Mamma Mia At The Kings Theatre, Southsea Review

Reviewed by Lily B

The Kings Theatre, Southsea was packed out last night, with audience members eagerly awaiting the
opening night of the Mamma Mia! UK & International tour.

For those few of you not already acquainted with the smash hit musical, based on the songs of Abba, the plot is a simple yet charming one.

Set on a Greek Island, Mamma Mia! Is based upon a 20 year old Sophie, soon to be married to the
love of her life. She discovers her mothers diary, giving her a hint into the identify of her father; three possible suspects, all of whom had a love affair with her mother 21 years ago. She boldly invites them all to her wedding in the hope of discovering who her father is.

With classic hits such as Waterloo, Does Your Mother Know, Fernando and of course the show
stopping The Winner Takes It All, the show is propelled along at a swift pace with hit after hit thrilling audience members.

With an all star cast the show from start to finish was impressive. Sara Poyzer is fantastic as Donna
Sheridan. Performing confidently and with ease even during the difficult numbers. Never have a pair of dungarees looked so appealing! Her relationship with her two hilarious best friends Rosie, played by the wonderful Nicky Swift, and man-eater Tanya played by Sarah Earnshaw was a delight. With believable chemistry their trio was wonderful to observe.

Jess Michelmore plays Bride-to-Be Sophie Sheridan. Despite a much more limited professional background, she still managed to command the stage with note perfect performances and charming moments with her “fathers” and her mother. Perfectly cast in the role, she brought a sweetness to the fast pace, high energy show.

Another casting success were the “fathers. The smooth and charismatic Sam Carmichael played by Richard Standing with a charming yet tender performance of Knowing Me, Knowing You. Harry Bright, played by the brilliant Neal Craig was sweet and quirky and loved by all. Finally Phil Corbitt playing the hilarious Bill Austin. His scene alongside Nicky Swift as Rosie had the entire audience in stitches. Their chemistry was palpable and it was a lovely moment of pure comedy during the show. Perfect casting yet again.

Another mention must go to Jaden Oshenye who plays the lovable chancer Pepper. Oozing charm,
his appealing nature won over audience members. He was a wonderful addition to the cast.

The versatile staging allowed the scenes to transition throughout the show with ease and the
orchestra below the stage lead the musical numbers brilliantly.

As with all musical theatre shows now, etiquette requires audience members to remain silent during the musical performances to allow the stars their moment. However at the end of the show, there is an opportunity for all to unleash their inner Abba with multiple renditions of the classics. Out comes the lycra and the roof is lifted, with palpable energy! Having never seen the show this was a welcome treat as a finale, and I couldn’t wait to join the well-deserved standing ovation and sing along!

What more can I add? Well, there’s only one thing left to say. Mamma Mia! What a Super Trouper
show!

Rating: 5/5

Mamma Mia! Is running from Friday 19th May until Saturday 27th May various times.

Tickets can be purchased by visiting www.kingsportsmouth.co.uk

Tickets start from £32.50