Dame Elaine Paige is set to receive the Special Award at the Olivier Awards 2026, as announced on BBC's The One Show. The ceremony, marking the 50th anniversary of the prestigious theatre awards, will take place at the Royal Albert Hall on Sunday 12 April, hosted by Nick Mohammed.
The Olivier Award-winning actress is widely regarded as one of the leading stars of musical theatre, having originated iconic roles such as Eva Perón in Evita, Florence in Chess, and Grizabella in Cats. Her contributions to the arts were recognised with an OBE in 1995 and a DBE in 2025.
Beyond the stage, Dame Elaine has starred in television, performed globally, and recorded over 30 albums. She continues to present her BBC Radio 2 programme, Elaine Paige on Sunday, now in its 22nd year. She also supports emerging talent through scholarships at Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts and BIMM University, and runs her animal welfare charity, West End Woofs.
Dame Elaine said: 'I am thrilled and profoundly honoured to receive this Special Award... Theatre has given me a lifetime of unforgettable roles and memories.' Kash Bennett, President of the Society of London Theatre, added: 'Dame Elaine Paige is quite simply one of the defining figures of modern musical theatre.'
The Olivier Awards 2026 will be broadcast on BBC Two and iPlayer, with a special two-hour show on BBC Radio 2 hosted by Jo Whiley.
