Background

Mamma Mia! at the Novello Theatre, London

Experience the joyous ABBA musical Mamma Mia! at London’s Novello Theatre, a timeless West End celebration of love and laughter.

4.6

Mamma Mia! is the vibrant, sun-soaked ABBA musical playing at London’s Novello Theatre on Catherine Street. This feel-good show, running for over 26 years in the West End, tells a heartwarming story of love, family, and identity set on a Greek island, brought to life through timeless ABBA hits. Suitable for ages 5 and up, it offers a joyous theatrical experience with a runtime of 2 hours and 35 minutes including an interval.

A brief summary to Mamma Mia!

  • Catherine St, London, WC2B 4LD, GB
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 2.5 to 3 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
  • Monday 9 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-7 pm
  • Friday 9 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Book tickets well in advance to secure the best seats and take advantage of early bird discounts.
  • Arrive early to enjoy the historic Novello Theatre ambiance and find your seat comfortably.
  • Be aware the show contains flashing lights and mild language; parental discretion is advised for young children.
  • Consider family ticket packages for savings if attending with children aged 5 and older.
widget icon

Getting There

  • London Underground

    Take the Piccadilly or Northern line to Leicester Square station, approximately a 10-minute walk to the Novello Theatre on Catherine Street. Tube services run frequently, with fares around £2.50–£4.90 depending on peak times and ticket type.

  • Bus

    Several London bus routes stop near Catherine Street, including routes 1, 6, 9, 13, and 24. Travel times vary from 15 to 30 minutes from central London locations. Contactless payment is accepted; fares are approximately £1.75 per ride.

  • Taxi or Rideshare

    Black cabs and rideshare services like Uber can drop you close to the Novello Theatre. Travel times depend on traffic but typically range from 15 to 30 minutes from central London. Expect fares from £10 to £25.

  • Walking

    If staying nearby in Covent Garden or Leicester Square, walking to the theatre takes about 10 to 15 minutes on mostly flat, paved streets suitable for all mobility levels.

Mamma Mia! location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather

Unlock the Best of Mamma Mia!

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Mamma Mia!

A Global Phenomenon Rooted in London’s West End

Mamma Mia! first premiered in London’s West End in 1999 at the Prince Edward Theatre before moving to the Prince of Wales Theatre and finally settling at the Novello Theatre in 2012. Celebrating over 26 years on stage, it has become one of the longest-running and most beloved musicals in London theatre history. With over 70 million people having seen the show worldwide, Mamma Mia! has transcended its origins to become a global cultural touchstone, inspiring two blockbuster films and countless international productions.

The Story and Music That Captivate Audiences

Written by Catherine Johnson and directed by Phyllida Lloyd, Mamma Mia! tells the humorous and touching story of Sophie, a young bride-to-be on a quest to discover the identity of her father from among three possible men invited to her wedding. Set on a picturesque Greek island, the narrative unfolds against a backdrop of friendship, family bonds, and self-discovery. The musical features an irresistible score of ABBA’s greatest hits, including "Dancing Queen," "Mamma Mia," "The Winner Takes It All," and "Super Trouper," which infuse the production with infectious energy and nostalgia.

The Novello Theatre Experience

Located on Catherine Street in London’s vibrant theatre district, the Novello Theatre offers an intimate and atmospheric venue for this iconic show. The theatre’s elegant design enhances the immersive experience, allowing audiences to feel part of the joyous celebration on stage. Performances typically last around 2 hours and 35 minutes, including an interval, making it a perfect evening outing. The theatre enforces age recommendations, admitting children aged 5 and above, with those under 16 required to be accompanied by an adult.

Cast, Direction, and Production Excellence

The show is produced by Judy Craymer and Richard East, with direction by Phyllida Lloyd, who also directed the acclaimed film adaptations. The cast brings vibrant energy and heartfelt performances, with standout roles such as Donna Sheridan, famously portrayed by Mazz Murray in recent years. The production is known for its dynamic choreography, colorful costumes, and high-quality musical arrangements that keep audiences entertained and emotionally invested.

Ticketing and Accessibility

Tickets for Mamma Mia! at the Novello Theatre are available from approximately £17.50, with family and senior discounts offered on select performances. The show runs multiple times weekly, with evening performances generally ending by 7:30 or 7:00 PM. The theatre is fully equipped with amenities including restrooms, seating areas, and concession options. While the show contains flashing lights and mild language, it remains a family-friendly event suitable for a wide audience.

Cultural Impact and Legacy

Mamma Mia! has left an indelible mark on musical theatre, combining the timeless appeal of ABBA’s music with a universally relatable story. Its enduring popularity in London’s West End reflects its ability to connect across generations, offering a joyous, uplifting experience that celebrates life, love, and laughter. The musical continues to attract new audiences while honoring its rich history and theatrical tradition.

Busiest months of the year

Busiest hours of the day

Popular Experiences near Mamma Mia!

Popular Hotels near Mamma Mia!

Select Currency