The Theatres Trust has unveiled the Great British Theatres Awards, a new initiative focusing on the cultural and community role of UK theatre buildings. The inaugural ceremony will take place in November 2026 as part of the trust’s 50th anniversary celebrations.

The Theatres Trust has announced the launch of the Great British Theatres Awards, designed to honour theatre buildings and spaces across the UK. The awards will highlight the impact venues have on cultural life, community connection and local economies, steering the spotlight away from artists and productions.

Unlike established theatrical awards such as the WhatsOnStage or Olivier Awards, the new initiative focuses exclusively on the buildings themselves. The inaugural ceremony is scheduled for 2 November 2026 at Central Hall, Westminster.

Joshua McTaggart, chief executive of the Theatres Trust, said this milestone moment offered the sector a chance to “champion the places and spaces where theatre happens,” highlighting theatres as “civic landmarks, cultural engines, and the beating heart of communities.”

There will be ten open categories and two judges’ awards. Categories include Great New Build and Great Renovation for projects completed in the last five years, alongside awards recognising amateur theatres, repurposed performance spaces, and venues fostering community engagement.

Additional categories cover innovation in use of space, environmental sustainability, public areas within theatres, and the role of local authorities in cultural infrastructure. There is also an award recognising individuals or groups significantly involved in creating or preserving theatre buildings.

A judging panel will select an overall winner titled Great British Theatre 2026, plus a Lifetime Achievement Award recognising long-term contributions to theatre buildings and infrastructure.

Public nominations open on 16 April via the Theatres Trust website, requiring a 500-word statement and supporting materials, with a deadline of 11 June. A shortlist will be announced in September ahead of ticket sales for the ceremony.

The awards form part of a broader programme celebrating 50 years of the Theatres Trust’s efforts to protect and support theatre buildings throughout the UK. The full list of award categories reflects the diversity and societal importance of theatre venues.