Black British Theatre Awards 2024 Programme. Monday 4th November at 7pm
Programme MONDAY 4th NOVEMBER 2024
CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OF TONIGHT'S NOMINEES AND WINNERS
Welcome to the 6th annual Black British Theatre Awards 2024 (BBTAs) at the Lyceum Theatre in London, home to Disney's acclaimed musical, The Lion King. This year is particularly significant as it marks the 25th anniversary of the musical's London debut, celebrating its impact on theatrical excellence. These Awards highlight the BBTA's mission to recognize and uplift Black talent within the performing arts, reinforcing our commitment to promoting inclusivity and innovation in the industry.
The ceremony will feature performances from notable shows and presenters, showcasing the breadth of Black excellence in theatre.
We thank Disney's The Lion King as the headline sponsor, with continued support from ATG Entertainment, emphasizing a shared dedication to fostering Black talent in the UK theatre scene. Proceeds from ticket sales will contribute to the BBTA's youth engagement and mentoring programs, furthering their outreach and support initiatives. We would also like to take a moment to express our deepest appreciation to the incredible BBTA team. This event would not have been possible without their tireless work, dedication, and passion. To our team members, both behind the scenes and on stage, your unwavering efforts are the backbone of this event, and we are truly grateful for everything you do. To the nominees and winners—congratulations! Your achievements are a testament to your hard work, passion, and unwavering determination to create change through the arts. To our partners, supporters, and audience members—thank you for being part of this journey and helping us shine a spotlight on Black talent in theatre. As the ceremony unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing commitment to equity and representation in the arts, fostering a community that uplifts diverse narratives and talents. Enjoy the show!
OMAR & SOLANGE, BBTAS CO-FOUNDERS & CO-DIRECTORS
Omar F. Okai
Solange Urdang OBE
ACT ONE
PERFORMANCE MJ. THE MUSICAL - BILLIE JEAN - PERFORMER: MYLES FROST
Experience a thrilling performance from the highly acclaimed M.J The Musical, featuring the iconic hit Billie Jean. Myles Frost embodies the energy and style of the legendary entertainer in this unforgettable musical moment.
CREATIVE AWARDS
BEST PRODUCER - SPONSORED BY LONDON PRODUCTION STUDIOS Chuchu Nwagu, Red Pitch, Soho Place Jade Samuels, The Architect, Actors Touring Company/Greenwich Docklands International Festival Landé Belo, Ain't I A Woman?, The Tower Theatre
BEST DIRECTOR Dermot Daly, Bullring Techno Makeout Jamz, Royal Court Theatre Landé Belo, Ain't I A Woman?, The Tower Theatre Nancy Medina, Choir Boy, Bristol Old Vic BEST MUSICAL DIRECTOR - SPONSORED BY YOU MANAGEMENT LTD CeCelia Wickham-Anderson, Jamaica Love, Trafalgar Theatre & Tour Hannah Ledwidge, No More Mr Nice Guy, Birmingham Rep Sean Green, MJ The Musical, Prince Edward Theatre
BEST CHOREOGRAPHER OR MOVEMENT DIRECTOR - SPONSORED BY ITALIA CONTI Christopher Tendai, Closer To Heaven, The Turbine Theatre Lanre Malaolu, Now, I See, Stratford East Theatre Mthuthuzeli November, The Waiting Game, Ballet Black
BEST DANCE PRODUCTION OR PERFORMER Cycles, Boy Blue, The Barbican Theatre Ebony Thomas, The Waiting Game, Ballet Black Monique Jonas, Romeo and Juliet, Sadler's Wells Theatre
BEST LIGHTING DESIGN Joshie Harriette Ryan Day Simisola Majekodunmi BEST SOUND DESIGN Khalil Madovi Tony Gayle Xana
PERFORMANCE ICED - PERFORMER: RAY SHELL
“Cornelius Washington Jr. was a Columbia University law student before CRACK stole his life. Based on Ray Shell's debut novel, this excerpt is taken from the stage production of Iced: Black Thoughts In An Early Moon, produced at The Playground Theatre and directed by Katryna Thomas-Shell.” In this captivating excerpt, Ray Shell brings to life the powerful narrative of Iced, offering a poignant portrayal of a life altered by addiction and redemption.
RECOGNITION AWARDS
BEST THEATRE DESIGN - SPONSORED BY DISNEY Debbie Duru
Georgia Wilmot Jessica Cabassa
BEST BOOK AND LYRICS - SPONSORED BY TEGAN SUMMER THEATRICALS Anoushka Lucas
DK Fashola Lady Lykez
BEST PLAYWRIGHT Lucie Lutte Siana Bangura Tobi King Bakare
BEST CASTING DIRECTOR - SPONSORED BY CLARENDON PERSONAL MANAGEMENT Selma Nicholls Heather Basten Isabella Odoffin
ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS
BEST RECENT GRADUATE - SPONSORED BY LIPA (LIVERPOOL INSTITUTE OF PERFORMING ARTS) Joshua Alexander-Williams, Romeo & Juliet, ArtsEd Kwamé Kandekore, MJ The Musical, Emil Dale Academy Sedona Sky, Heathers the Musical, ArtsEd
BEST TEACHER Dannika Dudfield, Soar Performance Academy Kamara Gray, Artistry Youth Dance Nadine Kennedy Wood, NDC College
CHAMPION AWARDS
BEST CHILD PERFORMER (UNDER 16) - SPONSORED BY SPOTLIGHT Dylan Trigger, MJ the Musical, Prince Edward Theatre Janai Bartlett, TINA - The Tina Turner Musical, The Aldwych Theatre Mia-Nicole Alexander, The Lion King, The Lyceum
BEST NON-BINARY PERFORMER Claudia Kariuki Phoebe Campbell Sam Crerar
LGBTQIA+ CHAMPION - SPONSORED BY DISNEY Ivano Turco Layton Williams
PERFORMANCE: THE PATH OF COURAGE - AKOMAASA ARTS ACADEMY
Description: The talented students of AkomaAsa Arts Academy present The Path of Courage, an inspiring performance that blends dance, storytelling, and cultural expression to convey messages of resilience, unity, and bravery.
INTERVAL
ACT TWO
PERFORMANCE SHADOWLAND - DISNEY’S AWARD-WINNING MUSICAL THE LION KING PERFORMER: MERRYL ANSAH AND ENSEMBLE CAST
Shadowland is a powerful song written specifically for the stage adaptation of THE LION KING. It reflects Julie Taymor’s vision to introduce a larger female presence, transforming Rafiki into a female character. The song narrates Nala's pivotal moment, as she decides to leave the Pride Lands in search of a brighter future for her family amidst Scar’s oppressive rule. Disney’s THE LION KING is the headline sponsor of this event. Celebrating its 25th anniversary in London. Celebrating the extraordinary talent that has performed on stage and behind the scenes over the years. Almost 20 million people have experienced Julie Taymor’s visionary production at the Lyceum Theatre since 1999.
DISABILITY CHAMPION - SPONSORED BY BIRD COLLEGE Chris Fonseca Linseigh Green Matilda Feyi ṣ ay ọ Ibini
PROUD TO BE A SPONSOR OF THE BLACK BRITISH THEATRE AWARDS
www.link-artistss.com Based in central London, Link is an experienced agency representing diverse young emerging talent as well as established artists looking to further their careers.
Picture of our client: Psalms- Nissi Myers- Reid. Alternate Juliet, & Juliet UK Tour
FOUNDERS CHOICE AWARD Danny Sapani, King Lear, Almeida Theatre
LORD MICHAEL HASTINGS OF SCARISBRICK AWARD Shanay Holmes and Chris Steward, West End Musical Productions
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD Namron OBE
PERFORMANCE MOOD INDIGO - TALAWA THEATRE PERFORMER: KOKO ALEXANDRA
“Talawa Theatre Company's current touring production in collaboration with Belgrade Theatre, Play On, is a Jazz Musical directed by Michael Buffong. Based on Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night with music by Duke Ellington, it has been delighting audiences across the country. Tonight, Koko Alexandra presents a soulful rendition of Mood Indigo.”
PLAY AWARDS
BEST SUPPORTING MALE ACTOR IN A PLAY Branden Cook, Skeleton Crew, Donmar Warehouse Frank Skully, Kiss, Marry, Kill, Dante or Die - Tour Joshua-Alexander Williams, Romeo & Juliet, The Duke of York's Theatre BEST SUPPORTING FEMALE ACTOR IN A PLAY Adele James, Underdog: The Other Other Brontë, The National Theatre Freema Agyeman , Romeo & Juliet, The Duke of York's Theatre Mia Jerome, Romeo & Juliet, The Duke of York's Theatre BEST MALE LEAD ACTOR IN A PLAY Christopher Mbaki, Before I Go, Brixton House Neil Reidman, Without, The Omnibus Theatre Courtyard Theatre Terique Jarrett, Choir Boy, Bristol Old Vic BEST FEMALE LEAD ACTOR IN A PLAY - SPONSORED BY DISNEY Ellena Vincent, The Book of Grace, Arcola Theatre Francesca Amewudah-Rivers, Romeo & Juliet, The Duke of York's Theatre Tiwa Lade, My Father's Fable, The Bush Theatre BEST PRODUCTION - PLAY - SPONSORED BY BLACK APRON Ain't I A Woman?, The Tower Theatre Choir Boy, Bristol Old Vic Swim, Aunty, Swim!, Belgrade Theatre
MUSICAL AWARDS
BEST SUPPORTING MALE ACTOR IN A MUSICAL - SPONSORED BY LINK ARTISTS Ashley Campbell, Just For One Day, The Old Vic Marley Fenton, The Wizard of Oz, UK Tour Michael Ahomka-Lindsay, Cabaret, The Kit Kat Club
BEST SUPPORTING FEMALE ACTOR IN A MUSICAL - SPONSORED BY TINA: THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL Elèna Gyasi, Mean Girls, Savoy Theatre Phebe Edwards, MJ The Musical, Prince Edward Theatre Raphaella Philbert, The Lion King, The Lyceum
BEST MALE LEAD ACTOR IN A MUSICAL Ivano Turco, Everybody's Talking About Jamie, Tour Layton Williams, Cabaret, The Kit Kat Club Owen Chaponda, The Lion King, The Lyceum
BEST FEMALE LEAD ACTOR IN A MUSICAL Jenny Fitzpatrick, Oliver, Leeds Playhouse Karis Anderson, TINA - The Tina Turner Musical, The Aldwych Theatre Rhianne-Louise McCaulsky, Cruel Intentions - The ‘90s Musical, The Other Palace BEST MUSICAL PRODUCTION - SPONSORED BY TODAYTIX Jamaica Love, UK Tour MJ The Musical, Prince Edward Theatre TINA - The Tina Turner Musical, The Aldwych Theatre PERFORMANCE CIRCLE OF LIFE - DISNEY’S AWARD-WINNING MUSICAL THE LION KING PERFORMER: THENJIWE NOFEMELE AND ENSEMBLE CAST
The evening concludes with the iconic Circle of Life, a cornerstone song from Disney’s THE LION KING. This powerful performance embodies the essence of unity, the cycle of life, and the deep connection between all living beings in the Pride Lands. It serves as a tribute to the ongoing legacy of Julie Taymor’s visionary production and celebrates the profound impact this musical has had on audiences worldwide. END
PRESENTERS
Afua Hirsch David Albury
Shelley Maxwell Joseph Toonga Othman Read Paul Isles Myles Hart Dawn Butler MP Hakeem Onibudo Solange Urdang OBE Omar F. Okai Brenda Emmanus OBE Kenneth Tharp CBE Michelle Greenidge Jazz Lintott
Kemi Awoderu Ammar Duffus Zoe Birkett Lemar Charlene White
A TRIBUTE TO THE LATE SIMON ALBURY MBE
We would like to take a moment to honour the memory of our esteemed focus group member, Simon Albury, who recently passed away. His legacy as a champion for diversity, inclusion, and the arts will undoubtedly continue to inspire those who knew him and those impacted by his work. His dedication to uplifting Black talent and supporting the Black British Theatre Awards speaks volumes about his character and commitment to positive change. Honoring his memory through our work is a powerful way to carry forward his mission. Simon’s influence and passion will live on, resonating through the countless lives he touched.
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS AND PARTNERS
ILLUMINATE | WE SHINE A LIGHT ON THE BREADTH AND DEPTH OF BLACK TALENT IN THE UK THEATRE INDUSTRY. CELEBRATE | WE HONOUR THE ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF BLACK PERFORMERS AND CREATIVES. WE ARTICULATE HOW ESSENTIAL THEIR CONTRIBUTIONS ARE TO THE SUCCESS OF THEATRE IN THE UK AND AROUND THE WORLD. ACCELERATE | WE SUPPORT THE DEVELOPMENT OF BLACK THEATRE PROFESSIONALS. WE ADVOCATE FOR EQUITY, VISIBILITY AND OPPORTUNITY THROUGHOUT THE UK THEATRE SECTOR. THE BLACK BRITISH THEATRE AWARDS IS THE UK’S ONLY AWARD SHOW TO CELEBRATE THE EXCELLENCE AND INFLUENCE OF BLACK PERFORMERS AND CREATIVES WITHIN THE UK THEATRE INDUSTRY.
PARTNERING WITH US MEANS JOINING A MISSION DEDICATED TO FOSTERING THE NEXT GENERATION OF BLACK PERFORMERS AND CREATIVES THROUGH OUR YOUTH ENGAGEMENT PROGRAMME PLEASE CONTACT: INFO@BLACKBRITISHTHEATREAWARDS.COM TO FIND OUT MORE
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS AND PARTNERS
FROM OUR PATRONS
“These awards are more than a showcase of great performers – they are, each one, a statement of determination and grit and persuasive passion in the face of cultural resistance to be the vivid dynamic best they can be – to be as high to the top as is possible – and it will be a magnificent and humbling opportunity to look into the eyes of these black British creative artists and say – you are truly great and we honour you and will see you escalate …brilliance only know the stars.” Lord Dr Hastings of Scarisbrick CBE
“I am honoured to become a patron of the Black British Theatre Awards and support their phenomenal work showcasing a broad range of exciting and diverse talent. The positive impact and legacy of their vision cannot be underestimated. It’s significant that the awards are being supported, and have found a home at an internationally renowned institution - the National Theatre. This world-class venue has provided a platform to acknowledge and celebrate an ever-increasing roll-call of outstanding dramatic and creative individuals - making their mark on stages and behind the scenes across the UK and beyond. May these stars continue to shine, and may this award show remain a constant in
the showbiz calendar.” Brenda Emmanus OBE
“As a multi-award winning creator and innovator of theatre over the last 35 years, I am thrilled to see the progress in the industry that these Awards, The BBTAs, represent. It is therefore a privilege and an honour to be a patron of this platform that exemplifies the very best in all spheres of this glorious and powerful art form.’ Professor Dr. Shirley J. Thompson PhD, DLitt, DMus, DPhil, MusD, DArts “I’m both delighted and honoured to be a Founding Patron of The Black British Theatre Awards, which hold a uniquely important place in celebrating Black excellence across the theatre industry. The annual award ceremony has quickly established itself as a highlight in the calendar - a moment to come together in joy and unity and exalt the huge achievements of our colleagues. I’m particularly excited to be presenting in this 6th year, and thrilled to see the awards being held for the second consecutive year at the National Theatre.” Kenneth Olumuyiwa Tharp CBE
BBTA TEAM Omar F Okai - Co-Founder & Co-Director Solange Urdang - Co-Founder & Co-Director Ashleigh Trezise - Senior Awards Event Producer Karen Farrell - Head of Operations and Events Alex Kais - Head of Sponsorship Paul Bruce - Production Supervisor Anna-Maria Macauley - Events and Social Media Assistant Drew Williams - Nominations Administrator BBTA STAGE AND EVENT MANAGEMENT TEAM Victoria Lewis - Stage Manager Pippa Losh - Assistant Stage Manager Rueben Bojang - DSM/Show Caller Vineta Mitchell - Event Assistant (Talent) Jodie Turner - Event Assistant (Talent) Nikki Edwards Toure - Volunteer Assistant/ACS Siobhan O'Casey - Event Assistant (Trophies/Talent) Danielle Rappaport - Event Assistant (Talent)
The Urdang ACS Team - Event Support X7eaven Academy Team - Event Support
David Mensah - Photography Ivan Wiess - Photography Getty Images - Photography Black Apron Entertainment - Live Relay/Vision Mixing Natasha Zuend - Videography
Cavin Cornwall - Voice Announcer Marcus Collick- Trophy Handler Cheyenne Burrell - Event Dresser
THANK YOU TO: Disney Team: Nancy Shakerly, Nic Greatrex, Joshua Francis Ralphs, Bethany Smiles, Patience Persson ATG Team: Tamsin Newbury , Lili Sanchez , Steven Anstee , John Mann , Susi Favero
Special Thanks To: Courtney Lewis - Playful Productions, Matt Towell - MJ Production Manager, Getty Images
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