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.
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.
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.
5:00am - 6:30am
Whatever you’re up to, or not up to, we’re here doing our thing to keep you entertained.
6:30am - 10:00am
Start your day the Portsmouth way with great music, fun and games alongside local guests from all walks of life and the latest travel news to guide you through rush hour in the city. Served by Biscoes Solicitors.
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