Oliviers 2022

Not seen it either, so this is no comment on those involved, but it would be remarkable if the absolutely best performances in all four categories happened to come from the same production. It's not so much that it would be a coincidence. A quality production casts great people, and gives them good direction and allows plenty of rehearsal time. I understand Cabaret had a longer than normal rehearsal time, which all helps bring out the best in already talented actors.

More likely it's the people who get to vote are as human as the rest of us and they get caught up in the emotion of a great overall show and experience, and that carries over into how they vote. It reminds me of the pop music awards when the pop music fans vote for their favourite in every category, including Best Hair.

I'd argue that it's always been that way, and it just becomes more obvious as you get older, but when the costs of a slick production, with slick PR, is reflected in ticket prices that are eye-watering, then it questions how much of an award for singing and acting is for the singing and acting, and whether excellent singing and acting in more humble surroundings can compete. If actors are picking parts based on what is most likely to get them an award, will they insist on ever more lavish productions?

Daftest comment just now on London Tonight.
"Coming up, how the west end was the big winner at the Oliviers".
Considering the awards are for West end shows its no wonder it was the big winner!!

If I weren't already familiar with the story I'd assume it was a sex show based on last night's performance.

My recording ended just as the award for outstanding achievement in Opera was shown. Was that the end?

I fully understand the need to edit things down for tv, but I don't think the 'also awarded' bit worked well. Too many not that interesting speeches in a row that didn't tell me anything about the production or performance that was being rewarded. I had to peer at the screen to see what had won. Even if they are going to edit things down, I wish they could find a way to show a small clip from each production nominated.

Good news for those upset that Liz Carr didn't get proper attention on ITV last night - she was featured prominently on Channel 4 news.

A quick question - I’m intrigued how they put the Oliviers show together when some of those performing (in full make up and costume) are also in the audience for the evening. People like Clive Carter, Beverley Knight, the guys from Back The Future etc.

Are the performances filmed earlier on then slotted in for the TV broadcast? I’m assuming not, so how does the evening work for those who are attending AND performing?

Thanks in advance!

Thank you. I guess they’re used to quick changes given their profession!

Or perhaps they could perform the Elephant Love Medley? I agree, I was a bit disappointed when I realised the Oliviers performance was going to be pretty much what they did at the Royal Variety…

There's a summary of the 'best bits' from the Oliviers on the BBC

www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-61024410

Elliot Levey's comments about big stars trying theatre is interesting.

"I judge actors on their ability to work on stage," says Levey. "When big stars come and try [theatre], if they can't do it, I sort of write them off. I think they're great and wonderful, but a bit of me goes 'you're not proper'. Eddie Redmayne is proper."

It was probably intended only as praise for Redmayne, but it also feels like he has some stars in mind who considers are not proper...