Sophomore Elise Nelson has long had a passion for acting in theater productions. This interest led to her earning the lead role of Sophie in Greenhill Theater’s production of Broadway hit musical “Mamma Mia!”. 

 The on-campus performances were held Nov. 21-22. 

“I have always really loved musicals and shows,” Nelson said. “I really wanted a lead role in this musical.”   

Upper School Drama Instructor and Theater Director Valerie Hauss-Smith says Nelson has a good attitude and work ethic.   

“Elise is super dedicated,” Hauss-Smith said. “She lives, breathes and eats theater.”   

Nelson prepared for multiple roles leading up to the audition. She received the role of Sophie after a live audition where she sang in front of the theater cast and teachers.   

“I am always pretty nervous for auditions,” Nelson said. “I think it’s just because I want to do the best I can, and I am worried maybe something will happen or go wrong.”   

Nelson said that she tried to use her nerves to push herself.   

“I just really tried to put my best foot forward,” Nelson said. “I tried to use the energy from being nervous to do better.”   

After earning the role of Sophie, it was Nelson’s job to connect with the character. 

“It was initially hard to relate to Sophie because she’s so much older,” Nelson said. “But having a joy for life is something I could relate to.”   

Nelson said the most rewarding part of working on “Mamma Mia!” is connecting with her peers. 

“I think I do my best when everyone is supporting everybody,” Nelson said. “I think working with all of the other people and roles has been really great.”    

Hauss-Smith says Nelson interacts with her castmates in a good way.   

“She is super supportive of everybody and will do whatever it takes,” said Hauss-Smith.  

The intense final preparations for the show, commonly known as Tech Week, unfolded two weeks before the production, with students staying until 9 p.m. for rehearsals. 

“Tech Week every year is pretty rough because of how much rehearsal there is after school and all the assignments the teachers are giving before the break,” Nelson said.   

Students are encouraged to notify their teachers of the Tech Week demands. 

“I sent an email to all my teachers at the beginning of Tech Week to let them know what is going on and ask for a bit of grace,” Nelson said. “Communicating with my teachers has really helped with everything.”  

Before the performances, Nelson said she hoped the audience enjoyed the show. 

“I can’t wait for everyone to [see] the show,” Nelson said.