1999 in British Music - Musical Theatre and Songwriting

Musical Theatre and Songwriting

The death of Lionel Bart, best known for Oliver!, was widely mourned. The major new production in London's West End this year was Mamma Mia!, with book by Catherine Johnson and songs by Björn Ulvaeus and Benny Andersson; the musical went on to be a major stage hit worldwide and eventually a film. The British Academy of Songwriters, Composers and Authors established its new fellowship, the first recipient being Martin Gore.