The current production of Mamma Mia! gracing the lyric theatre at Brisbane’s QPAC promises to be “the party of the year” and it lives up to its promise and some more.
With nearly twenty years of production history and a film adaptation with an all-star cast, Mamma Mia! after all this time still enchants theatre goers putting it alongside some of the world’s most popular musicals.
For those not familiar with the story, Mamma Mia! follows young bride-to-be Sophie (Sarah Morrison) who after learning about her mother’s adventurous and free-spirited past, invites three men that could potentially be her actual father to her upcoming wedding.
What follows is a journey of self-discovery celebrating love, friendship, and family all while taking place on a Greek Island with some of ABBA’s most classic hits smoothly woven into the narrative.
With its toe-tapping tunes, heart-warming storyline, hilarious one-liners, and its highly engaging and entertaining to-die-for cast make it the perfect recipe for a truly enjoyable evening at the theatre.
The believable chemistry between the show’s leads, Sarah Morrison and Stephen Mahy (Sky) provide numerous touching moments throughout the show. It must also be noted Mahy’s abs were also rather nice on the eyes.
Those familiar with the original Australian production will recognise Natalie O’Donnell who has come full circle since playing Sophie who now steps into the role of mother Donna Sheridan. Her performance of “The Winner Takes It All” was without a doubt one of the true standouts of the night.
Alicia Gardiner and Jayde Westaby play Donna’s childhood friends Rosie and Tanya. Between Alicia’s hilarious take of “Take A Chance On Me” and Jayde’s suave performance of “Does Your Mother Know,” the pair often steal the spotlight whenever they grace the stage with their presence.
Sophie’s potential fathers, Sam, Harry and Bill were played by Ian Stenlake, Phillip Lowe, and Josef Ber. The three are perfect in the roles and play them with such flair and charisma, cementing the fact why a very young Donna would have been drawn to each of them those many years ago.
With contagious performances featuring some of Abba’s greatest hits like “Mamma Mia”, “Take A Chance On Me”, “Dancing Queen”, “Voulez-Vous”, “Money Money Money”, “Super Trouper” and more, you will surely find yourself trying hold back from breaking into song.
What truly completes the experience of Mamma Mia! is the medley of ABBA hits at the finale, which sees the whole theatre climbing to their feet and singing along. The only downside is you find yourself leaving the theatre begging for more.
Do yourself a favour and kick off your 2018 year of theatre with Mamma Mia!
You won’t regret it!!!
Photos by JAMES MORGAN
MAMMA MIA! The Musical
Venue: Lyric Theatre, QPAC
Dates: from December 26 2017
Bookings: www.mammamiathemusical.com.au
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