Sophie Whibley: Bringing ABBA’s Magic to Life

According to Sophie, it’s not just about hitting the notes—it’s about capturing the joy and vibrancy that made ABBA’s performances so iconic. “Bringing the energy and charisma of ABBA’s original performances to the stage involves channeling the joy that defined their music,” she says. Her goal is to make the audience feel part of something special, immersing them in the infectious magic of ABBA’s timeless hits.

One of her personal highlights is performing Knowing Me, Knowing You, a song she loves for its intricate harmonies. “The harmonies are challenging to learn,” Sophie shares, “but it’s so rewarding when we get it right!” This song embodies the complexity and depth of ABBA’s music, with layers that demand precision but offer a fantastic payoff when everything aligns.

Performing with a full symphonic orchestra adds an exciting layer of complexity and richness to ABBA’s music. Sophie describes the challenge of balancing the original arrangements with the expansive sound of the orchestra: “It’s all about seamless communication and a shared vision to make sure that the symphonic elements enhance, rather than overshadow, the classic pop sound.” Working with the orchestra requires attentiveness and collaboration, ensuring that the symphonic textures add depth to the performance without overpowering the pop essence of the songs.

Sophie hopes the audience will experience a powerful blend of nostalgia and excitement, feeling both uplifted and connected through ABBA’s music. Her aim is for the audience to leave with that same joy and exuberance that ABBA fans felt in the 70s. With her passion, talent, and dedication, Sophie is set to bring the spirit of ABBA to life once again on stage, creating a night of unforgettable music with the Dunedin Symphony Orchestra.