The highly anticipated Stage Debut Awards, an annual event that shines a spotlight on emerging talent in the theatre world, will make its return in 2025. This year, Netflix has signed on as the headline sponsor, further boosting the awards’ mission to celebrate new theatrical artists across the UK.
Scheduled for Sunday, September 28th, 2025, the live ceremony promises a memorable evening honoring the outstanding contributions of performers and creatives who have made their stage debuts in the UK over the past year.
As it enters its ninth year, The Stage Debut Awards has solidified its place in the theatre awards landscape. The celebration will take place at the elegant 8 Northumberland Avenue in London, bringing together fresh faces and seasoned professionals for an evening filled with exciting performances from the heart of Theatreland.
This year marks a significant partnership, with Netflix stepping in as the lead sponsor. Anne Mensah, Vice President of Content at Netflix UK, shared her excitement: “We are thrilled to support this year’s Stage Debut Awards, the only awards in the UK focused on recognizing breakthrough theatre talent from diverse backgrounds. We hope this partnership will enhance our ongoing efforts with BAFTA Breakthrough, the National Youth Theatre, and others, all of whom are dedicated to nurturing the next generation of British creative talent.”
Alistair Smith, the editor of The Stage, also expressed his enthusiasm: “We are delighted to welcome Netflix as the headline sponsor of The Stage Debut Awards. These awards celebrate the remarkable new talent entering the theatre scene, and having the support of a global entertainment leader allows us to promote these emerging artists with even greater impact. Netflix’s backing signifies a strong commitment to the future of British theatre and the exciting individuals shaping its next chapter.”
Since its launch in 2017, The Stage Debut Awards has proven to be an important springboard for many careers. Past winners include creators of the Olivier Award-winning and Tony-nominated Operation Mincemeat, as well as Rob Madge (My Son’s a Queer, But What Can You Do?), Jodie Comer (Prima Facie), and Sam Grabiner, who recently joined the ranks of Olivier Award winners.
The 2025 awards will feature eight categories recognizing excellence in performance, directing, design, writing, and composition. Categories include Best Performer in a Play, Best Performer in a Musical, Best Director, Best Writer, Best Designer, Best Composer/Lyricist/Book Writer, and Best West End Creative Debut. Notably, the Best West End Debut Performer award will be determined by a public vote.
Nominations for the 2025 awards will open on May 29th, inviting both industry professionals and theatre enthusiasts to submit names of eligible performers and creatives who made their professional debuts between July 18th, 2024, and July 17th, 2025. The shortlist of nominees will be announced in August, with more details about the ceremony to follow. For complete information on eligibility and the judging process, visit www.thestage.co.uk/awards/the-stage-debut-awards.
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