Complete List Of Nominations For The 2025 Olivier Awards Revealed

Table of Contents

Recognizing the Best in Theatre and Musical Arts

Introduction to Theatre Awards

Theatre awards celebrate remarkable works in plays and musicals, highlighting talent in various categories. Both new productions and revivals showcase creativity and skill in acting, writing, and design. This article discusses some of the standout nominations for the best shows, opera, dance, and technical contributions in the theatre world.

Best New Musical Productions

Some notable new musicals are reshaping the theatre scene. Key nominees include:

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button: Featuring music and lyrics by Darren Clark, alongside a book by Jethro Compton, this production is running at the Ambassadors Theatre.
MJ the Musical: Authored by Lynn Nottage, this popular show can be seen at Prince Edward Theatre.
Natasha, Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812: With music and lyrics by Dave Malloy, this unique production is hosted at Donmar Warehouse.
Why Am I So Single?: A fresh take on modern relationships, this show, featuring music by Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss, is available at Garrick Theatre.

Set and Production Design: A Vital Role

Visual storytelling is crucial in theatre. The best set designs enhance the narrative and engage audiences. Below are top contenders for set design:

Spirited Away: Designed by Jon Bausor, with puppetry by Toby Olié and Daisy Beattie, and projections by Satoshi Kuriyama, this enchanting production is at the London Coliseum.
Ballet Shoes: Created by Frankie Bradshaw at the National Theatre – Olivier.
Coriolanus: With an innovative design by Es Devlin, also at the National Theatre.
Fiddler on the Roof: Set design by Tom Scutt has been featured at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre.

Lighting Designs that Captivate

Lighting plays a significant role in establishing mood and atmosphere. Some of the best lighting designs recognized this year include:

Oliver!: Designed by Paule Constable and Ben Jacobs at the Gielgud Theatre.
Natasha, Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812: Lighted by Howard Hudson at the Donmar Warehouse.
Starlight Express: Also lit by Howard Hudson, showcasing creativity at Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre.
Fiddler on the Roof: Aideen Malone’s lighting design enhances the experience at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre.

Opera at Its Best

Opera productions are also recognized for their excellence. The nominees for the best new opera production include:

Duke Bluebeard’s Castle: Presented by the English National Opera at the London Coliseum.
Festen: Performed by the Royal Opera House.
L’Olimpiade: A collaboration between the Irish National Opera and the Royal Opera at the Royal Opera House.
The Tales of Hoffmann: Another exciting production from the Royal Opera House.

Achievements in Dance

The world of dance is vibrant and full of innovation. The best new dance production nominees include:

Assembly Hall: A collaboration by Kidd Pivot, Crystal Pite, and Jonathon Young at Sadler’s Wells.
Frontiers: Choreographers of Canada: Featuring works by renowned choreographers at Sadler’s Wells.
Theatre of Dreams: Created by Hofesh Shechter Company at Sadler’s Wells.
An Untitled Love: From A.I.M. by Kyle Abraham, this performance also takes place at Sadler’s Wells.

Outstanding achievements in dance have been recognized as well. Here are some notable mentions:

Sarah Chun for her performance in Three Short Ballets at Royal Opera House.
Tom Visser for lighting design in Angels’ Atlas at Sadler’s Wells.
Eva Yerbabuena for her stunning performance in Yerbagüena at Sadler’s Wells.

Notable Acting Talents

The awards also emphasize extraordinary performances in supporting roles. Here are some nominees:

Best Actor in a Supporting Role:
- Jorge Bosch for Kyoto at @sohoplace.
- Tom Edden in Waiting for Godot at Theatre Royal Haymarket.
Best Actress in a Supporting Role:
- Sharon D Clarke for The Importance of Being Earnest at the National Theatre.
- Romola Garai for Giant at Jerwood Theatre Downstairs.

Creative Works and Directorship

The best productions require strong writing and directorship skills. Recognized works include:

Best New Play nominees like The Fear of 13 at Donmar Warehouse and Giant at Royal Court Theatre encourage discussion and reflection.
Best Director nominations include Eline Arbo for directing The Years at Almeida Theatre, and Nicholas Hytner for his work in Giant at the Jerwood Theatre.

Celebrating Musical Talent

Outstanding contributions to the musical landscape showcase mastery in various categories:

Best Actress in a Musical with nominees like Chumisa Dornford-May for Natasha, Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812 and Imelda Staunton for her role in Hello, Dolly!.
Best Actor in a Musical recognizes talent such as John Dagleish in The Curious Case of Benjamin Button.

Conclusion-Free Insights

This overview highlights a vibrant tapestry of theatre and musical art, showcasing the best of creativity and talent in the industry. Each category uncovers unique contributions that make the arts an irreplaceable part of our cultural landscape. From innovative set designs to outstanding performances, the world of theatre continues to inspire and entertain audiences everywhere.