Bright, boisterous and funny, “Mamma Mia!” is a celebration of love, friendship and the power of ABBA’s music. From its iconic setting to its larger-than-life musical numbers, the production has captivated audiences for decades.
Hosted at the Adrienne Arsht Center from February 18 – 23, “Mamma Mia!” tells the story of Sophie, a young bride-to-be who longs to uncover the identity of her father before her wedding. Raised by her fiercely independent mother, Donna, on a picturesque Greek island, Sophie secretly invites three men from Donna’s past—each a potential father—in hopes of discovering the truth.
From start to finish, the musical was phenomenal. The set design transported the audience into the heart of Greece, creating an atmosphere that felt intimate yet vibrant. The way the set pieces were utilized—flipping and rotating to seamlessly transition between scenes—was a stroke of genius, keeping the energy high and the pacing smooth. This creative staging made each moment feel dynamic, immersing the audience deeper into Sophie and Donna’s world.
One of the funniest moments of the show came early on when the three potential dads, Victor Wallace as Sam, Rob Marnell as Harry and Jim Newman as Bill, finally met one another. Their banter and quick-witted exchanges had the entire theater erupting in laughter. It was one of the many comedic moments that felt both natural and perfectly timed, setting the tone for the charming chaos that would follow.
Beyond the set, the lighting design played a crucial role in enhancing the storytelling. The transitions between scenes were seamless, with the lighting flowing just as effortlessly as the melodies.
Whether it was highlighting an intimate moment or following a performer as they moved across the stage, the lighting carefully guided the audience’s focus, adding layers of emotion to each scene. This was especially apparent during the bachelorette party sequence, where pulsing lights mirrored the party’s energy, creating an almost cinematic effect.
While every musical number was enjoyable, the performances by Christine Sherrill as Donna, Carly Sakolove as Rosie and Jalynn Steele as Tanya were particular standouts. Their onstage chemistry was undeniable, radiating warmth and humor in every scene. It felt as if I were watching lifelong friends revel in each other’s company, sharing inside jokes and heartfelt moments.
Jalynn Steele, in particular, had the audience laughing out loud with her impeccable physical comedy and magnetic stage presence. Her vocal power and agility shone in “Does Your Mother Know,” effortlessly commanding attention with both her voice and larger-than-life personality.
Alongside Steele, Christine Sherrill’s commanding presence made a lasting impact. From the moment she stepped on stage, she captivated the audience with her powerful vocals and emotionally charged performance.
Her ability to convey emotional strength through her voice made Donna’s journey feel deeply personal. This was most evident in her performance of “The Winner Takes It All.” As she belted out the lyrics, the entire theater fell silent, hanging on every note. It was a breathtaking moment—one that truly showcased the depth of her performance and left the audience in awe.
The costumes were another standout element, staying true to the story’s setting while adding an extra layer of charm. The second act costumes, in particular, were a highlight, blending 1970s-inspired styles with the show’s vibrant, jubilant energy. The combination of bold patterns, flowy silhouettes and retro details added to the magic, making the final numbers feel even more eclectic and fun.
“Mamma Mia!” was effortlessly beautiful. From the portrayal of life’s unpredictability to the celebration of friendship, the show reminded its audience to embrace joy in every moment. While it’s not showing at the Adrienne Arsht Center, if you’re looking for an unforgettable, joyous musical experience, it’s the perfect show for you.