Mamma Mia!
On a reclusive Greek island with old love affairs, drama a plenty, and a slew of iconic ABBA tunes, Mamma Mia laid all its love on me at Norwich Theatre Royal.
It’s the perfect time to get out those vacation clothes and bathe in the heat of those stage lights, especially for Mamma Mia. We’ve been feeling that warmth here in England, scorching heat reflective of a Grecian vacation; I must warn you, though, watching this show will only make you feel hotter, and perhaps a little envious.
The famed Mamma Mia delivered exactly what I expected. Addictive performances with a mix of amusing and heartfelt songs. Of course, though, the main reason this musical has amassed such a large following over the years is because of the inclusion of songs by the world-famous band, ABBA. Despite this, it's important that we don't mistake this musical as a tribute act; Judy Craymer and Gary Goetzman - as explained years ago when this musical was only a mere thought, wanted this to be an 'original book musical'. ABBA's classic pop songs detail emotional highs and lows. Dancing Queen, Knowing Me Knowing You, both opposite ends of the spectrum as far as poignant and excitable lyrics go. Perfect for a musical detailing a young girl finding herself through love and a mother watching this as she deals with the woes of her past, don't you think?
Donna, played by Jenn Griffin, captured the spirit of her character remarkably. The most memorable performance is found in Slipping Through My Fingers, which embodies the thoughts of all mothers watching their children grow and leave the nest within a blink of an eye. As a daughter, it’s an emotional perspective to watch. Especially as you notice Sophie, played by Lydia Hunt, go through these conflicting emotions as she navigates a new chapter of her life. It makes you rehash those moments your parents have ever seemed overwhelming, you come to notice those moments have always been based on love.
Offsetting the occasional emotional wave, the comedic relief was found within performances featuring songs such as Take A Chance On Me with Rosie and her unexpected crush, alongside Tanya with her young, determined summer fling in Does Your Mother Know.
Overall, the performances were delightful, the ensemble accompanied the main cast perfectly. The vocals were consistently steady and smooth. Energetic dance numbers met 70’s and 80’s groove. Everyone was a Dancing Queen in my eyes. Genuinely, the casting was perfect for every character.
Another thing I couldn’t help but note was how Donna and Sophie’s friend groups have you instinctively finding yourself within them. Will you end up like Donna; the magnetic, independent, fun, free-spirited and formerly flirty single mother. Or perhaps Tanya; fierce and fabulous with a penchant for a luxurious life. Or, lastly, are you the bubbly Rosie, individualistic and witty with an admirable career to back it up. Donna and the Dynamos are a reflection of the different paths one can take in life. Ultimately, it's a reminder that no matter what roads we go down, great friends will always find each other again in the end.
With that being said, this is my favorite musical to date; yes, I know I say this often, but honestly, it was so fun and witty! There is this perfect balance in Mamma Mia that speaks to two different generations, the ones who are beginning to find themselves, and the ones that already have. It proposes two different questions, what’s next, and what now? It demonstrates just how much we never stop living and learning
And lastly, if you don’t feel inspired enough to book an all-inclusive B&B retreat to a Greek island this summer, did you even watch the show?
P.S: Completely unrelated, but any recommendations on excursions in Mykonos? I'm suddenly in dire need of some...
