Mamma Mia!

Mamma Mia! Here we go again. With many productions of Mamma Mia! In Perth in the last decade or so, you might think that this city would have lost their enthusiasm for this ABBA tribute musical. HAMA’s latest big production, playing at the Regal Theatre, proves that there are still plenty of people keen to see this show again, and HAMA is ready with a well-produced, well directed musical, peopled with a fabulous cast.

Co -Producer Hamish McSporran stepped into set design for the first time, with his take on the traditional blue and white taverna set, that features three revolves, capably moved by the cast. Costumes, by Co-Producer Marina del Basso continue this blue and white theme (and least in the opening scenes) with great use of colour throughout, including purple and white in the wedding scene, something I don’t remember seeing before. Richard Timms’ Lighting Design is bold and emotive, with the three elements combining to create a great looking palette.

Choreography, as we expect from HAMA, is complex, clever and expertly executed, created by Cameron Etherington, with strong vocals, especially from the lead roles, under the guidance of Tim How.

Elethea Sartorelli, looking gorgeous in a wig by Manuao Te-Aotonga, is a fabulous Donna, lighting up the stage with an interpretation that feels a little different, and very genuine. She shares leading last status with Donna’s daughter Sophie, beautifully played by Charlize Gosnell, who has recently returned to Perth, sounding better than ever, and creating a touching and sympathetic Sophie.

The plot centres around Sophie’s quest to work out which of three men is her father, and we are given three great contenders. Phil Bedworth is classically and convincingly British as banker Harry Bright (probably my favourite performance from Phil to date), Steve Simmons has great charm as American Sam Carmichael, while Mike Nayer plays laid-back travel writer Bill Austin with style.

Donna’s best friends become clear audience favourites, with delightful broad stroke portrayals from Rachel Monamy as oft-married Tanya  and Taniel Van Zyl as unlucky-in-love Rosie. Sophie’s friends are also nicely played, with Emily Lamber (Ali) and Shenae White (Lisa) giving their all.

Tate Bennet finds more comedy in fiancé Sky than I have ever seen before, and joins with Jacob Steen (Pepper) and Rp van Der Westhuizen (Eddie), both of whom deliver fine performances, and the male chorus to produce the funniest rendition of “Lay All Your Love on Me”, that I have seen. The lead cast is completed by Max Conroy, clearly having a ball as Father Alexandrios.