Triple Threat on the Rise: Emily Toby Shines in Mamma Mia

Emily Toby lights up the latest episode of the Showtime podcast with heart, humour and honesty as she takes us behind the scenes of her starring role as Sophie in Mamma Mia with Windmill Theatre Company. A gifted triple threat, Emily shares how her passion for performing was sparked in community theatre and has since grown into a dynamic career that includes teaching at the Australian Girls Choir and studying at university. She opens up about the thrill and pressure of playing such an iconic character, finding fresh layers of vulnerability and strength in Sophie’s journey of self-discovery, family and identity.

Balancing rehearsals, teaching and study, Emily speaks candidly about the discipline it takes to protect her vocal health and stay energised—lessons she passes on to her students with a focus on joy over perfection. Her deep respect for the collaborative spirit of theatre shines through, especially her admiration for co-star Stephanie as Donna. With favourite ABBA moments like “Under Attack” and “Dancing Queen”, Emily captures the emotional range and timeless magic of Mamma Mia. Her story is a celebration of community, creativity and connection—a joyful reminder of why theatre continues to resonate so powerfully.

 

🎭 MAMMA MIA! 🗓️  7 June to 21 June 📍 BUNJIL PLACE THEATRE 🎟️  windmilltheatre.com.au/mammamia

Windmill Theatre Company’s 2025 production of Mamma Mia bursts onto the stage with infectious energy, vibrant storytelling and a heartfelt sense of community. Set against the sunny backdrop of a Greek island and fuelled by the timeless hits of ABBA, this joyful musical follows Sophie, a young woman on the brink of marriage, as she secretly invites three men from her mother Donna’s past in the hopes of discovering her father’s identity.

Directed with warmth and flair, the production balances comedy and emotion with seamless transitions between showstopping ensemble numbers and intimate character moments. Emily Toby shines in the role of Sophie, bringing both youthful charm and emotional depth to a character navigating love, identity and family. Stephanie delivers a standout performance as Donna, anchoring the show with powerful vocals and vulnerability.

From high energy numbers like “Voulez Vous” and “Gimme Gimme Gimme” to moving ballads like “Slipping Through My Fingers”, the show is packed with colour, heart and nostalgia. With polished choreography, strong vocal performances and a creative team that honours the material while adding fresh life, Windmill’s Mamma Mia is a celebration of connection, forgiveness and empowerment. It is a feel good night of theatre that leaves the audience dancing out the door.

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EMILIE TOBY is a Melbourne-based performer, vocalist and educator with a passion for storytelling and community through the arts. A true triple threat, Emilie has trained extensively in singing, acting and dance, and continues to build a dynamic career that spans the stage and the classroom. She is currently starring as Sophie in Windmill Theatre Company’s 2025 production of Mamma Mia, where she brings a fresh, heartfelt take to the iconic role.

Emilie’s journey in theatre began with school and community productions, where she quickly fell in love with the collaborative spirit of the performing arts. Alongside her performance work, she teaches with the Australian Girls Choir and is completing a university degree, balancing her love of teaching with her dedication to her craft. Her experience as both a performer and educator gives her a unique insight into vocal health, character development and the importance of joy and connection in the creative process.

Driven by a strong sense of purpose and grounded in authenticity, Emilie is admired by peers and st