To celebrate breakthrough theatre talent across the UK, The Stage Debut Awards will return with a virtual ceremony on 27 September.

The general public are currently being asked to send in their nominations online here, with submissions closing on 31 July. They will then be able to vote for the Best West End Debut Award from a shortlist of candidates after the announcement is made on 13 August.

On the judging panel this year are: The Stage’s editor Alistair Smith, associate editor Lyn Gardner, lead critic Tim Bano and reviews editor Natasha Tripney, along with theatre critics Sam Marlowe and Bridget Minamore, plus Daily Mail entertainment columnist Baz Bamigboye.

Editor Smith, said: "2020 has been an extremely difficult year for everyone in theatre, but it has been especially difficult for those looking to establish their careers in a sector that has been decimated by lockdown and the coronavirus pandemic.

"Now, more than ever, we felt it was crucially important to continue to celebrate and champion emerging talent and ensure we can rebuild the best version of our sector possible. Theatre must continue to support and nurture talent from all backgrounds – the current crisis will make it increasingly challenging to enter and sustain a career in the theatre industry.

"We are especially grateful to all our fantastic sponsors who – in difficult times – understood why these awards are so important. We are very excited to be celebrating the achievements of our winners and nominees this year at a free virtual ceremony, which would not have been possible without our sponsors' generous support.

The awards will be streamed on The Stage website and Facebook page on Sunday 27 September at 7pm.