Battersea Arts Centre wins Theatre of the Year award

A local theatre has been announced Theatre of the Year in Stage UK's annual awards ceremony.

Battersea Arts Centre on Lavender Hill was awarded the prestigious accolade in a ceremony at Theatre Royal Drury Lane on Monday (January 31).

Based in the old Battersea Town Hall, Battersea Arts Centre is one of the foremost creative hubs in the local community, supporting people in their artistic endeavours with a space to make and share their work.

In the last year it has staged fringe theatre, hosted global stars such as Emily Ratajkowski, supported the cutting edge of dance choreography – and not forgetting the months it served as a walk-in vaccination clinic.

Taking to social media to celebrate their award, shared jointly with Marlowe Theatre in Canterbury, Battersea Arts Centre wrote: "We're delighted to share this award with the brilliant @marlowetheatre who's incredible work alongside our fellow nominees @donmarwarehouse @royalderngate @lyricbelfast @pitlochryft has inspired us all during what has been a challenging year.

"Our huge thanks go out to our artists, audiences & funders whose vital support this past year has been critical in helping us continue to put access & our community at the heart of everything we do."