MAMMA Mia!, a musical built around the back catalogue of super group Abba, might easily be dismissed as bright, frothy and disposable, as this is a production which does not attempt to take itself seriously,
Yet there is something completely irresistible about this unstoppable show, allowing us to echo the sentiment ‘thank you for the music’. If you are an Abba aficionado, in the face of cynics who dismiss their greatest hits as disposable pop, you will know that these are more than songs. The likes of The Winner Takes It All and Money, Money, Money are epic, instantly providing you with a heartfelt narrative, the minute you play them. With the addition of addictive hooks and superb harmonies, this equates to pop perfection.
When so many juke box musicals shuffle hits into a show like a third rate DJ, what makes Mamma Mia! stand out is the strong and respectful storyline written by Catherine Johnson. Abba’s hits are sutured into the plot with such precision, it feels as if they were written for the show rather than the other way round.
Abba’s hits are sutured into the plot with such precision, it feels as if they were written for the show rather than the other way round
The plotline spirals around Sophie Sheridan (played beautifully by Lucy May Barker) who is getting married. She lives in Greece with her mother, Donna (Sara Poyzer) but there is a fly in the olive oil; the bride to be does not know who her dad is. So, she invites the three most likely candidates behind her mum’s back.
This might sound ridiculous and to be honest, it is. But the story is so bouncy, funny and heartfelt that it doesn’t matter. You simply go with it, neck some virtual ouzo and allow yourself to be dazzled by this Big Fat Greek Wedding with brilliant pop music.
The performances are infectious, as everyone looks like they are having a ball, but the cast also know how to tug the heartstrings, when they are required to. Sara Poyzer is simply stunning as Donna, the matriarch who has fled to a Greek Island for some tranquillity. She is a real Super Trouper, hitting all the vocal heights, and her Winner Takes It All illustrates exactly why that song fits the musical genre, like a glove.
Her best friends, Jacqueline Braun (Rosie) and Emma Clifford (Tanya) are both game birds and incredibly funny. The trio of possible fathers; Richard Standing (Sam), Tim Walton (Harry) and Christopher Hollis (Bill) are terrific with each holding their own in a show that celebrates the power and tenacity of women. Micha Richardson’s Ali may be a small role, but she grabs the opportunity to shine as bright as a summer day in Kos, and succeeds.
Louis Stockil does the same as Pepper, as this show really does allow its supporting cast and ensemble to step out of the shadows. Anthony Van Laast’s terrific choreography leaves you breathless, particularly during Voulez- Vous. Director Phyllida Lloyd keeps the show pacey and manages to imbue even the most farcical situations, with genuine class.
If you have avoided this show, because pop musicals leave you thinking ‘Here we Go Again’, Take a Chance and spend your Money, Money, Money for the chance to become a Dancing Queen. Mamma Mia! Could be the most fun you will have in a theatre all year.
Mamma Mia! is at the Palace Theatre until 4 June
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