Abbamania enjoys performing ABBA’s ‘complex’ songs

ABBAMANIA returns to Manila. FILE PHOTO

An Abba tribute group that has performed across the globe, Abbamania formed in 1998, its members originally from Poland, England, and Scotland—“mutually” drawn to the music of the 1970s Swedish pop group.

“We have been touring for 14 years, and are excited to return to the Philippines,” said Abbamania member Steven Galert in an email interview.

Galert and groupmates Ewa Scott, Sharon Fehlberg, Adam Robertson, Gareth Whitehead and Lee Brady performed in the country last April.

What do you find most memorable about your visit last year?

Having never been to the Philippines, we were a little apprehensive. As things turned out, we were fantastically received. The audience was great; they sang and danced along with us. It was a fantastic experience.

Do you communicate with the ABBA members?

MACKLEMORE (left) and Ryan Lewis rock SM MoA Arena. Invision/AP

We have not had any direct contact with ABBA members; however we have heard through the grapevine that … they believe our performance is up to the high standard they would expect. We’ve communicated a number of times with their record company through the years, though.

How would you describe ABBA’s music?

The music of ABBA is timeless … The songs are pop classics, and a lot more complex to perform.

What’s the best thing about being Abbamania?

We get the opportunity to perform some of the best songs from the 1970s and 1980s. We’ve built a great following of our own all over the world … we enjoy our portrayal of the group and the way we deliver their songs.

What musical training did you have prior to this?

Every member of the group holds either a degree or master’s degree in music. The members have been performing from a very young age. The mutual love of ABBA’s music has drawn us all togther.

(Abbamania will perform at the Solaire Resorts and Casinos on March 21 and at the Plenary Hall of the PICC on March 22. For tickets, call Ticketnet, 9115555; SM Tickets, 4702222; Ticketworld, 891-9999.)

Macklemore and Lewis

Grammy-winning hip-hop duo Macklemore and Ryan Lewis will perform at the Mall of Asia Arena tonight. For tickets, visit all SM Tickets outlets and www.smtickets.com.

‘Il Divo—A Musical Affair’

Vocal group Il Divo headlines “Il Divo—A Musical Affair: The Greatest Songs of Broadway Live,” March 19 at Resorts World Manila’s Newport Theater. Lea Salonga is guest performer. For tickets, visit www.ticketworld.com.ph or call Resorts World Box Office (908-8000 loc. 7700).