It was built in 1884 by C.J. Phipps and was originally called the Prince Theatre. It was renamed the Prince of Wales Theatre in honour of the future Edward VII.

The first very successful production at the theatre was the operatic comedy "Dorothy" starring Marie Tempest. This smash hit was so enormously profitable that the authors went on to build the Lyric Theatre with their proceeds.

In 1892 the Prince of Wales Theatre put on George Edwardes' "In Town", which is now considered to be the first English musical comedy production.

Performers from Lily Langtry to Charles Laughton could be seen at the theatre during its very successful heyday.

After 50 years the theatre needed too many upgrades, so it was demolished and rebuilt.

In 1937 Gracie Fields sang as she laid the foundation stone for the new structure, and the Prince of Wales Theatre reopened later in that year. The new Art Deco design had additional seating, improved facilities for actors and visitors, and an impressive new bar with a dance floor.

The theatre remained a very popular venue, hosting an impressive line up of variety revues, Broadway shows, and special events over the years.

In 2004, the theatre got an extensive renovation under the direction of its current owner, Sir Cameron Mackintosh. Much of the theatre was made larger and more modern, including the addition of LED lighting.

The Prince of Wales Theatre reopened with the production of "Mamma Mia!", the ABBA musical. This musical is still playing at the theatre and now holds the record as its longest running production.

"Mamma Mia!" tells the story of a girl about to be married who is searching for the identity of her father. The songs of ABBA are woven throughout this lively and entertaining story that is family friendly and fun for all ages.

The Prince of Wales Theatre in London is a great place to immerse yourself in the city theatre scene.

Visiting Prince of Wales Theatre

Prince of Wales Theatre, Coventry Street, Soho, W1D 6AS

Photo courtesy: Ewan-M

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