February 9th, what a night! Mamma Mia wowed the Manchester Opera House with its energetic and fun-filled performance. A musical I have loved since the film in 2008, seeing it live did not disappoint. From the outstanding acting and singing, to the ingenius set and costume design, it brought a kind of joy I haven't felt in a theatre in a long time. As an ABBA lover herself, Maria.E said 'It was an absolutely brilliant production and the actors looked like they were thoroughly enjoying themselves'.

Based on the book by Catherine Johnson and the music of ABBA, Mamma Mia has been performed in over 450 cities and seen by more than 65 million people! It was brought to the big screen in 2008 and featured household names such as Meryl Streep, Pierce Brosnan, Colin Firth and Julie Walters, returning in 2018 for the sequel 'Mamma Mia!Here we go again'. The hit musical follows the story of Sophie and her mother Donna, as Sophie invites three men to her wedding in hopes of discovering her father; friends and ex-lovers are re-united and new romance blossoms. A mostly comedic show with fun numbers, like 'Lay all your love on me', that can make you cry with it's rendition of 'Slipping through my fingers', Mamma Mia has truly got it all. 

It would be a crime to write an article on the show and not mention the exceptional performance given by Sara Poyzer as Donna. Sara captured Donna Sheridan perfectly, making the audience laugh in 'Dancing queen' and moving them to tears during 'The winner takes it all'. Equally fantastic were Nicky Swift and Sarah Earnshaw as iconic duo Rosie and Tanya, who not only sounded amazing but had the audience crying with laughter. Another comedic duo to be mentioned are Ali and Lisa, Sophie's best friends and almost mini Rosie and Tanya. Often, during shows I find my eyes drawn to those in the ensemble and Tanisha Butterfield (Ali) and Freya Humberstone (Lisa) were always outstanding and my favourite characters in the entire production.