The world-wide famous musical “Mamma Mia!” arrived to the public of Tirana on the nights of July 25 and 26, brought on stage by a very talented cast of actors.
The musical, directed by Altin Basha, took place in the Tirana Lake Amphitheater. Adapted from the original 2008 movie starring Meryl Streep, Pierce Brosnan and many more, this time around it was brought to the public by a cast of well-known Albanian artists, such as Elia Zaharia, Amos Zaharia, Gerta Mahmutaj, Donald Shehu, Ina Morinaj, Rea Nuhu, Endri Kaçaçi, Igli Zarka, etc.
For two nights in a row, musical-lovers of all ages experienced the nostalgic sounds of the iconic ABBA’s music, and the show attracted even children.
The world-famous musical was translated and adapted for the Albanian audience, although the original soundtrack was performed by a live band and was sang in English.
“The actors are being trained to sing correctly and in a live musical style, while the singers are being trained to interpret the theatrical script very seriously even though they are playing a comedy. Believe me, it is not simple at all,” artistic director Linda Kazani told media before the show started.
She went on to reveal that a new “investment” on the culture of art and theater, as this musical, is a new supporting cast of young actors that will be present in other shows from now on.
“There are ten young artists under the age of 30 who act, sing and dance musical choreography live on stage. So, we are investing in a stable troupe that supports current shows and future musical projects,” said Kazani.
Said young artists include names in the likes of: Ketjona Pecnikaj, Zerxhina Hasanaj, Gloria Taga, Krisa Gjika, Maria Ademaj, Ilia Kaçi, Amri Hasanlliu, Aldrin Biba, Mario Dorre, and Denardo Neziri.
Taking the stage alongside actors were a selection of instrumentalists who performed the songs adapted for this musical, such Jusiald Xhani, Erald Simixhiu (stage piano), Denis Hima (guitar), Mateos Gjipi (keyboard), Emil Zaharia (bass guitar) and Alex Zisi (drums).
“We are very enthusiastic to present this musical to the public of Tirana, as a way of entertainment in the slightly hot nights of the capital,” said director Altin Basha ahead of the show.
