Thank you for the music – again

Terry Wills takes a chance on a night of Swedish song and dance.

For one night only, Abba Reunion gave those who fondly remember the halcyon period when Swedepop ruled the musical scene, the chance to wistfully recall the full range of their non-stop hits. The result was an evening that will rank as a highlight even in the many great performances I’ve witnessed at the New Alexandra Theatre.

The band were, of course, unknown when they won the Eurovision Song Contest with Waterloo. I found it strange that this was the final number of the night, almost thrown in as an afterthought

Less surprising was that Dancing Queen was the most popular number, with what appeared to be the whole audience standing, waving arms, singing and dancing in the aisles.

I could list the entire list of hits that were performed, but everyone knows them already – Knowing Me Knowing You, Mamma Mia, Super Trooper and all the rest, each of them receiving as much acclaim at the Alex as the originals achieved around the world.

Benny, Bjorn, Agnetha. and Frieda, (in this touring production played by the original member of the West End production) could not be faulted.Excellent outlandish costumes, lighting, perfect harmonies/synchronisation, they were all there to be seen and enjoyed.

It was certainly a tremendous evening’s entertainment that will be hard to beat, and although down the years, I’ve experienced many outstanding musical productions Abba Reunion has to be up there jostling for the title of Number One in my own particular chart.