Mamma Mia at Curve Leicester Review
Written by Bella for Theatre and Tonic.
Disclaimer: Tickets were gifted in return for an honest review. All views are my own
The moment the lights went down at Leicester Curve Theatre, the audience was transported to a sun‑drenched Greek island, thanks to this vibrant and uplifting production of Mamma Mia!
Mamma Mia! is more than just a musical - it’s a celebration of life, friendship, and the enduring appeal of ABBA’s timeless songs.
Having been seen by more than 70 million people in more than 60 countries and 450 cities worldwide since its London debut more than 26 years ago, Mamma Mia! has firmly established itself as a global phenomenon.
The plot mirrors the film and follows Sophie (Lydia Hunt) a young woman living on an idyllic Greek island who, ahead of her wedding, sets out to discover the identity of her father.
Without telling her mother Donna (Jenn Griffin) she invites three possible candidates to the ceremony, hoping her instinct will reveal the truth. Griffin, as single mum Donna, a role immortalised on screen by Meryl Streep, gives an excellent performance, full of strength, vulnerability and humour.
Lydia Hunt as Donna’s slightly anxious daughter Sophie, offers a portrayal of a young woman searching for identity and connection that feels authentic and engaging.
The chemistry between Donna and Sophie is particularly touching and adds real depth to their relationship.
The supporting cast members also shine, with Sam (Luke Jasztal), Harry (Richard Meek) and Bill (Mark Goldthorp) all playing their part in driving the story forward with humour and genuine emotion.
Some moments of the production feel a little tired, perhaps reflecting its over 25-year run. However, ABBA’s music continues to draw audiences and remains as appealing as ever.
Big ensemble numbers like ‘Dancing Queen’ and ‘Voulez-Vous’ had the audience clapping along, whilst quieter moments, like Sophie’s heartfelt reflections, gave the show an added depth that might surprise anyone expecting purely feel-good entertainment.
The staging and set design are a visual treat. The vibrant colours, playful props, and clever lighting design by Howard Harrison transforms the theatre into a lively Greek paradise, creating a real sense of escapism.
We all know how brilliant ABBA songs are, but the way they’re used in this musical really brought them to life for me.
Of course, the music is at the heart of Mamma Mia! and this production truly brings it to life. The live band is excellent and adds extra energy to the show. The arrangements by musical director Martin Koch, are really well balanced.
Some moments are tender and reflective, such as ‘Thank You For The Music’, which begins gently with potential father Harry (Richard Meek) strumming along to himself on acoustic guitar.
The real glue of this production of Mamma Mia, were Donna and her Dynamos. They deliver moments full of energy and humour, especially when Tanya (Sarah Earnshaw) brings the house down with her rendition of ‘Does Your Mother Know?’, or when Rosie (Rosie Glossop) hilariously chases another possible dad Bill around the church during ‘Take A Chance On Me’.
What makes this production really stand out though is its balance - effortlessly moving from laugh-out-loud comedy one minute to genuinely heartfelt moments the next, all whilst managing to maintain an uplifting and joyous tone.
Whether you’re a lifelong ABBA fan or experiencing Mamma Mia! for the first time, this production will leave you smiling, humming the songs well after you’ve left the theatre, and feeling like you’ve enjoyed a Mediterranean getaway without setting food outside Leicester!
Mamma Mia is a must-see show – it’s a joyous, feel-good theatre experience from start to finish. If you’ve not seen it yet or are thinking of seeing it again – you’re in for a real treat.
Mamma Mia! Is on at Leicester Curve theatre until Sunday 29 March 2026.
★ ★ ★ ★
