Kevin Spacey to receive special Olivier Award

Outgoing Old Vic artistic director Kevin Spacey is to be honoured with a special award at the Oliviers in April.

Spacey will be recognised for his "extraordinary contribution to The Old Vic and to British theatre" over his 11-year tenure.

Caro Newling, president of the Society of London Theatre, said: "[SOLT] is delighted to formally acknowledge Kevin Spacey's outstanding contribution to The Old Vic.

"In general his advocacy of London theatre has been a constant boon, and many of us will miss him as a valued colleague."

Spacey joined the Old Vic in 2004 and steps down in the autumn, to be succeeded by Matthew Warchus. His final appearance will be in a revival of one-man play Clarence Darrow, about the famed American lawyer, which opens next month.

Spacey, who also portrayed Darrow in Inherit the Wind in 2009, will be honoured with a star-studded gala on 19 April.

The 2015 Olivier Awards will be announced at the Royal Opera House on Sunday 12 April. Shortlists are unveiled on 9 March.