Mamma Mia!

Mamma Mia! is Koorliny Arts Centre’s first home produced show in over twelve months, and this fun, vibrant show was definitely worth the wait.

Sounding great, under the leadership of Musical Director Kate McIntosh, leading an unseen six-piece band, this show also looks amazing. Director Brad Tudor gives us a simple but evocative set design and a stunning costume palette, where colour is used to excellent effect. Lighting design, by Jon Lambert, is colourful and bold, with a dance club feel.

The dance in this show is particularly strong, with principals that move very well, backed by an ensemble whose dancing is simply outstanding. Perhaps Allen Blachford’s best choreography to date, it is energetic, joyful and beautifully executed.

Catalyst character Sophie Sheridan is played and sung very nicely by Shanice Tudor, in a likeable performance that anchors the show well. Jesse Angus plays Sophie’s husband-to-be Sky, singing well, with a lovely presence. 

The other leading lady, Sophie’s mother Donna, is played with fire and passion by Cathy Woodhouse, in a very well layered performance, with her rendition of “The Winner Takes It All” being especially strong. Her best friends, the wonderfully individual Rosie and Tanya, are played fabulously by Lucy Eyre and Natalie Burbage, and as Donna and the Dynamos, this trio lights up the stage.

The key plot in Mamma Mia! revolves around Sophie’s decision to invite her three ‘potential’ fathers to her wedding, and we are given three great appearances. Chris Gerrish is excellent as Donna’s former love Sam Carmichael in a very well acted performance. Drew Elliot makes a welcome return to the stage, after a decade long absence, as Aussie adventurer Bill Austin. Murray Petrone brings a lovely manner to former wild-child turned upright business-man Harry Bright.

Good work also from the other young principals, Katie Lee lovely in her community theatre debut as Ali, with Phoebe Tempra sweet in her Perth debut as Lisa. Oliver Clare is great fun as loveable slacker Eddie, and Bailey Bridgman-Peters’ lovestruck Pepper brings smiles.

Sold-out months in advance, if you are very, very lucky you may snag a seat late in the run, after the relaxing of regulations. A top quality production where the cast are having the time of their lives and invite the audience to join the party.

Kimberley Shaw

Images: Deprimo Photography