MAMMA MIA! RETURNS TO BROADWAY’S WINTER GARDEN THEATRE
By Kiersten Bjork (January 24, 2026)
This season, Mamma Mia! is once again making a splash at Broadway’s Winter Garden Theatre, its original home from when it first opened on Broadway back in 2001. The classic musical–a fun, summery romp featuring the songs of ABBA (music and lyrics by Benny Anderson and Björn Ulvaeus and some songs by Stig Anderson, book by Catherine Johnson, additional material and arrangements by musical supervisor Martin Koch)–enjoys a lively revival, stopping on Broadway as part of the North American Tour.
The talented company of performers tells the story of Sophie, who, on the eve of her wedding, sets out to discover who her father is by inviting all three candidates to her wedding–all without telling her mother. The show is packed with catchy tunes that audiences know and love, from “Dancing Queen” to “Take a Chance on Me,” and it’s an enjoyable production sure to warm your heart.
The North American production is directed by Phyllida Lloyd (associate director, Martha Banta), with choreographer Anthony Van Laast (associate choreographer Janet Rothermel), music director and conductor Wendy Bobbitt Cavett, and music coordinator Michael Aarons. The choreography is excellent, bursting with a lively energy that can be felt throughout the theatre, and the direction effectively captures the soul of the story.
This season, Mamma Mia! is once again making a splash at Broadway’s Winter Garden Theatre, its original home from when it first opened on Broadway back in 2001. The classic musical–a fun, summery romp featuring the songs of ABBA (music and lyrics by Benny Anderson and Björn Ulvaeus and some songs by Stig Anderson, book by Catherine Johnson, additional material and arrangements by musical supervisor Martin Koch)–enjoys a lively revival, stopping on Broadway as part of the North American Tour.
The talented company of performers tells the story of Sophie, who, on the eve of her wedding, sets out to discover who her father is by inviting all three candidates to her wedding–all without telling her mother. The show is packed with catchy tunes that audiences know and love, from “Dancing Queen” to “Take a Chance on Me,” and it’s an enjoyable production sure to warm your heart.
The North American production is directed by Phyllida Lloyd (associate director, Martha Banta), with choreographer Anthony Van Laast (associate choreographer Janet Rothermel), music director and conductor Wendy Bobbitt Cavett, and music coordinator Michael Aarons. The choreography is excellent, bursting with a lively energy that can be felt throughout the theatre, and the direction effectively captures the soul of the story.
Lena Owens, Amy Weaver, and Haley Wright in Mamma Mia! on Broadway (Joan Marcus)
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Amy Weaver and the cast of Mamma Mia! on Broadway (Joan Marcus)
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Amy Weaver shines in the role of Sophie. She is sweet and fiery, soft yet strong, and she brings joy and wonder to the character. Her vocals are excellent throughout. As her mother, Donna, Christine Sherrill is a powerhouse, grounded and fierce, but with a witty edge that is perfect for the part.
Jalynn Steele and Carly Sakolove as Tanya and Rosie are hilarious, and so much fun to watch. They are excellent character actors, filling their roles with all the comedy we could ask for, and more.
Rob Marnell, Jim Newman, and Victor Wallace all give strong performances in the roles of Harry Bright, Bill Austin, and Sam Carmichael. Each give suave when needed, or wonderful charm, while maintaining the quirkiness and humor unique to each of the potential fathers of the bride. The three play off of Sherrill nicely, and have a great dynamic with Weaver.
Jalynn Steele and Carly Sakolove as Tanya and Rosie are hilarious, and so much fun to watch. They are excellent character actors, filling their roles with all the comedy we could ask for, and more.
Rob Marnell, Jim Newman, and Victor Wallace all give strong performances in the roles of Harry Bright, Bill Austin, and Sam Carmichael. Each give suave when needed, or wonderful charm, while maintaining the quirkiness and humor unique to each of the potential fathers of the bride. The three play off of Sherrill nicely, and have a great dynamic with Weaver.
Jalynn Steele, Carly Sakolove, and Christine Sherrill in Mamma Mia! on Broadway (Joan Marcus)
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Grant Reynolds and Amy Weaver in Mamma Mia! on Broadway (Joan Marcus)
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Haley Wright and Adia Olanethia Bell shine as Sophie’s two best friends, Ali and Lisa (Lisa usually played by Lena Owens). Grant Reynolds is dashing in the role of Sky, Sophie’s fiancé. He’s smooth and charming, singing the role quite well.
Justin Sudderth is an absolute delight as Pepper, from his character work opposite Steele to his dancing. Ethan Van Slyke likewise does great work in the role of Eddie.
The ensemble of Mamma Mia! is dancing their hearts out, and filling the island with dozens of well-crafted characters. The ensemble includes Alessandra Antonelli, Caro Daye Attayek, Emily Croft, Madison Deadman, Nico DiPrimio, Patrick Dunn, Makoa, Erica Mansfield, Jasmine Overbaugh, Blake Price, Dorian Quinn, Lauren Soto, Xavi Soto Burgos, and George Vickers V. DiPrimio, Makoa, and Vickers are featured with specialties in “Does Your Mother Know,” while Price gets a moment in the spotlight as Father Alexandrios.
Justin Sudderth is an absolute delight as Pepper, from his character work opposite Steele to his dancing. Ethan Van Slyke likewise does great work in the role of Eddie.
The ensemble of Mamma Mia! is dancing their hearts out, and filling the island with dozens of well-crafted characters. The ensemble includes Alessandra Antonelli, Caro Daye Attayek, Emily Croft, Madison Deadman, Nico DiPrimio, Patrick Dunn, Makoa, Erica Mansfield, Jasmine Overbaugh, Blake Price, Dorian Quinn, Lauren Soto, Xavi Soto Burgos, and George Vickers V. DiPrimio, Makoa, and Vickers are featured with specialties in “Does Your Mother Know,” while Price gets a moment in the spotlight as Father Alexandrios.
Jim Newman, Victor Wallace, and Rob Marnell in Mamma Mia! on Broadway (Joan Marcus)
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Justin Sudderth, Jalynn Steele, and the cast of Mamma Mia! on Broadway (Joan Marcus)
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Production designer Mark Thompson brings the island to life with the soft white stone look of Donna Sheridan’s taverna, different walls and doorways moving in and out as needed. The upstage wall lights with color and some projections, such as the moon, to further fill out the scenes. The costumes shine with brilliant colors, especially the iconic Dynamos looks. Howard Harrison’s lighting design features a very blue-leaning palette, which works well for the show, also utilizing spotlights and pops of color effectively.
Sound designers Andrew Bruce and Bobby Aitken capture the world of the show nicely through sound, and the balance is strong throughout.
Associate designers include: Brian Webb, Nancy Thun (Scenic); Lucy Gaiger (Costumes); Ed McCarthy, Andrew Voller (Lighting); David Patridge (Sound); Jeff Knaggs (Hair).
Sound designers Andrew Bruce and Bobby Aitken capture the world of the show nicely through sound, and the balance is strong throughout.
Associate designers include: Brian Webb, Nancy Thun (Scenic); Lucy Gaiger (Costumes); Ed McCarthy, Andrew Voller (Lighting); David Patridge (Sound); Jeff Knaggs (Hair).
The cast of Mamma Mia! on Broadway (Joan Marcus)
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Jalynn Steele, Christine Sherrill, Carly Sakolove, and the cast of Mamma Mia! on Broadway (Joan Marcus)
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Mamma Mia! is bright, it’s fun, and it’s a perfect way to bring a little extra joy to your day. From “Does Your Mother Know” to “Honey Honey” and beyond, it’s sure to evoke a smile, and more than a little laughter. Head over to the Winter Garden for a much needed dose of sunshine!
Mamma Mia! is now playing at Broadway’s Winter Garden Theatre. Learn more and purchase tickets at mammamiathetour.com. Production photography is by Joan Marcus.
Kiersten Bjork is a professional theatremaker, performer, and reviewer (Connecticut Critics Circle) from Branford, CT.
Mamma Mia! is now playing at Broadway’s Winter Garden Theatre. Learn more and purchase tickets at mammamiathetour.com. Production photography is by Joan Marcus.
Kiersten Bjork is a professional theatremaker, performer, and reviewer (Connecticut Critics Circle) from Branford, CT.