It seems like at this point everyone should have seen Mamma Mia. The show, which wrapped up on Broadway in 2015 but still runs in London’s West End going on 18 years, is on its 5^th run in Calgary in just over a decade. The show is currently in a "Farewell tour" that brings it to Calgary through November 6th, Lethbridge November 7th, and a run through BC before playing Edmonton November 11th – 13th.

Part of the reason that the show has toured so extensively is its ease of transport. The simple yet effective set portraying a greek taverna that rotates can be set up for a single night, making it cheaper to run than some of the massive productions that are on the road. Additionally, even having seen it multiple times, it’s not a production that is boring. It may be a mystery as to why the show has been so successful for someone that hasn’t seen it.  A catchy soundtrack of recognizable songs, bright and colourful costumes, amazing dance routines, ridiculously hot guys (Gimmie Gimmie Gimmie (A Man After Midnight) is particularly memorable), and a fun story make Mamma Mia an entertaining show.

For those not familiar with the plot, 20-year-old Sophie Sheridan (Lizzie Markson) is marrying her boyfriend Sky (Dustin Harris Smith.) As she steps into her future, a lingering aspect of her past still haunts her. Her Mom, Donna (Betsy Padamonsky) never told her who her father was. Sophie finds her mom’s old diary and discovers 3 possibilities – Harry Bright (Andrew Tebo), Bill Austen (Marc Cornes) and Sam Carmichael (Shai Yammanee) and invites all three to the wedding. Old feelings surface, drama occurs, snappers are peppered, and everything wraps up with a massive ABBA sing along.

Mamma Mia is a family friendly show which has also contributed to its longevity. Much like other shows that still appear decades later like Grease and Annie undoubtedly despite this being dubbed a "Farewell Tour" there will be future productions of Mamma Mia – whether in local theatres or anniversary tours. Mamma Mia has left a legacy on theatre that will continue on for a long time of fans saying Thank You For The Music... and the memories.

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Contributor Jason Clevett |

Locale Calgary | Edmonton |

Topic Broadway Across Canada | Mamma Mia | Theatre |