The winner will be announced in a ceremony taking place at the 8 Northumberland Avenue on Sunday 12 October, supported by headline sponsor Encore.
It has been announced that the Birmingham Rep, Royal & Derngate and Shakespeare North Playhouse are the finalists for this year’s UK’s Most Welcoming Theatre Award.
For the last 30 years, the annual event has celebrated the creative excellence and outstanding achievements seen on and off stage throughout England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
UK Theatre member venues were invited to apply for the coveted award, and the three finalists were selected based on how welcoming the venues are across multiple factors, from accessibility and inclusion practices, to programming, outreach, workforce and audience development.
The finalists will now be visited by the judging panel in person. Visits often involve meeting staff, having a tour of the building, taking part in a scheduled activity, speaking to audience members or visiting the onsite café or restaurant.
Talking about the news, Claire Walker, Co-CEO of Society of London Theatre & UK Theatre, said: ” Local theatres are the beating heart of communities across the UK – inspiring creativity, fostering connection, and driving both cultural and economic impact. This year’s finalists have shown exceptional commitment to creating inclusive, welcoming spaces for audiences, artists and staff alike. We’re thrilled to shine a spotlight on their outstanding work and the vital role they play in their local communities.
Congratulations to all the finalists on this well-deserved recognition – and thank you to our judging panel, who now face the difficult task of selecting a winner ahead of the UK Theatre Awards this October.”