Meet Lara Allred Swallen, Starring as Tanya in “Mamma Mia!”

 

 

Q) You are no stranger to the Dock Street Theatre stage. What are a few of your favorite past roles that you’ve performed with Charleston Stage?


It’s fun to be the villain, so I loved playing Velma von Tussle in Hairspray. All of the shows have been a joy to be a part of but my other favorites would probably be Cabaret, Legally Blonde, and Young Frankenstein.

 


Q) What is your role in Mamma Mia and what do you like most about your character?


I’ve wanted to play Tanya since I first saw the show as a teen, so I am very grateful for this opportunity! Tanya is one of Donna’s best friends and a member of Donna and the Dynamos. She’s wealthy, cultured, fun, fashionable, and confident, and she loves to let loose with her friends.

 

 

Q) What drew you to performing in Mamma Mia?


I have always loved this show! It is pure fun, and the songs are so catchy! I think the way ABBA’s songs are worked into the plot is very clever, and I like the show’s multi-generational appeal.

 

Q) What are you most excited about that audiences will experience with Charleston Stage’s production of Mamma Mia?


I think they will love the music and the costumes, and I hope they will get up and dance at the end!!

 

 

Q) Share a little bit about yourself.


I am originally from Virginia. I went to school in NYC and moved to Charleston soon after. I work with Storytree Children’s Theatre, East Cooper Montessori, Dance Laugh Learn, Village Kids on Woolfe, and Curiouser Entertainment. I love kids and theatre, so it’s a blessing to make a living by combining the two. I recently got married and moved to West Ashley with my husband, Ian, and our shih tzu, Fozzie Bear.

 


Q) What’s up next for you?

Up next I’m playing Jerusha in Daddy Long Legs at the Woolfe Street Playhouse and Babette in Charleston Stage’s Beauty and the Beast.

 

Performances continue running Sept. 13 – 23 at the Historic Dock Street Theatre. Purchase online today by clicking here.