'Mamma Mia' opens at Southeast

After years of waiting, the Broadway musical “Mamma Mia,” which is Italian for “my mother,” is finally coming to Southeast Missouri State University, according to Robert Cerchio, assistant director of the Holland School of Visual and Performing Arts.

“It’s one of the biggest Broadway musicals out there, and we’re excited to bring it to Cape Girardeau for two performances," Cerchio said in a news release.

Set on an imaginary Greek island paradise, “Mamma Mia” tells the story of a woman who may be walking down the aisle with three dads. “Mamma Mia” is a fairy tale that is pure entertainment for all audiences, because it is a funny, sing along with music based off of the Swedish musical group Abba. The touring series “Mamma Mia” will perform two nights night, at the River Campus.

According to Abba website, the title “Mamma Mia” comes from one of their songs. Abba’s accolades include being on the UK No. 1 spot, for a total of nine times between 1974 and 1980. In 1975, “Mamma Mia” was also a No. 1 hit in Australia, which was the first country to release it as a single. The original Broadway production of “Mamma Mia” was nominated for five Tony Awards, including Best Musical and three Drama Desk Awards. “Mamma Mia” will be performed at 7:30 p.m. on Oct. 26 and 27 in the Donald C. Bedell Performance Hall at the River Campus. To purchase tickets, visit the River Campus Box Office located at 518 Fountain St. from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, call the box office at (573) 651-2265 or purchase them online at RiverCampus.org/mamma-mia.