Mama Mia!
It features 2 hours and 35 minutes, one break. At the Winter Garden Theater.
History always seems to echo itself, doesn’t it?
Summer is back at the Winter Garden Theatre on Broadway. The beloved musical “Mamma Mia!” made its return on Thursday after a decade away off Broadway.
This delightful escape, mixing the romantic antics of a Greek island with ABBA’s infectious 70s hits, continues to charm critics and audiences alike. It’s almost like the lyrics yell, “Get ready to have fun!”
Things are about to get exciting!
This isn’t meant to simply be another jukebox show. We aren’t here for bland sitcom vibes. Instead, we’re treated to a vibrant spectacle filled with platform shoes and colorful bell bottoms.
Honestly, I’m just grateful for a good musical right now. “Mamma Mia!” offers a much-needed break from the seriousness of life. Plus, the energy and nostalgia are hard to resist. It’s definitely holding its ground among the classics.
I first caught the show more than 20 years ago, and I still remember the cleverness and humor.
For those of us visiting the imaginary island of Kalokairi and the iconic Donna’s Taverna, there were some noticeable cuts for this Winter Garden production.
The show is on a national tour; it’s not a typical Broadway production. That means it’s a bit smaller and, perhaps, more budget-friendly. The staging during “Voulez-Vous” feels slightly cramped, and at one point, I couldn’t help but think the cast should watch their heads while performing.
Initially, I was a bit put off by this, but honestly, I quickly found myself entertained by Donna and her vibrant bride Sophie, alongside her three potential fathers.
How could anyone resist that charm?
The audience certainly couldn’t get enough of Christine Cheryl as Donna. She brings an unforgettable energy to the role.
With her rendition of “Money, Money,” dressed in overalls, she evokes the fun spirit of the 1970s as all three of her former flames show up at the hotel years later. There’s something really engaging about her performance, especially when she transitions between tracks.
Cheryl delivers an impressive ballad that leaves quite an impact.
Her companions, Rosie and Tanya, played by Carly Sakorove and Jarin Steele, inject new life into familiar gags. Laughter ensues, especially during numbers like “Take a Chance on Me” and “Does Your Mother Know?”
While the show often showcases male performers, it’s important to note that “Mamma Mia!” doesn’t really emphasize male talent the same way; I mean, it’s not called “Dadda Mia!” The men in the show handle their roles well, with Victor Wallace as Sam, Jim Newman as a sturdy figure, and Rob Marnell bringing energy as Harry.
This is just part of the experience. Fans of the 2008 Meryl Streep film might still have mixed feelings about Pierce Brosnan’s portrayal.
Amy Weaver and Grant Reynolds, playing young lovers Sophie and Sky, are as endearing as ever.
Overall, the show carries on, even if it’s a bit rough around the edges.
“Mamma Mia!” is back on Broadway for six months. But honestly, does it even need to be put on hold so soon?
To borrow from ABBA’s newer lyrics, “Don’t shut me down!”
