The winners were announced last night at the 2018 Olivier Awards, which celebrate the greatest achievements in London theatre, and are the most sought-after accolade for thespians in Britain.
This year, the Oliviers were held in London’s Royal Albert Hall and hosted by comedien Catherine Tate.
The big winner of the night was the new American musical Hamilton, which took home seven awards equalling Matilda’s Olivier record in 2012. The hip-hop musical based on the founding fathers of America took home awards including Best New Musical and Outstanding Achievement in Music for its composer-lyricist Lin-Manuel Miranda and orchestrator Alex Lacamoire. Giles Terera, who plays Aaron Burr, was named Best Actor in a Musical, with his co-star Michael Jibson winning Best Actor in a Supporting Role in a Musical for his performance as King George III.
Best New Opera went to The Royal Opera’s debut of Rossini’s Semiramide, starring Joyce Didonato and Daniela Barcellona who were both awarded the Outstanding Achievement in Opera for their performances.
Other winners of the night included Sondheim’s musical Follies, starring Imelda Staunton, which won Best Musical Revival.
Bob Dylan and Conor McPherson’s musical Girl from the North Country saw wins in their female leads with Shirly Henderson winning Best Actress in a Musical for her first stage performance in 17 years, and Sheila Atim winning Best Actress in a Supporting Role in a Musical.
The night included performances from American musical legend Chita Rivera performing Somewhere from Bernstein’s West Side Story, former cast members of Joseph & The Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat, and many more from the nominated musicals of the evening.
Other awards included Best Actor for Bryan Cranston in Network, Best New Comedy for Labour of Love, and Best New Dance Production went to Flight Pattern by Crystal Pite for The Royal Ballet.
