Vicky Featherstone: 'Women are finally in charge of the narrative'

Artistic director of the Royal Court Vicky Featherstone has spoken about how the Olivier Award win for Our Ladies of Perpetual Succour means that "change is finally happening".

Speaking to WhatsOnStage after picking up the Olivier Award for Best New Comedy with adapter Lee Hall, director Featherstone said: "[The win] means change is finally happening. That women are in charge of the narrative, that they are telling their stories.

"This is funny. This is a comedy, but they are singing as well. It feels like a brilliant moment."

Hall, who adapted the show from Alan Warner's book The Sopranos added: "It's a really special show for all of us. But it's about young women. I'm just so proud of it."

The cast were attending the ceremony at the Royal Albert Hall, having been nominated for Best Actress in a Supporting Role. Melissa Allan, Caroline Deyga, Kirsty Findlay, Karen Fishwick, Kirsty MacLaren, Frances Mayli McCann, Joanne McGuinness and Dawn Sievewright lost out on the night to Noma Dumezweni for her role as Hermione in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.

Our Ladies of Perpetual Succour is due to open in the West End at Duke of York's Theatre on 9 May. It tells of a group of Catholic schoolgirls who spend a night on the town in Edinburgh rather than compete in a choir competition. The show features songs by ELO.

Our Ladies of Perpetual Succour will open at the Duke of York's on 15 May, with previews from 9 May.

Watch our highlights video of last night's awards