(MENAFN- Khaleej Times) We speak to Mamma Mias Richard Standing about the musical lighting up the World Trade Centre from today until January 10
Supplied photo
How many Abba references can we get in one story Captivating audiences since its 1999 debut Mamma Mia has since been seen by more than 54 million people spanning 39 productions in 14 different languages; now it’s Dubai’s turn. With a total of 13 shows spread across nine days the show promises a night where you will be ‘thankful for the music.’
After sell-out performances in Hong Kong and Singapore the show will be here from today until January 10 at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC). Tickets are priced from Dhs195 so you don’t have to ‘live in a rich man’s world’ to go see it.
Richard Standing is an English actor who has appeared in Holby City Coronation Street and Doctors. Here he tells us about his role and the show.
How does it feel to be performing in Dubai
After a long year performing the show in many different cultures and climates it’s really exciting to fly from an English Christmas to the sunshine and scale of Dubai. I have never been before so of course that adds to the excitement.
For those who aren’t aware of the story how does Mamma Mia adapt ABBA’s music into a play
What’s deceptively clear about Mamma Mia is that it uses songs that are already superbly narrative. The original creators constructed a story that speaks to everyone using wonderful songs to highlight the emotion and comedy of the story.
Can you give us a brief synopsis of your character and what you enjoy most about playing them
I play a character called Sam Carmichael. Twenty-one years ago he fell in love with Donna. One failed marriage behind him he arrives on the island to try and find out what that was all about. He finds a lot more than he bargained for and in ways he never expected. I love the songs I sing and I get to marry my wife every day!
How did you get into musical theatre Was it always an ambition
By accident. Most of my career has been in straight theatre. But I’m happy to discover that old dogs can learn new tricks.
How similar is the musical to the film
The stage version is of course the original version so all the best bits were in the film. But what the stage version also has is live music live singing and the odd scene or two that aren’t in the film. There is an immediacy and a vibrancy to the musical that I believe can’t be achieved from a movie. And the end of the musical is like a pop concert which is really exciting.
Are you a fan of the film Do you think you do the story better
The film is one of the biggest-selling DVDs of all time and speaks for itself. More generally it’s exciting that musical theatre pieces are being filmed again. Our parents watched Carousel and Annie Get Your Gun on screen. It’s good for the industry and that’s good for everyone. However I do think that an original musical on stage will always have the greatest impact.
Where else have you performed the show
All over the world Glasgow Manchester Geneva Prague Dublin Zurich Manila Seoul Dageu Busan Blackpool Basel Hong Kong Singapore Kuala Lumpur and now Dubai.
What do you think UAE audiences will get out of it
In my experience no matter what the culture religion or race people will forget their troubles for a couple of hours and leave with a smile on their faces.
Have you ever met any of ABBA Do you know if they’re fans
I haven’t met them but I know they have been very involved and very excited from the beginning. There is time yet – I might meet them. I would be thrilled if I did.
Tickets are exclusively on sale at www.platinumlist.ae
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