WSFA 12 News Montgomery, AL |Mamma Mia debuts in Montgomery, recession a factor

Mamma Mia debuts in Montgomery, recession a factor

Posted by Bryan Henry  -  bio | email

MONTGOMERY, AL (WSFA) - When the curtains go up on Mamma Mia two dramas will unfold. The musical in the spotlight and off-stage, the audience; who will show, who will stay home.

"No question the economy is still a challenge," said Sales and Marketing Director Ray Ezelle.

Ezelle concedes the recession has played a role in attendance for past performances at the Montgomery Performing Arts Center in downtown Montgomery. In fact, a Marty Stuart concert was canceled, and not only that, ticket sales are down 25% throughout the performing arts industry.

Still, Ezelle says it wouldn't be fair to lump the Montgomery Performing Arts Center in that category because the Renaissance Hotel and Spa just opened a little more than a year ago.

"This presents us with more creative opportunities," said Ezelle.

As for Mamma Mia the show is not sold out for opening night but you won't find Ezelle complaining. They expect a turnout of more than 4,000 over a 3-night period.

"That's pretty substantial," Ezelle said.

Not bad says Ezelle considering the economy and the fact the theatre has been averaging 1,200 per show for the past 18 months.

Put that number another way; the seating capacity at the Montgomery Performing Arts Center is 1,800.

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