Novello Theatre

The Novello Theatre opened in 1905 as the Waldorf Theatre and was designed by W. G. R. Sprague, one of the most important theatre architects of Edwardian London. It was built as a pair with the neighbouring Aldwych Theatre, giving this stretch of the West End two distinctive theatrical landmarks.

The theatre was renamed several times during its early life, becoming the Strand Theatre, then the Whitney Theatre, before returning to the Strand name for much of the twentieth century. In 2005 it was renamed the Novello Theatre in honour of composer, actor and playwright Ivor Novello, who lived in a flat above the theatre for many years.

Across its history, the theatre has presented comedy, drama, Shakespeare and musicals. Its modern identity is closely tied to MAMMA MIA!, which transferred to the Novello in 2012 and has made the theatre a major destination for audiences looking for a feel-good West End night out.

Covent Garden is the nearest Underground station, with Holborn, Temple and Charing Cross also within walking distance. The theatre sits on Aldwych, close to the Strand and Drury Lane, making it convenient for buses, taxis and central London restaurants.

The Novello works especially well for a full West End evening, with plenty of nearby places to eat around Covent Garden, Aldwych and the Strand. For MAMMA MIA!, allow a little extra time around arrival and exit, as performances can draw large, high-energy crowds.