Mamma Mia! (w/ Ben Grossman)

It's time to dive into the sunny, beach-side world of Mamma Mia!, the beloved jukebox musical built around the iconic hits of ABBA. With music and lyrics by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus and a book by Catherine Johnson, the Broadway favorite has returned to the Winter Garden Theatre in a joyful revival that follows Sophie, a young bride who secretly invites three possible fathers to her Greek island wedding. Host Andrew Cole is joined by guest co-host Ben Grossman, a lifelong Mamma Mia! superfan who's seen the show across continents and productions. Together they break down what makes this revival sing from standout performances (especially a scene-stealing Tanya), to the enduring charm of ABBA's songbook, to the show's balance of camp, heart, and pure escapist fun. They also explore the musical's modern themes of chosen family and friendship. For Broadway fans searching for a Mamma Mia! revival review, a musical theater deep dive, or a joyful post-show recap, this episode delivers big laughs, big feels, and a verdict on whether this fan favorite is still worth seeing today. ***** CHAPTERS 0:00 - Intro / Welcome Ben Grossman 4:22 - Setting the Stage 7:02 - Hot Takes 32:36 - Big Feels 41:44 - Should You See It? 50:25 - Outro ***** SEE MAMMA MIA!  Tickets to Broadway: https://mammamiabway.com/tickets Ticket to the National Tour: https://www.mammamiathetour.com/#tour  ***** GUEST HOST LOVE Learn More About Ben: https://www.ben-grossman.com/  Shop Otis' Latest Fashions: buyotis.com  ***** SUPPORT CRITICAL DARLING Spotify - Follow, Listen & Watch https://open.spotify.com/show/3n4Gr7rDQAJpobM1pb1gDD YouTube - Subscribe & Watch https://www.youtube.com/@criticaldarlingpod Apple Podcasts - Follow & Listen https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/critical-darling/id1870444384 Instagram - Follow & Connect https://www.instagram.com/criticaldarlingpod?igsh=MWZ0ZWtyeTQzaGwxcg== Amazon Music - Follow & Listen https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/e925c14a-0d59-40f1-856b-b7dc9c32fa09 TikTok - Follow & Connect  https://www.tiktok.com/@criticaldarlingpod?_r=1&_t=ZT-93HfSIERtvS