The Queen has lauded Dame Elaine Paige, declaring the musical theatre icon has brought "huge joy to untold numbers of people" as she was presented with a prestigious honour at the Olivier Awards.
The celebrated singer, known for her starring roles in productions such as cats">Cats and evita">Evita, received the 2026 Special Award, marking a significant moment in her decades-long career.
The accolade was presented by Lord Andrew Lloyd-Webber, who affectionately described Dame Elaine as his "oldest friend" and "the first lady of musical theatres".
He read a message from Camilla, which stated: "I was delighted to learn you were to receive this year’s special award of the Oliviers 2026. I can think of no more fitting recipient."
The Queen further praised Dame Elaine’s "talent, commitment and generosity of spirit" which have made her a "truly defining figure in musical theatre”, adding, "you have quite simply brought huge joy to untold numbers of people across the globe, and we are all in your debt."
Accepting the award on stage, Dame Elaine, who also hosts a popular musicals programme on BBC Radio 2, described the moment as "a bit of a pinch-me moment".
Reflecting on her illustrious journey, she remarked: "Music and theatre have been the mainstay, really, well, the major force in my life and when I look back, I really can hardly believe the journey and the longevity of it all, to be honest."
She candidly recalled the early challenges of her career, including "bit-parts and chorus lines and lots of rejection and long stretches when the phone doesn’t ring".
Dame Elaine spoke of the familiar performer’s dread – "‘Oh I’m never going to work again’" – and the struggle to persevere. She credited her father’s unwavering support and his motto, "perseverance furthers”, for keeping her going.
These formative years, she explained, instilled in her "resilience and determination and commitment and also a deep appreciation for every single opportunity when it came, and luckily, eventually it did with Evita." She specifically thanked Andrew Lloyd-Webber and Tim Rice, stating, "that show really did change my life completely."
Offering words of wisdom to emerging talent, Dame Elaine urged: "I wanted to say to the next generation, may you find your people, your voice and your courage and make sure to ignore anyone that says it can’t be done."
She expressed hope that they might one day experience a similar triumph, adding, "and may you perhaps one day stand where I’m standing now, slightly bewildered but deeply grateful for every collaboration, every performance, every note that has led me here."
Prior to her acceptance, a series of video tributes from prominent theatre and film figures were played, including songwriter Sir Tim Rice and actor Hugh Jackman.
Lyricist Don Black also shared his admiration for Dame Elaine’s "god-given voice" and her "uncontrollable giggle".
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