John Lithgow and Benjamin Button Musical Among Top Winners at Olivier Awards

The 2025 Olivier Awards, held at the Royal Albert Hall, celebrated a diverse range of theatrical achievements with no single production sweeping the ceremony, allowing several standout shows to shine. Among the night’s most recognized were Giant and the musical reinterpretation of The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, each taking home three awards.

John Lithgow earned best actor for his portrayal of author Roald Dahl in Giant, directed by Mark Rosenblatt. The play recounts the controversy surrounding Dahl’s 1983 book review that led to accusations of anti-Semitism. An emotional Lithgow expressed how deeply honored he felt to be embraced by the British theatre community. The play also won best new play, and Elliot Levey received best supporting actor for his role alongside Lithgow.

Meanwhile, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button impressed audiences and critics alike with its inventive staging of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s story, reimagined in a Cornish fishing village. The musical won best new musical, best music contribution, and best actor in a musical for John Dalgleish’s heartfelt performance as the title character, whose life moves in reverse.

Fiddler on the Roof also had a strong showing, earning three Olivier Awards, adding to the night’s sense of shared recognition across productions.

Lesley Manville secured the best actress award for her portrayal of Jocasta in Oedipus, marking her second career Olivier win. She reflected on the powerful emotions of the moment, describing the overwhelming experience of accepting the award on the iconic Royal Albert Hall stage.

Veteran performer Imelda Staunton added another milestone to her illustrious career, winning best actress in a musical for her performance as Dolly Levi in Hello, Dolly!. This marked Staunton’s fifth Olivier Award, solidifying her status as one of Britain’s most celebrated stage talents.

The 2025 Olivier Awards showcased a rich and varied tapestry of theatrical excellence, from powerful dramatic performances to inventive musicals, proving once again the enduring vibrancy and creativity of British theatre. With no single production dominating the evening, the awards highlighted the exceptional range of talent currently gracing the West End.

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