West End's MAMMA MIA! Will Move to the Novello Theatre

The Daily Mail reports that MAMMA MIA!, now in its eleventh West End year, will move to the Novello Theatre after the 2012 Olympics.

"It's another excuse for a party," the show's producer, Judy Craymer, said. Craymer's other musical in the works, Viva Forever, is looking toward the Prince Edward, where Jersey Boys is currently continuing a successful run.

The smash-hit musical based on the songs of ABBA celebrated its 11th London birthday in April 2010. "MAMMA MIA!" continues to break box office records at the Prince of Wales Theatre. The musical has had the highest ever weekly gross taken in the history of the Prince of Wales Theatre several times. From West End smash to global phenomenon, "MAMMA MIA!" has already been seen by over 42 million people in over 200 cities across North America, Australia, Europe and Asia. It has already grossed over $2 billion at the box office worldwide. The original London production opened in 1999 and has grossed £185 million at the UK Box Office. At this point in time, the London production has been seen by over one in ten of the UK population.

Inspired by the story-telling magic of ABBA's timeless songs, writer Catherine Johnson's enchanting tale of family and friendship unfolds on a Greek island paradise. On the eve of her wedding, a daughter's quest to discover the identity of her father brings three men from her mother's past back to the island they last visited 20 years ago...

With music & lyrics by Benny Andersson & Björn Ulvaeus, "MAMMA MIA!" is written by Catherine Johnson, directed by Phyllida Lloyd and choreographed by Anthony Van Laast. The production is designed by Mark Thompson with lighting design by Howard Harrison, sound design by Andrew Bruce & Bobby Aitken and musical supervision, additional material & arrangements by Martin Koch.

"MAMMA MIA!" is produced by Craymer, Richard East & Björn Ulvaeus for Littlestar in association with Universal.