GettyThis is going to go one of two ways – you’ll either be well up for it, running towards the restaurant while warming up your voice, or you’ll run straight home with your fingers in your ears.
I love a singalong, but I mostly do it in the car when I’m by myself and no one can judge me for sounding like a demonic sheep with a frog in its throat when I try to hit the high notes.
However, judging by the number of singalong events that happen very regularly these days, and the undeniable success of the Mamma Mia films, bursting out into song in public is becoming… well, not exactly normal, but rapidly rising in popularity.
Now, one restaurant is cashing in on that popularity by transforming itself into an ABBA haven and an ‘immersive theatrical dining experience’.
Björn Ulvaeus, as in co-songwriter and founding member of pop legends ABBA, is bringing his MAMMA MIA! The Party experience to London, the Mirror reports.
Those who want to be the first in line and take a chance on this unique experience will sit in a recreation of Nikos’ Taverna, from the island of Skopelos where most of the first movie was filmed. Authentic Greek food will be served while a live and immersive show plays out in front of them soundtracked by, of course, ABBA’s greatest hits.
The taverna can seat up to 500 guests, and will consist of a courtyard with long tables and features straight from the set, such as fountains, olive trees and bougainvillea.
But that’s not all, ABBA fans, as Nikos and his family will serenade you and play out their family story throughout the evening, as well as giving diners the opportunity to get involved in the song and dance.
The experience has already enjoyed three years of sold-out success in Stockholm, and is now coming to the O2’s specially converted restaurant in London next spring. Tickets, however, go on sale this autumn and can be found here.
Of the new London party, Björn said:
We have long admired The O2 and the huge entertainment success it has become under the ownership and management of AEG.
We believe bringing MAMMA MIA! THE PARTY to The O2 will add to this already vibrant cultural destination and provide the perfect location for our exciting new show.
John Langford, Vice President and General Manager of The O2, added:
To be hosting the MAMMA MIA! THE PARTY experience at The O2 is a real honour. It perfectly complements the outstanding live performances, events and the dynamic variety of entertainment all available under our world-famous roof.
So, time to be a super trouper, go to another town on another train, make yourself look as good as new and dance (while the music still goes on). It’s sure to be a dream world where you can be the dancing queen, you might fall head over heels for a fella called Fernando, or you might just be shouting gimme gimme gimme (a man after midnight).
Either way, get your money money money ready because, knowing me, knowing you, we’re going to be saying ‘thank you for the music’ after a night at Nikos’ Taverna.
Sos.
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Charlie Cocksedge is a journalist and sub-editor at UNILAD. He graduated from the University of Manchester with an MA in Creative Writing, where he learnt how to write in the third person, before getting his NCTJ. His work has also appeared in such places as The Guardian, PN Review and the bin.