Jenni Murray returns to host 2nd Annual Tonic Awards

Tonic Theatre has announced that the 2nd annual Tonic Awards will occur on 19 March.

The awards evening, which celebrates game-changing women in theatre and performing arts, will take place at the May Fair Hotel, and be hosted by Jenni Murray.

Murray said: "I’m delighted to be asked to present the Tonic Awards for the second time. It’s wonderful to see the important contribution women make to British theatre celebrated in this way."

Last year's inaugural awards saw Rosemary Squire, Phyllida Lloyd, Indhu Rubasingham and Emma Rice among the winners, with particular praise going to those seeking to redefine the role of women in the performing arts, both on and offstage.

Lucy Kerbel, director of Tonic, said: "I’m thrilled that the Tonic Awards are returning in 2018, to celebrate the achievements of another cohort of women whose work redefines the role of women in the performing arts, and changes the stories we see on stage. As well as pushing for further change, we need to recognise those at the top of their game, in particular, so young women have role models to aspire to."

Besides the Tonic Awards, Tonic Theatre recently announced the lineup for its next Tonic Celebrates evening, which will take place at Hoxton Hall this month.

Sita McIntosh, chair of Tonic’s board of trustees, said: "Tonic’s work has always been about shining a light on the success stories, as well as driving for greater representation of women at senior levels in the industry. Last year’s Awards were so inspiring, and I look forward to celebrating another extraordinary group of women at the forefront of our industry."