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POINT OF INTEREST

Novello Theatre

5 Aldwych, London, Greater London, WC2B 4LD

This magnificent building, dating back to 1905, was known as the Strand Theatre until 2005. With its grand architecture and theatrical legacy, it’s a cherished part of London’s West End. Over the years, the Novello Theatre has hosted star-studded premieres of hit musicals, but it’s best known as the London home of Mamma Mia!, where audiences have sung along to the beloved ABBA anthems for over a decade.

The Basics

Performances ofMamma Mia! are held daily except Sundays at Novello Theatre. Choose from seats in the Dress Circle, Grand Circle, Balcony, or Stalls. Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended.

Mamma Mia!* runs for two hours and 25 minutes, including an intermission.

  • Children under 3 are not permitted into the theater and children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

  • Drinks and snacks are available to purchase before the show and during intermission.

  • The theater is wheelchair accessible—the allocated spaces must be booked in advance and access is via a separate entrance on Catherine Street.

How to Get There

Novello Theatre is located in London’s West End on the Strand. Right next door to the Waldorf Hilton Hotel and just two doors down from Aldwych Theatre, it’s easily reached on foot from Covent Garden. The closest tube stations are Temple (Circle and District lines) and Covent Garden (Piccadilly Line).

When to Get There

Performances ofMamma Mia! are held Monday to Saturday evenings, with additional matinee performances on Thursdays and Saturdays.

Mamma Mia!

Debuting at the Prince Edward Theatre on April 6, 1999,Mamma Mia! now ranks among the longest-running shows in the West End, celebrating its 20-year anniversary in 2019. It moved to Novello Theatre in September 2012. The musical, based on the songs of Abba, has since made its way to more than 50 countries in six continents, including a 14-year run on Broadway and the now-iconic 2008 movie adaptation starring Meryl Streep.

Ways to explore

Performances of Mamma Mia! are typically held daily except for Sundays. Since it’s a popular show, it’s best to book tickets in advance rather than waiting until the day. You can pick from seats in the Stalls, Dress Circle, Grand Circle, and Balcony, but the best seats are usually rows G–L in the Stalls. For a more luxurious experience, opt for a ticket package that includes a pre-show meal. The theater is also sometimes featured on guided walking tours of the area.

Accessibility

The Novello Theatre is accessible to wheelchair users, with an accessible entrance on Catherine Street. Wheelchair spaces in the theater must be booked in advance.

Age limits

Shows such as Mamma Mia! are not recommended for kids under 5. Children under 3 won’t be admitted.

What to pack

Small bag, contactless payment method

What to wear

Comfortable clothing, extra layers in case you get cold

Not allowed

Bringing your own food or drink, large bags or suitcases

Amenities

Four bars, coat check, restrooms

Address

The Novello Theatre is located in London’s West End, next door to the Waldorf Hilton Hotel and two doors down from the Aldwych Theatre. Most visitors use public transit to get there, as it’s a short walk from Covent Garden.

Driving

Driving near Covent Garden is stressful, since the roads are busy and parking can be hard to find. If you do choose to drive, Q-Park Chinatown is a convenient paid parking choice.

Public transportation

This is by far the best way to get to the Novello Theatre. The closest tube stations are Covent Garden (Piccadilly Line) and Temple (Circle and District lines).

Best times to visit

Attend a matinee or evening show; matinees are often popular among families.

Best days to visit

The theater is usually closed on Sundays, and if you want to avoid the crowds, try to come on a weekday, such as Monday through Thursday.

Best months to visit

Shows are performed year-round, but London weather is usually nicer between June and September.

Special events

Check the calendar for any special events. If you can come in December, London at Christmastime is particularly atmospheric.

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