Stars gather for new theatre awards

Tuesday 24th April 2012

Some of the biggest stars of West End theatre gathered to collect a host of new awards voted for exclusively by young people.

From the lead in Les Miserables to the artistic director of War Horse, theatre big wigs attended the Mousetrap Theatre Projects award ceremony at The Old Vic Tunnels in Waterloo.

Mousetrap is a charity which specialises in theatre education, enhancing the lives of disadvantaged youngsters aged 15 to 23.

The idea of the awards, named the Mousetraps, were thought up by the young members.

Elly Hopkins, from the charity, said: "It's a big feat for them and they pulled together and pulled it off.

"It was lovely to watch them present the awards. Many of the actors are their idols."

Shows in the West End were each given a score for different aspects of the performance. They were tallied up for the best score award.

David Shannon, who plays Jean Valjean in Les Miserables, collected the award for best score, along with Craig Mather who plays Marius, and understudy Rob Vickers. The stars also took home the award for best musical.

Mervyn Millar, creative associate and artistic director of War Horse, accepted the award for Best Play, while Andy Bryant, who plays Boq in Wicked took home the title for show I would most recommend to a friend.

The youngsters voted Chicago as the sexiest cast, while best stage design went to The Lion King.

Winners across the board spoke of their delight at having their work recognised by the newest generation of theatregoers.

Sheridan Smith tweeted her thanks to the charity after being voted the winner of the outstanding performance category for her starring role in Legally Blonde.

The Mousetraps will now take place annually thanks to the support of the Society Of London Theatre and D'Oyly Carte Charitable Trust.

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