Birmingham Rep, Royal & Derngate & Shakespeare North Playhouse nominated for national award

The finalists have been announced for the UK’s Most Welcoming Theatre Award as part of this year’s UK Theatre Awards 2025.

The three venues vying for this year’s trophy are Birmingham Rep, Royal & Derngate in Northampton, and Shakespeare North Playhouse in Prescot.

UK Theatre member venues were invited to apply for the award, and the three finalists were selected based on how welcoming the venues are across multiple factors, from accessibility and inclusion practices, to programming, outreach, workforce and audience development.

The judging panel will now visit the venues in person to determine the overall winner. Visits often involve meeting staff, having a tour of the building, taking part in a scheduled activity, speaking to audience members or visiting the on-site café or restaurant.

The winner will be announced at this year’s UK Theatre Awards, which return to 8 Northumberland Avenue in London on Sunday 12 October 2025.

The UK Theatre Awards is an annual event that celebrates the creative excellence and outstanding achievements seen on and off stage in theatres throughout England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Last year’s winner of the UK’s Most Welcoming Theatre went to London’s Polka Theatre. Read about all of last year’s UK Theatre Awards winners.

What They Said

Claire Walker, Co-CEO of Society of London Theatre & UK Theatre, who organise the awards, said in a statement: “Local theatres are the beating heart of communities across the UK – inspiring creativity, fostering connection, and driving both cultural and economic impact. This year’s finalists have shown exceptional commitment to creating inclusive, welcoming spaces for audiences, artists and staff alike. We’re thrilled to shine a spotlight on their outstanding work and the vital role they play in their local communities. Congratulations to all the finalists on this well-deserved recognition – and thank you to our judging panel, who now face the difficult task of selecting a winner ahead of the UK Theatre Awards this October.”

Birmingham Rep’s Chief Executive and Artistic Director, Rachael Thomas and Joe Murphy, also said in a joint statement: “We are committed to making our venue open to all and a place where everyone feels welcome. This nomination reflects a whole Team Rep effort, everyone here truly cares about guaranteeing we provide our visitors, audiences and participants unforgettable experiences and ensure creative opportunities are available to as many people as possible across our diverse communities. We are thrilled to be shortlisted for the UK’s Most Welcoming Theatre Award and want to thank our audiences, supporters and incredible team who make The Rep such a welcoming theatre for everyone.”

Jo Gordon, Chief Executive of Royal & Derngate, said: “Here at Royal & Derngate, we love nothing more than welcoming people into our spaces – whether for a performance, a rehearsal, a workshop or a video gaming event or vintage clothing sale! We’re at the heart of the local community and it’s important that we are here for everyone – making our spaces as accessible and welcoming as possible whatever your needs or interests.”

Lisa Allen, CEO and Creative Director at Shakespeare North Playhouse, said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to be shortlisted for the UK’s Most Welcoming Theatre Award. It is such a special moment as it really recognises the people – our brilliant team, volunteers, artists and audiences – who make this place special. Shakespeare North is all about community, connection and creativity, and we’re so proud to see that recognised.”

Sign-up for news and booking alerts about these shows and more:
Main photo: UK Theatre Awards 2025 - Birmingham Rep (Photo Kris Askey), Royal & Derngate entrance (Photo via PR), Shakespeare North Playhouse (Photo Meg Terzza)

Related News

See all

Latest News

See all