The curtain falls on the 29th Eagle Awards

On Sunday 20 July 2025, Derby Theatre once again rolled out the red carpet to host the 29th Eagle Awards, a glittering evening dedicated to celebrating the extraordinary talent and dedication of Derby and Derbyshire’s amateur theatre community. 

The Eagle Awards are a highlight of the region’s cultural calendar, celebrating Derby and Derbyshire’s vibrant amateur theatre community. Designed exclusively by Royal Crown Derby, the coveted Eagle statuettes are awarded each year to individuals and companies who excel across a range of categories – from exceptional productions to outstanding performances and behind-the-scenes achievements. 

Guests enjoyed an unforgettable evening bursting with pzazz and panache, featuring an incredible line-up of live performances. Huge thanks go to DALEDIVA Choir, Des Coleman, Rising Stars Musical Theatre, Belper Musical Theatre Juniors, Lady Rose, Owen Brindley, and Kristian Thomas Company, each of whom lit up the stage with energy and brilliance. 

The night was expertly compered by the inimitable Morgan Brind, who kept proceedings lively and entertaining from start to finish. 

BSL interpretation was provided by Trish Wright from The Inclusivity Group, ensuring accessibility for all, with additional support from LEOS Musical Theatre Company in championing inclusion throughout the event. 

Our heartfelt thanks go to the phenomenal judging panel and presenters – Owen Brindley, Peter John Gemmell, David Orange, Des Coleman, Kev Castle, Judith Hanson, Paul Brenham-Foster, Kate Viles, Wyn Hinks, Robert Towle, Mathew Shepherd, Debbie Ainsworth and Tracy Manifold – for lending their expertise and time to make this year’s awards such a success. 

Thank you to Team Derby Theatre, Carraig Quiala and Bethan Wakefield, for their tireless efforts behind the scenes to make the evening run seamlessly.  

Special thanks also to Kirsty at Erewash Sound for interviewing winners on the night – listen back to those interviews here 

And finally, a huge well done and heartfelt thanks to Cheryl Mitchell, the driving force behind organising the Eagle Awards for 10 years. Cheryl has dedicated incredible passion and commitment to making this celebration of amateur theatre a highlight of the cultural calendar. This year marks her final event as she steps down to enjoy a well-earned retirement. Cheryl shared her reflections on the journey: “Ten years – gone in a flash, but what an incredible journey it’s been.” 

“I feel incredibly lucky to have shared this time with such talented and passionate people. The amateur theatre community in Derby and Derbyshire is alive with vibrancy and true community spirit. Thank you for your unwavering support and dedication.  

Here’s to the future — and to the continued success of the Eagle Awards!” 

One of the most heartfelt moments of the evening came from Eagle Award winner Luke Grainger, who shared his story about his mum, who is bravely battling cancer. She was able to enjoy the opening night of Shrek; a memory Luke treasures. “She was devastated that she couldn’t come to the Eagles, but I told her not to worry because I didn’t think I was going to win – I was wrong,” said Luke. “I rang her in the interval where she sang congratulations to me. She cried when I gave her the award and cried again when she heard I had dedicated it to her. She’s an amazing woman who has inspired me and supported me in every decision I’ve made. I couldn’t be prouder of her – she’s the one who deserves all the awards. The Eagle is now above her bed in the living room watching over her.” 

As the curtain closes on a spectacular 29th year, we’re already looking ahead to 2026 – when The Eagle Awards will celebrate its 30th anniversary! Expect an even bigger, bolder celebration of amateur theatre excellence, with surprises in store for this landmark year. Stay tuned for details you won’t want to miss.