Applications are now open for the inaugural Great British Theatres Awards, a new set of national awards recognising the vital role theatres play in the UK’s cultural life.
Launched to mark Theatres Trust’s 50th anniversary, the awards shine a spotlight on the buildings and spaces where performances are created and where communities gather and connect.
Submissions are now open via Theatres Trust’s website and will close on Thursday 11 June 2026 at 5pm.
The awards are open to public nominations as well as submissions from theatre owners and operators, local authorities, architects and theatre consultants.
Joshua McTaggart, CEO of Theatres Trust, said: “Since announcing the Great British Theatres Awards, one message has come through clearly: our theatre spaces and cultural places deserve this national recognition. With nominations now open, we encourage theatres across the country to step forward and showcase what makes them truly great. As Theatres Trust marks 50 years of championing the nation’s theatres, the Great British Theatres Awards will be a significant moment of shared celebration.”
The Great British Theatres Awards focus on the buildings themselves rather than performers, honouring spaces that enable creativity, inclusivity and community connection.
There are ten open award categories, including Great New Build, Great Renovation, Great Community Connection, Great Green Theatre and Great British Theatres Shining Star, alongside two special judging panel honours.
The shortlist of nominees will be announced in September, when tickets for the ceremony go on sale.
The inaugural Great British Theatres Awards will take place on Monday 2 November 2026 at Central Hall Westminster in London.
More information can be found here.
