The 25th Annual WhatsOnStage Awards illuminated London’s prestigious Palladium on February 9, 2025, marking a quarter-century of celebrating theatrical excellence. This year’s ceremony, hosted by the dynamic duo Gina and Mazz Murray, was a testament to the vibrancy and diversity of the UK’s theatre scene.

The evening commenced with a series of captivating performances that set the tone for the night. Audiences were treated to exclusive live numbers from acclaimed productions such as Mean Girls, The Artist, 42 Balloons, MJ the Musical, Becoming Nancy, and Shucked. Each act showcased the remarkable talent gracing West End stages, leaving attendees in awe of the creativity and passion driving contemporary theatre.

WhatsonStage Awards Winners 2025

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Starlight Express emerged as the evening’s standout, clinching seven awards out of its nine nominations. The production was honored with Best Musical Revival, and newcomer Jeevan Braich was celebrated for his outstanding debut. The show’s technical brilliance was also recognized, with accolades for Best Set Design (Tim Hatley), Best Lighting Design (Howard Hudson), Best Video Design (Andrzej Goulding), Best Costume Design (Gabriella Slade), and the newly introduced category of Best Wigs, Hair, and Make-Up Design (Jackie Saundercock and Campbell Young Associates).

In the realm of plays, the Donmar Warehouse’s production of Macbeth garnered significant acclaim. The production secured Best Play Revival and Best Sound Design (Gareth Fry). David Tennant’s portrayal of the titular character earned him the Best Performer in a Play award, marking his fifth WhatsOnStage Award and solidifying his place in the event’s history.

Imelda Staunton’s performance in Hello, Dolly! was met with resounding approval, earning her the Best Performer in a Musical award. This accolade adds to her previous wins for Sweeney Todd (2013) and Gypsy (2016), underscoring her enduring impact on the theatre community.

WhatsOnStage Awards Red Carpet

The red carpet was a spectacle of glamour and style, with numerous luminaries from the theatre world in attendance. Nominees and performers, including Cush Jumbo, Vanessa Williams, and Jeevan Braich, graced the event with their presence. Imelda Staunton and Layton Williams were also among the notable figures who added star power to the evening.

The other prominent personalites spotted at the red carpet were Luke Brady, Craig Ryder, Michael Jibson, Caroline Sheen, Nick Blood, Georgina Onuorah, Christopher Chung, Julie Hesmondhalgh, Kaine Ruddach, Erin Caldwell, Vasco Emauz, Zoe Birkett, Zizi Strallen, Zeze Mills, Val Garland, Dominic Skinner, Tamzin Outhwaite, Stevie Doc, Romola Garai, Mazz Murray, Gina Murray, Mia Kobayashi, Mark Bonnar, Leomie Anderson, Henrie Kwushue, Hannah Lowther, Georgina Castle, Dame Arlene Phillips, Amber Davies, Aimie Atkinson, Claire Sweeney, Dr Ranj Singh, James Colebrook, Kym Valentine and Paige Peddie, Tobias Turley, Emma Kingston, Alex Sawyer, Jamaal Fields Green, Evelyn Hoskins, Ricardo P Lloyd, Danny Beard, Miriam Buether, Adrian Hansel, Trevor Dion Jackson, Dujon Anderson, Marg Horwell, Cavan Clarke, Harry Blumenau, Sarah-Jane Price, Steven Sater, Jack Wolfe, Lucy May Barker, Aaron Sidwell, Melanie La Barrie, Ryan Kopel, Lauren Conroy, Michelle Forshaw, Leanna Jones and David Shields

The fashion choices of the attendees were a focal point of the evening. While specific outfit details were not extensively documented, the red carpet was adorned with a blend of classic elegance and contemporary flair, reflecting the dynamic spirit of the theatre community. Beyond the competitive categories, the ceremony took a moment to honor individuals who have made significant contributions to theatre. Lighting designer Paule Constable was bestowed with a special award for Services to UK Theatre, acknowledging her exceptional work and dedication to the craft.

Reflecting on 25 years of the WhatsOnStage Awards, the event’s organizers expressed gratitude to the theatre-going public for their unwavering support and enthusiasm. Darius Thompson and Alex Wood of WhatsOnStage remarked, “This list of winners, coming after a quarter of a century of public nominating, voting, and prize-giving, once more celebrates the sheer diversity and variety of theatre productions on our stages.”

The 25th Annual WhatsOnStage Awards not only celebrated the outstanding achievements of the past year but also highlighted the enduring passion and dedication of the theatre community. As the curtains closed on this milestone event, attendees and fans alike were reminded of the transformative power of live performance and the bright future that lies ahead for theatre in the UK.