Courtesy of Mira Schoewe

Students put on makeup and design costumes backstage at a rehearsal.

Sophomore Athena Thompson shared her thoughts about her role as student director in

Lindbergh’s production of “Mamma Mia!”

M: What inspired you to take on the role of student director?

A: I wanted to be a director because I wanted to be more involved with the theater space just in general. I already had known about Mamma Mia so helping the cast characterize and memorize was something I was extremely passionate about doing.

1. How would you describe your creative approach to this position?

A: My creative approach is very collaborative and focused on the “why” behind the movement. Since I know the story so well, I try to help the actors find the emotional truth in the songs so the performance feels more like a real conversation than just a musical number.

1. If you could describe the musical in one word, what would that be? (Lindbergh’s version, not Mamma Mia in general)

A: Radiant.

1. How do you manage your time and balance your school or home responsibilities with all of the responsibilities involved in your role with this theater production?

A: It’s all about staying organized and using my time during rehearsals efficiently. I try to get my schoolwork done in the gaps so that when I’m in the theater, I can give 100% of my focus to the cast and the production without distractions.

1. What impact do you hope this production will have on those watching?

A: I hope the audience leaves feeling uplifted and connected. Mamma Mia! is such a joyful show, and I want people to walk away with the songs stuck in their heads and a smile on their faces.

1. What is your artistic vision for the parts of the production you were in charge of, and how did you make that a reality?

A: My vision was to create a sense of community on stage. I worked on making sure the ensemble felt like a real group of friends and locals. We made this a reality through character-building exercises and focusing on small interactions that happen in the background of the main scenes.

1. What are some important lessons you learned from your time working on this production?

A: I learned that communication is everything. As a director, you have to be able to explain your vision clearly while also being open to the ideas that the actors bring to the table. It’s a team effort through and through.

1. What advice would you give someone else who might be hoping to be a student director in the future?

A: Go for it and don’t be afraid to take charge! Trust your instincts, but also remember to be a support system for your cast. Your job is to help them shine.

1. Who on the Lindbergh theater crew do you think motivated or inspired you the most throughout this production?

A: The stage management team. Seeing how they handle the logistics and keep everything running smoothly behind the scenes really inspired me to stay organized and stay positive.

1. Where do you hope to go from here in your work with theater, whether just within Lindbergh’s theater program or even after high school?

A: I definitely want to stay involved with Lindbergh’s program for the rest of my high school career. Long-term, I’m interested in exploring more leadership roles and potentially pursuing directing or production in college.