Jessica Driver talks to express about joining the cast of the hit show, which is touring 33 New Zealand venues, over 46 days.
Why are Kiwis nationwide still lining up to singalong to ABBA’s greatest hits?
“Because they have never gone out of style! They are songs for everyone,” reflects Driver who has arrived in New Zealand to transform in Agnetha for the extensive tour of ‘Dancing Queen: A Tribute to ABBA.’ “Everyone can have a good time to ABBA!”
After performing in musicals such as Rock of Ages where her performance of Sherri won critical acclaim, Jessica, a life-long ABBA fan, wanted to challenge herself, and Agnetha’s high notes provided that challenge,
“The harmonies are so dynamic,” she explains. “The key is making us sound as one, not just two voices singing together.”
So no rock’n’roll behaviour on tour! “I have to be strict on myself,” she assures us. “Ginger tea is great for my voice, and a really good vocal warm before every concert – and no shouting afterwards!”
Jessica selects Voules Vous as her favourite song to perform, “it’s such upbeat fun to perform and the audience always get really into it.”
It’s just one of ABBA’s many greatest hits the 8-piece international band will be performing including: Mamma Mia, Dancing Queen, Waterloo, Knowing Me Knowing You, Gimme Gimme Gimme and Thank You for the Music.
The show also dives deep into ABBA’s golden songbook and includes rarities like Ring Ring and Hasta Mañana to keep the hardcore fans happy.
After the last few years, we could all do with a little more happiness, and Jessica assures everybody leaves ‘Dancing Queen: A Tribute to ABBA’ smiling. “We really encourage the whole audience to join in and sing-a-long!”
For more info on ‘Dancing Queen: A Tribute to ABBA’ extensive NZ tour visit dancingqueen.com.au
