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Olivier Awards 2024: John Lithgow and ‘Benjamin Button’ Triumph in London
London’s prestigious Olivier Awards celebrated the best of British theatre, with American actor John Lithgow securing the coveted Best Actor award. The ceremony, a highlight of the London stage, also saw the musical “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” named Best New Musical, underscoring the vibrant and diverse landscape of theatre awards in the UK.
Actor Recognition: Lithgow Honored for Roald Dahl Portrayal
Veteran performer John Lithgow received the Best Actor accolade for his compelling depiction of children’s author Roald Dahl in the play “Giant.” This Olivier adds to Lithgow’s impressive collection of accolades, which already includes Tony, Emmy, and Golden Globe Awards. His performance in Mark Rosenblatt’s production, which delves into Dahl’s controversial antisemitic viewpoints, resonated deeply with critics and audiences alike.
“I think I’m going to faint,” an emotional Lithgow, 79, expressed upon receiving the award. He lightheartedly reassured the British audience about the enduring strength of the transatlantic “special relationship,” acknowledging the current complex geopolitical climate.
“It’s not always easy to welcome an American into your midst, and at this particular moment, it’s probably a little more complicated than usual,” he remarked.
Actress Awards: Manville and Staunton Take Center Stage
Lesley Manville, known for her role as Princess Margaret in “The Crown,” was awarded the Best Actress prize for her portrayal of Jocasta in “Oedipus.” Robert Icke’s contemporary interpretation of the classic Greek tragedy, set to transfer to Broadway later in the year, was also recognized as Best Revival of a Play.
Imelda Staunton, who also played Queen Elizabeth II in later seasons of “The Crown,” earned her fifth Olivier, winning Best Actress in a Musical for “Hello, Dolly!”
Musical Theatre Recognition: ‘Benjamin Button’ and ‘Fiddler on the Roof’ Shine
John Dagleish was named Best Actor in a Musical for his lead role in “Benjamin Button,” a production centered on a man aging in reverse. The musical draws inspiration from an F. Scott Fitzgerald short story, which also served as the basis for the 2008 Brad Pitt film adaptation.
The Olivier Awards ceremony, held at London’s Royal Albert Hall, was presented by Broadway personality Billy Porter and British soul singer Beverley Knight, adding glamour and entertainment to the evening.
Notable attendees included Academy Award winner Adrien Brody, nominated for Best Actor Olivier for “The Fear of 13,” and Cate Blanchett, recently featured on the London stage in “The Seagull.”
Play Category Winners: ‘Giant’ and ‘The Years’ Honored
“Giant” emerged as a major winner, securing three awards including Best New Play. “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” also garnered three awards, alongside a vibrant open-air rendition of “Fiddler on the Roof” at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, which was declared Best Musical Revival.
Supporting Performance Awards
- Maimuna Memon received Best Supporting Actress in a Musical for “Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812,” inspired by Tolstoy.
- Layton Williams won Best Supporting Actor in a Musical for “Titanique,” a comedic tribute to Celine Dion.
- In the play categories, Elliot Levey was awarded Best Supporting Performer for “Giant.”
- Romola Garai received Best Supporting Performer for “The Years.”
- Norwegian director Eline Arbo was named Best Director for “The Years,” an adaptation of Nobel laureate Annie Ernaux’s autobiographical work.
Celebrating Theatrical Excellence: The Olivier Legacy
The Olivier Awards, established in 1976 and named in honor of the esteemed actor-director Laurence Olivier, celebrate outstanding achievements across theatre, opera, and dance. Winners are selected through votes cast by groups comprising stage professionals and avid theatre enthusiasts, highlighting the industry’s and audience’s role in recognizing theatrical brilliance in London.