Mamma Mia!

Bankstown Theatre Company's vibrant production of Mamma Mia! delivered an infectious bout of fun, wrapped in ABBA gold, and that's no easy feat! I do love this musical, being whisked off to the enchanting Greek islands, humming along and watching cast after cast really enjoy the adventure. It makes for a lovely couple of hours, and I'm always keen to see how they differ. 

Directed by Jessica Green, this production struck the right chord with its infectious blend of humour and heart, nursed in her hands. The choreography by Charlotte Wickson was a buoyant, cleverly staged spectacle that perfectly captured the essence of ABBA's disco fever alongside some traditional Greek moves. Musical Director Dean Turner expertly guided the cast through ABBA’s iconic catalogue, ensuring melodies were tight and harmonies lush.

Leading the charge, Sophie Sheridan (Katie Vials) was as vibrant and hopeful as a summer afternoon. Her rendition of “I Have a Dream” captured youthful optimism and longing to know how she fits in with her trio of potential dads. Sophie is the spirited and curious young woman at the centre of Mamma Mia! and Vials delivers a performance filled with warmth, a determined vigour, and vocal talents on display.

Sophie's free-spirited and independent mother is a dynamic character whose past and present collide when the potential fathers of her daughter unexpectedly show up. Donna is a tough nut to portray. She has pretty big walls up, yet has vivacity and resilience that balance her role as a loving mother with her own dreams and desires. Sherry-Anne Haye, taking on this multifaceted role, infuses Donna with humour and a powerful stage presence. Her vocal prowess and emotional range make Donna a compelling matriarch, navigating old flames and new dilemmas. Her powerhouse performance in songs like “The Winner Takes It All,” with emotion laid bare in each expression and note, held such a connection that it was rewarded with spontaneous applause.

The potential dads, Sam (Nathan Howard), Harry (Daniel Conway), and Bill (James Fuary), were a delight. 

Sam Carmichael, an architect with a charming and grounded presence, is played with a balanced blend of charisma and reliability, making him both intriguing and dependable. Howard was irresistibly suave as Sam, infusing every line with smooth assurance that made us understand why Donna remembered “S.O.S.” 

Harry is a slightly awkward but endearing British banker combining intellect with a yearning for the spontaneity of his rock 'n' roll youth. Conway captures the heart with his kindness, wit and natural comic timing. His on point reactions or facial expressions make him one to watch and his nostalgic “Our Last Summer” makes this duet with Donna a highlight. 

Bill Anderson, the adventurous and free-spirited travel writer with a youthful heart, brings a jolt of energy and a sense of adventure, highlighting themes of exploration and freedom. Fuary takes on the role, with his rugged charm, and injects Bill with an approachable aura of fun-loving curiosity, delivering some brilliantly cheeky lines. 

Rosie and Tanya, brought to life by Anita Newstead and Lauren Whelan, are Donna Sheridan's loyal and entertaining best friends. As members of the former girl band "Donna and the Dynamos", they are the ideal comedic duo. Rosie is the cheerful, quirky, and somewhat eccentric member, bringing light-heartedness and comedic relief. Newstead nailed Rosie’s independence with zeal, especially during “Take a Chance on Me”.

Tanya, on the other hand, is sophistication and glamour, often providing a sharp, comedic contrast to her friends. She is the more worldly and flirtatious of the trio, always ready with a quick-witted remark or a charming gesture. Whelan takes on the role of Tanya with aplomb, bringing a vibrant elegance, and capturing Tanya’s glamorous flirtations.

Sky either sinks or swims under the strength of the Sheridan women, but Benjamin Olivera ensures he doesn’t fade into the horizon. He is a strong scene partner to Katie Vials, allowing her to shine while matching her strength and bringing a sincere vulnerability to quieter moments, offering more to Sky's otherwise lighthearted demeanour. His performance during "Lay All Your Love on Me" electrifies the stage. 

Notable mentions include Seamus Fuary as Pepper and Layth Tabbaa as Eddie, who inject plenty of humour and charm. Fuary’s portrayal of Pepper is playful and cheeky, bringing a delightful mischief to the Greek island setting. His interactions and dance moves with Tanya add layers of hilarity and flair during the cheeky "Does Your Mother Know", where his dynamic energy is on full display. Layth Tabbaa, portraying Eddie, complements Fuary with his easy-going nature and infectious spirit. Rounding out the friend group are Grace Ellis and Emily Moudanidis. Their on-stage chemistry with the leads amplifies the themes of friendship and love.

In Mamma Mia!, the ensemble plays a crucial role in bringing the vibrant Greek island setting and its lively atmosphere to life. From villagers to vacationers, the ensemble members fill the stage with dynamic dance numbers, infectious energy, and vocal harmonies that complement the show's iconic ABBA tunes. Each performer adds their unique flair to the production, whether they're participating in spirited group dances like "Voulez-Vous" or enriching the background of poignant moments with subtle interactions and expressions. 

Dennis Clement is responsible for setting up the Greek island. The azure blue ever present, splashed across the stage and on fly-in stage pieces against white buildings, flowers and festoon lights. It was a lovely setting to walk into, with the lighting complementing the set and emotional landscape of the show. 

This joyful production of Mamma Mia! coloured the Bryan Brown Theatre with the spirit of fun and had everyone on their feet, encouraged by the cast at the end during an ABBA mega mix. It was absolutely fABBAulous. 

Nicole Smith

Photographer: Grant Leslie