Merrill Peiffer, Meredith Inglesby, and Natalie Charlé Ellis in the Arts Center production of “Mamma Mia!” GUSTAVO RATTIA

It’s a “guaranteed, get-happy, dancing-in-the-aisles-hit!” – because what’s more fun than the upbeat music of ABBA, set on a sun-kissed Greek island as we ready for a summertime wedding?

“Mamma Mia!” has all of the above in the Arts Center’s summer production, onstage through Aug. 22. Cleverly crafted, British playwright Catherine Johnson’s sunny, funny tale unfolds on a Greek island paradise.

On the verge of her wedding, 20-year-old Sophie wants her father to walk her down the aisle, but doesn’t know his identity. Sophie (Regan White) discovers her mother’s old diary and finds entries which describe intimate dates (“dot, dot, dot”) with three men.

Sophie believes one of these men could be her father and, three months prior to the wedding, sends each an invitation to her wedding, surreptitiously written in the name of her mother, Donna (played by Broadway star Meredith Inglesby, who grew up on Hilton Head Island).

Sophie’s quest brings these three very different men from her mother’s past back to the island they had last visited 20 years ago, and that’s where the fun starts. Donna is beyond surprised. 

The story-telling magic of ABBA’s songs propels this enchanting tale of love, laughter and friendship … and everyone’s having the time of their lives.

The Arts Center’s production, directed by New York City’s Casey Colgan, will delight and thrill audiences – visitors and residents alike. Starring in this musical, alongside exceptional cast, are the addictively fun songs of ABBA, with music and lyrics by Benny Andersson and Bjorn Ulvaeus. The music includes “Honey, Honey,” “Dancing Queen,” “Knowing Me, Knowing You,” “Take a Chance on Me,” “Thank You for the Music,” “Money, Money, Money,” “The Winner Takes It All,” and many more.

Nominated for five Tony Awards, “Mamma Mia!” is a story about love and self-discovery, but also the touching story of a mother and daughter, each with a few secrets of her own. The story sung by magnificent voices takes the audience on a journey from sweet and sentimental to laughter and pure joy.

Wear your own dancing shoes, because you might just end up dancing in the aisles.

Tickets are $56 for adults and $43 for children and are available by calling the Arts Center box office at 843-842-2787 or by visiting artshhi.com.