Brendan Gleeson Triumphs at Critics' Circle Theatre Awards
Brendan Gleeson has been honoured with the best actor award at the prestigious Critics' Circle theatre awards for his remarkable West End debut in Conor McPherson's acclaimed pub drama, The Weir. This recognition comes despite the production's notable omission from this year's Olivier awards nominations, highlighting the distinct perspective of professional theatre critics who determine these accolades.
Celebrating Excellence Across Theatre Categories
The ceremony, held at the National Theatre in London, showcased a diverse array of winners across multiple categories. Gleeson's victory saw him surpass fellow nominees including Bryan Cranston and Paapa Essiedu, both recognised for their roles in All My Sons, as well as James Hameed and Arti Shah, who jointly portray Paddington in the new musical adaptation.
Other notable winners included:
- Rosamund Pike, who secured best actress for her performance in Suzie Miller's Inter Alia, overcoming competition from Kate Fleetwood, Marianne Jean-Baptiste, and Rachel Zegler.
- Ivo van Hove, awarded best director for the critically adored production of Arthur Miller's All My Sons at Wyndham's theatre, which also won best revival.
- Hayley Atwell, who claimed best Shakespearean performance for her role as Beatrice in Much Ado About Nothing, beating her co-star Tom Hiddleston.
Innovative Productions and New Talent Recognised
The awards also highlighted emerging talent and innovative productions. Ruby Ashbourne Serkis was named most promising newcomer for her performance in a revival of Tom Stoppard's Indian Ink, while Ava Pickett won most promising playwright for her Tudor drama 1536.
In the musical categories, Paddington: The Musical won best new musical, and a new production of Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine's Into the Woods at the Bridge theatre received two prizes for best designer and best ensemble. James Graham's Punch was honoured with the Michael Billington award for best new play.
Evolving Award Processes and Special Recognitions
Mark Lawson, 2026 chair of the Critics' Circle drama section, noted that this year marked the first time members voted from longlists and shortlists in an effort to broaden the range of considered work. He observed that while some categories were decided by landslides, others featured tight contests requiring recounts, reflecting the strong quality of entries.
A special tribute was paid through the renamed Empty Space Peter Brook award, now in memory of Blanche Marvin, which recognised the not-for-profit theatre company Red Rose Chain in Ipswich for innovative venue work.
The awards ceremony underscored the vibrant state of contemporary theatre, celebrating both established stars and rising talents across London's West End and beyond.
