Knowing me, knowing you can’t miss Mamma Mia in Bankstown.

Featuring the hits of ABBA, Mamma Mia! is a musical set on a Greek island about a young woman, Sophie, on the eve of her wedding who invites three men from her mother's past to the celebration, hoping to discover her biological father.

Credit: Grant Leslie Photography

Name and who you play in the show:

Sherry-Anne Hayes playing Donna.

Katie Vials playing Sophie.

Tell us a bit about yourself:

Hayes: I have been performing since I was a kid, it's always been in my blood and it always draws me back in, it's my happy place. I love being able to bring stories to life for a live audience and what better way to do it than singing and dancing. I took a break to have my daughter, who is now 7, so I am really excited to be able to step back in with this wonderful role and working with fabulous people and for my daughter to be able to see it!

Vials: I have been performing for over 15 years, playing guitar and singing at any chance I could. I also was a private music tutor for many years. I started performing in community theatre in 2017, with my first show being We Will Rock You. What I love most about theatre is the sense of community it creates by being able to share a common passion. Outside of theatre I read a lot, love to learn how to play new instruments, and travel.

What can audiences look forward to when they see the show?

Hayes: It's a feel good, fun musical set to the songs of ABBA that anyone can enjoy!

Vials: Audiences can expect a high-energy experience filled with unforgettable music, and incredible choreography that will have you dancing in your seat. They can expect to be laughing one minute, and maybe tearing up the next as Sophie and Donna try to navigate this new chapter in their lives. What makes this production extra special is the cast’s genuine joy and love for performing. You can feel how happy they are to be on stage, and that energy is contagious. I can promise every audience member will be leaving with a smile on their face, and ABBA stuck in their head for weeks - and really, who wouldn't want that?

Tell us about the rehearsal process:

Hayes: It's been a great process so far, we have a wonderful production team lead by Jess and Charlotte, everyone has just buckled down to get the work done in such a short time and everyone is so great to work, with we are just having so much fun.

Vials: Rehearsals have been such a joy. The cast and production team have been working hard, but we’re also having so much fun together. It’s been wonderful making new friends and reconnecting with familiar faces, and the energy in the room is nothing but supportive and uplifting. And of course, with songs this good, it’s impossible to ever get tired of them, so I look forward to every single rehearsal!

Credit: Grant Leslie Photography

What made you want to audition for the show?

Hayes: I love ABBA and have always thought was a fun show. The role of Donna has been on my bucket list for a while.

Vials: Sophie has been one of my biggest dream roles for as long as I can remember, I still can't believe I get the opportunity to bring her to life onstage. Growing up listening to ABBA, I couldn’t resist auditioning for the show. It’s packed with so much joy and energy, and with all the incredible dancing, it’s the kind of show that always draws me in. Plus, of course, I can never resist a good jukebox musical!

Other than you, which cast member should audiences be looking out for?

Hayes: Everyone is so talented but definitely my 'daughter' Katie, she is a superstar! Such a joy to work with and watch in this show.

Vials: There is so much talent packed into this one cast, I could speak about everyone individually for hours. But honestly, our ensemble are the heart and soul of the show. They are so full of energy and without them, the show would not be what it is. Look out for them particularly in the strong dance numbers including Voulez-Vous, Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!, and Does Your Mother Know (my personal favourite)

Credit: Grant Leslie Photography

What do you think the message of the show is?

Hayes: Take chances, do the thing that makes you happy, we only get one life so live it the way you want!

Vials: I want the audience to walk away feeling uplifted, and maybe even a little nostalgia. Mamma Mia! is about love, family, and friendship, and it reminds us that life can be messy and complicated, but it’s also full of fun, music, and connection. The show celebrates embracing change, cherishing the people around you, finding happiness in unexpected places, and discovering who you truly are.

Bankstown Theatre Company’s production of Mamma Mia! is on from October 31st - November 9th at the Bryan Brown Theatre. Ticketing and further information can be found here