Theatre News

Simon Callow wins Outstanding Contribution award at 2013 UK Theatre Awards

The veteran actor, director and playwright will be presented with the award later this month

Simon Callow
Simon Callow
© Kevin Davis
Simon Callow has today been announced as the recipient of the Stage Award for Outstanding Contribution to British Theatre at the 2013 UK Theatre Awards.

The veteran actor and playwright will be presented with the award at a ceremony compered by Michael Xavier at London’s Guildhall on 20 October.

Simon Callow made his professional stage debut in 1973 at the Edinburgh Festival, and has worked extensively with the RSC, the National Theatre, in the West End, and throughout the UK.

He has performed in a number of one-man plays including The Importance of Being Oscar, The Mystery of Charles Dickens, Being Shakespeare, and most recently Inside Wagner’s Head.

He has also directed over thirty productions, including Carmen Jones, the West End and Broadway productions of Shirley Valentine and Single Spies at the National Theatre.

He is about to embark on a nationwide tour of Chin-Chin with Felicity Kendal.

Rachel Tackley, President of the Theatrical Management Association (TMA), said: “I am delighted that the TMA has recognised the prolific work of Simon, who has had a vital and lasting influence on theatre stages all over the country and been a great ambassador for British Theatre during a long and illustrious career”.

The UK Theatre Awards are only awards which specifically address theatre throughout England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, as opposed to focusing on London and the West End.

The ceremony will include performances from Janie Dee and Frances Ruffelle and feature guest presenters including Louise Dearman, Maureen Lipman and Hattie Morahan.

To see a full list of nominations, click here

Read Simon Callow’s extract from Nick Hern Books’ My First Play here