You might have thought that starring in one of the West End’s most popular shows would make you immune to the novelty of seeing War Horse’s magnificent Joey in the flesh or the dazzling emerald of Wicked costumes up close. Judging from this week’s incredible photo shoot to celebrate the BBC Radio 2 Audience Award, the only Olivier Award decided solely by public vote, you’d be very wrong.
As this year’s 16 eligible shows gathered at the New London Theatre to have their photo taken by The Guardian’s David Levene, Mamma Mia!’s Lycra-clad leading trio posed for excited selfies in the stalls, while an exquisitely dressed Rafiki played photographer to capture her fellow Disney’s The Lion King co-star thrilled to be standing next to not one but four Matildas.
After make-up touches and elaborate costume changes in the foyer, the 16 shows took to the stage to pose alongside one another to create a rare sight for theatre fans, as The Woman In Black mingled with Stomp and The Bodyguard met The 39 Steps.
You can view the final shot here and take a glimpse of the photo shoot in action in our behind the scenes gallery above.
The winner of this year’s BBC Radio 2 Audience Award will be revealed on 13 April at the 38th Olivier Awards with MasterCard. Make sure you have your say as to who takes home the prize and be in with the chance of winning tickets to the four shortlisted shows by voting at www.olivierawards.com/vote