Oliver Awards to honour David Lan for his work at the Young Vic

Ex-artistic director of the Young Vic David Lan is to be honoured with the Special Award at the Oliviers.

The director stepped down as boss of the London theatre last year, after leading the space for almost two decades. The award is in recognition of his 'outstanding contribution in leading the Young Vic since 2000, his work within the local community around the theatre, and his commitment to internationalism and diversity.'

Some of the directors who have appeared at the theatre during Lan's tenure include Stephen Daldry, Katie Mitchell, Peter Brook, Ivo van Hove, Benedict Andres and Susan Stroman.

The theatre has won eleven Olivier Awards while being led by Lan, including Outstanding Achievement In an Affiliate Theatre in 2004 for an entire season. Kwame Kwei Armah was announced as Lan's successor in September.

Past recipients of the award include Kenneth Branagh, Stephen Sondheim, Judi Dench and Ian McKellen.

This year's awards will be hosted by Catherine Tate and will run at the Royal Albert Hall. The ceremony will be broadcast on Sunday on ITV at 10.20pm.

Read our guide for more information on the Olivier Awards.