Peter Andre and Sam Bailey Join MAMMA MIA! THE PARTY

The immersive theatre experience MAMMA MIA! THE PARTY in London has announced two new high-profile cast additions, with singer and television personality Peter Andre and X Factor winner Sam Bailey set to join the production later this year. The pair will take on key roles in the long-running entertainment experience at The O2, which combines a theatrical performance with dining and live music inspired by the iconic songs of ABBA. Their arrival marks the latest casting update for the show, which has become a major fixture of London’s immersive theatre scene since opening in 2019.

Peter Andre will join the cast in the role of Nikos for a limited engagement from 14 May to 23 July 2026. Sam Bailey will appear as Debbie from 14 May 2026, remaining with the production through to 4 April 2027, the current end of the booking period. Andre, who rose to international fame with hits such as Mysterious Girl, said he was thrilled to be stepping into the lively world of the Greek taverna that forms the setting of the show. The performer has previously appeared in several stage productions, including tours of GREASE, THRILLER LIVE and THE BEST FRANKIE VALLIE AND THE FOUR SEASONS. Reflecting on his involvement in the immersive production, Andre said he had been “absolutely blown away” when he first experienced the show as an audience member. Now joining the cast himself, he said he felt a strong connection to the character of Nikos, particularly given his own Greek heritage. He also highlighted the unique nature of the production, which blends live music, storytelling and a full dining experience for audiences.

Sam Bailey will join the company in the role of Debbie. Bailey became widely known after winning the tenth series of The X Factor in 2013, where her powerful vocal performances quickly made her a fan favourite. Her debut single, a cover of “Skyscraper”, reached the coveted UK Christmas number one spot. Since then, Bailey has developed a successful career in musical theatre, appearing in productions such as CHICAGO, FAT FRIENDS THE MUSICAL, BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, EVERYBODY’S TALKING ABOUT JAMIE, and NOW… THAT’S WHAT I CALL A MUSICAL. Speaking about her upcoming role, Bailey said she had seen first-hand the joy the production brings to audiences and was excited to become part of it. She described the experience as something that never feels the same twice, with each evening offering a different atmosphere as audiences participate in the celebration of ABBA’s music.

The casting announcement was also welcomed by Sophie Arendt, managing director of MAMMA MIA! THE PARTY for Pophouse Entertainment. She praised both performers for what they would bring to the production, highlighting Andre’s stage charisma and long career in entertainment, alongside Bailey’s powerful vocals and ability to connect emotionally with audiences.

MAMMA MIA! THE PARTY differs from the traditional stage musical Mamma Mia! in its format. Rather than presenting the familiar story of Donna, Sophie and their Greek island adventure, the immersive production places audiences directly inside a fictional taverna where a new narrative unfolds around them. Guests are seated as diners in Nikos’ Taverna, where they are served a Mediterranean meal while actors perform around them, gradually revealing a story about family, romance and community. The experience culminates in a party featuring many of ABBA’s most beloved songs, transforming the venue into a vibrant dance floor. The concept was created by ABBA songwriter Björn Ulvaeus and first premiered in Stockholm before opening in London. The London production launched in August 2019 and has since welcomed more than 700,000 guests across more than 1,500 performances, attracting visitors from over 110 countries.

The show features music and lyrics by ABBA’s Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, with some songs also written with Stig Anderson. The story is by Calle Norlén, Roine Söderlundh and Ulvaeus, with an English book by broadcaster and writer Sandi Toksvig. The London production is co-directed and choreographed by Stacey Haynes and Roine Söderlundh. Alongside the newly announced cast members, the company includes a range of performers who portray the colourful residents and staff of the taverna.

Among the existing cast members are Marianne Benedict and Kimberly Powell sharing the role of Kate at certain performances, Oscar Balmaseda as Host and Fernando, Jon Osbaldeston as Nikos, Paola Fareri as Konstantina, Natalie Winsor as Debbie, AJ Bentley as Adam, Dawn Spence as Grandma, and Rebecca Stenhouse as Nina.

The show is accompanied by a live band, adding to the sense of an authentic Mediterranean celebration as the story unfolds. Musicians currently involved in the production include John Donovan, Flo Blue, Luke Higgins, Luke Roberts and Steve Rushton. According to producers, the London and Stockholm productions continue to grow in popularity, with plans for further international expansion already under discussion. Arendt hinted that the announcement of Andre and Bailey joining the company may be the first of several updates about the future of the immersive experience.

With its combination of theatrical storytelling, live music and a communal dining atmosphere, MAMMA MIA! THE PARTY has carved out a distinctive place within London’s entertainment landscape. The addition of two well-known performers is expected to bring fresh energy to the production as it continues its run through 2027.

For audiences, the show offers something more than a typical night at the theatre. It is part musical, part celebration and part immersive event, inviting guests to step inside the lively world of a Greek taverna and join the party themselves.