ABBA Mania at the Regent Theatre Stoke Review

ABBA Mania
Regent Theatre, Stoke

20 June 2015

www.atgtickets.com/regent-theatre

Reviewed by Debbie Lowndes

Abba’s musical legacy is one that has been around for over forty years and they dominated the charts for nearly ten consecutive years. It has now been thirty-one years since the group itself last toured. Their appeal remains incredibly broad, what with the Mamma Mia stage production and, more recently, the star-studded film of the same name. Sweden’s international music phenomenon: Abba – Agnetha, Bjorn, Benny and Anni Frid – became global superstars of the 70’s with their unique pop anthems. From their 1974 Eurovision triumph to an unbroken string of hits around the world their music has enjoyed unparalleled acclaim.

My husband, daughter (14 years old) and I were given the chance to experience ABBA Mania at the Regent Theatre in Hanley, Stoke on Trent. It was a one night only performance by a special live tribute concert. The audience was a mixture of all ages, many of which were dressed as their idols.

The performance was based on that of a live show is in the late 70s when the real ABBA were doing their last tours prior to breaking up in 1982.Accompanying the four key group member were a drummer, a bass player, and a guitarist. ‘Benny’ played keyboard on an old fashioned type Yamaha and ‘Bjorn’ plays guitar. The memorable Abba costumes are recreated too, catsuits, sequinned ponchos and metallic platform boots, a pastel take on 70s glam rock fashion. The costumes were very true to the era and attractive to the eye. I felt both female signers played their parts very well and the whole group were very entertaining. Everyone was given the opportunity to join in the party and have the time of their lives. All groups members stayed in true character throughout the performance.

The performance covered favourite classics  such as Take A Chance On Me, Voulez Vous, Dancing Queen, Super Trouper, The Winner Takes It All,  were brought to the stage. Everyone was given the opportunity to join in the party and have the time of their lives.

The Regent Theatre was very easy to within Stoke city centre. There was car parking close by (less than a 5 – 10 minute walk) which was well signposted. Our parking was very reasonably priced at just £2.00. We when straight the box office to collect our tickets, these were sourced quickly. The staff at the box office were very efficient and considering how busy the theatre was there were no queues. Prior to the performance we had a drink. You could purchase drinks from the bar area or a counter. Drinks were reasonable and not overpriced. The toilets were clearly marked and clear. They were checked regularly and well stocked with soap, toilet paper etc… The theatre had a large number of seats and was mainly full and there was a great atmosphere. The theatre staff effectively directed the public to their seats and assisted with any needs they may have. The theatre appeared to be good for disabled access. At the interval you could obtain refreshments from the bar. You could also pre-order for the interval if preferred.  Ice creams, sweets and soft drinks were served directly in the theatre.  We divulged in an ice cream it was delicious and once again reasonably priced.

We had a most enjoyable evening, we were up, singing and dancing. It was truly amazing and great family fun.

Rating: 5/5

ABBA Mania is currently touring the UK, for more information and tour dates visit www.abbamania.com.

For other shows at the Regent Theatre in Stoke visit www.atgtickets.com/regent-theatre.

Regent Theatre, Piccadilly, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, ST1 1AP | 0844 871 7649