Warrington-based CODYS Youth Theatre is celebrating after scooping nine awards at this year’s Northern Stage Awards, recognising its performances and behind-the-scenes talent.
The group received an impressive 37 shortlisted nominations for its productions of The SpongeBob Musical and Musicality, before taking home nine awards on the night against youth musical theatre groups from across the North West.
Among the winners was Joseph Hampson, who was named Best Leading Youth Male Character in a Musical for his portrayal of SpongeBob, while Lily Loftus won Best Leading Youth Female in a Musical for her role as Sandy in The SpongeBob Musical.
The production also won Best Ensemble Performance in a Musical for Eden Cannon, Lily Rowen, Emma Thompson and Zak Harrison, who performed as The Electric Skates.
Eden Cannon received the Polaris Star Award for Musicals for her work in The SpongeBob Musical, while Emily Woodward was named Best Musical Director.
The production’s props team was also recognised, winning Best Props on the Northern Stage. The award celebrated the work of Melanie Pollard, Martin Pollard, Connie Pollard, Rachel Hampson, Emma Hampson, Shell Taylor and Reggi Hennessey.
There was further success for Musicality, with Elizabeth Usher winning the Electra Star Award for Drama and Revues, while Sam Grimes received the Polaris Star Award for Drama and Revues.
Musicality also won Best Essential Information Programme.
A spokesperson for CODYS said: “It is an absolute honour to have our cast and crew recognised for their hard work on our shows over the last year and we are incredibly proud of every single CODYS member that took part, whether on the stage or behind the scenes.
“Huge thanks to The Northern Stage Awards for everything.”
The awards success comes as the Warrington youth theatre looks ahead to its next production, Les Misérables: School Edition.
The show will be performed at The Brindley Theatre from March 10-13, 2027, with tickets on sale now through the Brindley box office.
