Andrew Lloyd-Webber, Phoebe Waller-Bridge and Sam Mendes are among those recognised as part of The Stage 100 list this year.
Annually, The Stage lists 100 influential people working within the theatre industry. This year it has been reimagined to reflect the effort of those “who have gone above and beyond in helping theatre survive the COVID-19 crisis.”
For the first time, The Stage 100 has been left at 99 named individuals, the final unnamed space intended for all theatre workers workers campaigning and carrying out inspirational work.
The list has been separated by five categories to represent the ways in which recipients have responded to the pandemic, including putting on shows, serving the community, lobbying, campaigning and fundraising.
Sir Ian McKellan ia also included on the list. The veteran actor is listed alongside Sir Kenneth Branagh, Sir Derek Jacobi and Dames Judi Dench and Maggie Smith for their fundraising efforts.
Reflecting on the list, The Stage have said “about half of this year’s list recognises a selection of inspiring theatremakers who put shows on – whether that was socially distanced in theatres, in car parks, on TV, online or on doorsteps.”
As well as taking performances online, many actors and theatre workers have directed their efforts and energy towards their local communities. The Stage state that the other half of the list includes those who have had to “pivot and throw their creative energies elsewhere” whilst also acknowledging those who have struggled throughout the pandemic, “helping to ensure their colleagues’ survival.”
Words by Neve Gordon-Farleigh.
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