Broadway’s New “Mamma Mia!” Revival Brings ABBA’s Joy

On August 14, 2025, the Winter Garden Theatre welcomed back the beloved musical “Mamma Mia!” for its first Broadway revival, marking nearly a quarter-century since its original debut at the same venue. The production’s opening night was met with palpable excitement, drawing audiences of all backgrounds to experience the story-telling magic of ABBA’s timeless songs.

Major publications have responded with reviews focusing on the musical’s energetic choreography, the infectious nature of its score, and the way its themes of love, laughter, and chosen family continue to resonate in today’s cultural climate. Notably, critics have commented on the musical’s ability to draw in younger, more diverse audiences—a point of particular relevance for LGBTQ+ communities seeking visibility and affirmation in mainstream entertainment.

The revival has received a range of feedback, with most critics agreeing that the essence of “Mamma Mia!”—its joyous celebration of life—remains intact. Chris Jones of the Chicago Tribune notes, “Just watch how many people will come and have fun. Limited run? We’ll see.” He emphasizes the show’s unique ability to bring people together for a shared experience, regardless of background.

Thom Geier at Culture Sauce points out, “Nobody could mistake Mamma Mia for high art. Cardboard-cutout characters vamp through a ridiculous romantic plot, while beloved disco-era ABBA hits are shoehorned in… But audiences still thrill to dancing queens.” This sentiment underscores the show’s status as a feel-good, communal event rather than a complex dramatic work.

While some reviewers commented on the slightly downscaled set and changes in cast—“the set is even more basic than it was, the cast has completely changed (in some cases for the better), and the audience seems even younger”—most agree that the high-energy performances and ABBA’s enduring hits keep the production vibrant and relevant.

Michael Sommers of New York Stage Review offers a more critical perspective, describing the production as “severely cheapened” and noting that amplification and technical changes have impacted the show’s original charm. Nonetheless, he acknowledges the cast’s dedication and the musical’s ability to attract large, enthusiastic crowds.

A highlight for many critics has been the performances of Christine Sherrill (Donna), Jalynn Steele (Tanya), and Carly Sakolove (Rosie), who bring depth, humor, and charisma to roles originally made famous by Meryl Streep, Christine Baranski, and Julie Walters. Their dynamic onstage is described as “radiating joyful abandon,” with standout moments in numbers like “Chiquitita” and “Dancing Queen”.

The revival’s casting choices have received praise for their inclusivity and for reflecting the diversity of modern Broadway. The ensemble’s range of identities and backgrounds offers visibility to LGBTQ+ theatregoers, reinforcing the message that chosen family and authentic self-expression are central to the show’s appeal.

While no major publication has described the revival as an explicitly “queer reclamation” of the original, critics like those at Did They Like It note, “This is not a dark Brechtian take on a well-known musical, nor a queer reclamation of mainstream pop culture—but I’m not sure anyone needs that from Mamma Mia!, a show that knows what it is and consistently delivers.” The implicit inclusivity and celebration of non-traditional families make it a cultural touchstone for LGBTQ+ audiences.

Since its premiere in London in 1999 and on Broadway in 2001, “Mamma Mia!” has been seen by more than 70 million people worldwide and adapted into two successful films. Its plot centers on a daughter’s quest to discover her father’s identity, set against the backdrop of a Greek island wedding. The narrative places a strong emphasis on the bonds of friendship, acceptance, and self-discovery—values that have particular resonance for LGBTQ+ communities seeking stories that affirm diverse experiences.

The current revival, scheduled to run through February 1, 2026, continues to draw enthusiastic crowds who find solace and celebration in the show’s message and music. Whether attendees seek nostalgia, representation, or simply the joy of singing along to ABBA’s greatest hits, “Mamma Mia!” remains a vibrant part of Broadway’s inclusive and dynamic landscape.