Birmingham Rep, Royal & Derngate and Shakespeare North Playhouse have been named as finalists for the 2025 UK’s Most Welcoming Theatre Award. The winner will be revealed at this year’s UK Theatre Awards, which return to 8 Northumberland Avenue on Sunday 12 October, supported by headline sponsor Encore. For over 30 years, this annual event has celebrated the creative excellence and outstanding achievements seen on and off stage throughout England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
UK Theatre member venues were invited to apply for the coveted 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 onsite café or restaurant.
“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.”
Claire Walker, Co-CEO of Society of London Theatre & UK Theatre
“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.”
Birmingham Rep’s Chief Executive and Artistic Director, Rachael Thomas and Joe Murphy, in a joint statement
“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.”
Jo Gordon, Chief Executive of Royal & Derngate
“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.”
Lisa Allen, CEO and Creative Director at Shakespeare North Playhouse
About the UK’s Most Welcoming Theatre Award finalists:
Birmingham Rep: Birmingham Rep has been at the forefront of theatre in the UK for over 100 years. The Rep has an unparalleled pioneering history and is the only producing theatre in the UK’s Second City. It is the oldest building-based theatre company in the UK, and the forerunner of both the RSC and the National Theatre. The Rep’s mission is to create artistically ambitious, world-class theatre for everyone. The commissioning and production of new work lies at the core of The Rep’s programme, and over the last 15 years the company has produced more than 130 new plays. The Rep’s acclaimed learning and outreach programme is one of the largest and most diverse of any arts organisation in the country. The Rep has nurtured new talent throughout its history – from Laurence Olivier and Peter Brook to its modern-day youth theatre, and the ground-breaking Rep Foundry theatre-makers programme, it has offered opportunity and training for thousands of early career writers, directors and artists.
Royal & Derngate: Royal & Derngate is proud of its reputation as a thriving regional theatre. An important entertainment hub for all communities across Northamptonshire and beyond, the three-stage and cinema complex is home to an acclaimed Made In Northampton self-produced programme as well as welcoming some of the most well-known acts and shows touring the UK. In recent years the venue has celebrated Stage, Olivier and Academy Awards nominations, notably including a prestigious win for Best Family Show at the 2020 Olivier Awards. As important as the work on its stages, its nationally recognised Creative Engagement programme works with schools, families and communities, and the Generate development programme supports hundreds of regional artists each year, at all stages of their careers.
Shakespeare North Playhouse: Since opening in July 2022, Shakespeare North Playhouse has swiftly established itself as a vibrant cultural force, both within its local community and on the national stage. Celebrated for its bold productions and meaningful engagement work, the venue has earned over 30 awards and nominations, including Theatre Building of the Year 2023 at The Stage Awards. At its heart is the timber-built Cockpit theatre (the only one of its kind outside London). Shakespeare North continues to champion innovation, inclusivity and cultural regeneration through its work which includes acclaimed co-productions with companies such as English Touring Theatre, Graeae, Stephen Joseph Theatre and Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds, alongside collaborations with leading writers including Philippa Gregory.
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