Scarborough's Stephen Joseph Theatre celebrates award win

The fairy-tale show, directed by Paul Robinson, was named Best Show for Children and Young People at the 2024 UK Theatre Awards.

The news comes as the theatre is about to commence rehearsals for this year's Christmas family show, Aladdin, which will be once again written by Nick Lane with designs by Helen Coyston.

The award was accepted by Mr Lane, along with the SJT’s executive director, Caroline Routh.

Mr Lane said he was "chuffed," and continued: "Mostly because it’s a proper team effort.

"I’m so lucky – every year, there are amazing actors, a phenomenal creative team, and just the best audiences ever.

"Something like this is great recognition, and if winning this award means we get to keep making more daft stuff for the people of Scarborough, then whatever one up from chuffed is, I’ll be that!"

Mr Robinson, who is artistic director at the SJT, added: "For Scarborough this award is really meaningful, as it demonstrates that a show that was made entirely for them is also worthy of a national award.

"It’s about pride.

"This is for everyone who works at the friendliest theatre in the country and all the brilliant freelancers, without whom we are nothing – Nick Lane, Helen Coyston, costumes by Julia Perry-Mook, composer Simon Slater, lighting designer Tigger Johnson, choreographer Stephanie Dattani, the brilliant tech team led by Simon Bedwell, our casting director Sarah Hughes and, of course, the insanely talented cast of Amy Drake, Annie Kirkman, Oliver Mawdsley, Kiara Nicole Pillai and Charlie Ryan, whose hilarious multi-roling showed quite how talented they are.

"We’d like to dedicate this award to all the great, original Christmas shows and children’s work across the country made purely with local audiences in mind."

Aladdin will be on show from November 29 to December 28 at the SJT.

Tickets are available from the box office on 01723 370541, and online at www.sjt.uk.com