Mayflower Theatre, Southampton – until 8 November 2025
Reviewed by Jo Gordon
5*****
If happiness could be bottled, it would probably sound a lot like Mamma Mia! From the first glimmer of sunshine on that Greek island to the final, glorious explosion of sequins and lycra this production is a glitter cannon of joy that fires straight at your heart and quite possibly your dancing feet.
The fact it has been running, globally for over 26 years makes it clear this isn’t just another jukebox musical. The story, centred on Sophie’s quest to discover which of the three charmingly confused men is her father before her wedding, is both chaotic and heartwarming. What could go wrong when you invite three of your Mum’s old flames to an island wedding without telling her? (Answer: everything, but in the most delightful way imaginable!)
Sophie ( Lydia Hunt) played with infectious enthusiasm and a voice that could probably power a small village, is a total delight. Her chemistry with Sky (Joe Grundy) is genuine, her excitement palpable, and her rendition of “I Have a Dream” sweet enough to melt the toughest cynic. However, the show truly belongs to Donna (Jenn Griffin). When she belts out “The Winner Takes It All” it’s as if every heartbreak you’ve ever had suddenly decided to join in and I don’t believe anyone who says they do not have a tear in their eye at “Slipping Through my Fingers“ The emotion is raw and the vocals spine-tingling.
Donna’s partners-in-chaos (we all have our version!) Tanya (Sarah Earnshaw) and Rosie (Rosie Glossop) provide a masterclass in comedic brilliance. Tanya, glamorous and gloriously sassy, nails her timing with the precision of a Swiss watch, especially during “Does Your Mother Know”, where she effortlessly turns the tables on a much younger admirer. Rosie, meanwhile, is the friend we all need, bold, hilarious, and utterly unfiltered. Her flirtation with Bill had the audience roaring with laughter, and when she launches into “Take a Chance on Me”, resistance is futile.
The three Dads, Sam (Luke Jasztal), Harry (Richard Meek) and Bill (Mark Goldthorp) each bring their own charm to the mix. Sam’s emotional honesty grounds the chaos, Harry’s awkward earnestness is endearing, and Bill’s carefree humour adds warmth and mischief in equal measure. Together, they’re a wonderfully mismatched trio who make you root for all of them.
Of course, it wouldn’t be Mamma Mia! without the music. Every ABBA hit lands perfectly, from the cheeky fun of “Lay All Your Love on Me” to the euphoric energy of “Voulez-Vous.” The choreography bursts with life, the costumes shimmer like a disco ball’s daydream, and the ensemble cast radiates such joy that it’s impossible not to join in.
By the time the encore hits complete with those legendary jumpsuits, the audience is on its feet, clapping, cheering and dancing. It’s silly, it’s heartfelt, it’s gloriously over the top and that’s exactly the point.
Mamma Mia! isn’t just a musical; it’s a holiday for the soul. You’ll leave humming ABBA, grinning from ear to ear and wondering how soon you can see it again.