Theatre Review: MAMMA MIA! The Musical Is ‘A Winner That Takes It All’ In Singapore
PUBLISHED October 21st, 2023 02:00 pm | UPDATED November 6th, 2023 04:36 pm
Music, Drama, Romance and well, lots of rhinestones…MAMMA MIA! has finally made it to Singapore. Premiered in more than 450 major cities and adored by 65 million people worldwide, the musical is an infectious celebration of love, finding one’s identity and of course, some good ole Abba-licious music! Taking centre stage, the musical promises a quick escape from daily monotonous lives turning the Sands Theatre at Marina Bay Sands to a greek island between now and 5 November 2023 – lets just say you’re in for a treat!
MAMMA MIA! is produced by Judy Craymer, Richard East &Björn Ulvaeus for Littlestar in association with Universal and NGM and presented in Singapore by Base EntertainmentAsia.
The heartwarming and hilarious story directed by Carlton Edwards, follows young bride-to-be, Sophie, who dreams of having her father walk her down the aisle. Except, she’s not entirely sure who her real father is. So just like any other 20-year old, she secretly invites three potential candidates to her Greek island wedding. Chaos ensues as her mother, Donna, navigates the unexpected arrivals and rekindles past romances.
Tuck in for a night of catchy tunes, colourful costumes, and a charming cast as you delve into a beloved storyline exploring concepts of independence, generational changes and perspectives, as well as the power of self-identify, friendship and the volatile yet unconditional relationship between a mother and a daughter.
The Cast & Performance
What truly makes this edition of MAMMA MIA! come alive is the outstanding performance of the cast in delivering the lines almost like a seamless conversation, with no awkward pauses or hesitation. Masters of their craft, the actors are also seen playing around (think chest grabs and other cheeky innuendoes) and truly enjoying themselves on stage, which made us as an audience also reciprocate in glee. It goes without saying Sara Poyzer, who takes up the bombastic and complex role of Donna Sheridan, does the character justice invoking a strong emotional performance that not many can nail. Whilst her counterpart, Jess Michelmore who plays the character of Sophie Sheridan effortlessly captures the essence of a chirpy 20-year old who is just trying to find her identity in the world.
The supporting cast includes the potential fathers eloquently played by Richard Standing (playing Sam Carmichael), Neal Craig (playing Harry Bright) and Phil Corbitt (playing Bill Austin). Nonetheless, our personal favourites also include the other two members of the Dynamos, Rosie and Tanya, played by Nicky Swift and Sarah Earnshaw respectfully, and the ensemble who add plenty of comedic moments into the show.
Not to mention the standout feature of MAMMA MIA! – The music. This edition seamlessly weaved in timeless hits, including “Dancing Queen,” “I Have A Dream,” “Money, Money, Money,” and the eponymous “Mamma Mia,” into the narrative with the cast belting out hit after hit. Strong vocal performances, coupled with spirited choreography, revealed a toe-tapping, feel-good atmosphere throughout the show. Something to lookout was Sara Poyzer‘s moving performance of “The Winner Takes It All,” which had us at the edge of our seats with its chilling sentiments of anger and sadness.
Something we also truly appreciated in this raving version of Carlton Edwards’ MAMMA MIA! was that the essence of friendship was not lost in the midst of showcasing other relationships in the show. The light-hearted story with a healthy dose of sentimental charm, showcased the nonjudgemental, yet sometimes sarcastic, but undoubtedly loving nature of friendships to a tee (no matter the age!).
Creating a vibrant backdrop for the unfolding drama, the set takes the audience to Greece with minimal but effective scenic changes, which add to the show’s overall visual appeal. The cast’s vibrant costumes are a delight for sore eyes, recreating the glitz and glamour of the ’70s and ’80s nostalgia.
Conclusion: When All Is Said And Done
This is the third time that MAMMA MIA! has appeared on stage in Singapore after previously having impressed audiences in 2014 and 2018. However, the full-house seatings yet again proves Singaporeans’ love for the feel-good smash hit show. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the musical or a newcomer to its catchy tunes, this production of MAMMA MIA! is an unmissable experience that will have you dancing in your seats and humming the iconic songs long after the final curtain call.
Just when you’re about to say ‘Gimme Gimme Gimme‘ more, keep your eyes peeled to the stage as the cast might just spin up a ‘f-abba-lous’ encore with performances in star-centric ABBA costumes.
MAMMA MIA! runs 19 October to 5 November 2023, at the Sands Theatre, Marina Bay Sands, 4 Bayfront Ave, B1, Singapore 018973. Tickets are prices from S$68 to S$808.
All images courtesy of MAMMA MIA! UK & International Tour 2023/2024 & Base Entertainment Asia.
