Mamma Mia! at Norwich Theatre Royal review: ABBA musical will leave you feeling uplifted

Mamma Mia! Theatre Royal, Norwich

Review by Sarah Hardy

This is the ultra feelgood musical which has been a roaring success since it burst onto the stage back in 1999 - that famous movie followed in 2008.

It’s been to Norwich several times and is still playing to sell out crowds - indicating just what a great production it is.

Perhaps its secret is that its creation involved both of the Abba fellas - Benny Andersson and Bjorn Ulvaeus - so its authenticity is guaranteed, and it has more than a sprinkling of that unique Abba magic.

It has everything you need - all those wonderful Abba songs from Dancing Queen to Money, Money, Money, The Winner Takes It All and The Name of the Game.

And the plot - often the weak link in a musical - is charmingly quirky: one girl, one mum and three dads!

Add in some great dance routines, live music, wonderful costumes, and some very funny and somewhat risque humour and you have the full ticket.

The cast seem to genuinely enjoy themselves, with Sara Poyzer as Donna and newcomer Jena Pandya as Sophie - and mention must go to Helen Anker as vampy Tanya who has some of the funniest moments.

There is some local interest, with Mariella Mazzilli from Oulton Broad and Notre Dame High School in Norwich as one of Sophie’s friends, Lisa. It’s her first professional role and she excels.

You’ll definitely leave the theatre feeling uplifted and singing more than a few of those belters.

The show runs until October 22.

More details at www.norwichtheatre.org