A Time-Tested Celebration of Music, Family, and Friendship

For one week, and one week only, Segerstrom Center for the Arts hosted Mamma Mia!, a musical that has charmed audiences since its debut in 1999. With its vibrant ABBA soundtrack, heartfelt performances, and nostalgic flair, this musical continues to experience generational success, allowing audience members to channel their own “Dancing Queen.” 

Queen of Mamma Mia: A Director’s Legacy

Phyllida Lloyd has been integral since the Broadway show’s inception in London in 1999. Her direction has evolved over decades – from London to Broadway and onto film – infusing each version with energy and heart. As the current director of the North American Production Team, Lloyd reflects her legacy that blends theatrical experiences with concert energy for the audience. In between, Lloyd has taken the show throughout the United States in national and regional productions, making this one of the longest-running shows. 

Welcome to Kalokairi, Are You My Father?

Despite lasting over two hours, the story unfolds over two eventful days on the fictional Greek island of Kalokairi to deliver the story of a girl trying to discover who her father is. Sophie Sheridan, a spirited 20-year-old bride-to-be, seeks the truth about her parentage in the days leading up to her wedding. Impersonating her mother, Donna Sheridan, Sophie secretly invites three men, hoping to discover which of them is her father. What ensues is a heartfelt and humorous journey that sees Sophie, Donna, and their guests confront the past, embrace uncertainty, and redefine what family truly means. 

While the story is lighthearted and musical-driven, its emotional undercurrent provides depth. With familiar favorites such as “Dancing Queen” and “The Winner Takes It All,” the narrative seamlessly blends song and story to explore identity and family connection. 

A Familiar and Seasoned Cast

The casting team, led by The TRC Company and Kevin Metzger-Timson, assembled a dynamic ensemble of seasoned stage veterans and exciting new talent who made their debut. Incorporating talent from regional, national, and film productions made this a standout cast with heart. 

Christine Sherrill, reprising her role of Donna Sheridan since 2014, was the winner who took it all by delivering a masterful performance. Sherrill embodied confidence in the character to authentically build chemistry, humor, and pain among other roles. Her vocal range and emotional nuance, particularly in “The Winner Takes It All,” commanded the stage and captivated the audience.  

Equally admirable were Jalynn Steele (Tanya) and Carly Sakolove (Rosie), who were trusted sidekicks to Donna Sheridan. Their performances balanced between comedic relief and emotional support, allowing their characters to shine without overshadowing the story’s core. Because each character’s personality contrasted with the others, it made it easier not to overshadow or take away from the scene. 

Finally, the ensemble deserved a special mention for creating the atmosphere and momentum through their vocal and physical talents. A standout moment opens immediately after intermission with “Under Attack,” a dream sequence that channels Sophie’s internal conflict through energetic choreography and dynamic transitions. This scene cleverly weaves surrealism and narrative clarity, showcasing the ensemble’s athleticism and cohesion to quickly transition the pieces on stage.  

Simple Set, Powerful Impact

At first glance, the staging appeared modest: a blank curtain with a projected blue light to suggest the sea; once the curtain rose, the stage revealed a circular Mediterranean-style structure. However, this simplicity proved to be one of the production’s strengths in telling the story. The set piece could and was moved in different degrees to transition to the next phase of the story –expanding into a home, patio, or backdrop. Instead of relying on the set design, the show emphasizes music, movement, and the story. The two acts –covering the day before and the day of the wedding–flowed naturally thanks to the musical integration and strong direction. 

A Story That Endures

Mamma Mia! invites audiences to laugh, reflect, and quietly sing along while gently questioning notions of what it means to be a family. Sophie’s wedding revealed that bloodlines mattered less than love and support and should not define one’s identity. Ultimately, by navigating her mother’s past, Sophie forgoes a linear meaning of family and accepts new possibilities for what her life can become without needing all the immediate answers. Her choice to embrace ambiguity rather than demand certainty is quietly radical–and relatable.  

Meanwhile, Donna further experienced transformations. With the support of Tanya and Rosie, she confronted long-buried heartache and reclaimed joy in those she once loved. 

A Final Brava

Few musicals manage to bridge generations like Mamma Mia! does. Whether you are a lifelong theater supporter or casual ABBA fan, this production offers something nostalgic and genuine. The current North American cast delivers their talent and undeniable energy. 

If you missed the brief run at Segerstrom Center of the Arts, there is still good news: Mamma Mia! returns to Broadway in August 2025. Don’t miss your chance to see why this performance remains a beloved global phenomenon.