Overview
- Dame Elaine Paige received the 2026 Olivier Awards Special Award, presented on stage by Lord Andrew Lloyd-Webber who called her his "oldest friend" and "the First Lady of musical theatres".
- A message from Queen Camilla, read at the ceremony, praised Paige for bringing "huge joy to untold numbers of people" and for defining musical theatre over decades.
- Video tributes from Sir Tim Rice and Hugh Jackman played before the presentation, with lyricist Don Black saluting her "god-given voice" and "uncontrollable giggle".
- In her acceptance, Paige called the moment "a bit of a pinch-me moment," spoke of early rejections, and credited her father's motto "perseverance furthers" for keeping her going.
- She said Evita changed her life and urged young performers to find their people, their voice, and their courage while ignoring anyone who says it cannot be done.