Mamma Mia The Musical has arrived in Edinburgh for a ten-day run at the Edinburgh Playhouse. This has become now a world’s favourite party shows. The musical was adapted by two members of the Swedish pop superstar group ABBA – Benny Andersson and Bjorn Ulvaeus.
I have always felt that you never have to be a massive fan of Abba music to head out for a sing along and a possible dance. Even if you have never seen the film or musical before, I always feel this is very entertaining. It is always obvious that the audience are there to enjoy themselves when you see very decorative costumes.
The show begins with 20-year-old Sophie Sheridan – played by Emma Mullen – preparing for her wedding on a Greek island with her single mother Donna, played by Sharon Sexton. Sophie never knew her father and her Mother would never tell her, but Sophie wants to know, whoever he is to give her away on her big day. Donna, on the other hand, has tried to forget the events of 21 years ago when she conceived her daughter, principally because she’s unsure who the father is. There is a possibility of one in three men that her Mother had a relationship with at the time! Sophie discovered this when finding a trunk which held secrets of her possible Dad. Sophie decides to invite all three of them who may be her Dad.
There was no cast that was known to me, but I would say the the performances from everyone were great. Sharon Sexton’s portrayal as Sophie’s mother was definitely the best and worth seeing the show for Sexton’s voice and the enthusiasm she showed in her role.
Obviously during the musical there is going to be several Abba songs that you know and may sing along to including “Mamma Mia”, “Thank You For The Music”,” Take a Chance On Me” and “Knowing Me Knowing You”.
Mamma Mia is a show that will have your feet tapping and hands clapping. Certainly, the sell-out audience at the Playhouse loved it and the standing ovation for the cast at the end was fully deserved.