Olivier Awards 2025: A Night of Triumphs at the Royal Albert Hall
The 2025 Olivier Awards, held at London's Royal Albert Hall, delivered a dazzling celebration of British theatre. Hosted by the dynamic duo Beverley Knight and Billy Porter, the evening saw a diverse range of productions claim victory, showcasing the vibrancy and talent within London's West End.
Star-Studded Wins and Record-Breaking Nights
John Lithgow and Lesley Manville took home the coveted Best Actor and Best Actress awards, respectively. Lithgow, receiving his first-ever Olivier, triumphed for his portrayal of Roald Dahl in the critically acclaimed "Giant," a production which also won Best New Play and Best Supporting Actor (Elliot Levey). Manville secured her second Olivier for her performance in "Oedipus," a production which also won Best Revival. The night saw multiple productions sharing the spotlight; "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button," "Fiddler on the Roof," and "Giant" each secured three awards.
Musical Masterpieces and Theatrical Triumphs
"The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" charmed its way to Best New Musical, with John Dagleish winning Best Actor in a Musical. "Fiddler on the Roof," a record-breaking nominee with 13 nods, claimed Best Musical Revival, alongside awards for Best Set and Sound Design. Meanwhile, Imelda Staunton added another Olivier to her impressive collection, winning Best Actress in a Musical for "Hello, Dolly!". Other notable wins included Layton Williams (Best Supporting Actor in a Musical for "Titanique") and Romola Garai (Best Supporting Actress for "The Years").
Beyond the Main Awards
The ceremony also celebrated industry stalwarts, with Rufus Norris receiving a special award for his contributions to the National Theatre. The In Memoriam segment paid a heartfelt tribute to the late Joan Plowright and other cherished figures from the theatre world. Kash Bennett, president of the Society of London Theatre, lauded the winners as embodying "the creativity, passion, and magic that make our industry so extraordinary."
A Night to Remember
The 2025 Olivier Awards showcased the best of British and international theatre talent, offering a compelling mix of established stars and rising talents. From the iconic performances to the stunning set designs, the evening reaffirmed the enduring power and artistry of live theatre. Were you there? What was your highlight of the night?