More than 25 years on, the show inspired by the timeless songs of ABBA continues to reinvent itself.
With productions in over 40 countries and more than 65 million spectators worldwide, its appeal has only grown—further boosted by the hugely successful 2008 film adaptation starring Meryl Streep, Pierce Brosnan and Colin Firth—now a cult classic in its own right.
This musical powerhouse is now heading to Melbourne, where it will light up the stage of the historic National Theatre in St Kilda from February 7 to March 8, thanks to an ambitious independent production by AG Theatre.
The project promises a lot of energy, dynamic choreography and a young yet accomplished cast set to breathe fresh life into a show that still makes audiences want to sing along.
Set on a sun-drenched Greek island, MAMMA MIA! follows the story of Sophie, a 20-year-old on the brink of marriage and desperate to uncover the identity of her biological father.
On the eve of her wedding, she secretly invites three men from her mother Donna’s past, triggering a series of misunderstandings, revelations and unresolved emotions, all unfolding to iconic ABBA hits such as Dancing Queen, S.O.S. and Take a Chance on Me.
The result is a joyful celebration of love, friendship and family that oscillates between funny, moving and irresistibly uplifting.
Among the cast are three young performers of Italian heritage, representing a new generation of Italo-Australian talent making its mark on Australia’s theatre scene.
Angelo Vasilakakos and Alessandra Negro are part of the ensemble, while Jesse Vasiliadis takes on the role of Sky, the male lead. Each of them has had a different journey, but they share a passion and Mediterranean roots that resonate naturally with the show’s narrative.
Vasilakakos, 23, has Sicilian heritage on his mother’s side and grew up in Coburg and Brunswick, suburbs where Italian and Greek communities are deeply woven into everyday life.
Vasiliadis, 28, is the son of a mother from Castelforte in Lazio and a Greek father, while Negro, the youngest at 20, traces her background to Campania (Sorrento) and Puglia.
Distinct family stories, united by shared values and a strong connection to music.
For Jesse, being cast in the production has been a major milestone. “It’s such a well-known musical—fast, energetic, fun,” he says.
“Being able to fully immerse myself in musical theatre again with a show like this is a privilege.
“And with my Greek-Italian background, I feel a real connection to the setting.”
Angelo’s bond with the show is rooted in personal memory. “My earliest ABBA memories are tied to family,” he shares.
“I used to dance to their songs in my aunt’s garage at parties. I still remember the first time I danced Dancing Queen with her. For me, this show feels like home, and that’s why the story means so much.”
Alessandra describes the experience as the fulfilment of a long-held goal: “It’s one of those musicals everyone knows and loves, no matter their age. Being part of this cast, sharing the stage with such generous and talented people, is incredibly special.” Her enthusiasm mirrors the atmosphere backstage.
Family pride is a recurring theme when they talk about how relatives reacted to the casting news. Alessandra recalls her mother crying with joy and immediately planning outfits and phone calls.
Angelo laughs about his mother “probably being at every performance”, while Jesse remembers his parents cheering while travelling and a flood of messages from extended family within minutes.
Growing up in Italian or Italian-Greek households has shaped the way they perform. “They’re romantic, expressive cultures, full of love,” Angelo explains.
“Our families sing, dance—they’re loud. Musical theatre feels like a natural extension of that world.”
Alessandra adds that at home it was never about talent, but about expressing love and community through music—something that naturally brings people together.
Angelo singled out S.O.S. for its emotional depth as one of the show’s most powerful moments. “Even singing it in the ensemble is moving, because you understand the emotional weight of the scene,” he shares.
There’s also a strong sense that Italo-Australian audiences will see themselves reflected in the story. “Everything revolves around a wedding,” Angelo notes.
“In our cultures, weddings are huge, they involve everyone. We all have a cousin somewhere getting married, so that sense of community really resonates.”
“My grandfather doesn’t care if the show is perfect,” says Angelo when asked to imagine his grandparents sitting in the audience on opening night.
“He just wants to see me smiling. If I’m happy, then I’ve succeeded.”
Jesse echoes that sentiment with advice for young Italo-Australians dreaming of the stage: “Never believe anyone who tells you, ‘You can’t.’ It might take time, but if you keep going, you’ll get there. And family is always where your support starts.”
