Romola Garai Shines at Star-Studded Olivier Awards as London’s Theatre Elite Gather

LONDON, UK – The Royal Albert Hall was abuzz with excitement as the Olivier Awards—often referred to as the “Oscars of London theatre”—celebrated this year’s outstanding stage performances. A host of acclaimed actors, directors, and theatre creatives stepped out in style to honor the very best of London’s cultural scene.

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Romola Garai’s Double Nomination and Victory

Among the evening’s highlights was Romola Garai, who made a triumphant return to the spotlight after stepping away from Hollywood more than a decade ago. In a rare feat, the 42-year-old actress was nominated twice in the Best Actress in a Supporting Role category. She ultimately clinched the prestigious award for her performance in The Years, adapted from Annie Ernaux’s book Les Années, beating her own nomination for her role in Giant. Accepting her award, Garai thanked her husband, Sam Hoare, and described working on The Years as “the greatest privilege” of her life.

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Hosts Commanding the Stage

Co-hosts Beverley Knight and Billy Porter set a fashion-forward tone throughout the ceremony. Knight, soon to star in the UK premiere of Marie and Rosetta, wore a striking Saint Hendrix gown paired with a bejewelled Louis Mariette headpiece. Porter, known for his starring turn in Cabaret, donned a printed suit and a dramatic matching headpiece. Their lively interplay lit up a night that featured musical performances by casts of classic West End hits, including Oliver! and Starlight Express.

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Dazzling Red-Carpet Moments

Notable appearances included Elizabeth Debicki, who arrived in a sweeping Dior gown ahead of her West End debut in My Master Builder alongside Ewan McGregor at Wyndham’s Theatre. Cate Blanchett, fresh from a run in The Seagull at the Barbican Theatre, stepped out in Louis Vuitton alongside her Black Bag co-star Tom Burke. Burke, sporting dark glasses on stage, joked about finishing The Seagull the previous evening, while Blanchett noted it had been a late night.

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Giants of the Stage: John Lithgow and Imelda Staunton

John Lithgow took home the Olivier for Best Actor for his portrayal of author Roald Dahl in Giant. The U.S. actor, 79, offered gratitude to the London theatre community for their warm reception. Meanwhile, Dame Imelda Stauntoncelebrated her fifth Olivier Award—Best Actress in a Musical—for her turn in Hello, Dolly! at the London Palladium. She arrived with husband Jim Carter and daughter Bessie, revealing plans to star alongside Bessie in Mrs Warren’s Profession, which opens in the West End in May.

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Musical Triumphs and Future Projects

Lesley Manville continued her streak of critical acclaim, earning Best Actress for her role in the tragedy Oedipus at Wyndham’s Theatre. Wearing a flowing Loewe gown, the 69-year-old star graciously accepted her award from Much Ado About Nothing presenters Hayley Atwell and Tom Hiddleston.

Another highlight saw Layton Williams crowned Best Actor in a Supporting Role in a Musical for his comedic portrayal of the iceberg in Titanique. In the same musical theatre spirit, Georgina Castle—set to headline the UK tour of Mean Girls in 2026—shared her excitement about playing Regina George and recounted the tips she’s received from Tina Fey, who co-wrote the stage adaptation of the 2004 film.

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With the curtain now closed on this year’s Olivier Awards, theatre enthusiasts can look forward to a dynamic season of upcoming shows—from major revivals like Mrs Warren’s Profession to new musicals making their mark on the West End stage. As evidenced by the star-studded evening, London’s theatre scene continues to sparkle, brimming with creativity, talent, and the promise of more unmissable productions ahead.

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