A Comprehensive Guide to the Critics’ Awards for Theatre in Scotland (CATS)
Welcome to our in-depth look at the Critics’ Awards for Theatre in Scotland (CATS). At Acting Coach Scotland, we’re passionate about championing excellence in Scottish theatre. In this guide, we’ll explore the history of CATS, its award categories, its impact on the Scottish theatre scene, and some notable winners from over the years.
What Are the Critics’ Awards for Theatre in Scotland?
The Critics’ Awards for Theatre in Scotland—often referred to simply as CATS—were established in 2003 to celebrate outstanding achievements in Scottish theatre. Created by a group of professional theatre critics who write for Scotland’s leading newspapers and other publications, the awards shine a spotlight on the best productions, performances, and creative contributions across the country.
CATS has quickly become one of the most prestigious markers of excellence in the Scottish theatre calendar. Each year, the awards highlight the vibrancy, innovation, and passion that define Scotland’s theatrical scene—from big-stage national companies to up-and-coming grassroots ensembles.
Who Organises the CATS?
CATS is the brainchild of Scotland’s top theatre critics, who come together under the banner of the Scottish Theatre Critics Group. This collective comprises writers for major Scottish newspapers, websites, and magazines. By pooling their expertise and critical insight, the group ensures that the awards reflect a broad and informed consensus on theatrical excellence.
You can learn more directly from their official website:
https://criticsawards.theatrescotland.com/
When and Where Do the CATS Take Place?
Each year, the ceremony is held in late spring or early summer—often in June—in a rotating roster of celebrated Scottish theatres. Past ceremonies have taken place at:
Tron Theatre (Glasgow)
Royal Lyceum Theatre (Edinburgh)
Dundee Rep Theatre (Dundee)
Perth Theatre (Perth)
By moving around Scotland, CATS encourages greater engagement from audiences, theatre-makers, and critics beyond just the central belt, reflecting the truly national scope of Scottish theatre.
Award Categories
While CATS categories have evolved slightly over the years, the core set of awards remains consistent. Commonly recognised categories include:
Best Production
Best Director
Best Ensemble
Best Female Performance
Best Male Performance
Best New Play
Best Design (encompassing set, costume, and lighting)
Best Music and Sound
Best Production for Children and Young People
These categories reflect not only the quality of acting but also the creative talents behind the scenes, ensuring that directors, playwrights, designers, composers, and technical teams all receive well-deserved recognition.
Recent Notable Winners
While every year brings exciting new work to the forefront, here are a few highlights from recent ceremonies. For a full list of current and past winners, always refer to the official CATS website.
Best Production
Past winners include:“The James Plays” by Rona Munro (National Theatre of Scotland & National Theatre of Great Britain)
“Black Watch” by Gregory Burke (National Theatre of Scotland)
“Red Dust Road” by Tanika Gupta, adapted from the memoir by Jackie Kay (National Theatre of Scotland)
Best Director
Directors such as John Tiffany, Vicky Featherstone, and Wils Wilson have all been recognized for their innovative and visionary interpretations, whether in new writing or classic revivals.Best Ensemble
Companies like Dundee Rep Ensemble and Citizens Theatre have won multiple times, reflecting a strong tradition of collaborative stage excellence in Scotland’s repertory theatres.Best New Play
Scotland’s theatrical community boasts a rich vein of contemporary playwrights. Writers such as Stef Smith, Douglas Maxwell, and Kieran Hurley have been among those recognized for bringing bold new voices to Scottish stages.Best Production for Children and Young People
A testament to Scotland’s thriving family-friendly theatre scene, companies like Catherine Wheels Theatre Company and Visible Fictions have consistently pushed boundaries to create engaging, imaginative productions for younger audiences.
The Impact of Winning a CATS Award
Winning a Critics’ Award for Theatre in Scotland is more than just receiving a trophy—it can:
Elevate a Company’s Profile
A CATS win often leads to greater visibility, funding opportunities, and invitations to tour nationally or internationally.Boost Careers
For actors, directors, and playwrights, a CATS nod can act as a springboard to further professional opportunities in Scotland, the UK, and beyond.Strengthen Scottish Theatre
The attention generated by the awards helps to draw new audiences, spark discussions on artistic merit, and encourage ongoing innovation.
How to Experience CATS-Winning Productions
If you’re an aspiring actor or theatre professional—or simply a theatre lover—you may want to follow the CATS shortlist each year to discover must-see shows. Whether you’re in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Dundee, Aberdeen, or further afield, keep an eye on local theatre listings to catch CATS-recognised productions. Many winners go on tour or are restaged due to popular demand, giving audiences across Scotland more chances to experience award-winning theatre.
Getting Involved: Aspiring Actors and Theatre Creatives
At Acting Coach Scotland, we know the power of recognition in shaping an artist’s career. Here are a few ways to work towards a future CATS award (or at least become a part of Scotland’s thriving theatre scene):
Develop Your Craft
Enrol in professional acting courses, workshops, or drama school programs to hone your skills in voice, movement, and character work.Network
Attend Scottish theatre festivals and events (including the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and local Fringe events) to meet other industry professionals—directors, dramaturgs, and company managers.Collaborate
Many award-winning productions are born out of close-knit collaborations among writers, actors, directors, and designers.Stay Informed
Follow theatre critics and relevant social media accounts for updates on auditions, new productions, and emerging companies.
Looking Ahead
As the Scottish theatre landscape continues to evolve, CATS remains a cornerstone event that both documents and celebrates its success. Each year brings fresh ideas, bold interpretations, and new voices—all of which serve to invigorate our stages and captivate our audiences.
If you’re curious about this year’s winners or want to research past award recipients, don’t forget to visit the official Critics’ Awards for Theatre in Scotland website:
criticsawards.theatrescotland.com
Final Thoughts
From cutting-edge new writing to fresh spins on the classics, Scottish theatre is constantly thriving. The Critics’ Awards for Theatre in Scotland shine a light on the country’s most remarkable productions and professionals, celebrating the spirit of innovation and artistry that fuels our stages.
We hope this guide inspires you—whether you’re a budding actor, seasoned practitioner, or theatre enthusiast—to engage with Scotland’s vibrant theatrical community. For more acting tips, training opportunities, and resources, explore our offerings at Acting Coach Scotland. Who knows? You or your collaborators might just be the next CATS winners!
Ready to elevate your acting skills?
Get in touch with Acting Coach Scotland today to learn more about our classes, workshops, and bespoke coaching programs. We look forward to helping you shine on stage—maybe even on a CATS stage one day!
