ABBA tribute acts in the UK: the complete guide

ABBA tributes are one of the busiest corners of the UK tribute scene. Tribify currently lists 12 ABBA acts, from big theatre productions to bands that play hotels, holiday parks and parties. Here's where to start.

The one that started it: Björn Again

Björn Again were formed in Melbourne in 1988 by Rod Stephen and John Tyrrell, and are widely credited as the act that turned ABBA tributes into a touring business. They have opened the Pyramid Stage at Glastonbury three times (1999, 2009 and 2019) and played the Buckingham Palace Christmas party in 2012.

The endorsement everyone quotes comes from ABBA's Benny Andersson, who said in 1999 that Björn Again "are the closest you can get to seeing ABBA". The show plays the hits straight, with a knowing wink in the between-song banter.

Theatre shows or party nights?

ABBA tributes come in two broad kinds. Touring theatre productions such as Thank ABBA For The Music and MANIA – The ABBA Tribute play the large regional theatres, with lighting, costume changes and seated audiences who end up on their feet anyway. Smaller acts work clubs, holiday parks and private parties, where the night is looser and closer to a disco.

Neither is better. Decide which night you want, then check the act's page for the kind of venues they play.

Why tributes still sell after ABBA Voyage

Since May 2022, ABBA themselves have been performing in London as digital avatars at ABBA Voyage, in a purpose-built arena in east London. The two are very different nights out. A tribute offers something Voyage can't: live singers, a band in the room, and a show at your local theatre on a Friday night.

What to look for

• The harmonies. ABBA's sound rests on the two lead voices blending. If the Agnetha and Frida parts are strong, the rest follows.
• A live band. Ask, or check the act's videos: some acts use backing tracks, which can be fine at a party but feels thin in a theatre.
• The setlist. The greatest hits are a given. Deep cuts like "The Day Before You Came" or "Eagle" are a sign of real fans on stage.
• Costumes. Glitter and flares are half the fun, for the band and the audience.

Been to one? Rate it

Our tribute scorecard is built from fans' ratings only. If you've seen any of these acts, rate the show: it takes 30 seconds and helps the next person choose.