By Jabe BELL

“Mamma Mia!” It’s that time of year for the CVHS musical.

Indeed, it’s nearly time for the talented and creative minds at Crescenta Valley High School (CVHS) to premiere their spring musical, “Mamma Mia!,” to the general public. Since the fall, the  members of CVHS’s theater, stage and music departments have worked together to create an unforgettable showing, and starting on Friday, February 24, the general public will be able to watch it live in the school’s MacDonald Auditorium. After that, there will be additional performances throughout the weekend and again on March 4 and 5.

It’s a labor of love that puts together a unique array of CVHS Falcon talent; not only are there skilled actors taking the stage, but there’s a pit orchestra that will give them a harmony and beat to sing along to. Featuring songs are by ABBA, a selection of CV Instrumental Music (CVIM) percussionists, keyboardists and guitarists have spent the last four months rehearsing what is soon to become a stellar performance.

Recently, the musicians and singers met up to make the play’s music happen for the first time.

“I did the musical my freshman year and had a great time bonding with the upperclassmen,”  said Luzy Nazarian, CVHS student and  keyboard player in the pit ensemble, “I wanted to do it this year to be that upperclassman and connect with others.”

As rehearsals grew more frequent and demanding, the students behind this production were pushed to their limits. Along the way, they learned what it’s like to be part of such a large performing body with so many moving parts.

Following “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” production,  this is the second year in a row the theater department has put on a musical since the pandemic. It is the first year since 2019 CVIM has supplied live music.

Although many accolades go to those performing on stage, it is important to realize the backstage work that is as essential.

Kathi Chaplar, the director of the play and the theater program at CVHS, is instrumental in the production’s success.

“It’s the first big return for the arts. We finally have a full pit orchestra and stage crew, and the kids aren’t wearing masks,” she said. “It’s really exciting.”

All are invited to a great night at the theater, show support to CVHS arts and enjoy “Mamma Mia!”

“Mamma Mia!” Performances are:

Feb. 24 and 25 at 7 p.m.

Feb. 26 at 2 p.m.

March 3 and 4 at 7 p.m.

Tickets prices are:

Reserved front orchestra $20

General Admission $15

Student Balcony $10

The MacDonald Auditorium is located at 4400 Ramsdell Avenue in La Crescenta.

  Jabe BELL