LONDON — On Sunday, the London stage was abuzz with excitement as the prestigious Olivier Awards took place. American actor John Lithgow took home the coveted best actor award for his compelling portrayal of the famous children’s author, Roald Dahl, in the play “Giant.” The production delves into the darker aspects of Dahl’s personality, particularly his antisemitic views, and was penned by Mark Rosenblatt.
Also enjoying the spotlight was the innovative production, “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button.” This backwards-biographical story swept the awards by being recognized as the best new musical. The Olivier Awards are often likened to Broadway’s Tony Awards, making this accolade a significant honor. For Lithgow, this Olivier win is an addition to an impressive list of accolades including multiple Tony, Emmy, and Golden Globe awards.
During his acceptance speech, the 79-year-old Lithgow expressed his joy and gratitude, stating he felt overwhelmed. He humorously assured the British audience of the strong “special relationship” between the United States and the UK, acknowledging that his presence abroad as an American might carry added complexities during current times.
In a show of stellar talent, Lesley Manville received the best actress award for her role as Jocasta, a royal spouse coming to terms with unsettling truths, in the play “Oedipus.” This modern adaptation of a classic Greek tragedy, directed by Robert Icke, was also celebrated as the best revival of a play. The play will soon make its debut on Broadway.
Imelda Staunton, renowned from her portrayal of Queen Elizabeth II in “The Crown,” earned the fifth Olivier of her career. She won best actress in a musical for her performance in “Hello, Dolly!” Meanwhile, John Dagleish commanded the stage in the role of Benjamin Button, earning him the best actor in a musical title. The musical dramatizes the story by F. Scott Fitzgerald, previously adapted into a film starring Brad Pitt.
The awards ceremony was held at London’s iconic Royal Albert Hall, featuring hosts, Broadway, TV and fashion luminary Billy Porter, alongside British soul singer Beverley Knight. The event was graced by distinguished guests, such as recent Academy Award winner Adrien Brody, who was nominated for best actor in the play “The Fear of 13,” and Cate Blanchett, recently a London stage presence in “The Seagull.”
“Giant” and “Benjamin Button” each secured three awards, sharing the spotlight with “Fiddler on the Roof” performed in the open air at Regent’s Park, which earned the best musical revival award. A new adaptation by Norwegian director Eline Arbo, “The Years” won her the best director award. This play is based on Annie Ernaux’s autobiographical book, and its cast member Romola Garai took home the best supporting performer award. Maimuna Memon received recognition for her supporting role in the musical “Natasha, Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812,” while Layton Williams won for the high-energy show “Titanique.”
Created in 1976 to honor exceptional contributions to the fields of theater, opera, and dance, the Olivier Awards are named after the late, esteemed actor-director Laurence Olivier. Recipients are chosen by dedicated panels of stage professionals and theatergoers, ensuring that the awards truly reflect the industry’s finest talents and achievements.