Mamma Mia! – Lyceum Theatre, Sheffield

Book: Catherine Johnson

Music and Lyrics: Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus

Director: Phyllida Lloyd

It’s hard to believe Mamma Mia! first opened in London’s West End back in 1999. More than 70 million people around the world have now seen the musical, not to mention the two films, rumours of a third on the way and even Mamma Mia! The Party. Twenty-seven years later, it’s showing little sign of slowing down.

For the few people who somehow haven’t come across the story, Mamma Mia! takes us to a Greek island where Sophie (Hazel Baldwin), a young bride-to-be, is determined to discover the identity of the father she’s never known. After finding her mum Donna’s (Jenn Griffin) old diary, she secretly invites three possible candidates from her past to the wedding. What could possibly go wrong?

Of course, all of this plays out to the music of ABBA, with some of their best-known songs woven into a story of love, friendship, family and figuring out who you are.

There are some great performances. Hazel Baldwin is a standout as Sophie, with a beautiful voice, while Sarah Earnshaw brings plenty of laughs as Tanya alongside her friend Rosie, played by Rachel Oates. The pair have great comic chemistry and some fantastic vocals between them. Jenn Griffin’s voice is also superb as Donna, especially in The Winner Takes It All.

There are plenty of laughs with Sky (Samuel Downey) and his friends, particularly Pepper (Ashton Sharp). You genuinely believe this group would have the best stag do. In fact, that’s something the whole cast does really well — the friendships feel real.

The Greek island setting is brought to life with a simple but effective set, switching smoothly between the taverna and the hotel owned by Donna. Scene changes flow easily without interrupting the pace, while Anthony Van Laast’s choreography keeps everything moving with plenty of energy and fun, particularly when the full ensemble fills the stage.

And, of course, it wouldn’t be Mamma Mia! without the costumes. Bright colours throughout, but it’s the iconic sparkly jumpsuits that everyone is waiting for — and they don’t disappoint.

ABBA fans will no doubt enjoy every minute, while those a little less devoted may find the odd song slightly shoe-horned into the story rather than naturally belonging there. But it’s hard to argue with just how much fun the show brings. You forget quite how many toe-tapping songs ABBA produced over the years.

It’s loud, lively, colourful and packed with familiar music and plenty of smiles. By the end, pretty much everyone is on their feet, dancing and singing along to those familiar ABBA hits — overall a really fun night out.

Runs until Saturday 26th September 2026, before continuing on tour