Mamma Mia!

After an enforced hiatus, Ballina Players have finally been able to bring the full-scale musical roaring back to their stage with their production of Mamma Mia!

Rarely do we see a production of this calibre. This is a sprawling, and vibrant, production loaded with colour, movement, and unbridled enthusiasm and joy.

There are some splendid performances across the board, from seasoned performers to relative newcomers.

The audience is engaged from the outset, as they know most, if not all, of the songs on offer.

At times the audience is a little too enthusiastic, drowning out the on-stage voices.

But it’s all fun, isn’t it?

The set is deceptively simple and at the same time very striking. Back projections set scenes seamlessly and effectively.

Choreography is not overly complex but is executed extremely well. Look at some in the ensemble for proof.

I saw opening night and there were some teething problems. I imagine that those problems have been sorted.

All in all, Mamma Mia! is a return worthy of a sell-out season.

Once again Ballina Players have presented a musical as only they know how.

At the time of writing two additional sold-out performances have been added to the schedule.

Well done to all involved in bringing this production to the stage.

Graham Whittingham