Review: Broadway Across Canada’s performance of MAMMA MIA! will have you dancing in your seat
An energetic joyride that’s sure to put a smile on your face
Thanks to a 14 year run on Broadway and the hit 2008 film featuring a star-studded cast, Mamma Mia! is one of the most well-known Broadway shows internationally. The timeless music of ABBA and the strong themes of love, family, and self-identity make this show an instant success. Its popularity was immediately clear, with audience members donning feather boas, platform shoes, disco-era fashions, and the greek staples of flowing white and blue florals. Broadway Across Canada delivers with a truly impressive cast, striking wardrobe, and mindblowing choreography.
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The talent on stage was an absolute treat to witness, with the seemingly endless youthful energy of Juliette M. Ojeda as Sophie, the powerhouse vocal strength of Jessica Crouch as Donna, this family encapsulates the mother-daughter bond, but is also vulnerable enough to admit to a longing for the love and support of an absent patriarch. The duo of Carly Sakolove and Jalynn Steele as Donna’s friends Tanya and Rosie were probably my favourite moments in the show, with some of the most iconic ABBA hits and hilarious dance routines, these ladies were so impressive! The three potential fathers played by Leland Burnett, Blake Price, and Victor Wallace provided some very amusing moments and left the audience rooting for each in turn to be revealed as the true father.
The choreography was appropriately subdued for the emotional ballads but kicked into overdrive for the adrenaline-pumping pop disco hits. The athletic abilities of these performers was top tier, everyone was a triple threat and their ability to continue belting out lyrics during such exhaustive routines was mindblowing. They also incorporated the set decoration and wardrobe into the performances so well, we marvelled at the young gentlemen who managed to dance in full snorkel equipment (fins and all) while also managing to control their singing and breathwork.
There is no doubt at all that the Calgary performance by Broadway Across Canada was an enormous success. The audience was laughing, smiling, singing, and reliving their favourite moments throughout intermission and upon exiting the theatre at shows end. The feel-good atmosphere carried our spirits home and reminded us of just how magical the theatre can be. I am already looking forward to Clue: Live on Stage when it comes to Calgary in July. For a full list of this season’s shows, visit: https://calgary.broadway.com/shows/ Catch Mamma Mia! at the Southern Alberta Jubilee until May 24, 2026, tickets are going fast!
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