Picture: Brinkhoff-Moegenburg
Mamma Mia! continues at the Milton Keynes Theatre until 6 August 2022 and then tours until 15 April 2023.
Star rating: five stars ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
The worldwide smash hit musical Mamma Mia! dances onto the stage at Milton Keynes Theatre this week. With a book by Catherine Johnson, the production prowess of Judy Craymer and direction from Phyllida Lloyd, Mamma Mia! cleverly weaves the beloved hits of ABBA (by songwriters Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus) into a breathtaking, emotional, energetic rollercoaster of a show.
Written by women with women as the focal point, the show follows the beautiful relationship of mother and daughter duo, Donna (Sara Poyzer) and Sophie (Jena Pandya) as they edge closer to Sophie’s wedding day to Sky (Toby Miles). Not knowing who her father is, Sophie invites three men who were mentioned in her mother’s diary 21 years ago. Unaware of Sophie’s intentions, three very different men, Sam (Richard Standing), Harry (Daniel Crowder) and Bill (Phil Corbitt) enter the scene and cause mischief, tears and laughter as Sophie and Donna grapple with the impact of the past on their future.
Although love is core to the story, the most heartwarming relationships are the friendships. Donna’s wonderful friends Rosie, played by Nicky Swift, and Tanya, played by Helen Anker, bring infectious joy and energy to the stage, it’s impossible not to smile. It is refreshing to see women of all ages depicted as having fun, living life to the full and being in charge of their own decisions.
But don’t fear, this isn’t just a show for the girls, which was apparent by the diverse audience. Aside from if you’re an ABBA fan or not, Mamma Mia! is a phenomenal and uplifting show for all the family – there’s a reason it’s had a residency in London’s West End for 23 years and has been performed across the globe.
The stellar cast of this current UK tour does not disappoint. They make you believe and feel the story, as well as making it virtually impossible to not want to jump on the stage and join in. The clear, crisp singing voice of Pandya’s Sophie is stunning and Poyzer makes the iconic role of Donna her own.
Although simple, the quaint and realistic set is all that’s needed to transport you to the warmth of a tiny Greek island. From white linens, wet suits to rhinestone jumpsuits, the costumes have it all and help bring the wonderful, homely characters to life.
Finally, the performance is finessed by the superb live band. Just make sure you stay until the very end, when the show becomes a real party! The winner truly takes it all, and that winner is definitely Mamma Mia! – a show that’s not to be missed.
Hannah Grimmette
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