Review: Mamma Mia

Leeds Grand TheatreThe music of ABBA saturated the 70s with some of the finest songs ever written so it's hardly surprising that a musical based on their hits has become a global phenomenon Mamma Mia is not just another jukebox musical, it's a cleverly constructed work where the songs are relative and meaningful to the plot and help move the narrative along.

MUSICAL TREAT: Abba-inspired Mamma Mia at Leeds Grand Theatre.

It’s a heart warming tale of female friendships, love and identity set on a Greek island. It tells of Sophie’s quest to discover the father she’s never known bringing her mother face to face with three ex-boyfriends on the eve of a wedding they will never forget.

Phyllida Lloyd’s production is upbeat, fast and furious yet, at the same time, has some wonderfully poignant moments skilfully coupled with slick and well-timed comedic interludes.

The producers of Mamma Mia have more than got it right with the casting of this musical. Helen Hobson (Donna), Gillian Hardie (Rosie), Emma Clifford (Tanya) are outstanding whilst Lucy May Barker (Sophie) capture a beautiful innocence in both vocals and characterization.

Mamma Mia is ABBA magic on tap. With hits such as Dancing Queen, Waterloo, The Winner Takes It All and Chiquitita it’s the kind of musical where you have to stop yourself from singing along to every song.

To July 8.