Suspected fathers, dancing queens, and men after midnight

Judy Craymer's iconic sun-soaked masterpiece, Mamma Mia! still holds up all these years later - but what's the secret? For over 25 years, the show has whisked 65 musical lovers along to the enchanting Greek Isles. There have been 2 film adaptations, over $4 billion in revenue, and lots and lots of cocktails with cute little umbrellas. The iconic ABBA-infused musical is a bright paradise waiting to be explored. So, get ready to dance (and jive) to Mamma Mia!. But first, here's why you simply have to see it in all its forms.

1. The Music

Banger after banger after banger. The Bjrn and Benny melodies come in generous waves, and appear at the perfect time, making the most of the story's emotional urgency. For example, in 'Honey Honey,' we feel love and infatuation straight away while also getting that signature playfulness that Mamma Mia! is known for. In 'Dancing Queen,' we're truly having the time of our lives as Donna leads a group of strong independent women through the island and straight into a celebratory jump into the water - it's cheesy, irresistible, and makes you desperately want to join in.

2. The Set and Costume Design

The shimmering blue background, the clear skies, and the beautiful stone buildings - everything about the set design of Mamma Mia! makes you feel that gorgeous Greek breeze. The clothing is vibrant, from boho-chic pieces to neon flairs and open shirts, with plenty of references to the style of the 70s. It's bold, bright, and everything you'd expect from a musical set in Greece. Even Donna's dungarees are fabulous.

3. The Characters

If you weren't aware that you were watching a musical, you could be easily convinced that Donna and Sophie are a real mother and daughter and that Tanya and Rosie are those irresistible cool aunts. Not only is the chemistry of the Mamma Mia! characters convincing, but they represent the humanity that we look for in stories. There's Donna, a woman determined to secure the best for her daughter, reminding us to push on despite the odds; there's Sophie, a young adventurer eager to explore life's possibilities. Then there's the delightful Tanya and Rosie, two vivacious characters who remind us that life doesn't always have to be so serious.

4. The Cast

Over the years, the Mamma Mia! franchise has featured some of the best leading ladies and men in entertainment. Who could forget Meryl Streep running up those stone steps while singing 'The Winner Takes It All,' or Mazz Murray's incredible vocals on 'Slipping Through My Fingers'? Pierce Brosnan, Amanda Seyfried, and the originals like Louise Pitre and Lisa Stokke have all graced the cast. The diverse ensemble has seen many great faces, and they all share one thing in common - they live and breathe the characters they portray.

5. The Story

You don't have to be young, sweet, and 17 to be a dancing queen! The brilliance of Mamma Mia! is that it uses such a simple storyline to great effect. It follows Sophie, a young girl longing for adventure on a serene island, as she seeks to uncover the identity of her father, while also exploring the life of her mother Donna as she continues to contemplate her future. There's mystery, romance, and self-exploration, and it's a whole lot of fun! The story appeals to all ages, showing that no matter how old you are, you can live a life that, although may be far from perfect, is perfectly good enough.

Tonight the souper-trouper lights are going to find you, like they always do...when you book Mamma Mia! tickets here!