Congress Theatre, Eastbourne – 14th – 19th July 2026
Mamma Mia! arrives at the Congress Theatre in Eastbourne with everything you could want from a feel good musical. Packed with ABBA’s biggest hits, lots of heart and a cast that is bursting with talent, this much loved production proves exactly why audiences keep coming back year after year. It’s funny, emotional and completely uplifting.
Set on a beautiful Greek island, the story follows Sophie Sheridan as she prepares for her wedding while secretly inviting three men from her mother Donna’s past, hoping to discover which one is her father. Catherine Johnson’s clever book weaves ABBA’s songs into the story so naturally that every number feels like it belongs exactly where it should.
At the heart of the show is Jenn Griffin as Donna Sheridan, and she is outstanding. Donna is a character who needs strength, vulnerability, warmth and humour, and Griffin brings every one of those qualities to the stage. Her silky vocals are exceptional throughout, switching seamlessly from feel good favourites to quieter emotional moments. The Winner Takes It All is the standout emotional performance of the evening, delivered with such honesty and feeling that the theatre falls completely silent before erupting into applause.
Lydia Hunt is a wonderful Sophie, full of warmth, optimism and determination. She gives the character genuine heart and creates a believable bond with everyone around her. Her vocals are crystal clear, particularly during I Have A Dream, and she brings just the right balance of excitement and uncertainty as Sophie searches for answers before her big day. Her chemistry with the rest of the cast helps keep the story grounded amongst all the comedy and big musical numbers.
It must be said that Donna’s lifelong friends Rosie and Tanya completely steal the show. Rosie Glossop is sensational as Rosie, combining powerhouse vocals with hilarious comic timing that has the audience laughing throughout. Every entrance brings another memorable moment, but her performance of Take A Chance On Me alongside Mark Goldthorp’s Bill is an undeniable highlight. It is perfectly judged, packed with laughs and easily one of the funniest scenes of the evening.
Sarah Earnshaw is equally fantastic as Tanya, delivering glamour, sharp wit and powerhouse vocals that light up the stage every time she appears. Her performance of Does Your Mother Know is another huge highlight, full of confidence, humour and outstanding stage presence with a special mention to her amazing backing dancers. Together, Glossop and Earnshaw give the show its two best musical numbers while creating a wonderfully believable friendship with Jenn Griffin’s Donna. Their chemistry feels completely natural and every scene they share is an absolute treat.
The three potential fathers each bring something different to the story. Luke Jasztel gives Sam plenty of warmth and emotional depth, allowing his history with Donna to feel authentic and heartfelt. Richard Meek is endearing as Harry, combining gentle humour with genuine kindness, while Mark Goldthorp makes Bill instantly likeable with his relaxed charm and excellent comic delivery.
The ensemble deserves just as much praise. The dancers throw themselves into every routine with incredible energy, attacking every move with confidence and precision while making it all look effortless. Whether they are filling the stage during the biggest production numbers or adding character to the quieter scenes, they never miss a beat. The choreography is sharp, exciting and packed with personality, with every member of the company performing with huge commitment. Their enthusiasm is infectious and plays a huge part in creating the feel good atmosphere that makes Mamma Mia! such an enjoyable night at the theatre.
Visually, the production is every bit as colourful as fans would hope. Mark Thompson’s set transports the audience straight to a sun soaked Greek island with crisp white buildings and Mediterranean scenery. The colourful costumes add even more personality, especially during the dazzling finale when the audience can hardly stay in their seats.
Of course, the songs remain one of the biggest reasons people adore Mamma Mia, and hearing classics such as Dancing Queen, Voulez Vous, SOS, Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!, Super Trouper and Mamma Mia performed live is an absolute pleasure. The orchestra sounds fantastic, giving every song the rich, unmistakable ABBA sound while allowing the cast’s vocals to shine. By the time the encore begins, the audience is clapping, singing and dancing along with huge smiles across the theatre.
One of the greatest strengths of this production is that it never relies solely on nostalgia. The music may already be famous, but it is the performances that really make this show special. Every character feels fully rounded, every relationship matters and every emotional moment lands because the cast commits completely to the story. The comedy feels fresh, the romance is believable and the emotional scenes are handled with real care.
Mamma Mia! continues to earn its place as one of the world’s favourite musicals because it offers something for everyone. It is funny enough to keep you laughing, emotional enough to keep you invested and packed with songs that audiences never get tired of hearing. Add in stunning vocals, colourful production, lots of laughs and one of the greatest musical soundtracks ever written, and you have a show that reminds you exactly why musical theatre is such a fantastic night out. If you are looking for an evening that sends you home smiling, singing and already planning your next trip to the theatre, Mamma Mia! is the perfect choice.
Mamma Mia UK tour review – 5 stars
Photo credit: Brinkhoff Moegenburg
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