Finalists announced for UK’s Most Welcoming Theatre Award at UK THEATRE AWARDS 2026
Photo credit: Mark Carline
Nottingham Playhouse, Theatr Clwyd and Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds have been named as finalists for the 2026 UK’s Most Welcoming Theatre Award. The winner will be revealed at this year’s UK Theatre Awards, which return to 8 Northumberland Avenue on 12 October, supported by headline sponsor Encore.
For over 30 years, this 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 judging panel will now visit the venues in person to determine the overall winner. 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.
Co-CEO of Society of London Theatre & UK Theatre, Hannah Essex, said: “Theatres thrive when they are deeply connected to the people and places they serve, and this year's finalists - Nottingham Playhouse, Theatr Clwyd and Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds – have each demonstrated an outstanding commitment to creating welcoming spaces for audiences, artists, staff and their local communities. We are proud to celebrate their ambition, leadership and commitment to making theatre accessible, relevant and inclusive for everyone.
“Congratulations to all three finalists on this well-deserved recognition, and thank you to our judging panel, who now face the exciting challenge of selecting this year's winner ahead of the UK Theatre Awards in October.”