Director Announced For Community Production Of Mamma Mia!

Wednesday, 06 Nov 2024

Griffith Regional Theatre is delighted to announce the appointment of a Director for next year’s production of Mamma Mia! Local creative Oumi Karenga-Hewitt, who has been involved in past productions of Wicked, Legally Blonde, The Wedding Singer, and Leeton’s Henry V, will be heading the production team to bring this well-loved musical to life in 2025.

Theatre Manager Marg Andreazza said “We are so pleased Oumi will be directing the production next year. She brings so much enthusiasm, as well as experience in nurturing creative talent.”

Ms Karenga-Hewitt said “My vision for Mamma Mia is not only about delivering a joyful, high-energy production but also about creating an inclusive environment that welcomes people of all backgrounds and skill levels.”

“Community productions are about more than performing - when I auditioned for Wicked, I was still new to town and was SO nervous but the people I met during that show are amongst my closest friends 10 years later. It was one of the best experiences of my life. When we share something with others, we feel like we belong and for me arts is at the core of that”, she said.

Over the past decade, Ms Karenga-Hewitt has been actively involved in Griffith’s creative scene, known for her dedication to nurturing local talent and creating meaningful, community-focused projects. She has served on the board of Western Riverina Arts and has been involved with local theatre group, GRAPA, and in the productions of Twelfth Night, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Vintage Voices, and The Crucible.

She was selected to lead local performance and writing workshops with NIDA Connect, produced the Griffith Screen Industry Forum, worked on TEDxWagga Wagga as Stage Manager, and co-produced Lords of the Soil, a short film shot in Griffith and Darlington Point. She also supported the Moorambilla Voices team at the 2023 Griffith workshops and as a camp supervisor.

Ms Karenga-Hewitt wants to emphasise that there is opportunity for everyone to get involved.

“You don’t have to be the best singer, actor, or dancer to be part of this production. We’re looking for people who are willing to have fun, work hard, and be part of a team. Mamma Mia is all about friendship and family, and I want our cast to reflect the wonderful local diversity and character. We can’t wait to create a show that not only entertains but connects with the local community and brings the timeless music of ABBA to life”, she said.

Mamma Mia! is set to hit the stage in September 2025, with auditions in February 2025.

Expressions of interest are currently being accepted here https://griffithregionaltheatre.com.au/mamma-mia

For more details on auditions and participation, please contact Margaret Andreazza, on 69628469 or by email margaret.andreazza@griffith.nsw.gov.au or by contacting Oumi Karenga-Hewitt by email mammamiagriffith@gmail.com        

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