Black British Theatre Awards 2025 – Shortlisted Nominees

Beverley Knight, Johannes Radabe and Omari Douglas amongst the nominees for 2025’s Black British Theatre Awards.

The UK’s biggest night in Black Theatre returns to the West End on 26 October at the Piccadilly Theatre in London.

For decades, Black artists in the UK have been transforming theatre – from trailblazing pioneers who challenged the status quo to contemporary stars redefining what the West End can be. The Black British Theatre Awards (BBTAs) honour this enduring legacy, celebrating excellence, representation, and the cultural contributions of Black artists 365 days a year.

Now in its seventh year, the BBTAs return to London’s Piccadilly Theatre on Sunday 26 October 2025, bringing together performers, creatives, and audiences for the most powerful and anticipated celebration of Black theatre in the UK. More than an awards ceremony, the BBTAs are a movement, a platform that amplifies Black talent and ensures that both the history and future of Black British theatre are recognised, celebrated, and remembered. Nominees for this year’s awards include Beverley Knight, Omari Douglas and Strictly and Kinky Boots star Johannes Radebe alongside standout performances for a range of the UK’s biggest shows – from Hamilton to the National Theatre’s Alterations.

The 2025 ceremony – sponsored by ATG Entertainment and presented in partnership with Moulin Rouge! The Musical, Global Creatures, and with thanks to Playful Productions – promises an unforgettable evening of live performances, emotional tributes, and a vibrant celebration of creative excellence.

Spotlight on 2025 Nominees

The 2025 award nominees showcase the breadth, depth, and brilliance of Black theatre talent across the UK. Beverley Knight earns a nomination for her soulful portrayal in Marie & Rosetta at the Rose Theatre whilst in Musical Theatre, stars and productions are celebrated with nominations for standout performances in Hamilton, Moulin Rouge! The Musical, Disney’s The Lion King, MJ The Musical and Tina: The Tina Turner Musical secured multiple nominations, highlighting the richness and diversity of the UK stage..

Behind the curtain, the awards honour visionary creatives shaping the theatre experience, from Cassa Pancho’s Ballet Black for choreography to musical direction, theatre design, and casting, whose artistry ensures that every production is brought to life with vision, excellence, and unforgettable impact.

Anne Odeke’s critically acclaimed play Princess Essex leads the charge, earning an impressive four nominations highlighting performances that are as groundbreaking as they are inspiring whilst Alterations, Lynette Linton‘s powerhouse production at the National Theatre, resonated with audiences and critics alike.

​​Championing LGBTQIA+ Talent

This year, the BBTAs proudly recognise and celebrate LGBTQIA+ champions including Strictly star Johannes Radebe whose nomination underscores the increasing visibility in the UK theatre industry.

The 2025 BBTAs also celebrate rising stars making waves on the stage and screen. Omari Douglas, acclaimed for his role in the groundbreaking series It’s a Sin, earns a well-deserved nomination for his performance in This Bitter Earth directed by Billy Porter.

A Night of Celebration, Legacy, and Representation

The BBTAs are not merely a ceremony—they are a celebration of Black theatre as a living, evolving legacy. By honouring historical contributions and recognising contemporary achievements, the awards provide visibility, opportunity, and inspiration for Black artists, while reminding audiences that Black stories are central to British theatre, every day of the year.

The 2025 BBTAs promise an unforgettable evening of recognition, joy, and community—a night where the West End becomes a stage for both celebration and cultural affirmation.

Please find the full list of 2025 BBTA nominees here 

About the Black British Theatre Awards

Reflecting on Black History, Celebrating Black Futures

Aligned with Black History Season, the 2025 awards celebrate the enduring contributions of Black actors, playwrights, designers, and creatives to British theatre. The BBTAs are a reminder that Black excellence is not confined to one night, one season, or one era—it is a constant, transformative presence that has shaped the UK stage for generations and continues to inspire the future of theatre.

The Black British Theatre Awards (BBTAs) honour this enduring legacy, celebrating excellence, representation, and the cultural contributions of Black artists 365 days a year. Previous winners have included Layton Williams, Freema Agyeman, Danny Sapani, Karis Anderson, Nancy Medina, Sean Green, Choir Boy and MJ The Musical. Previous presenters have included Lemar, Dawn Butler MP, Zoe Birkett and Patron and Broadcaster Brenda Emmanus OBE.