Do I think you should buy tickets to see this show at Birmingham Hippodrome? I do, I do, I do, I do, I do. I last saw Mamma Mia back in 2022 and wholly loved it then, but tonight was something else. An easy 5 stars with all of the elements of a superb musical, ticked.
Lydia Hunt takes the leading role of 20 year old Sophie, daughter of Donna (Jenn Griffin) who 21 years ago had quite a busy summer with three different men. Sophie is about to get married to her boyfriend Sky (Joe Grundy) and having read her mums diary from all those years ago, decides to invite all three men in her mums diary from the summer of her conception to her wedding… in the hope of her real dad being able to walk her down the aisle.
The production is filled with ABBA songs, all carefully and cleverly added to the story to fit in seamlessly – add that to an immensely talented cast and the show is immediately a winner. Lydia’s performance as Sophie is absolutely phenomenal. What a voice! Combined with superb stage presence and bundles of energy. Lydia brings a fresh, emotional and captivating performance to her iconic role.
The role of Tanya is always one of my favourites in this musical and this tour is no different. Played this time by Sarah Earnshaw who I last saw perform in Some Mothers Do’Ave’Em as Betty. Sarah brings an extra level of charm and cheekiness and I really enjoyed watching her scenes. The on-stage friendship with Sophie’s mum Donna and her other best friend Rosie (played by Rosie Glossop) had me hoping that my friendships continue like this as I get older. Good friends really do help you get through life. And this friendship of three really gives you some feel-good moments.
It is a wholly talented cast, from the leads to the ensemble. Everyone looks as if they’re having the time of their lives on the stage and with that, it makes you as an audience member also wish that you were on the stage. But I need to give a special mention to the three ‘dads’, Sam (Luke Jasztal), Harry (Richard Meek – who played Coach Bob Lord in Becoming Nancy) and Bill (Mark Goldthorp). Their contrasting personalities drive the show’s comedy. Bouncing off each other in numbers like “Thank You For The Music”.
I am going to bed with a huge smile on my face tonight from watching the kind of musical that makes you forget the world for a few hours. An uplifting, confetti filled celebration of friendship and fun.
Book tickets HERE. The show is at Birmingham Hippodrome until 30th May 2026. Why not make it a Greek day and try out the brand new Greek restaurant and garden at Greek Aura in Moseley from 21st May – plate smashing included.
Please Note: This review was written after attending the opening night of Mamma Mia at Birmingham Hippodrome which was also the Media/Press Night performance.