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The Stage announces new awards to celebrate breakthrough talent
Weekly publication The Stage has revealed major new theatre awards that will be dedicated to discovering and supporting new talent in the industry.
The Stage Debut Awards, which will have their inaugural ceremony in September, will recognise actors, writers, directors, designers and composers making their professional theatrical debuts in the UK.
Alistair Smith, print editor of The Stage, said: “It’s increasingly hard to break into a career in theatre – especially if you’re not from a privileged or well-connected background. So, with The Stage Debut Awards we wanted to recognise the best performers, directors, writers, composers and designers from across the UK at the very start of their careers. The awards will serve as a launchpad for our winners and nominees.”
Nominees will be considered in nine categories, including best director, designer and composer as well as best actress and actor in a play and in a musical.
A panel will then decide the winners in each category, but there will also be the opportunity for the public to vote on the award for best West End debut.
The event is part of The Stage Supports, a series of initiatives aimed at nurturing talent in theatre and the performing arts.
The deadline for nominations is 30 July 2017, with winners being announced at a ceremony in London on 17 September.
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