Mammia Mia's Sophie: Lauren Kelly

Micaella Balderrama
PrideTime Reporter 

PrideTime took to interviewing Lauren Kelly (‘21), to gain some insight on her acting career and role in this year’s play:

What’s your favorite thing about being a part of BMHS theatre (singing, dancing, acting, etc.)?
“I think my favorite part about this show is the acting. This is my first time actually being the lead; I usually play a comedic relief character or a supporting role, but it’s been a lot of fun to challenge myself into this new type of role.”

What made you want the role of Sophie (lead in Mamma Mia)?
“I wanted the role of Sophie because there are so many different ways to play her. She's very complex; I learn something new about myself everytime I dive into her character. I didn’t expect to get Sophie at all.”

What was your audition process like?
“The audition process was very long and a lot of work. I was there about every night for a week until 8, either just helping out or waiting to be called back into the audition room. We saw the cast list about a week and a half after auditions; they were a nice way to learn everyone in the cast and spend quality time while we waited to sing.”

What are you most excited about for this year’s play?
“I’m most excited for people to come see the show. There has been such a hype around Mamma Mia lately and getting to bring that show to McMahon has been the best experience of my life. So far it looks amazing; it’s funny, it’s upbeat, and everyone that comes is definitely going to want to get up and dance by the end of the show. I can’t wait for BMHS to see all the wonderful talent the music department has.”

Would you still be apart of the production even if you hadn’t been cast as Sophie? 
“I would 100% do the show if I wasn’t Sophie! Being part of a BMHS production is really an experience like no other and everyone gets their time in the spotlight in cast, crew and pit."

How would you describe the Drama Department as a whole? 
"Our assistant director, Jess Foulds, has us do a bunch of bonding exercises in rehearsals to build relationships on and off stage, so we grow a little family each and every year and it’s truly one of the best groups I’ve gotten to work with. No matter what part you are or who you are, the Drama Department is so accepting and is one of the best things at McMahon.”

How do you balance rehearsals with schoolwork?
“Balancing rehearsal with school is pretty hard; leads most often have rehearsal Monday through Friday, so it takes a lot of time management to get my assignments done. It’s stressful, but it’s worth it in the end.”

Additional Comments..
“Come see Mamma Mia! The show dates March 8, 9, 15, and 16. It’s going to be a great show!”

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