In addition, playwright Michael Frayn, whose Noises Off is currently being revived at the West End's Novello Theatre and whose Democracy is soon to be revived at the Old Vic, received the Outstanding Achievement Award, in recognition of a writing career spanning more than 40 years, for both his plays and books. Matilda was nominated alongside the National's One Man, Two Guvnors and the Royal Court's production of Constellations. It was presented by Imelda Staunton and Michael Ball to Tim Minchin, Dennis Kelly and Matthew Warchus, who respectively wrote the music, book and directed Matilda.
Warchus commented, "We feel very lucky but you have to remember that whenever we watch the show we see an audience explode with enthusiasm, which is like a prize or reward every time it happens. We try not to take it for granted and that’s the real privilege, to see the connection with the audience."
Frayn received his award from fellow playwright Tom Stoppard.
