By Adanna Moriary, Ojai Valley News
Ojai is a small town with an enormous assortment of talent. This summer’s Ojai Art Center Theater production of “Mamma Mia!” showcases just what this valley has to offer, opening this weekend and running Friday, Saturday and Sunday through July 14. One of these talents is Asunta Fleming who takes the lead as Donna Sheridan. An accomplished actress, Fleming has worked on the Travel Channel, for Disney, and everything in between. From opera to musical theater, Fleming has spent the majority of her life on stage.
“What I enjoy most is singing beautiful music, portraying a character and bringing them to life, with heart and soul,” Fleming said. “I would say that musical theater or a movie musical is the most challenging and rewarding because you have to be an actor, a singer, and a dancer. You have to be able to perform them all equally well, and at the same time! I’ve been fortunate to have a leading role in every production I have appeared. Donna Sheridan in ‘Mamma Mia!’ is now my new favorite!”
Fleming had been living in Nashville, Tenn., where her daughter is forging a career in music, but couldn’t stay away from Ojai and all it has to offer. “Both cities are filled with art and the people who create and support it,” she said. “It’s a symbiotic relationship, the artist and audience. Both cities provide a nurturing environment for art. For a small town. Ojai is big on talent!”
Having had conversations with both friends and agents in the past, Fleming knew “Mamma Mia!” was something she wanted to do, but was waiting for the right time. After a 12-year absence from the Art Center Theater, she was excited to work with director Tracey Williams Sutton again, as well as her college alumnus, artistic director Richard Camp, and knew this production was the one to bring her back.
“It’s rewarding to be in a show that’s performed all around the world,” Fleming said. “It connects with people everywhere … every age. It’s been translated into 37 languages. For me, I have a 20-year-old daughter, exactly as Donna does, same as my character. I certainly feel these moving, universal emotions!”
“Mama Mia!” runs weekends from June 14 to July 14, with Friday and Saturday night performances at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. Opening night is already sold out. Box office opens 45 minutes before each show. Ticket prices are $30 general admission; $25 seniors and Art Center members, and $15 for those under 25. You can purchase online at https://www. ojaiact.org or call 805-640-8797.