Take a Chance on 'MAMMA MIA!' - A Night of ABBA-tastic Nostalgia

Photo Credit: Brinkhoff Moegenburg

Here we go again, back to the Sands Theatre for round 2, and this time it's all about ABBA's timeless extravaganza. MAMMA MIA! is produced by Judy Craymer, Richard East &Björn Ulvaeus for Littlestar in association with Universal and NGM and presented in Singapore by Base Entertainment Asia.

Think about this, what if I told you that I grew up with my aunt's treasured copy of ABBA Gold (yes, the one with THAT distinctive black cover), watched the film adaptation, and even journeyed to Sweden to bask in the ABBA museum's glory. But here's the catch — I had never witnessed the grandeur of the MAMMA MIA! musical until the other day. I know you’re probably judging me right now and to be honest I don't blame you; I had my own moment of reflection too.

Photo Credit: Mildred Chan

After hearing that MAMMA MIA! was going to be in town, how could I resist saying no to watching the play? Looking back, I'm grateful I didn't, as it felt like I discovered a previously hidden chapter in my lifelong love for ABBA's music. With its backdrop on a charming Greek island, the story revolves around Sophie (Jess Michelmore), on the verge of marriage and eager to uncover the secret of her true paternity. To solve this enigma, she secretly invites three men from her mother's past, believing that one of them holds the key to her lineage.

Photo Credit: Brinkhoff Moegenburg

This enchanting night was and can be your golden ticket to seeing those beloved tunes come to life on the stage. As I watched the musical, I was captivated by the actors' cheeky and brilliant portrayal of their roles, particularly in numbers like "Does Your Mother Know." And then there's Donna's (Sara Poyzer) unforgettable rendition of "The Winner Takes It All," which left me in tears by the end of the performance.

Photo Credit: Brinkhoff Moegenburg

But let's not forget the technical wizardry that forms the backbone of this production. MAMMA MIA! introduces a jaw-dropping feature that takes the whole experience to another level — revolving sets. These sets, masterfully manipulated by the talented cast, transform the stage into a dynamic kaleidoscope of emotions and locations. The precision with which these transitions are executed is a testament to the craftsmanship behind the scenes, ensuring that every shift between scenes is as seamless as how they wove in ABBA’s classics with the storyline.

Reflecting on MAMMA MIA!, it's clear that the production's enchantment lies in its fusion of nostalgia, stunning costumes, iconic set design, and, of course, ABBA's eternal classics. It transports you to a sun-soaked Greek island where music takes center stage.

Photo Credit: Brinkhoff Moegenburg

So what are you waiting for? If you're ready to groove like the dancing queen that you are, sing, and revel in the brilliance of ABBA once more, MAMMA MIA! is the place to be — a celebration of timeless music and theatrical craftsmanship that should not be missed.

MAMMA MIA! is running at the Sands Theatre from October 19 to November 5, and you can book your tickets via Marina Bay Sands and Sistic. Maybank members can also enjoy a special 15% off.

Pop Nerd Lounge would like to thank Base Entertainment Asia for invites to a f-ABBA-lous evening of MAMMA MIA!