Introduction
Title: “A Night to Remember: ABBA Voyage Opening Shines Bright in London, Reuniting Fans and Legends in a Dazzling Celebration of Music and Memory”
On the evening of Sunday, May 27, 2022, London was alive with excitement, nostalgia, and a touch of magic that only ABBA could inspire. The city’s newest musical landmark, the purpose-built ABBA Arena, welcomed fans from across the globe for the long-awaited premiere of ABBA Voyage — a groundbreaking concert experience that redefined what it means to see a band perform live. As the lights dimmed and the familiar notes of “The Visitors” began to echo through the arena, the audience knew they were about to witness history in the making.
The ABBA Voyage Opening Night at the ABBA Arena, London, UK wasn’t just a concert — it was a moment of reunion, innovation, and celebration. Nearly four decades after their last live performance together, Agnetha Fältskog, Anni-Frid Lyngstad, Benny Andersson, and Björn Ulvaeus came together once more to unveil a spectacular show that combined heart, artistry, and cutting-edge technology. Using revolutionary digital avatar technology, or “ABBAtars,” the production recreated ABBA’s 1979 selves with breathtaking realism — performing alongside a live 10-piece band in front of a spellbound audience.
The crowd’s reaction was nothing short of electric. As the virtual versions of ABBA appeared on stage, shimmering in their iconic costumes, the audience erupted in cheers, some overcome with emotion at seeing the group “perform” again after so many years. From the very first number, it was clear that ABBA Voyage was not simply about looking back — it was about celebrating timeless music through the lens of modern creativity.
The evening’s setlist was a carefully curated journey through ABBA’s illustrious career, blending beloved classics with newer songs from their 2021 album Voyage. Hits like “Mamma Mia,” “SOS,” and “Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!” had the audience dancing in their seats, while heartfelt moments like “The Winner Takes It All” and “I Still Have Faith in You” brought tears to many eyes. Each performance was brought to life by meticulous choreography, dazzling lights, and immersive visuals that transported everyone into ABBA’s vibrant world of melody and emotion.
What truly set ABBA Voyage apart was the intimacy it created between audience and artist. Even though the ABBA members themselves weren’t physically performing, their presence was felt in every note, every gesture, every detail of the show. Behind the digital avatars were thousands of hours of motion capture, recording sessions, and creative collaboration — all overseen by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, who ensured that the essence of ABBA’s charm and authenticity remained untouched.
The opening night drew a glittering crowd, including celebrities, musicians, and lifelong fans who had traveled from as far as Japan, Australia, and the United States. Among them were emotional fans who had followed ABBA since the 1970s, many holding signs and wearing vintage outfits in tribute to their idols. As the final notes of “Dancing Queen” filled the air, the entire arena rose to their feet — singing, clapping, and reliving the spirit of a musical era that never truly ended.
For ABBA, Voyage was more than a comeback — it was a thank-you to the fans who never stopped believing. As Benny Andersson once said, “We don’t need to prove anything — we just wanted to do this, together, one more time.” And on that May night in London, that sentiment resonated deeply. The ABBA Voyage Opening Night at the ABBA Arena wasn’t merely an event; it was a testament to the power of music to transcend generations, to bridge the past and the present, and to remind us all of the joy that only ABBA can bring.
As the audience poured out into the cool London evening, one feeling lingered in the air — the unmistakable magic of ABBA, reborn for a new century. With ABBA Voyage, the group proved that while time may pass, true artistry never fades — it simply finds new ways to shine.