This is by no means rocket science, but rather a clever use of the music and a plot built around the familiar old songs. It is especially fun for former fans of ABBA, who squeal collectively as each number is incorporated into the flimsy storyline. I must admit, as sappy as this is and as much as I never personally cared for the music, presenting this in Vegas is a stroke of genius, especially when it is brightly conducted by the show’s spirited musical director Wendy Bobbitt Cavett, who also doubles at the keyboards. 

Mark Thompson’s designs are perfect for multiple identical productions, with colorful and glittering costuming that occasionally exhibits a little well-placed skin. His striking but simple set design also doesn’t need much attention or maintenance, provided by a few quick revolves easily managed by the ever-smiling and energetic ensemble members—all of whom are obviously ecstatic to be working, even if its in a city that’s 110 degrees during the day outside their hotel rooms. 

The cast is far better than the touring cast which hit the Pantages Theatre here in Hollywood this past spring, especially the gifted Lewis Cleale as Sam, so much more watchable than that Tom Jones clone, the (ironically) Vegas-y Gary Lynch, who actually originated the role. Gabrielle Jones and Suzie Jacobsen Balser are infectious as Donna and Sophie, Michael Piontek and Michael Pemberton are outstanding as Harry and Bill, Reyna Von Vett is a knockout Tanya, and Justin Brill is a charmer as her pintsized suitor Pepper.