Leeds Grand Theatre – until Saturday 27th June 2026
Reviewed by Adam Craddock
5*****
I had the delight of being invited along to review Mamma Mia! at the stunning Leeds Grand Theatre. I have to be upfront, I am not an ABBA fan at all … they’re just a bit over rated to me? But as the doting partner of an ABBA super fan I agreed to go with her to see what I thought of the musical, and I have to say … I was so pleasantly surprised.
For the uneducated like myself, Mamma Mia! follows the story of Sophie Sheridan in the lead up to her wedding as she seeks to find out which of her mother’s 3 former lovers is her father so that he can walk her down the aisle. The show is a real feel good tale about motherhood and finding your true self.
Jenn Griffin stars as Donna Sheridan, the single mother of the bride living on an idyllic Greek island. Griffin has the most beautiful tone to her voice and brings a real connection to the material. Her portrayal of the strong independent mother was just spot on! Rosie Glossop was great as Rosie. Her physical comedy in her solo was brilliant and her chemistry with her on stage other half came naturally. Sarah Earnshaw was outstanding as Tanya, with that fabulous cougar energy you’ve come to expect from this role and a voice to match, she really was one of the absolute highlights for me! Luke Jasztal was strong as Sam Carmichael, with a real chemistry with Griffin’s Donna and a naturally suave portrayal of the role. Richard Meek was brilliant as Harry Bright, being endearingly nice, making it even more funny to imagine him in his headbanger days in the show. Mark Goldthorp was hilarious as Bill Austin, with an impeccable West Country accent and being my personal favourite of the three dads. Lydia Hunt was strong as Sophie Sheridan, with a very clean vocal and a wonderful youthful energy. My partner commented that in the film Sophie can be a bit of a wet character but Hunt’s portrayal was very likeable.
In terms of the production elements I thought overall they were outstanding. My only slight gripe was the music/speakers were on way too loud during the overture, to the point that my partner had to put her hands over her ears to quieten the noise, but by the end of the first number this seemed to have been rectified. The lighting was crisp and clean and the sets were simple but effective. The costumes were brilliantly campy, just as you’d expect from an ABBA musical.
Overall I had a thoroughly enjoyable night watching Mamma Mia!, which to be honest I was not expecting! Regardless of whether you like ABBA or not, this is a delightful feel good summery show not to be missed.