Set on a Greek island paradise, Mamma Mia! brings its story of family and friendship, told through the timeless songs of ABBA, to Kent as part of its first UK tour.

To date, the show has been seen by more than 60 million people and the movie starring Meryl Streep, Colin Firth and Piers Brosnan is the highest worldwide grossing live-action musical film of all time – and a sequel was recently announced.

We talk to Jon Boydon, who plays Sam Carmichael, one of the "dads" as the show opens in Canterbury.

I’ve lived in Dartford for 10 years...

I’m originally from Solihull, and my reasons for moving here originally were relationship based and then I just never left. It’s so easy to get to the West End and I ended up falling in love with Kent. I got married on the Isle of Sheppey and we take our little boy to places like the Hop Farm and Port Lympne. It feels like home.

I was in Jersey Boys for six years and joined the cast of Mamma Mia! quite recently...

Jersey Boys was such a good fit for me, I loved it. As a show it was brilliant. I went into Jersey Boys in my early 30s and I’m 40 now so it was interesting to find what different parts there were for my age. I am a bit young for this part! But it was the right time to try something new. It’s always better to leave something with fond memories than when you’ve had enough.

I play Piers Brosnan’s part...

I’m so happy with this show – there is such a lot of energy. The cast are experienced and bring great humour and talent and a wealth of knowledge. We have great times, the three dads. And the cast are so young they bring so much energy to the stage. It is just a pleasure to come to work and love what you do. Sometimes I can’t believe I’m working – you look around and you’re on a wonderful Greek island.

Music is a big part of my life...

I like a bit of everything and when it comes to ABBA, well, when I started rehearsals I realised I knew all these songs. They are just so present and they are just great songs. They are perfectly crafted pop songs. Everyone sings along. The audience are part of the narrative so are free to join in. They are taken on this brilliant story and journey of friendship which crosses the generations. I think the film and the DVD made it accessible to younger generations. We have kids in the audience who all know the words and they are sharing this together with their mums and grandmothers.

I’m about to start recording my second album...

I’m due to go into the studio when I’m back in Kent. It’s a crowdfunded album and I have 10 songs ready to go. But I have to watch the quality of my voice and where it is sitting, due to performing every day. I had RSI in my larynx, so you do have to be careful. It’s good to sing different numbers.

DETAILS

Mamma Mia! is at the Marlowe Theatre from Tuesday, July 11 to Saturday, July 29. Tickets cost from £30.25. To book call 01227787787 or visit marlowetheatre.com.