By Alex Kingston · Thursday 2nd May 2024
April marked the Olivier Awards, celebrating the very best of London theatre! It was a remarkable ceremony featuring the most talented actors, directors, and playwrights of the West End. Guided by charming host Hannah Waddingham, the star-studded night was filled with a plethora of unforgettable moments.
The night’s ceremony was dominated by the recent revival of Sunset Boulevard, which earned an impressive seven awards. This tied the record for the most awards ever received by a musical, joining the likes of Cabaret and Hamilton. The production won the coveted prize of Best Musical Revival and numerous creative awards. It also received Best Actor and Best Actress, with Nicole Scherzinger rewarded for a spectacular turn as silent film actress Norma Desmond.
Dear England, James Graham’s striking drama about England football manager Gareth Southgate earned the prize for Best New Play. This production was widely acclaimed, earning praise for its ability to captivate audiences who are not usually drawn to theatre. As for Best New Musical, this honour was given to the hit show Operation Mincemeat. This side-splitting musical took London by storm when it first opened in 2023 and continues to play to sold-out audiences.
Many of these award-winning productions continue to delight audiences - grab your tickets below to experience the magic first-hand!
Stranger Things: The First Shadow
Stranger Things: The First Shadow won Best Entertainment or Comedy Play, among the most prestigious awards. The production also won Best Set Design in recognition of the stunning work curated by 59 Productions and Miriam Buether.
Set twenty-four years before the start of the hit television series, The First Shadow takes us right to the beginning of the Stranger Things story. When new student Henry Creel arrives in the quaint town of Hawkins, little does he know that his presence will unravel a series of mysterious events that will change the town forever.
This awe-inspiring production is a true spectacle. Featuring breathtaking special effects and astonishing illusions, this play pushes the boundaries of theatrical innovation. Immersing its audience in the world of the Upside Down, The First Shadow provides an experience like no other.
Book Stranger Things: The First Shadow tickets
Guys & Dolls
Guys and Dolls walked away with the award for Best Choreography, acknowledging the stellar work by James Cousins and Arlene Phillips. Phillips has worked in the industry since 1976, and yet this is her first Olivier Award; a well-deserved accolade that was long overdue!
This beloved classic weaves together two captivating love stories. One unfolds as the high-rolling gambler Sky Masterson embarks on an unexpected romance with missionary Sister Sarah Brown. Meanwhile, the other storyline follows the lovable rogue Nathan Detroit and his fourteen-year engagement to the charming Miss Adelaide. Exploring themes of love and loyalty, Guys and Dolls is as timeless as ever.
This production is Guys and Dolls as you have never seen it before. The Bridge Theatre has been transformed into the bustling streets of Manhattan, with the set design extending throughout the entire theatre. This immersive approach puts theatregoers right into the midst of the action, creating a wholly unforgettable experience.
