing so for the past nine years. He has also completed the four-year teacher training program at Dance Masters of America in New York.

Kierenʼs first love is dance but he also trained in musical theatre growing up. This will be his 5th time choreographing a KCP production. He has also choreographed and assisted with many shows at Moving Art and The Loft Art Space.

He would like to thank Carla Tucker for all that she has done for him, as he would not be where he is without her.  He also wants to thank Janet and Chris for always being a pleasure to work with. Kieren also wants to thank YOU, and hopes you have fun, sing along, and unleash your inner Dancing Queen!

PRODUCERS:

Pam Sparrow

Julie Underhill

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Rosa Ringhofer - Stage Manager

Rosa is so happy to be making her debut as Stage Manager with KCP. As an Elementary School Music Teacher, Rosa wants to share her passion for the arts with her students. She has also directed, choreographed and stage managed school productions and concerts at her school. This is Rosa’s 5th year with KCP. She would like to thank everyone who has supported her in this journey. 

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Barbara Canning

Barb is a retired High School Art teacher who enjoys painting and singing. She performed in many KCP productions before the choreo became too much for her. So now she designs and paints the stage sets. Her last one was “Fiddler on the Roof” for South Simcoe Theatre for which she won an award. It’s great to be back designing with Janet Ness for a KCP production.

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Hans Vander Mey - Set Construction Lead

Hans has built a lot of things in more than 50 years in construction, but never a Greek Islands get-away. A newcomer to set building with only one other show under his belt, The Wedding Singer, Hans couldn’t resist this chance to re-create the Villa Donna on stage. Now, with the support of a great team of craftspeople, he can add this little piece of Mediterranean magic to his resume.

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Lighting Design Team

Noah Hollinshead (KCP) & Beth Elliot (Georgian Theatre)

The Cast

 
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Kari Bacon - Ensemble

Kari is so excited to be a part of the ensemble cast! She used to be a member of the Barrie Soundwaves Chorus before joining KCP last year. This is her second production with KCP, and she has loved working with this hilarious cast. Huge thanks to her husband Mike, and her family & friends for their continued support of her love of musicals!

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Keelan Ballantyne - Sky

Keelan is excited to be back onstage with KCP. He has been apart of the Barrie theatre community for the past 10 years. Past credits include Rent(Moving Art), Billy Elliot(YESTheatre), The Cenotaph Project(Theatre By The Bay. Recently he directed KCP’s Madagascar Jr.. This show is full of well known songs that span generations! Enjoy the show and Thank you for the music!

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John Baynham - Priest & Ensemble

New to theatre, John comes by his musical background honestly. Being Irish/Welsh, John has been singing since his years in Junior High. While this is John’s first show with KCP, he is no stranger to the stage. Since retiring, John has sung in several Nursing Homes, and participated in several Tribute Competitions, in the Barrie, and Southern Ont. Area, with his Tribute to Frank Sinatra.

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Carley Beattie - Ensemble

After Stage Managing for KCP’s pervious two Junior productions, Carley Beattie is so excited to return to the stage for ‘Mamma Mia’. With over 12 years of experience in theatre (some of which are: “Shrek the Musical”, “Wizard of Oz”, and “School of Rock: Youth Production”) Beattie is ready to explore the world of ABBA. Beattie would like to thank everyone involved both on and off stage.

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Jennifer Bedard - Ensemble

Jennifer is a Barrie native who has always loved performing. She studied voice with Edwina Douglas, and was a member of the Strolling Youth Players. As an adult she has sung at St. Thomas’ church Fifth Avenue in New York City, and was a member of Bravado! Show Choir. She now teaches Musical Theatre and Barrie Dance Conservatory dance studio, and is exited to make her debut with KCP.

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Katie Bekking - Lisa

Katie is very excited to be apart of KCP’s Mamma Mia! Katie has a degree in vocal music from the University of Western Ontario and is currently working as a teacher. Past roles include The elf in KCP’s Shrek, Nancy in KCP’s Oliver! And Addaperal in KCP’s The Wiz. She would like to thank her husband Bryan and her family for supporting her musical endeavours. Enjoy the show!

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Aaron Bennett - Ensemble

Aaron is excited to be a part of another KCP production! This will be Aaron’s 6th show with the company and is happy to be a part of such a talented ensemble. Previous roles include “Bill Sykes” in “Oliver! The Musical”, “The Big Bad Wolf” in “Shrek! The Musical”, and “Sammy” in “The Wedding Singer. When not on stage, Aaron can be found teaching Kindergarten Phys Ed at KBS.

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Taylor Byer-Nicholoff - Ensemble

Taylor has been performing onstage since the age of eight in many school and community theatre productions. She is overjoyed to make her return to theatre since “Footloose” with South Simcoe Theatre in 2011. Taylor is a Registered Massage Therapist and in her spare time she loves to train in all different styles of dance such as jazz, musical theatre, contemporary, heels and hip-hop.

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Michael Card - Sam

Having joined KCP for the production of “Oliver”, and recently the “Wedding Singer” this past May, Michael is grateful to the production team for inviting him to be part of this talented cast. Michael’s passion for musical theatre has been inherited by his two young boys Jack and Sam, as he fills his home with music. He especially thanks his wife Paula for her support and encouragement.

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Ishmael C. Dalm - Ensemble

Ishmael Dalm is excited to be performing with KCP for the first time. This is his first musical, but he has been involved in several coral groups throughout High School and University, travelling on tour to New York City and the Netherlands. He would like to thank the KCP community for their warm welcome.

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Jenna Dalm - Ensemble

Jenna is excited to be performing on the KCP stage for the second time since her performance in KCP’s Wizard of Oz. She has enjoyed serving the Ontario theatre community the last few years in the role of director, stage manager, actor, costumer. “Mamma Mia” is a childhood favourite of hers and she is so thankful to KCP for this opportunity to help bring it to life.

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Charlene Day - Ensemble

Charlene is excited to be back on stage after a 5 year hiatus, joined by her husband, Jason. Though classically trained in opera, she loves performing in community musical theatre. Charlene has been a KCP member since 2001, and she’s proud to be the Director of Communications on the Board for the last 2 years. Charlene also teaches voice lessons at Moving Art & is a SCDSB supply teacher.

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Victoria Dennis - Sophie

Victoria is absolutely thrilled to be back with KCP after a nine-year hiatus! Since we last saw her on this stage, Victoria has earned her HBA in Theatre & Drama Studies (UofT) and her diploma in Acting (Sheridan College). She wants to thank Janet & Chris for this opportunity, as well as the Will to her Grace – Kieren Day – for his endless support. Thank YOU for supporting local theatre!

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Rachel Deschamplain - Ensemble

Rachel is beyond excited to be a part of the cast for KCP’s Mamma Mia! this season. She grew up with the songs from this show. Rachel has been acting and singing since early elementary school and plans to continue for all eternity, if possible. Though, she does hope to break into the Voice Acting world, acting on the stage will always be her first love.

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Paul Disera - Bill

Paul is very excited to be a part of another KCP production after being bitten by the theatre bug while performing in Shrek last season. Paul would like to thank the Mamma Mia Team and Cast for a fun and challenging experience, and is so grateful for his family’s unwavering support and inspiration. Thank you for supporting musical theatre… without a song or a dance, what are we? Enjoy!

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James Dobson - Ensemble

James is happy to be back with KCP after a six year hiatus from community theatre. Previous roles include Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (Reuben), Anne of Green Gables (Mr. Philips), The Full Monty (Ethan), and Spamalot (Patsy). James would like to thank Janet, Chris, Kieren, and the cast of Mamma Mia for their support. I know my own mamma mia would have loved this one xo

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Kirstie Duke - Ensemble

Here we go again! Kirstie is excited to be a part of her 8th KCP production, joining in on this incredibly fun and talented ensemble. Previous roles include “Nancy” in “Oliver! The Musical”, “Humpty Dumpty” in “Shrek”, and “Cindi Lauper” in “The Wedding Singer.” When not singing or on stage, Kirstie is an experienced equestrian and an Admin Assistant for a pool/landscape company.

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Burke Erwin - Harry

Mamma Mia is Burke’s third production with KCP. When not playing a unadventurous stick in the mud, Burke can be found teaching at Barrie North Collegiate. If Burke is not in class, he is probably coaching football or rugby or perhaps “headbanging” with his band Table 9. Burke would like to thank his wife and daughters for always encouraging him.

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Alison Golding - Ensemble

Alison is excited to be in her second show with KCP. After studying vocal music at Wilfrid Laurier University, Alison changed paths to embark on a career in education. This production provided an opportunity for Alison to rekindle her love of performing. Alison would like to say, “Thank you for the Music” to the Mamma Mia team. She hopes that you all enjoy the show as much as she does!

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Michelle Greig - Ensemble

This is Michelle’s 2nd performance with KCP. After performing in the wedding singer last spring, she is thrilled to be back on stage again. She got her start in acting in high school plays and moved onto both performing and directing at University. When not on stage, she can be found at RVH creating radiation therapy plans. She also enjoys songwriting and performing at local venues.

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Lorie Hanley - Tanya

Favorite roles include Queen Aggravain in Once upon a Mattress, in which she won a Thea for Best Support Actress, Magenta in The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Marilla Cuthbert in Anne of Green Gables, Liz The Last Resort, Lady Jacqueline Me & My Girl, Lion Wizard of OZ. Commercial banker by day … Lorie’s love for the stage is only superseded by her love for her family and dogs!

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Ainsley Hobart - Ensemble

Ainsley entered the world of music at a young age, and had aspirations to be in her highschool’s musical, Seussical, which opened her eyes to the joy of being in theater. Having recently moved to Barrie, Ainsley took the KCP auditions for Oliver! in 2017 as an opportunity to get involved in the community and meet new people. This is her third show in the area and she can’t wait for more!

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Kristine Hutchens - Ali

Kristine is thrilled to be a part of this production of Mamma Mia! She has a love for theatre and the magic that can happen. Kristine would describe herself in three words: hard working, alpha male, jack hammer, merciless, insatiable. And a big fan of The Office

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Mariah Johnstone - Ensemble

Mamma Mia is the 3rd KCP show Mariah has performed in. She feels blessed to have a husband & kids that love theatre as much as she does.The stage in their basement provides countless hours of fun for friends and family & has inspired the next generation of performers. Building sets & creating costumes for KCP and being the director of programming for KCP is something she takes pride in.

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Betty Kelly - Ensemble

Here goes Betty again being part of this fun show, together with such a talented cast and production team .Last seen as ‘Rose’ in the ‘Wedding Singer’ Betty is delighted to be in K.C.P.s Mama Mia.Many thanks to family and friends for their support.

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Gillian LaCroix - Ensemble

Gillian is thrilled to be back for her 12th season with KCP. Her favourites are the ones that really challenge her vocally and physically. Top of her list are Spamalot (Laker girl), Les Mis, Wizard of Oz (Glinda), 9to5 (Margaret), Full Monty (Joannie), Joseph & the ATD & Evita…and now Mamma Mia. She hopes this will become one of your favourites too! Big thank you for all the support!

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Jason MacKenzie - Eddie

Jason is thrilled to be a part of this KCP production beside his wife Charlene. His family convinced him to audition so he could see his wife once in a while. He is excited to play the role of Eddie, his first speaking role in 17 years. Jason hopes to continue working with KCP and his wife for many more shows.

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Aaron Maynard - Pepper

Mamma Mia is Aaron’s 6th show with KCP following his portrayal of Robbie Hart in last season’s staging of The Wedding Singer. While not performing Aaron can usually be found embarrassing himself on any dance floor, interrupting you, or mumbling “serenity now” while scrubbing crayon off every surface of his home… again. He has 3 daughters, 1 amazing wife, and loves chicken wings.

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Bob McEwan - Ensemble

Once again, an amazingly talented cast and a strong production team ! Having previously performed in a number of musicals and cabarets in Muskoka, Mamma Mia is Bob’s sixth show with KCP, most recently as Billy Idol in “The Wedding Singer”. This has been another great group to work with, and everyone has been working hard to put together a great show. Enjoy the performance !

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Nancy McFadgen - Ensemble

This is Nancy’s first time performing with KCP. Growing up dancing made her comfortable on stage however adding the singing and acting presented some challenges. After watching her daughters perform with KCP she was inspired to give it a try. She hopes you enjoy the show. Now, the night is young and the music’s high so sit back, relax and Honey Honey, have a blast!

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Kristin Nevils - Ensemble

Kristin is so excited to be making her KCP debut with such a talented group of people in one of her favourite on stage productions! Kristin, a supply teacher with the SCDSB, grew up taking dance lessons and singing in her Church and school choir. She would like to thank KCP for welcoming her, and her family for their support!

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Lori Scholten-Dallimore - Donna

Lori is thrilled to be in KCP’s Mama Mia! Since childhood, performance has been Lori’s passion. At 12, she had her first lead role in a musical and went on to study classical voice. Past credits with KCP include Oliver, Mary Poppins, and Anne of Green Gables. Enormous thanks to the production team and her cast mates for an amazing time and to her family and friends for all their support!

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Pam Sparrow - Rosie

Pam is thrilled to be playing Rosie and has relished the role of co – producer. Thank you, Julie, for your mentorship; to the production team and everyone on/off stage for your hard work to bring this together. Personal on-stage highlights include; Maureen in RENT; Janet in Rocky Horror Picture Show; Logainne in The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee; and Doralee in 9 to 5. ENJOY!

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Kelsey Stanczyk - Ensemble

When Kelsey moved to the Barrie area in 2018, she saw KCP as an opportunity to meet new people and make connections in her community. This has proven to be a fantastic choice as she has already made many new friends. Mamma Mia! is her second show with KCP. She has previously starred in The Wedding Singer (KCP), Bare! A Pop Opera (London, ON), and A Chorus Line (Simcoe, ON).

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Liisa Taverner - Ensemble

Liisa is celebrating a decade of theatre with KCP! It is wonderful to be sharing the stage with such talented and fun cast and crew members. She works at Kempenfelt Bay School where she loves to bring some theatrics into the classroom. Many thanks to her family near and far and to her friends for their continued love and support. Have fun! “You can dance, you can jive…… !”

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Julie Underhill - Ensemble

Julie has enjoyed juggling the roles of cast member and co-producing for Mamma Mia! A big thank you to Pam for agreeing to co-produce! When not doing musical theatre, you can find Julie at Twin Lakes Secondary School where she is enjoying her 3rd year as Principal. Thank you to John for also jumping in and helping behind the scenes with KCP!

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Jackie Wright - Ensemble

Jackie Wright is so excited to join the cast of Mamma Mia in her first play with KCP. She currently lives in Orillia and is an elementary school teacher in Oro Medonte. Jackie’s first experience with community theatre was in her role as General Cartwright in Guys and Dolls with the Mariposa Arts Theatre.

The Production Crew

 
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Alice Duke - Costume & Props Mistress

Alice is excited to be working on another KCP production. After all the fun she had assisting with The Wedding Singer, Alice has decided to take on a bigger role this year in costumes and props! She would like to thank her team mate Jackie for all the support and fun and to the cast and crew for making her job so easy. Alice hopes you enjoy the show!

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Jackie Jesso - Costume and Props Mistress

Jackie started volunteer with KCP 4 1/2 years ago when her son got his first role as Beast in Beauty and the Beast Jr. At that time she began ushering at the shows. Since then Jackie has helped lead props, painted sets, been an ASM and a stage manager with more to come. Such great experiences with great people, thank you Connor for introducing me to KCP!

Venue – Georgian Theatre

Georgian Theatre

1 Georgian Drive Bldg C, Barrie, ON, L4M 6J8

Thanks to our amazing sponsors!