A rewarding year in the South West

Our biggest ever awards evening

 

 

 

 

2025’s South West awards saw a new councillor, a new venue (to meet demand), a new organising committee and a new ticketing system - what could possibly go wrong?

In fact, very little!  Over 425 people attended – a record number for the region and were treated to an excellent evening celebrating all that is good about amateur theatre in the South West! The new venue was Sandy Park, Exeter – home of the Rugby Premiership’s Exeter Chiefs and they looked after the proceedings very well – nothing was too much trouble and the meal for so many people was excellent. A balloon sculpted photo area added to the effects, with multiple TV screens to ensure everyone could keep up with proceedings all the way through.

Events were hosted by new Regional Councillor, Matthew Heaton, with National President Graham Liverton and Past President, Nick Lawrence as guests of honour.

With 117 nominated groups, 54 awards were presented to winners from right across the region, in a lovely relaxed atmosphere of celebration which emphasised the success and recognition in receiving a nomination, just as much as an award.

An excellent evening was had by all. We’ll be sending out a survey to see what people enjoyed about the event, and the evening, to see what we need to do to keep the awards process fun and fresh!

Matthew Heaton