Every now and then, a theatre conversation cuts through the glitter and spectacle and reveals something far more grounded and human beneath it all. What begins as a discussion about a globally adored musical quickly becomes something deeper — a reflection on timing, personal growth, vulnerability, and the quiet strength that sits behind every performance. During rehearsals for Mamma Mia, performer Bek Chapman shares insights that go well beyond choreography and ABBA hits, offering a glimpse into what it truly means to step into a role that aligns not just with your career, but with your life.
Bek had already secured her place in the production as an understudy when an unexpected phone call arrived — on her 44th birthday. She was asked if she would like to take on the role of Donna Sheridan. Calm and composed in the moment, she accepted the offer with professionalism. The emotional reaction came later. It wasn’t just excitement; it was recognition. After years of working across music, comedy, theatre, and television, this opportunity felt different. It felt earned, but more importantly, it felt right. There’s something powerful about reaching a point where preparation meets timing, and for Bek, this role represented exactly that. It wasn’t simply another job — it was a moment of alignment between experience and readiness.
As she immersed herself in the character of Donna, Bek discovered that there was far more beneath the surface than what audiences typically see. Donna is often remembered as bold, confident, and fiercely independent — a woman who has built a life on her own terms. But stepping deeper into the script revealed a more complex portrait. Beneath that strength lies vulnerability, uncertainty, and emotional depth. She is not a one-dimensional symbol of independence, but rather a person who has made difficult choices and continues to carry the emotional weight of them. This balance between resilience and tenderness is what makes the character feel authentic. It’s also what allows audiences to connect with her so strongly. People recognise themselves in that duality — the ability to appear strong while still feeling deeply.
One of the most unexpected moments for Bek during rehearsals came through a song that doesn’t rely on spectacle or high energy. Slipping Through My Fingers stands in stark contrast to the more upbeat, glitter-filled numbers the show is known for. It’s quiet, reflective, and emotionally charged. While it may seem simple on the surface, the emotional resonance it carries is significant. It speaks to the passage of time, the evolution of relationships, and the bittersweet nature of watching life move forward. For Bek, it was a moment that caught her off guard — not because of its technical demands, but because of how deeply it resonates. It’s a reminder that Mamma Mia is not just about joy and nostalgia; it’s also about the subtle, often unspoken emotional experiences that sit underneath.
Beyond the principal roles, there is an entire world unfolding on stage that audiences may not consciously notice, yet instinctively feel. Bek highlights the importance of the ensemble, describing how each performer carries their own mini-story throughout the production. These are the small, nuanced moments — a glance, a reaction, a background interaction — that create a sense of depth and realism. They transform the performance from a series of scenes into a living, breathing environment. It’s this attention to detail that elevates the show, allowing audiences to feel as though they are stepping into a fully realised world rather than simply watching one.
In an era where digital entertainment dominates, live theatre continues to hold a unique kind of power. Bek describes this in one word: energy. The connection between performers and the audience is immediate and ever-changing. No two performances feel exactly the same because no two audiences are the same. A quieter midweek crowd creates a different atmosphere compared to a lively weekend audience, and performers instinctively respond to that shift. It becomes a shared experience, shaped in real time by everyone in the room. This unpredictability is what gives theatre its edge — its sense of being alive in a way that cannot be replicated on a screen.
While Donna is a character who naturally commands presence, Bek brings her own personality into the role, particularly through her sense of humour. She embraces moments of awkwardness and uses them to create connection, adding layers of relatability and charm. Whether it’s a perfectly timed stumble or a subtle comedic beat, these moments bring balance to the performance. Comedy, as she explains, is something she feels deeply comfortable with, and it plays a crucial role in shaping the emotional journey of the show. Mamma Mia invites audiences to laugh freely, often disarming them before guiding them into more heartfelt moments. That blend of humour and sincerity is what gives the story its lasting impact.
The enduring appeal of Mamma Mia goes far beyond its soundtrack. While the music undeniably draws people in, it’s the themes beneath the songs that keep audiences coming back. It explores friendship and how it evolves over time. It looks at the shifting dynamic between mothers and daughters, and how those relationships grow and deepen. It touches on forgiveness, second chances, and the idea that independence does not exclude vulnerability. These are universal experiences, and they resonate regardless of age or background. The familiarity of the music may be what fills the seats, but it’s the emotional connection that lingers long after the final curtain.
When asked why people should see the show, Bek’s response is immediate and heartfelt. It’s joyful. It’s funny. It’s emotional. It’s filled with vibrant costumes, energetic performances, and moments that invite pure, unfiltered enjoyment. But more than anything, it offers something increasingly rare — a shared experience. It brings people together in the same space, allowing them to feel something collectively. Strangers sit side by side, laughing, reflecting, and connecting through a story that feels both entertaining and deeply human.
In a world that often feels fragmented and disconnected, that sense of togetherness carries real value. The glitter, the music, and the spectacle may be what first captures attention, but what truly defines Mamma Mia is what lies beneath it all — a story about people, relationships, and the beautifully imperfect nature of life.
