Erin Cornell
Donna Sheridan
Erin Cornell graduated from The Victorian College of the Arts in Music Theatre on a Whitehorse Arts Council Scholarship. Since graduating, her music theatre roles have included Grizabella in CATS (Australasian Tour), Elphaba in WICKED (Osaka, Japan), Scrubber in Eddie Perfect’s SHANE WARNE THE MUSICAL (Melbourne International Comedy Festival), Mona in A CLASS ACT (London) and Fantine in LES MISÉRABLES. While performing in Les Misérables Erin simultaneously released her debut covers album ERIN CORNELL- SPIRIT OF THE DEVA, available to stream.
Erin has appeared on The Voice Australia (Team Delta), was lead vocalist with THE QUEEN SYMPHONIC ARENA SPECTACULAR (Japan Tour), lead vocalist in ROCK RHAPSODY – WEST END STARS SING QUEEN (European tour) and has performed AN EVENING WITH ERIN CORNELL and The SINGAPORE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA (Singapore). Erin’s television credits include NEIGHBOURS, GMA, BEFORE THE GAME (Network 10), RACE RELATIONS, LOWDOWN (ABC) and MORNINGS WITH KERRI-ANNE (9 Network). Erin has also performed with theatre legends such as Dame Edna Everage, John Bucchino, Lance Horne and Jason Robert Brown.
Erin is also a singer-songwriter of Celtic/Folk/World Music under the artist name of Èirinn. Last year she took part in The Producers Camp Program at Peter Gabriel’s Real World Studios in the UK. Her first track was released by Real World Records called Manannán now available to stream. Erin is currently travelling frequently back and forth from Real World Studios this year finishing her original album.
Imogen Bamback
Sophie
Imogen is a 20-year-old performer with a passion for musical theatre. She has appeared in numerous Hunter Drama productions, including starring as Peter Pan in PETER PAN JR.. Most recently, she performed in MARY POPPINS and BILLY ELLIOT with The Very Popular Theatre Company.
Imogen is thrilled to work with The Very Popular Theatre Company again in MAMMA MIA!
Benjamin Dare
Sky
Benjamin is thrilled and honoured to return to the Civic Theatre as Sky in MAMMA MIA! Returning from an exciting six-month university exchange studying English and Drama teaching in the UK, he won’t waste any emotion dancing the night away back home. Benjamin’s love for theatre ignited at seven while watching the 2011 Sydney production of MARY POPPINS. Since then, he has joyfully taken the stage in various productions, beginning with High Street Production’s ANNIE JR. in 2018, followed by THE LITTLE MERMAID JR. at St Philip’s Christian College the same year, then as Wayne in STRICTLY BALLROOM in 2019, and as Ryan in HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL: ON STAGE! in 2021. Ben performed in Grainery Productions’ GOOD KING WENCESLAS in 2021 and 2022 and, through intensive musical theatre classes, played Oscar in Hunter Drama’s 2020 SWEET CHARITY. Last year, he was proud to perform in The Very Popular Theatre Company’s MARY POPPINS and cannot wait to transport new audiences into the magic of theatre.
Becky McLennan
Tanya
Bec Kynaston is a seasoned and celebrated performer whose talent has graced stages across a wide array of productions. From her standout performances as “Morticia” in THE ADDAMS FAMILY MUSICAL (Metropolitan Players), “Scaramouche” in WE WILL ROCK YOU (Metropolitan Players) and “Sherrie” in ROCK OF AGES (Hunter Drama), to memorable roles in RENT, BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, SHE LOVES ME, TWO POINT OH, AIRNESS and COMPANY, her versatility knows no bounds.
Bec’s dedication to her craft has earned her acclaim, including a CONDA award for Best Female Actor in a Musical in 2015. Her contributions to the stage have garnered further recognition, with nominations for the same award in 2018 and 2019.
Jukebox musicals are her jam, and Bec is ready to Dance, Jive and have the time of her life as “Tanya” in Mamma Mia 2025!
Alicia Patterson
Rosie
Alicia has performed as a vocalist since she was 10 and has grown to become one of Newcastle’s most beloved performers. As a chorister she travelled nationally and internationally, as a soloist she has fronted cover bands and is a founding member of the acapella vocal quartet Bella Voce. Alicia studied voice at the Newcastle Conservatorium of Music and completed a Bachelor of Music before beginning a career as a performing arts educator. At 20, Alicia was introduced to the world of theatre. Her first show was Jesus Christ Superstar with NDAC. She has also played the role of Eponine in Les Miserables (NDAC), winning a CONDA for Best Lead Actress in a Musical; Cabaret (NDAC); Dona Sue in Grease (Rock City); Sergeant Sally Brown in Guys and Dolls (DAPA); Belle in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast (NDAC); Annabelle Glick in Lucky Stiff (Pantseat Productions), winning a CONDA for Best Lead Actress in a Musical; Mrs Darling in Peter Pan (Hunter Drama); Bingo The Musical (Pantseat Productions), Mary Magdalene in Jesus Christ Superstar (National Theatre Company) and more recently Nancy in Hunter Drama’s Oliver!, The Very Popular Theatre Company’s “Billy Elliott” and Vocal Director of The Very Popular Theatre Company’s “School of Rock”
Matt Edwards
Sam Carmichael
Matt Edwards is a graduate of WAAPA (Music Theatre) and has performed professionally across Australia, New Zealand, and Asia. His credits include CATS (The Really Useful Company), My Fair Lady (Opera Australia), Scooby Doo Live! (Life Like Touring), Tokyo Disneyland, and as lead vocalist aboard P&O’s Pacific Dawn. He appeared in the 2017–18 professional Australian tour of MAMMA MIA! the Musical, and is delighted to return to the show.
Through his company, Emptyhead Digital, Matt also collaborates with leading producers and arts organisations to create websites and digital experiences for major theatrical productions and cultural institutions.
Nick Stabler
Harry Bright
Nick is delighted to be reprising the role of Harry “Headbanger” Bright in this vibrant production of Mamma Mia! ABBA music has been bouncing around his head since he was a kid (thanks to his mum), and he still finds the classic songs a joy to perform.
Nick brings a wealth of experience to the stage, with past credits including Hertz in ROCK OF AGES (The Very Popular Theatre Company, 2019), Benny in RENT (The Very Popular Theatre Company, 2017), Billy Flynn in Chicago (Snap Productions, 2013), Perchik in Fiddler on the Roof (Opera Hunter, 2012), and Chris in Miss Saigon (Opera Hunter, 2009).
Harry may not headbang like he used to, but Nick promises to bring plenty of heart, humour, and slightly awkward dancing to the stage.
Danny Folpp
Bill Austin
Danny has been performing on stage for the last 15 years. Studying at the Australian Institute of Music (Musical Theatre) with industry professionals, he grasped the absolute desire to continue his pursuit on stage and as a creative.
Most recent performances with Metropolitan Players include SHREK (2022), PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT (2021) and BEAUTY & THE BEAST (2019).
Performing in The Very Popular Theatre Company’s CHESS (2021), and BILLY ELLIOT (2023).
Chookas Entertainment’s COMPANY (2023), CHICAGO (2022) and Opera Hunter’s YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN (2021).
Danny featured in The Very Popular Theatre Company’s SUPERSTARS (2024) at the Civic Theatre, Newcastle.
Recent directing credits include ALADDIN JR (2024), ANNIE (2024), LEGALLY BLONDE (2023), 12 ANGRY MEN (2023), JERRY’S GIRLS (2023) and SHREK JR (2023)
Danny is the founder of What Theatre Company. Built for budding performers of all ages to hone their craft in performing arts.
Imogen Downing-Donnelly
Lisa
Imogen is super keen to perform MAMMA MIA with Very pop this year! Imogen started performing in Newcastle from a young age and has been involved in many productions. She graduated from Hunter School of the performing arts and was a student of Hunter Drama, Newcastle Dance Academy and The Voice Studios. Imogen loved being a part of MARY POPPINS last year and can’t wait to be back on the Civic stage this year!
Rachael Sebastian
Ali
Rachael began her Newcastle musical theatre journey in 2022 with UON Musos’ production of TWISTED as the Princess Swing and Ensemble. In 2023, she played “Pilar” in Chookas Entertainment’s LEGALLY BLONDE and has since performed as a featured vocalist and dancer in Chookas Entertainment’s 2024 *MUSICAL CHAIRS and as a vocalist at the 2023 CONDA Awards.
Offstage, Rachael was Vocal Director for UON Musos’ 2024 production of INTO THE WOODS and is vocal directing their 2025 production of THE DROWSY CHAPERONE. She is also the lead vocalist for the jazz-funk band Mood Watch, performing at local events.
Beyond theatre, Rachael founded Newy JAMZ, a street dance collective where she collaborates with performers in freestyle. Her dance experience includes hip hop, commercial, and heels, showcased in Sydney-based music videos, events, and all-style dance battles. Rachael is excited to bring her skills to MAMMA MIA!
Lucas Millington
Pepper
Lucas only started his acting journey in 2023 with his role in The Very Pops Billy Elliot. Since then he has performed in Hunter Dramas School of Rock and Very Pops Mary Poppins. Lucas looks forward to breaking out of his police archetype with the role of Pepper!
Patrick Howlett
Eddie
Patrick has shown an enthusiasm and love for everything performing since his first primary school talent show. His love for the stage landed him into ASPIRE, the Catholic Schools creative arts program which he performed in for 7 years in the drama ensemble and later interned for them further developing both his love and understanding for the craft. Since leaving school his love for theatre hasn’t dwindled performing in BILLY ELLIOT and MARY POPPINS, The Very Popular Theatre Company. SCHOOL OF ROCK, Hunter Drama. CATCH ME IF YOU CAN, What Theatre Company. Patrick is stoked to get the opportunity to perform such an iconic show with an unforgettable soundtrack!
Amber Curby
Ensemble
With credits to her name for stage, screen, acting, dancing, singing, writing and directing, Amber has over 20 years of performing experience.
After studying and travelling overseas, Amber has landed on her feet in Newcastle where she has been immersing herself in theatre for the past few years starting with Metropolitan Players 2021 PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT. 2022 saw her in Chookas CHICAGO and Metropolitan Players SHREK, in 2023 it was Brunker Theatre’s DISENCHANTED, Chookas LEGALLY BLONDE as Paulette, and The Very Popular Theatre Company’s BILLY ELLIOT where Amber showed off her talent as understudy for Mrs Wilkinson. 2024 was another busy year with What Theatre Company’s debut musical CATCH ME IF YOU CAN, Hunter Drama’s SCHOOL OF ROCK followed by Hunter Drama’s CARRIE as Ms Gardner.
Amber is thrilled to be part of the ensemble and is looking forward to getting her Dancing Queen on in MAMMA MIA.
Angus Jewell
Ensemble
Angus has been passionate about musical theatre for as long as he can remember. He began his training at the age of five at Renae Perry Tap Studios, where he studied tap dancing. More recently, he completed two years of vocal training under the mentorship of Francene Bell. At Saint Philips Christian College Waratah, Angus was actively involved in the performing arts, taking on roles such as the Genie in ALADDIN JR. (2020), King Triton in THE LITTLE MERMAID (2022), and Lionel in CINDERELLA (2023). Additionally, Angus studied musical theatre at High Street Productions, where he now works as a tutor. He has performed in many productions with HSP, including MATILDA JR. (2023) and the theatrical event GALLERY (2024), where he was also a member of its management team. Angus is thrilled to make his debut with The Very Popular Theatre Company.
Bill Parry
Ensemble
Bill started his love of theatre in a Jr production of ALADDIN with Hunter Drama in singleton back in 2018.
He eventually moved to Newcastle to continue performing in numerous shows with Hunter Drama for a few years from 2018-2021.
In 2021 he joined the Metropolitan Players in their production of PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT and has performed with the Metropolitan Players up to the present year where he recently performed in THE ADDAMS FAMILY.
Bill also recently players Buck in Stand And Deliver Theatre Company’s production of BONNIE AND CLYDE.
Bill is very excited to be on stage at the civic yet again to perform in Very Popular Theatre Company’s MAMMA MIA
Bree Bennett
Ensemble
Bree Bennett is an experienced performer in singing, piano and musical theatre. Bree has been an active musician for years performing in various venues and events. Bree has recently won a City of Newcastle Drama Award for her lead role as Veronica Sawyer in HEATHERS (Chookas Entertainment). Other notable performances include Megan Jones in PUFFS (Very Popular Theatre Company), Brooke Lohst in BE MORE CHILL (Chookas Entertainment), and a part of The Players in PIPPIN (Chookas Entertainment). Bree is passionate about the singing voice and has vocal directed productions here in Newcastle including Be More Chill (Chookas Entertainment), Frozen JR (Young People’s Theatre) and Back To The 80’s (Chookas Entertainment).
Brooke McBride
Ensemble
While MAMMA MIA is Brooke’s first production, she is certainly no stranger to the stage. Starting ballet at the age of 4 years old, Brooke instantly fell in love with dance and now has
19 years of experience in various styles.
Brooke attended Hunter School of Performing Arts for her high school years and then continued to train full-time at Brent Street in 2020. During this time, she trained under the guidance of many industry professionals, honed her skill set and gained extensive knowledge of what it means to perform.
A dedicated artist, Brooke is passionate about inspiring others through dance and continuously exploring new ways to express her craft.
Cassidy Clarke
Ensemble
Cassidy is a dancer who is originally from Newcastle/ Lake Macquarie and has been dancing since the age of 5 in all styles. In 2020, she commenced training full time in the contemporary course with Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA), where she studied for the Bachelor of Arts (Dance) and graduated in 2022. Since graduating she has performed with Catapult Choreographic Hub on numerous tours, intensives and developments. Cassidy is also teaching various dance styles at local dance studios in the Newcastle/ Lake Macquarie region. MAMMA MIA will be Cassidy first musical and she is extremely excited to be a part of this production.
Gabrielle Connett
Ensemble
Gabrielle first discovered her love for performing 16 years ago with The Waratah Girls Choir. Her journey has taken her from local theatres to international stages, showcasing her talent and passion for storytelling.
On home soil, Gabrielle has brought memorable characters to life, including Mrs Brill in MARY POPPINS (2017) and Abuela in STRICTLY BALLROOM (2019) with SPCC Theatre Company, also appearing as The Witch in INTO THE WOODS (2024) with UoNMusos. Most recently, she appeared in Mystery Musical Vol. 3 with The Very Popular Theatre Company (2025).
Beyond home, Gabrielle has been lucky to share her performances on an international level. With The Waratah Girls Choir, she has sung on the prestigious stage of Carnegie Hall in New York, as well as singing in Los Angeles and touring through Japan.
Gabrielle is thrilled to have been given the opportunity to bring joy to audiences through her work on stage.
Hannah Smith
Ensemble
Hannah fell in love with dance and theatre 18 years ago and has pursued her passion with dedication. She has undergone intensive dance training over the years, refining her skills in various styles and techniques, and has competed successfully in numerous eisteddfods, earning recognition for her dynamic performances. From 2016 to 2020, Hannah was a proud member of the ASPIRE productions as a dancer, where she brought energy and artistry to the stage. In 2024 Hannah was apart of The Very Popular Theatre Company’s production of SUPERSTARS, in the dance ensemble, captivating audiences with her powerful stage presence and precision. Over the years, Hannah has embraced every opportunity to grow as a dancer and performer, working with talented creatives and thriving in the spotlight. She is thrilled to return to the stage once again, in Mamma Mia.
India Jazz
Ensemble
India Jazz is a professional vocalist and performer from Newcastle, Australia. She made her start at Hunter School of the Performing Arts with majors in dance and music, and for the last 10 years she has been performing as an original artist. India completed her Bachelor of Music Degree at The University of Newcastle Conservatorium in 2021, earning a College Medal in Human and Social Futures and now works privately as a vocal coach. Stepping into the musical theatre world, India made her debut performance in What Theatre Co’s production of CATCH ME IF YOU CAN in 2024.
Jacky Sim Ming Ting
Ensemble
Jacky is a passionate emerging dancer who began his formal dance journey in early 2024. A lifelong admirer of the performing arts, he grew up immersed in theatre and was entirely self-taught in his early years, Jacky discovered Toprock Studios in 2023, where he has since committed himself to intensive training across a range of dance styles.
He currently takes between five and ten classes per week, both locally and in Sydney, as part of his ongoing dedication to technical growth and performance readiness. Jacky is also a member of Toprock Studios’ performance crew and is actively involved in several upcoming projects.
Mamma Mia! marks Jacky’s theatrical debut, and he is thrilled to bring his infectious energy, work ethic, and love for the stage to this production.
Josie McIntosh
Ensemble
Josie has been dancing for over 16 years, training at Galaxy Talent Academy in Rutherford. She was involved in Aladdin Jr the Musical with Hunter Drama Maitland in 2018 and has been involved in various high school productions. Josie has been featured in the tap and jazz ensembles in starstruck Newcastle and also performed in the Schools Spectacular in Sydney as part of the tap ensemble. This is Josie’s first show on the Civic Theatre Stage and her debut with The Very Popular Theatre Company. She can’t wait to put on a spectacular show!
Kahli Saunders
Ensemble
With a dance journey spanning back to just 8 years old, I’ve nurtured my choreography and teaching skills over 15 years, having created and directed Dance For Fun Newcastle, a local drop in studio. My formative dance years included performing for the Newcastle Knights Dance Squad, eisteddfods, state wide competitions and gracing local events, adding a touch of professionalism to my craft. After earning my Bachelor of Education (Honours) from the University of Newcastle in 2018, I wanted to fuse my passion for dance, teaching, and created my own studio. This is my first musical production debut and I can’t wait to be back on stage in Mamma Mia.
Kaitlyn Priest
Ensemble
Kaitlyn, a dancer from Newcastle who began her journey at the age of 3, developing a lifelong passion for dance. Her love for movement and performance guided her through a successful dance career. Inspired by both the art of dance and the joy of teaching and choreographing, Kaitlyn pursued a Bachelor of Education, which opened the door to numerous exciting choreographic opportunities. Now, as part of the ensemble for MAMMA MIA 2025, Kaitlyn is thrilled to bring her passion to the world of musical theatre. She is excited to be part of such a vibrant production, bringing the music and magic of MAMMA MIA to life on stage.
Lucy Murry
Ensemble/Swing
Lucy has loved performing their whole life. They currently teach and study dance at Hype Dance Hunter Valley. They have furthered their musical theatre education participating in Junior Theatre Festival Australia’s pilot programs, including SISTER ACT JR, MOANA JR and SOMETHING ROTTEN JR. They have also performed in Starstruck and Schools Spectacular as a featured dancer. Lucy has appeared in various local and school productions as a performer and choreographer, including ALADDIN JR as Iago, OLIVER!, GREASE, and LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS. Their most recent production was The Very Popular Theatre Company’s MARY POPPINS, and they are thrilled to be working with them again.
Michael Conry
Ensemble
Michael has been dancing on the stage since he was 3 years old. His debut in musical theatre was in 2013, with How To Succeed in Business, presented by Hunter School of Performing Arts. Since then he has competed and taught tap and ballet in Newcastle and Sydney. He has starred in previous shows with Very Popular Theatre Company, such as Jersey Boys in 2022, Billy Elliot in 2023 and Superstars in 2024. Michael is eager to let loose on the civic theatre stage this year is Mamma Mia.
Olivia Leathley
Ensemble
Olivia Leathley is a dynamic performer with a passion for musical theatre. With over 24 years of dance experience and a strong foundation in acting, she has brought iconic roles to life on stage. Her credits include Heather Chandler (HEATHERS, 2022) and Enid Hoopes (LEGALLY BLONDE, 2023) with Chookas Entertainment, Donna Sheridan (MAMMA MIA!, 2019) with TLC Productions in New York, and Ruth (THOROUGHLY MODERN MILLIE, 2016) with Hunter School of Performing Arts.
Olivia has also worked behind the scenes as a choreographer for productions including BE MORE CHILL (2024) and PIPPIN (2023-24) with Chookas Entertainment, as well as THE TRAIL TO OREGON (2022) and THE ADDAMS FAMILY (2022) with Wyong Theatre Company.
Olivia was thrilled by the announcement of this production of MAMMA MIA! while visiting Greece, a serendipitous moment for one of her all-time favourite musicals. This marks her first production with the Very Popular Theatre Company.
Phillip Lyttleton
Ensemble
Phillip Lyttleton is a passionate performer with a strong foundation in dance and musical theatre. Starting dance at the age of six, he has developed a deep love for the art form, which has evolved into a thriving career. Phillip has completed a Certificate III in Dance and a Certificate IV in Musical Theatre and is currently pursuing a Diploma in Musical Theatre at Palm Studios.
With extensive stage experience, Phillip has performed in numerous productions across the Central Coast and Sydney, including the sell-out The Wizard of Oz with the Gosford Musical Society. His credits include 13 the Musical, Aladdin Junior, Little Shop of Horrors, Kinky Boots, Legally Blonde, and SpongeBob the Musical.
In addition to performing, Phillip has worked as an assistant choreographer and production assistant, gaining valuable insight into the creative and technical aspects of theatre. He is committed to developing his craft and excited to continue growing as a performer and creator in the world of musical theatre.
Tim Neve
Ensemble
Tim is thrilled to make his return to the stage, after 28 years. Newcastle raised, he discovered his love of drama at Young People’s Theatre from the age of nine, and studied at the Hunter School of Performing Arts. He was accepted into NIDA (National Institute of Dramatic Arts), Sydney and graduated with a Bachelor of Dramatic Art in Design (Set and Costume for Theatre). Tim is also a multiple CONDA award winner for his professional production designs. But he is most excited to be stepping out from the wings once more for MAMMA MIA!
Wade Neilsen
Ensemble
Wade has a passion for dance since he was 4 years old. He has trained in Tap, Ballet, Hip Hop, Jazz, and Acro. Wade started acting and singing in 2019 when he made his theatre debut in the Australian national Tour of Billy Elliot – The Musical playing the role of Billy Elliot. After this he realised he loved performing in Musical Theatre and has since been in multiple Pro amateur theatre performances including MATILDA JR., OLIVER, THE WEDDING SINGER, DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDRELS, SHREK, THE ADDAMS FAMILY, SUPERSTARS: Live In Concert, and MARY POPPINS. Wade is excited to be performing in MAMMA MIA.