Review by Karen Wyatt-Epapara – Thursday 21 July

Mamma Mia! is a romp through many of the hits of ABBA via the story of Sophie, a young woman who is about to get married and wants her father to give her away. The problem is that her mother, Donna, never told her who he was, but Sophie discovers her mother’s diaries and tracks down three possible candidates. She invites them all to the wedding in the hope that she will know her father when she lays eyes on him. Chaos ensues.

Act One is joyful with the excitement of the upcoming nuptials, combined with comedic moments, while Act Two has more poignant moments as Donna explores her long-lasting feelings for Sam – one of the possible fathers – and her daughter growing up.

As a professional, touring show, the quality of the performances more than meets expectations, with a few stand-outs.

Sara Poyser as Donna is exceptional, able to convey a wide range of emotions through song. Most notable is her heart-rending version of The Winner Takes it All, during which she tells Sam that he broke her heart. Helen Anker and Nicky Swift, as Donna’s long-term friends Tanya and Rosie, are hilarious and the epitome of growing old disgracefully.

A side story is a fling between Tanya and the much younger Pepper, (James Willoughby Moore) who handles the role with aplomb, combining slapstick with impressive dance moves.

The ensemble pieces are spectacular, with complex choreography, and musical numbers as integral to the storyline as the spoken sections.

The curtain call and encore on 20 July – which included ABBA songs not used previously, with 70s ABBA-style outfits – had the audience on their feet, dancing and singing along.

All-in-all, this is an upbeat, feel-good show that is well-worth a watch. Running until 30 July, visit https://mamma-mia.com/uk-and-international-tour/tickets-bournemouth.php to find out when the next performance is.