The Spotlight Awards

Celebrating the vibrant world of amateur dramatics in Hampshire

Brought to you by Express FM, in partnership with The Kings Theatre, Portsmouth, The Spotlight Awards is a brand-new event shining a light on the incredible talent within the local amateur theatre scene.

The awards ceremony will take place on Monday 8th June 2026, featuring live creative performances and awards across a variety of categories, from Best Actor and Best Play to the Unsung Hero Award.

We want to recognise excellence, dedication and creativity in all areas of production, both on and off the stage. Whether you're part of a full-scale musical or an intimate studio play, this is your chance to step into the spotlight.

The Judging Process

To ensure a fair and consistent approach, all productions submitted for consideration will be evaluated by a panel of impartial judges using a standardised scoring system. Judges will attend selected productions performed between 1st May 2025 and 30th April 2026.

Most award categories will be judged by this panel, while select awards - such as Best Touring Professional Production and the Unsung Hero Award - will be decided by public vote.

Productions will be assessed on various criteria including performance quality, direction, technical execution, and overall audience impact. A shortlist of finalists will be announced in spring 2026, with winners revealed on awards night.

Submit a Production for Consideration

If your amateur dramatic company is based within the PO postcode area, and you’re staging a production between 1st May 2025 and 30th April 2026, you are eligible to enter.

Judges will be assigned to attend your production and provide a professional, impartial evaluation. Please note: complimentary tickets will be required per production, which will be arranged closer to the performance date.

Production Submission Form

Who is your theatre hero?

As part of The Spotlight Awards, nominations are now open for the 2026 Unsung Hero Award!

This isn't about who has the most fans, it’s about who has the biggest heart and greatest impact. We want to hear the stories of the volunteers, the backstage legends and the quiet heroes who keep our theatre scene thriving.

How to nominate your unsung hero:

1. Go to this form.
2. Tell us why your nominee is a hero.
3. Help us give them the spotlight they deserve at the Theatre Royal this June!

Terms & Conditions for Award Submission

• Productions must take place between 1st May 2025 and 30th April 2026.
• Submitting companies must be based within a PO postcode in Hampshire.
• Only amateur dramatic productions are eligible for consideration.
• Judges will be assigned based on availability and location.
• Companies must provide complimentary tickets for judges.
• Submission does not guarantee nomination. Finalists will be chosen based on cumulative judging scores.
• Public voting categories will be hosted separately via the Express FM website.
• The organising team reserves the right to withdraw or amend categories based on entry volume or eligibility.
• By submitting a production, you agree to these terms and conditions.

More From Express

Read about Express FM’s new student radio partnership

Express20: Celebrating 20 years!

Watch our Track of the Week video

Feature on Portsmouth's Community Billboard