2025 Oliver Awards Hosts Announced

When you think of glamour, celebration, and a flood of show-stopping moments under one grand Victorian dome, the OLIVIER AWARDS spring to mind—an occasion that draws in theatre fans from every corner of the country (and plenty more overseas). Now, with Beverley Knight and Billy Porterconfirmed as co-hosts, London’s beloved annual ceremony is on track to become an even glitzier affair than usual. It’s not just the drama on stage that’ll keep you on the edge of your seat—it’s the high notes hit throughout the night by both performers and presenters that might have you humming all the way home.

The Return To The Royal Albert Hall

The Royal Albert Hall has hosted the OLIVIER AWARDS on multiple occasions, and with good reason. Its opulent design and magnificent acoustics have made it a favourite for all kinds of live events—everything from orchestral concerts to rock gigs. But theatre lovers know there’s a certain magic in watching West End stars grace that stage to receive the UK’s highest honours in theatre.

Situated on the edge of Hyde Park in Kensington, the Royal Albert Hall first opened its doors in 1871. It can comfortably seat around 5,200 people (give or take, depending on stage configuration). Last year’s ceremony saw a near-capacity crowd marvelling at show-stealing performances, including numbers from productions like THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA and LES MISÉRABLES. Although we’ve yet to hear official word on which musicals or plays will perform at the 2025 ceremony, theatre insiders are buzzing about what could be in store. After all, the OLIVIER AWARDS are known for their breathtaking showcases—past events have featured everything from tap-dancing children to elaborate aerial stunts. If that’s any indication, expect something suitably spectacular again this year.

The Dynamic Hosts

In recent weeks, the announcement of Beverley Knight and Billy Porter as co-hosts has sent ripples of excitement through the theatre community. Beverley Knight, often called the Queen of British Soul, has cemented her standing in the West End with roles in shows such as MEMPHIS THE MUSICAL and THE BODYGUARD. In fact, her portrayal of Felicia in MEMPHIS THE MUSICAL earned her both critical acclaim and a legion of dedicated fans. When asked about her new hosting role, she expressed her delight, confessing she was “even more excited” to share presenting duties with Billy Porter—a statement that speaks volumes about the chemistry we can expect on the big night.

Billy Porter himself is no stranger to the limelight. The star of KINKY BOOTS and POSE, he’s also picked up multiple awards across his illustrious career, including a Tony and an Emmy—essentially the perfect pedigree for guiding a room full of theatre heavyweights through a show-stopping evening. In his words, he is “thrilled and honoured to host the Olivier Awards alongside the fantastic Beverley Knight.” For a ceremony that thrives on memorable speeches and flamboyant performances, having two dynamic performers at its helm is sure to make for a riveting watch.

The OLIVIER AWARDS

The OLIVIER AWARDS have been a cornerstone of British theatre since 1976, formerly known as the Society of West End Theatre Awards. They were renamed in 1984 after Sir Laurence Olivier, the legendary English actor whose name is almost synonymous with theatrical excellence. Over the years, the awards have grown into a global symbol of prestige, celebrating not just British productions but also the finest talents from around the world. Whether you’re in Australia watching the newest adaptation of MURIEL’S WEDDING THE MUSICAL or in London catching the latest revival of CABARET, the OLIVIER AWARDS stand as a benchmark for top-tier theatrical achievement.

Mastercard returns as the headline sponsor for the 15th consecutive year and is once again sponsoring the Best New Musical Award. Sponsorship consistency like this signals the importance of these accolades—not only do the awards themselves command respect, but the partnerships formed around them also remain steadfast. Winning an Olivier can provide a significant boost to a production’s profile. In 2022, for instance, shows that won major Olivier Awards saw a marked uptick in ticket sales, with some theatres reporting up to a 20% increase in attendance following the ceremony.

A Night Of Surprises And Performances

Although the list of nominees is still under wraps, we can expect a thrilling array of theatrical genres represented, from epic musicals to intimate plays. Past nominees have included ground-breaking new productions, heart-wrenching revivals, and impressive technical achievements in set design, lighting, and choreography. It’s also worth noting that the OLIVIER AWARDS often spotlight brilliant performances from children’s theatre, touring theatre, and even opera. The focus on inclusivity ensures that lesser-seen shows have a chance to shine alongside West End giants.

The creative team behind the ceremony reflects this breadth of talent. Anthony Van Laast is back as creative show director for a third year, guiding the overall vision of the night. As a renowned choreographer who has worked on productions ranging from SISTER ACT to MAMMA MIA!, Van Laast has a keen eye for pacing and spectacle. Alongside him, Gareth Valentine steps in as conductor and arranger—fresh from his involvement in numerous West End hits—while Mark Cumberland oversees orchestrations. Ben Cracknell returns as lighting designer, guaranteeing a visually stunning presentation that highlights the drama and grandeur of each performance. Together, this stellar team aims to deliver a ceremony that’s as entertaining for audiences at home (on ITV1 and ITVX) as it is for those lucky enough to witness it live in person.

The Wider Global Theatre Scene

While the OLIVIER AWARDS honour London productions, their influence echoes far beyond the UK. As theatre increasingly becomes a global affair, Australian musicals like MURIEL’S WEDDING THE MUSICAL continue to gain traction overseas, reflecting a cross-pollination of creative talent. Actors, directors, and producers from Australia, the United States, Europe, and beyond flock to the West End. This international melting pot of ideas finds expression on the Olivier stage each year, reminding us that theatre transcends borders.

If you’re looking for data to back up just how global the West End has become, you might be surprised. According to a 2023 study by the Society of London Theatre, nearly 40% of London theatregoers that year came from outside the UK. A growing percentage of them hailed from Australia, drawn to the West End’s wealth of productions, both classic and contemporary. The synergy between London’s theatre scene and international audiences has helped fuel a remarkable post-pandemic recovery, with box office figures inching back to pre-2020 highs. In short, the OLIVIER AWARDS are more than just a local celebration—they’re a reflection of a thriving global stage.

The Dual-Host Factor

Having two co-hosts may not be unique in the world of award shows, but it’s often the spark that can elevate a ceremony from good to unforgettable. This year’s pairing of Beverley Knight and Billy Porter brings together two distinct musical traditions—soul and Broadway. While Beverley Knight commands a powerful British R&B presence, Billy Porter’s theatrical background is steeped in the American musical tradition. This merging of styles might lend a new energy to the standard hosting format. Think harmonised duets, on-the-spot comedic riffs, and impromptu set pieces that celebrate both the grandeur of West End musicals and the brilliance of soul-infused vocal performances.

A study published by the Harvard Business Review found that audiences respond more positively to events that feature genuine rapport between co-hosts, attributing it to a sense of spontaneity that comes from back-and-forth banter. That potential synergy is particularly strong here, given both hosts are live-performance veterans who relish connecting with an audience. Don’t be surprised if the night includes showstopping medleys or heartfelt comedic moments that underscore why both Knight and Porter are so beloved in their fields.

Stepping Into Olivier Night With A Smile

The real charm of the OLIVIER AWARDS lies not just in the glittery trophies or even the star-studded acceptance speeches, but in the sense of community that envelops the evening. It’s an event where the best of London theatre gets to shine, cheered on by fans who’ve queued up for day seats, hammered the refresh button on ticket websites, or saved up just to see their favourite show. That collective enthusiasm is what makes the OLIVIER AWARDS resonate well beyond the Royal Albert Hall.

Whether you’re planning to watch from the comfort of your living room or hoping to nab a seat inside the iconic venue, this ceremony is more than just a who’s-who of theatre talent—it’s a celebration of creativity, collaboration, and the unrelenting passion that brings every production to life. Tickets might be scarce, and the competition stiff, but the energy on the night is guaranteed to be electric. Even if you can’t make it to London, you can bet that the ripple effects of the awards—through new cast recordings, international transfers, and word-of-mouth hits—will find their way to a stage near you, perhaps even in Australia.

Where The Spotlight Never Fades

When the curtain falls and the applause dies down, the legacy of any OLIVIER AWARDS ceremony carries on. It’s a night that influences the shows you’ll see advertised across billboards, the performance clips you’ll stream online, and the theatre community discussions that ignite your social media feeds. The 2025 OLIVIER AWARDS stand poised to add another chapter to that storied legacy, all under the careful guidance of Beverley Knight and Billy Porter.

So, if you’re the type who loves a good standing ovation or you simply relish immersing yourself in the magic of live performance, this ceremony is one to watch. Keep an eye on those nominations as they emerge. And the next time you find yourself at the theatre—whether you’re in London, Sydney, or somewhere in between—take a moment to remember the artists and dreamers celebrated under the Royal Albert Hall’s domed roof. Their passion and creativity ensure that, in the world of theatre, the spotlight never truly fades.