MAMMA MIA! The Musical has premiered in Melbourne, drawing a star-studded crowd.
Kicking off the last leg of the 2023 Australian tour, MAMMA MIA! The Musical has finally touched down in Melbourne!
A musical based on the ever-popular songs of ABBA, MAMMA MIA! The Musical is sure to have you singing along, tapping a foot, or pulling out your best 70s dance moves. The show includes 22 well-loved songs, such as Dancing Queen, Take a Chance On Me, and (a seeming crowd favourite) Does Your Mother Know? Not only has the musical been seen by over 65 million people worldwide, the show drew a celebrity crowd for its Melbourne Premiere on Friday October 6th.
The blue carpet was laid out for a star-studded line up of guests to arrive at the Princess Theatre, to officially open the show’s Melbourne season. Entertainers such as Eddie Perfect, Julia Morris, Tom Gleisner, Rhonda Burchmore, Marina Prior, Harrison Craig, John Foreman and Chong Lim, just to name a few, were there for the Premiere celebrations. People were lining Spring Street to catch a glimpse of the festivities, and the theatre was buzzing with excitement.
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Set on a Greek island, the story follows 20-year-old Sophie (played by Sarah Krndika) in the lead up to her wedding, on her quest to find out which of three men is her Dad. Australia’s musical adaptation has been produced by Michael Coppel, Louise Withers, and Linda Bewick, and offers a comical retelling of the story we know and love. With extra songs and an Australian twang, MAMMA MIA! The Musical felt like a fresh take of a comfortable story, particularly for those of us who have seen the movie more times than we care to admit.
The well-casted principal and ensemble talent carried the show adeptly, with their energy never waning across the two-and-a-half-hour production. The cast leant into an overacting approach on stage, quickly teaching us not to take the show – or indeed ourselves – too seriously, and to soak up the comical portrayal of the storyline.
Rosie and Tanya, portrayed by Bianca Bruce and Deone Zanotto respectively, were highlights of the show, bringing an unwavering confidence and joy to the stage. Favourites too were Sophie’s potential fathers, Sam (played by Martin Crewes), Bill (Tim Wright), and the lovable Harry (Drew Livingston).
Credit: David Hooley
Tom Hodgson’s choreography was perfectly suited for the musical, and the live music itself was a wonderful performance of the timeless ABBA classics we all know. By the end of the night we had been transported into an impromptu 70s dance party, and the floor was moving beneath our very feet.
If you’re looking for an entertaining night out in Melbourne, MAMMA MIA! The Musical is a one stop shop of singing, dancing, lycra and laughter.
The Melbourne season runs until December, and you can book your tickets here.
