Mamma Mia!

Readers of this publication definitely won’t require any introduction to Mamma Mia!, the worldwide phenomenally successful musical which has also spawned an extraordinarily popular motion picture.
Actress Louise Symes who plays the role of Donna (portrayed by Meryl Streep in the film) explained that with a cast of 75 performers on stage the show is huge.
This musical has been described as a grand style production chiefly because of the music. “Being ABBA the music is such a rich score and there’s much going on. There’s a high level of underscoring, a full orchestra and lots of backup vocals so it’s quite a full score. ‘Fun’ is the best word which describes this show! It’s energetic, it has some really beautiful emotional moments, but on the whole, it’s very light-hearted.”
And what’s it like portraying Donna? “I love Donna! I really relate to her. There are some bits about her character that I just get and it’s really fun to play her. It’s actually an absolute honour. It has been a beautiful journey for me to find my Donna and find who I want to portray as my Donna.”
Mamma Mia! features a fresh cast of performers as well as seasoned actors including Scott Irwin (Beauty And The Beast), Chris White (Hi-5) and Mark Simpson (Hairspray) in pivotal roles.
“I do love ABBA and there is one song which gets my heart probably because I’m a mum and that is Slipping Through My Fingers. It’s very hard to get through the song. It’s very beautiful and makes sense to all parents.”
Featuring hit after hit including S.O.S, Dancing Queen, The Winner Takes It All and Mamma Mia, Symes enthused that the musical should appeal to all audiences. “The one thing I think about this production is the quality actors because it’s not just your fluffy old Mamma Mia. The leads and ensemble are outstanding. So if theatregoers want to be entertained by a quality production with great characterisation it’s a no-brainer – it will be fun!” (MMo)

Aug 2-17. Riverside Theatres. Cnr Market & Church St, Parramatta $30-$62+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.riversideparramatta.com.au