Theatres Trust announces new awards for buildings and spaces

Exclusive: The Theatres Trust has announced the launch of the Great British Theatres Awards as part of its 50th anniversary celebrations.

The new awards aim to recognise theatre buildings and spaces across the UK, focusing on the role venues play in cultural life, community connection and local economies. Unlike many industry awards like the WhatsOnStage Awards or Olivier Awards, the initiative centres on the buildings themselves rather than the artists and productions they house.

The inaugural ceremony will take place on 2 November 2026 at Central Hall, Westminster.

Chief executive Joshua McTaggart said: “In our 50th year, it feels vital to bring the sector together to champion the places and spaces where theatre happens. From grassroots community venues to landmark new builds, our theatres are more than just auditoriums, they are civic landmarks, cultural engines, and the beating heart of communities across the country. This is our moment to recognise them with pride.”

The awards will include ten open categories alongside two judges’ awards. Categories include Great New Build and Great Renovation, both open to projects completed within the past five years, as well as awards recognising amateur theatres, repurposed performance spaces and venues demonstrating strong community engagement.

Further categories will highlight innovation in how spaces are used, environmental sustainability, public areas within theatre buildings and the contribution of local authorities to cultural infrastructure. An additional category will recognise individuals or groups who have played a significant role in creating, preserving or adapting theatre buildings.

A panel of judges will also select an overall winner, named Great British Theatre 2026, alongside a Lifetime Achievement Award for long-term contribution to theatre buildings and infrastructure.

Public nominations will open on 16 April via the organisation’s website, with applicants asked to submit a 500-word statement and supporting materials. The deadline for entries is 11 June, with a shortlist due to be announced in September ahead of tickets going on sale for the ceremony.

The awards form part of a wider programme marking five decades of the Theatres Trust’s work supporting and protecting theatre buildings across the UK.

The full list of categories:

• Great New Build

• Great Renovation

• Great Amateur Theatre

• Great Found Space

• Great Community Connection

• Great Use of Space

• Great Placemaking Partner

• Great Green Theatre

• Great Public Space

• Great British Theatres Shining Star