January 9, 2025
The Stage 100 2025: Spotlight on the Top 10 Theatre Influencers
The Stage 100 list for 2025 celebrates the most influential figures shaping the theatre landscape in the UK. With playwrights, producers, directors, and visionaries, this year’s list highlights unparalleled creativity, cultural relevance, and a commitment to pushing boundaries. Here’s a breakdown of the top 10 and their remarkable contributions to theatre over the past year.
1. James Graham (Playwright)
Ranking in 2024: 9
James Graham takes the crown this year, a testament to his ability to craft plays that transcend the stage. His play Punch, which originated at Nottingham Playhouse, has sparked national conversations on youth violence and restorative justice, even being cited in both courtrooms and parliament. Graham’s Dear England, exploring Gareth Southgate’s transformative leadership of England’s football team, became a cultural phenomenon and returns to the National Theatre this year. With his Olivier Award win and his appointment as a trustee of the National Theatre, Graham continues to amplify theatre’s societal impact.
2. Michael Harrison (Michael Harrison Entertainment/Crossroads Pantomimes)
Ranking in 2024: 6
Michael Harrison’s productions have made him a household name in the industry. From the immersive reimagining of Starlight Express at Wembley Park Theatre to the critically acclaimed Hello, Dolly! at the London Palladium, Harrison’s portfolio exemplifies versatility. With partnerships ranging from Andrew Lloyd Webber to Cameron Mackintosh, his 2024 highlights included 23 pantomimes and the Broadway transfer of Sunset Boulevard. He’s set to dazzle again in 2025 with the return of Evita and a revamped Miss Saigon.
3. Nica Burns (Nimax and @sohoplace)
Ranking in 2024: 2
Burns continues to lead the charge for inclusivity and innovation in theatre. Under her stewardship, @sohoplace celebrated its second anniversary with a variety of productions, including Sensory Cinders, a panto tailored for audiences with learning disabilities. Nimax’s six West End theatres also remained vibrant hubs, hosting hits like Six and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. Burns’ commitment to accessibility and supporting emerging talent cements her as a key player in the industry.
4. Ted Stimpson, Michael Lynas, and Adam Speers (ATG Entertainment)
Ranking in 2024: 3
Ambassador Theatre Group (ATG) had a banner year, with a rebrand reflecting its expanding global influence. Its partnership with Broadway’s Jujamcyn has bolstered its international profile, while in-house productions like Cabaret and The Curious Case of Benjamin Button have garnered critical acclaim. The group also championed community initiatives, including creative learning programmes and free playwriting workshops, further solidifying its cultural and educational impact.
5. National Theatre Leadership (Rufus Norris, Indhu Rubasingham, Kate Varah, Clint Dyer, and Kash Bennett)
Ranking in 2024: 1
The National Theatre had an exceptional 2024, delivering a diverse repertoire that included Boys from the Blackstuff, The Grapes of Wrath, and Nye, starring Michael Sheen. While the decision to cut primary school touring sparked criticism, the team’s commitment to broadening access through innovations like early evening performances was commendable. Indhu Rubasingham’s upcoming leadership promises exciting changes for 2025 and beyond.
6. Andrew Lloyd Webber (Really Useful Group/LW Theatres)
Ranking in 2024: 5
Lloyd Webber’s resurgence in recent years continues with groundbreaking revivals of Sunset Boulevard on Broadway and Starlight Express in London. The maestro’s collaboration with Michael Harrison on The Illusionist, alongside his ongoing stewardship of six iconic theatres, underscores his enduring influence on musical theatre’s global stage.
7. Sonia Friedman (Sonia Friedman Productions)
Ranking in 2024: 7
With a staggering nine West End productions, Sonia Friedman remains a force in the theatre world. Her projects, from Mean Girls to Stranger Things: The Play, have brought new audiences to the theatre. Across the Atlantic, her Broadway productions like Stereophonic continue to set benchmarks for excellence.
8. Cameron Mackintosh (Delfont Mackintosh/Cameron Mackintosh Ltd)
Ranking in 2024: 4
Mackintosh’s empire of theatres and iconic productions like Les Misérables and The Phantom of the Opera continues to thrive. His 2024 revival of Oliver! drew rave reviews, and 2025 promises to be equally exciting with the return of Miss Saigon.
9. Howard Panter and Rosemary Squire (Trafalgar Entertainment)
Ranking in 2024: 8
This dynamic duo’s Trafalgar Entertainment expanded its venue portfolio, opening Fareham Live and securing long-term contracts for theatres like Eastbourne Theatres. Productions like Kiss Me, Kate and The Duchess (of Malfi) demonstrate their knack for pairing ambitious programming with commercial success.
10. Jamie Lloyd (Director)
Ranking in 2024: 10
Jamie Lloyd’s star power continues to shine, bolstered by his Olivier-winning revival of Sunset Boulevard. From Sigourney Weaver’s West End debut in The Tempest to Tom Holland’s Romeo and Juliet, Lloyd’s ability to attract Hollywood talent and reimagine classics makes him one of theatre’s most exciting creatives.
The Stage 100 for 2025 showcases the vibrancy, resilience, and creativity at the heart of UK theatre. At the top of the list, James Graham embodies the theatre’s ability to engage with pressing societal issues, using his platform to provoke meaningful discussions both on and off the stage. Michael Harrison’s work, from reviving beloved classics to creating groundbreaking immersive experiences, underscores the enduring appeal of large-scale productions that captivate audiences across generations. Nica Burns continues to champion innovation and accessibility, ensuring theatre remains inclusive for all.
Meanwhile, organisations like ATG Entertainment and the National Theatre demonstrate the delicate balance of artistic excellence and commercial success, forging new paths to bring theatre into the lives of wider audiences. Industry titans Andrew Lloyd Webber and Sonia Friedman remain steadfast in their contributions to both the West End and Broadway, their work serving as cornerstones of global theatre. Cameron Mackintosh’s timeless productions like Les Misérables and The Phantom of the Opera continue to thrive, highlighting the enduring appeal of great storytelling.
The inclusion of Howard Panter and Rosemary Squire of Trafalgar Entertainment speaks to the power of strategic venue management, pairing bold programming with a business-minded approach. Finally, Jamie Lloyd’s visionary direction demonstrates how a fresh take on familiar works can breathe new life into the classics and bring new talent to the forefront.
Together, these top 10 figures exemplify the multifaceted nature of theatre as both an art form and a business. Their collective achievements show that theatre is not merely surviving post-pandemic challenges but thriving with innovation, inclusivity, and relevance. The Stage 100 reflects a year of triumphs for an industry that continues to entertain, inspire, and push boundaries, ensuring that its legacy endures for generations to come.
The Stage 100 list for 2025 celebrates the most influential figures shaping the theatre landscape in the UK. With playwrights, producers, directors, and visionaries, this year’s list highlights unparalleled creativity, cultural relevance, and a commitment to pushing boundaries. Here’s a breakdown of the top 10 and their remarkable contributions to theatre over the past year.
1. James Graham (Playwright)
Ranking in 2024: 9
James Graham takes the crown this year, a testament to his ability to craft plays that transcend the stage. His play Punch, which originated at Nottingham Playhouse, has sparked national conversations on youth violence and restorative justice, even being cited in both courtrooms and parliament. Graham’s Dear England, exploring Gareth Southgate’s transformative leadership of England’s football team, became a cultural phenomenon and returns to the National Theatre this year. With his Olivier Award win and his appointment as a trustee of the National Theatre, Graham continues to amplify theatre’s societal impact.
2. Michael Harrison (Michael Harrison Entertainment/Crossroads Pantomimes)
Ranking in 2024: 6
Michael Harrison’s productions have made him a household name in the industry. From the immersive reimagining of Starlight Express at Wembley Park Theatre to the critically acclaimed Hello, Dolly! at the London Palladium, Harrison’s portfolio exemplifies versatility. With partnerships ranging from Andrew Lloyd Webber to Cameron Mackintosh, his 2024 highlights included 23 pantomimes and the Broadway transfer of Sunset Boulevard. He’s set to dazzle again in 2025 with the return of Evita and a revamped Miss Saigon.
3. Nica Burns (Nimax and @sohoplace)
Ranking in 2024: 2
Burns continues to lead the charge for inclusivity and innovation in theatre. Under her stewardship, @sohoplace celebrated its second anniversary with a variety of productions, including Sensory Cinders, a panto tailored for audiences with learning disabilities. Nimax’s six West End theatres also remained vibrant hubs, hosting hits like Six and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. Burns’ commitment to accessibility and supporting emerging talent cements her as a key player in the industry.
4. Ted Stimpson, Michael Lynas, and Adam Speers (ATG Entertainment)
Ranking in 2024: 3
Ambassador Theatre Group (ATG) had a banner year, with a rebrand reflecting its expanding global influence. Its partnership with Broadway’s Jujamcyn has bolstered its international profile, while in-house productions like Cabaret and The Curious Case of Benjamin Button have garnered critical acclaim. The group also championed community initiatives, including creative learning programmes and free playwriting workshops, further solidifying its cultural and educational impact.
5. National Theatre Leadership (Rufus Norris, Indhu Rubasingham, Kate Varah, Clint Dyer, and Kash Bennett)
Ranking in 2024: 1
The National Theatre had an exceptional 2024, delivering a diverse repertoire that included Boys from the Blackstuff, The Grapes of Wrath, and Nye, starring Michael Sheen. While the decision to cut primary school touring sparked criticism, the team’s commitment to broadening access through innovations like early evening performances was commendable. Indhu Rubasingham’s upcoming leadership promises exciting changes for 2025 and beyond.
6. Andrew Lloyd Webber (Really Useful Group/LW Theatres)
Ranking in 2024: 5
Lloyd Webber’s resurgence in recent years continues with groundbreaking revivals of Sunset Boulevard on Broadway and Starlight Express in London. The maestro’s collaboration with Michael Harrison on The Illusionist, alongside his ongoing stewardship of six iconic theatres, underscores his enduring influence on musical theatre’s global stage.
7. Sonia Friedman (Sonia Friedman Productions)
Ranking in 2024: 7
With a staggering nine West End productions, Sonia Friedman remains a force in the theatre world. Her projects, from Mean Girls to Stranger Things: The Play, have brought new audiences to the theatre. Across the Atlantic, her Broadway productions like Stereophonic continue to set benchmarks for excellence.
8. Cameron Mackintosh (Delfont Mackintosh/Cameron Mackintosh Ltd)
Ranking in 2024: 4
Mackintosh’s empire of theatres and iconic productions like Les Misérables and The Phantom of the Opera continues to thrive. His 2024 revival of Oliver! drew rave reviews, and 2025 promises to be equally exciting with the return of Miss Saigon.
9. Howard Panter and Rosemary Squire (Trafalgar Entertainment)
Ranking in 2024: 8
This dynamic duo’s Trafalgar Entertainment expanded its venue portfolio, opening Fareham Live and securing long-term contracts for theatres like Eastbourne Theatres. Productions like Kiss Me, Kate and The Duchess (of Malfi) demonstrate their knack for pairing ambitious programming with commercial success.
10. Jamie Lloyd (Director)
Ranking in 2024: 10
Jamie Lloyd’s star power continues to shine, bolstered by his Olivier-winning revival of Sunset Boulevard. From Sigourney Weaver’s West End debut in The Tempest to Tom Holland’s Romeo and Juliet, Lloyd’s ability to attract Hollywood talent and reimagine classics makes him one of theatre’s most exciting creatives.
The Stage 100 for 2025 showcases the vibrancy, resilience, and creativity at the heart of UK theatre. At the top of the list, James Graham embodies the theatre’s ability to engage with pressing societal issues, using his platform to provoke meaningful discussions both on and off the stage. Michael Harrison’s work, from reviving beloved classics to creating groundbreaking immersive experiences, underscores the enduring appeal of large-scale productions that captivate audiences across generations. Nica Burns continues to champion innovation and accessibility, ensuring theatre remains inclusive for all.
Meanwhile, organisations like ATG Entertainment and the National Theatre demonstrate the delicate balance of artistic excellence and commercial success, forging new paths to bring theatre into the lives of wider audiences. Industry titans Andrew Lloyd Webber and Sonia Friedman remain steadfast in their contributions to both the West End and Broadway, their work serving as cornerstones of global theatre. Cameron Mackintosh’s timeless productions like Les Misérables and The Phantom of the Opera continue to thrive, highlighting the enduring appeal of great storytelling.
The inclusion of Howard Panter and Rosemary Squire of Trafalgar Entertainment speaks to the power of strategic venue management, pairing bold programming with a business-minded approach. Finally, Jamie Lloyd’s visionary direction demonstrates how a fresh take on familiar works can breathe new life into the classics and bring new talent to the forefront.
Together, these top 10 figures exemplify the multifaceted nature of theatre as both an art form and a business. Their collective achievements show that theatre is not merely surviving post-pandemic challenges but thriving with innovation, inclusivity, and relevance. The Stage 100 reflects a year of triumphs for an industry that continues to entertain, inspire, and push boundaries, ensuring that its legacy endures for generations to come.
The Stage 100 list for 2025 celebrates the most influential figures shaping the theatre landscape in the UK. With playwrights, producers, directors, and visionaries, this year’s list highlights unparalleled creativity, cultural relevance, and a commitment to pushing boundaries. Here’s a breakdown of the top 10 and their remarkable contributions to theatre over the past year.
1. James Graham (Playwright)
Ranking in 2024: 9
James Graham takes the crown this year, a testament to his ability to craft plays that transcend the stage. His play Punch, which originated at Nottingham Playhouse, has sparked national conversations on youth violence and restorative justice, even being cited in both courtrooms and parliament. Graham’s Dear England, exploring Gareth Southgate’s transformative leadership of England’s football team, became a cultural phenomenon and returns to the National Theatre this year. With his Olivier Award win and his appointment as a trustee of the National Theatre, Graham continues to amplify theatre’s societal impact.
2. Michael Harrison (Michael Harrison Entertainment/Crossroads Pantomimes)
Ranking in 2024: 6
Michael Harrison’s productions have made him a household name in the industry. From the immersive reimagining of Starlight Express at Wembley Park Theatre to the critically acclaimed Hello, Dolly! at the London Palladium, Harrison’s portfolio exemplifies versatility. With partnerships ranging from Andrew Lloyd Webber to Cameron Mackintosh, his 2024 highlights included 23 pantomimes and the Broadway transfer of Sunset Boulevard. He’s set to dazzle again in 2025 with the return of Evita and a revamped Miss Saigon.
3. Nica Burns (Nimax and @sohoplace)
Ranking in 2024: 2
Burns continues to lead the charge for inclusivity and innovation in theatre. Under her stewardship, @sohoplace celebrated its second anniversary with a variety of productions, including Sensory Cinders, a panto tailored for audiences with learning disabilities. Nimax’s six West End theatres also remained vibrant hubs, hosting hits like Six and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. Burns’ commitment to accessibility and supporting emerging talent cements her as a key player in the industry.
4. Ted Stimpson, Michael Lynas, and Adam Speers (ATG Entertainment)
Ranking in 2024: 3
Ambassador Theatre Group (ATG) had a banner year, with a rebrand reflecting its expanding global influence. Its partnership with Broadway’s Jujamcyn has bolstered its international profile, while in-house productions like Cabaret and The Curious Case of Benjamin Button have garnered critical acclaim. The group also championed community initiatives, including creative learning programmes and free playwriting workshops, further solidifying its cultural and educational impact.
5. National Theatre Leadership (Rufus Norris, Indhu Rubasingham, Kate Varah, Clint Dyer, and Kash Bennett)
Ranking in 2024: 1
The National Theatre had an exceptional 2024, delivering a diverse repertoire that included Boys from the Blackstuff, The Grapes of Wrath, and Nye, starring Michael Sheen. While the decision to cut primary school touring sparked criticism, the team’s commitment to broadening access through innovations like early evening performances was commendable. Indhu Rubasingham’s upcoming leadership promises exciting changes for 2025 and beyond.
6. Andrew Lloyd Webber (Really Useful Group/LW Theatres)
Ranking in 2024: 5
Lloyd Webber’s resurgence in recent years continues with groundbreaking revivals of Sunset Boulevard on Broadway and Starlight Express in London. The maestro’s collaboration with Michael Harrison on The Illusionist, alongside his ongoing stewardship of six iconic theatres, underscores his enduring influence on musical theatre’s global stage.
7. Sonia Friedman (Sonia Friedman Productions)
Ranking in 2024: 7
With a staggering nine West End productions, Sonia Friedman remains a force in the theatre world. Her projects, from Mean Girls to Stranger Things: The Play, have brought new audiences to the theatre. Across the Atlantic, her Broadway productions like Stereophonic continue to set benchmarks for excellence.
8. Cameron Mackintosh (Delfont Mackintosh/Cameron Mackintosh Ltd)
Ranking in 2024: 4
Mackintosh’s empire of theatres and iconic productions like Les Misérables and The Phantom of the Opera continues to thrive. His 2024 revival of Oliver! drew rave reviews, and 2025 promises to be equally exciting with the return of Miss Saigon.
9. Howard Panter and Rosemary Squire (Trafalgar Entertainment)
Ranking in 2024: 8
This dynamic duo’s Trafalgar Entertainment expanded its venue portfolio, opening Fareham Live and securing long-term contracts for theatres like Eastbourne Theatres. Productions like Kiss Me, Kate and The Duchess (of Malfi) demonstrate their knack for pairing ambitious programming with commercial success.
10. Jamie Lloyd (Director)
Ranking in 2024: 10
Jamie Lloyd’s star power continues to shine, bolstered by his Olivier-winning revival of Sunset Boulevard. From Sigourney Weaver’s West End debut in The Tempest to Tom Holland’s Romeo and Juliet, Lloyd’s ability to attract Hollywood talent and reimagine classics makes him one of theatre’s most exciting creatives.
The Stage 100 for 2025 showcases the vibrancy, resilience, and creativity at the heart of UK theatre. At the top of the list, James Graham embodies the theatre’s ability to engage with pressing societal issues, using his platform to provoke meaningful discussions both on and off the stage. Michael Harrison’s work, from reviving beloved classics to creating groundbreaking immersive experiences, underscores the enduring appeal of large-scale productions that captivate audiences across generations. Nica Burns continues to champion innovation and accessibility, ensuring theatre remains inclusive for all.
Meanwhile, organisations like ATG Entertainment and the National Theatre demonstrate the delicate balance of artistic excellence and commercial success, forging new paths to bring theatre into the lives of wider audiences. Industry titans Andrew Lloyd Webber and Sonia Friedman remain steadfast in their contributions to both the West End and Broadway, their work serving as cornerstones of global theatre. Cameron Mackintosh’s timeless productions like Les Misérables and The Phantom of the Opera continue to thrive, highlighting the enduring appeal of great storytelling.
The inclusion of Howard Panter and Rosemary Squire of Trafalgar Entertainment speaks to the power of strategic venue management, pairing bold programming with a business-minded approach. Finally, Jamie Lloyd’s visionary direction demonstrates how a fresh take on familiar works can breathe new life into the classics and bring new talent to the forefront.
Together, these top 10 figures exemplify the multifaceted nature of theatre as both an art form and a business. Their collective achievements show that theatre is not merely surviving post-pandemic challenges but thriving with innovation, inclusivity, and relevance. The Stage 100 reflects a year of triumphs for an industry that continues to entertain, inspire, and push boundaries, ensuring that its legacy endures for generations to come.
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tickadoo Inc.
447 Broadway, New York, NY 10013
Quick Links
Company
tickadoo © 2025. All Rights Reserved.
Your trusted source for official tickets.
Discover tickadoo,
Discover entertainment.
tickadoo Inc.
447 Broadway, New York, NY 10013
Quick Links
Company
tickadoo © 2025. All Rights Reserved.