The UK’s only awards dedicated to breakthrough theatre talent, The Stage Debut Awards, will return in 2025 with global entertainment powerhouse Netflix joining as headline sponsor.
The live ceremony will take place on Sunday, September 28, 2025, at 8 Northumberland Avenue in London. The event promises to be a dazzling celebration of the most exciting new performers and creatives to debut on UK stages over the past year.
Now in its ninth year, The Stage Debut Awards has become a key fixture in the theatre calendar, spotlighting emerging talent across the industry.
For the first time, Netflix will headline sponsor the event, marking a significant partnership between the streaming giant and the UK theatre scene.
Anne Mensah, VP Content, Netflix UK, said:
“We are really excited to be supporting this year’s Stage Debut Awards, the only UK awards dedicated to recognising breakthrough theatre talent from all backgrounds right across the UK. It’s a partnership that we hope will build on our longstanding relationships with BAFTA Breakthrough, the National Youth Theatre and many others – all of whom, like us, are committed to discovering and championing the next generation of British creative talent.”
Alistair Smith, editor of The Stage, added:
“We’re absolutely delighted to welcome Netflix as the headline sponsor of The Stage Debut Awards. These awards are a celebration of the extraordinary new talent entering the theatre industry, and having the backing of a global leader in entertainment allows us to champion emerging artists with even greater impact. Netflix’s support is a powerful vote of confidence in the future of British theatre and the exciting individuals shaping its next chapter.”
Since launching in 2017, The Stage Debut Awards has helped launch the careers of many now-prominent theatre artists. Past winners include Jodie Comer, Rob Madge, Sam Tutty, and Miriam-Teak Lee.
The 2025 awards will feature eight categories, including Best Performer in a Play, Best Director, and Best Writer. The Best West End Debut Performer category will once again be decided by public vote.
Last year’s winners included Jack Wolfe for Next to Normal, Grace Hodgett Young for Sunset Boulevard, and Sam Grabiner for Boys on the Verge of Tears.
Submissions for the 2025 awards open on May 29 and are open to anyone who made their professional debut between July 18, 2024, and July 17, 2025. The shortlist will be announced in August.
More information can be found here.
