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MAMMA MIA!
  • By Pete Shaw
  • |
  • 31st Jul 2024
  • |
  • ★★★★

Twenty-five years after it originally opened in London, Mamma Mia is still packing them in at the Novello Theatre, and it’s easy to see why.

An infectiously joyous night out

A story of a young girl’s quest to find out who her father is before she gets married is shoehorned around ABBA’s massive canon of hits in what has proved to be the most successful jukebox musical of all time.

Sophie lives on a Greek island with her mother, Donna. She has found her mum’s old diary, which gives her clues to the possible identity of her dad. She invites all three – pretending to be Donna – to her wedding. As the action plays out, any one of Bill, Sam or Harry could be Sophie’s father. At various points, Sophie is convinced she’s found the one; but we never actually learn the truth – and that doesn’t really matter anyway.

It’s easy to deride a show like Mamma Mia as just froth, but the truth is, it’s actually really good. Playwright Catherine Johnson has managed to fit the plot around the songs in a way that doesn’t feel hackneyed. And these are all songs that have slipped into our subconscious over the last 40 years, so it’s difficult not to be tapping your feet when Dancing Queen comes on. The set is simple but effective; the costumes sparkle; the vocals are first class, and the ensemble boys are prone to losing their tops. What’s not to love?

If you’ve dismissed Mamma Mia because you thought it a little trite, trust me – take a look. It’s an infectiously joyous night out and way better than you think.

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Reviews by Pete Shaw

London Palladium

Hello, Dolly!

★★★★
Prince of Wales Theatre

The Book of Mormon

★★★★★
Novello Theatre

MAMMA MIA!

★★★★
The Stage Door Theatre

Marry Me a Little

★★★★★
Apollo Victoria Theatre

Wicked

★★★★
Apollo Victoria Theatre

Wicked

★★★★

Since you’re here…

… we have a small favour to ask. We don't want your money to support a hack's bar bill at Abattoir, but if you have a pound or two spare, we really encourage you to support a good cause. If this review has either helped you discover a gem or avoid a turkey, consider doing some good that will really make a difference.

You can donate to the charity of your choice, but if you're looking for inspiration, there are three charities we really like.

Mama Biashara
Kate Copstick’s charity, Mama Biashara, works with the poorest and most marginalised people in Kenya. They give grants to set up small, sustainable businesses that bring financial independence and security. That five quid you spend on a large glass of House White? They can save someone’s life with that. And the money for a pair of Air Jordans? Will take four women and their fifteen children away from a man who is raping them and into a new life with a moneymaking business for Mum and happiness for the kids.
Donate to Mama Biashara now

Theatre MAD
The Make A Difference Trust fights HIV & AIDS one stage at a time. Their UK and International grant-making strategy is based on five criteria that raise awareness, educate, and provide care and support for the most vulnerable in society. A host of fundraising events, including Bucket Collections, Late Night Cabarets, West End Eurovision, West End Bares and A West End Christmas continue to raise funds for projects both in the UK and Sub-Saharan Africa.
Donate to Theatre MAD now

Acting For Others
Acting for Others provides financial and emotional support to all theatre workers in times of need through the 14 member charities. During the COVID-19 crisis Acting for Others have raised over £1.7m to support theatre workers affected by the pandemic.
Donate to Acting For Others now

Performances

Location

The Blurb

Join us at MAMMA MIA! and enjoy the ultimate feel-good factor at the world’s sunniest and most exhilarating smash-hit musical! Set on a Greek island paradise, a story of love, friendship and identity is cleverly told through the timeless songs of ABBA. Sophie’s quest to discover the father she’s never known brings her mother face to face with three men from her distant romantic past on the eve of a wedding they’ll never forget! Since premiering in London 21 years ago, this irresistibly funny comedy has thrilled over 60 million people all around the world. There's never been a better time to see this unforgettable musical in the West End, where it all began. Whatever age you are, you can‘t help but have the time of your life at MAMMA MIA!
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