Dancing Queens take over the Top Of The Ark as The Flaming Sambucas bring ABBA to life

Flaming Sambucas - I Have A Dream @ Top Of The Ark

REVIEW‍ ‍

Storytelling, spectacular musicianship and a packed dance floor combine for an unforgettable celebration of one of pop music’s greatest catalogues.

Some shows entertain.

Others transport you to another time.

From the moment the house lights dimmed and the opening notes echoed through the Arkaba Hotel, it became clear that ABBA – I Have A Dream by The Flaming Sambucas was much more than a tribute show. It was a heartfelt celebration of the music, memories and magic that have made ABBA one of the world’s most enduring musical acts.

As the audience settled in, anticipation quickly gave way to smiles, singing and dancing. Before long, the dance floor was alive with couples and lifelong ABBA fans who simply couldn’t resist joining in.

More than a concert… a journey through ABBA’s remarkable story

One of the production’s greatest strengths is that it doesn’t simply move from hit to hit.

Guiding the audience throughout the evening, Terry Nicholas effortlessly combines keyboard brilliance, vocals and engaging narration, weaving together the story of ABBA’s extraordinary rise with fascinating anecdotes and historical moments.

Behind the performers, a spectacular LED backdrop displays archival photographs and video footage of the Swedish supergroup, creating a visual journey that perfectly complements the live performance. Rather than simply watching a concert, the audience experiences a celebration of ABBA’s legacy.

Vocals that capture the spirit of ABBA

Bringing Agnetha and Frida to life are Anna Kotlova and Katrina Quigley, whose vocals beautifully recreate the soaring harmonies that helped define ABBA’s unmistakable sound.

Rather than relying on imitation alone, both performers bring warmth, personality and genuine enjoyment to the stage. Their chemistry is infectious, and their interaction with both the audience and each other creates an atmosphere that feels authentic and joyful.

Multiple costume changes add another layer of visual excitement, paying homage to ABBA’s iconic stage style while keeping the production fresh from beginning to end.

A first-class band

Supporting the vocalists is an outstanding live band that delivers every classic with precision and energy.

Guitarist Jamie Kuijpers provides crisp rhythms and melodic solos, while drummer Paul Angas anchors every performance with rock-solid timing and infectious grooves that keep the dance floor moving all night.

Together with Terry Nicholas on keyboards, the musicians recreate the unmistakable ABBA sound while allowing the music to breathe naturally as a live performance rather than simply copying the original recordings.

Production values worthy of the music

The Flaming Sambucas have invested heavily in creating a complete entertainment experience.

Professional lighting, haze effects, multiple LED screens, quality sound and carefully choreographed staging transform the Arkaba into a genuine concert environment.

Adding another layer of energy are dancers Aylish and Shana, whose choreography and vibrant stage presence perfectly complement the music without ever overshadowing it.

The production feels polished, professional and remarkably well paced, with every visual element contributing to the atmosphere.

Where the magic really happens

Perhaps the biggest compliment any live show can receive isn’t found on stage at all.

It’s found on the dance floor.

Throughout the evening, more and more people left their seats to dance, sing and relive memories attached to songs that have stood the test of time. Friends danced together, strangers shared smiles, phones were lifted to capture favourite moments and applause regularly interrupted the performance.

Some memorable moments of a whole new level saw audience members being invited onto the stage, reminding everyone that this isn’t simply a performance to watch - it’s an experience to be part of.

That genuine connection between performers and audience is what elevates ABBA – I Have A Dream beyond many tribute productions.

The Limelight SA verdict

There are tribute bands that recreate the songs.

The Flaming Sambucas recreate the feeling.

With exceptional musicianship, polished vocals, engaging storytelling and production values that rival many theatre productions, ABBA - I Have A Dream captures the joy that has made ABBA’s music timeless for generations.

As the final encore concluded beneath the Arkaba’s mirror ball, the audience were still singing, still dancing and still smiling.

Perhaps that’s the greatest compliment any performer could hope for.

The Flaming Sambucas don’t simply perform ABBA’s music…

They remind us why we fell in love with it in the first place.

★★★★★ 5/5

Performer Credits

Terry Nicholas – Keyboards, vocals & narration

Anna Kotlova – Agnetha

Katrina Quigley – Frida

Jamie Kuijpers – Guitar

Paul Angas – Drums

Aylish – Dancer