Novello Theatre
Novello Theatre
4.5
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The area
Address
Neighborhood: Covent Garden
Whether you're headed here to check out the multitude of shops, theaters, cafes, pubs, and restaurants, or simply to be among the multitude of people who pass through this pretty part of town, you'll love soaking up the festive and historic atmosphere in and around Covent Garden. Even if you don't have tickets to the opera or a show at one of the many famous theaters here, don't be surprised if find yourself captivated by some impromptu act of a street performer wowing the crowds in Covent Garden's Piazza. If you do have tickets, you'll be pleased to note that many of the local eateries accommodate theatergoers with prix fixe menus, early dinners, and later than usual opening hours.
How to get there
- Temple • 5 min walk
- Covent Garden • 5 min walk
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Best nearby
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10,000 within 3 miles
Attractions
2,875 within 6 miles
See what travelers are saying
- Vanessa M31 contributionsShow Great, but cold! and seating not greatWatched Mamma Mia - loved the show paid what I thought was a decent price for seats only to find that when we stood up at end, th eback of the stage couldn't be seen. It was not mentioned at any time that the seats had limited view, be it at the end. It did feel slightly claustophobic sitting under the balcony - its quite low. And we sat under a fan - it was really coldVisited February 2024Traveled with friendsWritten February 18, 2024
- Coffee AddictWollongong, Australia682 contributionsMamma MiaJust watched mamma Mia and I’m so glad I went. Totally last minute decision so I was in the back row but who cares. View was still awesome and the show was so good. Wow what voice Donna had 10/10. Every time someone need to go toilet the entire row needed to get up which was annoying. Worth every pound. Must do when in LondonVisited March 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten March 15, 2024
- SarnyBexleyheath, United Kingdom1,139 contributionsEnd of show is like an ABBA party!!Went to see Mama Mia with my adult daughter. Our seats were AA18 and AA17 sold as restricted view and they were somewhat but did not detract from the show. Staff friendly, theatre nice and show excellent - much enjoyed.Visited March 2024Traveled with friendsWritten March 19, 2024
- Deborah EWitham, United Kingdom95 contributionsBrilliant staff and customer serviceBrilliant staff and customer service - I attend the theatre in London a fair bit but have to say the customer service on this visit was exceptional. We arrived at the theatre and were immediately approached by Holly who was an attendant/usher, who saw that I was not very mobile ( on crutches) and took us inside. She escorted us all the way up to the grand circle and to our seats. She was polite and helpful without having to be asked. Holly is an asset to the theatre. Her customer service was great . We were there to see Mamma Mia , which was excellent. Having been treated so courteously from the outset made the experiences even better.Visited April 2024Traveled with familyWritten April 11, 2024
- Paul HarveyBrigg, United Kingdom26 contributionsGreat theatre to visit.Our first visit to this beautiful theatre. The staff were amazing and well organised. We had stall seats. Row F, which initially seemed a bit close, until Mama Mia started. WOW!!! The seats were perfect to get the full on Mama Mia song and dance extravaganza. Great cast that put on a show to remember.Visited April 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten April 20, 2024
- GiadaRome, Italy68 contributionsMamma mia!The theater is large enough and above all it develops in height, so those in the back rows do not see the actors well. The staff is really nice and helpful. We saw Mamma Mia!. The set design is very simple, but the performance was magnificent.Visited June 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten July 6, 2024
- Iain R2 contributionsFabulous ServiceThe theatre would get 5+. Ticketmaster failed to deliver our Mams Mia tickets for Friday last week and their response when contacted was rotten. We tried the Novello help line which was fabulous and then popped into the theatre when they opened. We had our tickets in seconds!! Thank you so much. The show was also absolutely fabulous. Thank you allVisited July 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten July 16, 2024
- BellasMum2014Nottingham, United Kingdom24 contributionsOutstanding!Went to see Mammamia, the theatre is magnificent, and the theatre staff is all very courteous and friendly. The only thing that let it down for us was, it was a very hot day and we had a bottle of water each and we were not allowed to take any food or drink I from outside. They searched people's bags too, but I think that was standard for most theatres there. All in all though a fantastic experience, would go again.Visited August 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten August 10, 2024
- Jacb64Pontypool, United Kingdom41 contributionsGreat show, stalls view exellent, drinks very reasonableFantastic experience - Mamma Mia. Theatre easy to find, staff were very friendly and stalls view excellent N22 and N23. Pre-ordered drinks from the email link - which were excellent value (cheapest I've ever paid at any theatre yet alone London!!), £7 for a glass of Rose wine, £5.50 for can of Cider, £2 sparkling water, Popcorn £4.25, Programme £5 (no draught beer etc only bottles/cans). Didn't attend with anyone who had mobility issues butwe normally do so always take a good look around at the accessibilty facilities - there were quite a few flights of stairs for toilets etc, not super great facilities for anyone with mobility issues.Visited August 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten August 11, 2024
- BuenviajerSt Helens, United Kingdom110 contributionsThank you for the music!Excellent experience at this small but well cared-for theatre. Staff were very friendly and seats were comfortable. We were to the very left of the stalls in Row M but could see the whole show clearly. Mamma Mia was fantastic. We had Natalie Langston as Donna and she was amazing, and had time for everyone waiting at Stage Door after her matinee performance. Great energy by the whole cast.Visited August 2024Traveled with familyWritten August 20, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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Phil M
Plymouth, UK31 contributions
Oct 2024 • Couples
Went here to see Mama Mia. The show is superb. Must see!!! Theatre itself, lovely old building, plenty to do around pre theatre. Bar prices very expensive however. Be aware if booking the dress circle. The view is not advertised as restricted but the last five rows in this section are restricted views due to the slanting roof above. We were at the back, k row and would recommend five rows im front for better experience, especially for this show where the end includes audience participation. Once stood view is poor.
Written October 9, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Princes of travel
Paris, France7,523 contributions
Sep 2024 • Couples
The Novello Theater, located in the West End, steps from Covent Garden is a beautiful Edwardian-style performance hall. With a capacity of 1,050 seats, we went there to see the world famous Mamma Mia show! Premiered in 1999, the show moved twice from the theater before being performed in the Novello Theater.
The show is soundtracked by ABBA’s well-known ultra hits and music that have been interwoven to create a coherent plot. The songs are punchy, rhythmic, the singers actors actors are very good at what they do. The scenery, meanwhile, is quite simple, allowing the plot to unfold gradually, while being very smooth.
We see a 2.5 hour show, including intermission, where, at the end, everyone gets up to dance singing and partying to the Swedish band’s latest iconic hits. The last encores are over and it's already time to leave the room, the head still echoing heady music from the famous band ABBA.
The show is soundtracked by ABBA’s well-known ultra hits and music that have been interwoven to create a coherent plot. The songs are punchy, rhythmic, the singers actors actors are very good at what they do. The scenery, meanwhile, is quite simple, allowing the plot to unfold gradually, while being very smooth.
We see a 2.5 hour show, including intermission, where, at the end, everyone gets up to dance singing and partying to the Swedish band’s latest iconic hits. The last encores are over and it's already time to leave the room, the head still echoing heady music from the famous band ABBA.
Automatically translated
Written September 30, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
places2seeplaces2go
England, UK6,986 contributions
Mar 2023 • Family
The Novello Theatre has a smallish entrance, which means when we arrived there was a queue of people. The staff at the entrance were efficient & polite which meant the queue moved fairly quickly.
Inside a small foyer.
We were in the stalls, centre seats in row e. Seats were very comfortable & view excellent. They were roomy enough & from this close you really felt part of the show.
It seats about 1000 people so an average size.
As with most of London’s theatre’s The Novello is beautiful & well maintained.
We used the stalls bar where drinks & drinks were of a standard price for a London theatre.
Inside a small foyer.
We were in the stalls, centre seats in row e. Seats were very comfortable & view excellent. They were roomy enough & from this close you really felt part of the show.
It seats about 1000 people so an average size.
As with most of London’s theatre’s The Novello is beautiful & well maintained.
We used the stalls bar where drinks & drinks were of a standard price for a London theatre.
Written April 7, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
sammy31ammanford
ammanford42 contributions
Mar 2024 • Family
I decided to take my 6 year old granddaughter for a trip to see Mamma Mia in the Novelle theatre in London, I checked the age restriction prior to booking and it was 5, great! I booked!
I can honestly say I have never been more disappointed! The show itself was outstanding, however, 2 members of staff were so pedantic. We sat in the stalls the end seats at the back. My granddaughter couldn't see anything, I told her to sit on her knees as there was no one behind us. I was told she had to sit on her bottom! I asked if they had a booster seat in which they did, it made no difference, as it was a cushion i asked for another one and was just told no! So I told her to stand behind the chair. She was throughly enjoying when I was told she had to sit, I said she couldn't see and was offered to go and watch it from the bar, great I thought, we can see! Can't hear it though. So went back to our sits and told her to sit on her knee and I would take responsibility and have my arms around her. I was told no, however 5 mins left of the show I decided to leave with a very disappointed little girl in tow! I will never return to this theatre. I'm just glad The Appolo and Wicked did not disappoint!
I can honestly say I have never been more disappointed! The show itself was outstanding, however, 2 members of staff were so pedantic. We sat in the stalls the end seats at the back. My granddaughter couldn't see anything, I told her to sit on her knees as there was no one behind us. I was told she had to sit on her bottom! I asked if they had a booster seat in which they did, it made no difference, as it was a cushion i asked for another one and was just told no! So I told her to stand behind the chair. She was throughly enjoying when I was told she had to sit, I said she couldn't see and was offered to go and watch it from the bar, great I thought, we can see! Can't hear it though. So went back to our sits and told her to sit on her knee and I would take responsibility and have my arms around her. I was told no, however 5 mins left of the show I decided to leave with a very disappointed little girl in tow! I will never return to this theatre. I'm just glad The Appolo and Wicked did not disappoint!
Written March 19, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Fraser1982
London, UK12 contributions
Jun 2022 • Friends
The show was beyond Amazing the actors and actresses were so talented and great but we felt like we were in a prison . We went today 9th of June 22 and it was 6 of us we chose to sit in the last 2 rows (E& F ) so we don’t effect anybody, the show started and they kept showing the signs of no phone which is totally understandable and we kept our phones a way in bags , but one of the staff was very rude, he kept standing next to us giving us this angry looks and kept watching us like we are some criminals ! he stopped us from singing ( although we weren’t loud plus nobody could hear us ) but we wanted to enjoy the play ! the light was so bright and on top of us so we asked if he can switch off or do something he answered in a very rude way “ No it’s the light “ like we don’t know it was a light ! I tried to stand up just for a little bit as I couldn’t see from the top and i got tired from leaning towards the next row so i can see but again he told me of ! Any way 3 of us were sitting in the row before us and us the rest on the top row , dancing queen started so I leaned towards the row in front of me ( lower than me ) cuddled my friend from her shoulders so we were just sitting down and swinging left and right but in unnoticeable way as i said nobody was behind us or next to me ! He stopped me straight a way again in a bad way . so now no singing no touching with friends no laughing no talking no swinging what does that mean ? Be like a statue and just watch without enjoying our time ? It was unprofessional disrespectful staff at all but other than that the show worth to be seen more than once
Written June 9, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
amelia b
34 contributions
Sep 2024 • Family
3rd time of seeing Mamma Mia, just a feel good show! The music, the costumes, the singing, the dancing....is always amazing! My only criticism this time is I felt the lead (Stevie Doc) who played Sophie didn't quite have the voice to hit the high notes in some the iconic songs, her voice was drowned out slightly whilst singing with others on stage, she was almost speaking some of the songs and maybe slightly flat in places?! During the interval I over heard a group of ladies at the bar also discussing this, mentioning that she sounded flat when singing? You could see that she was new to the musical theatre job as also she was rushing some of her parts to get to the next!
I would recommend to others and see again for the 4th time!
I would recommend to others and see again for the 4th time!
Written September 8, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Davies Fam
Port Talbot, UK97 contributions
Oct 2022 • Family
Took my teenage daughter to watch Mamma Mia and what a show!!
It was a smooth process in gaining entry despite a long queue when we arrived, very well organised with staff to hand helping to guide you and who were friendly and very helpful.
The merchandise shop was well run and fast service as was the bar at the interval. Small selection of drinks/ sweets available but something for everyone.
Show started promptly and our seats were great, we had dress circle K22 & K23 which had fab view.
We had a great evening and would definitely return, some reviews have complained about not being able to sing along but they perform a few songs at the end so you can stand dance and join in. When we visited the whole audience were on their feet having a wonderful time.
It was a smooth process in gaining entry despite a long queue when we arrived, very well organised with staff to hand helping to guide you and who were friendly and very helpful.
The merchandise shop was well run and fast service as was the bar at the interval. Small selection of drinks/ sweets available but something for everyone.
Show started promptly and our seats were great, we had dress circle K22 & K23 which had fab view.
We had a great evening and would definitely return, some reviews have complained about not being able to sing along but they perform a few songs at the end so you can stand dance and join in. When we visited the whole audience were on their feet having a wonderful time.
Written November 2, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Inspire53769803169
4 contributions
May 2023 • Couples
Saw the Mama Mia and it was the absolute best performance. The theatre is old and quite lovely. The ventilation was very good even in balcony seating. Bathrooms are tight but ok if you choose when to use them. They are really busy during intermission and there is a line even for the men's room. The energy in the theatre was amazing. Thankfully people did NOT stand up during the performance as this spoils the view for those sitting behind. I know, lots of people want to stand but I go to enjoy the performance, not to dance. At the very end during the final song, everyone did stand and this was great because it was more of a celebrations and affirmation of the performers. When folks were standing and jigging about to the music I did wonder if the old theatre balconies could stand the rhythmic movement of so many people. Although we could feel some movement I guess the building is made to hold up under those conditions. A few things about those attending. I saw vaping going on although it is not allowed. This was concerning to us as this is a very old building. It would be nearly impossible to vacate all people should a fire break out. About theatre etiquette, a couple people just seemed to want to sing along a bit but thankfully this was only momentary and just a couple times so not a big deal. Also sat beside some chatty folks but it was limited thankfully. Again, the show is absolutely amazing. Really talented cast. Yeah Donna!
Written May 27, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
T W
Essex, UK298 contributions
Mar 2022 • Family
This theatre is beautiful. Stunning inside.
We had end balcony seats and the view was a bit pants. Could only see maybe half the stage especially when someone sitting in front. Couldn’t lean forward as it would block peoples view behind us so that is a shame.
You can see my view from seat C1 and then when someone sat in the row in front.
The balcony is super high up, basically in the roof so if you don’t like heights, do not go for that area.
There’s 50 steps to get up there too.
I’d just had surgery on both legs and was kindly asked if I needed any help when we were in the queue outside. Which I took up and so glad I did.
Special thanks to staff members, James and Harmony for their amazing help and checking on us. Brilliant service and so friendly.
Show was great, just wish we could’ve seen it better.
Drinks…near on £20 for a small wine, vodka and lemonade and a small box of maltesers.
We had end balcony seats and the view was a bit pants. Could only see maybe half the stage especially when someone sitting in front. Couldn’t lean forward as it would block peoples view behind us so that is a shame.
You can see my view from seat C1 and then when someone sat in the row in front.
The balcony is super high up, basically in the roof so if you don’t like heights, do not go for that area.
There’s 50 steps to get up there too.
I’d just had surgery on both legs and was kindly asked if I needed any help when we were in the queue outside. Which I took up and so glad I did.
Special thanks to staff members, James and Harmony for their amazing help and checking on us. Brilliant service and so friendly.
Show was great, just wish we could’ve seen it better.
Drinks…near on £20 for a small wine, vodka and lemonade and a small box of maltesers.
Written March 30, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
chrissyd02
Telford, UK40 contributions
Sep 2024 • Friends
I can't say enough good things about this place, Theatre is a lovely small theatre, seats were roomy and view was great we were 4th row from the front stalls. Watched Mamma Mia and it was a fantastic show. I know some people are complaining about the lead Sophie but we thought she was brilliant, yes she's not a belter but her singing was fab , her acting was fab and she's very new to the theatre world so lets give her a break and show encouragement not negativity. I actually went because I wanted to see Stevie and Tobias who won the competition to play the lead roles, shame Tobias wasn't there but the whole cast are amazing so well done !!
Written October 3, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Best leg room seats for Mamma mia? I was debating booking a box but to be honest I can’t seem to find any tickets available !
Written September 18, 2023
Is row D to close to the front of the stage, will we spend our time looking up? Will it be better sitting further back in row M?
Written September 12, 2022
Row D is absolutely fine honestly. We were near the front and no issues at all hope this helps
Written September 13, 2022
I have seats in the balcony, my wife can access stairs but with some difficulty is there a lift to any of the floors, if so how many stairs/steps are there from the lift to balcony seats A10?
Written July 21, 2022
There are no lifts and quite a few stairs. There is a side entrance but still about three or four flights of stairs to get up.
Written July 24, 2022
I have booked tickets to see an afternoon show starting at 3-00, can you tell me the approx time it should finish so that I can book a meal in a local restaurant. Thank you
Written June 8, 2022
Hi there I would book a meal for about 3 hrs later and the show was absolutely fantastic have a great time
Written June 9, 2022
I've seen reviews on getting access to the balcony via a quieter steps route.
Do you have to ask in advance for this as 50 steps just after double leg surgery is worrying me.
thanks
Written March 21, 2022
Ring the theatre they I’m sure will be more than happy to help you
Written March 22, 2022
Hello
I am taking my 2 1 3year year olds to see mama Mia on their birthday which is Halloween
Can anyone recommend a nice family friendly restaurant nearby the theatre that I can book for a special birthday dinner at around 6pm after the show.
Ive never visited this area.we are from south Wales and after lots of googling there seems so much choice so I cant decide.
Want somewhere nice and relaxed and teenager friendly.
Thankyou
Written August 16, 2021
לראות מפה של האולם.. לדעת איזה מקומות ישיבה טובים ביחס לבמה
Written October 28, 2019
jdavies3006
Ellesmere Port, United Kingdom
Can I get in to watch mama Mia in shorts in this theatre
Written August 24, 2019
Honestly don't know. The general dress standard when I attended seemed to be smart.Honest answer is that I would check with the theatre unless another Trip Advisor reviewer is able to give a definitive answer.
Written August 24, 2019
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