Dundee Rep picks up three CATS Awards

Dundee Rep Theatre took three awards at yesterday's Critics' Awards for Theatre in Scotland (CATS).

It was the Rep's production of The Elephant Man, staged last October that brought success in three categories including best director for Jemima Levick.

It was third time lucky for the Rep associate director, who has received two previous nominations in the category.

Kevin Lennon took best male performance for his role as John Merrick in the same play, while Alex Lowde (set) and Colin Grenfell (lighting) were presented with the award for best design.

Kevin had double reason for celebration-marking his 31st birthday and welcoming his parents from Ireland for the ceremony.

In his acceptance speech he said, "I would like to thank director Jemima Levick and of course my mum and dad, who are here today.

"It's been a great experience but then Dundee Rep is a very special community."

Receiving her award Jemima said, "You're only as good as the people you're working with. I would really like to thank (Rep artistic director and chief executive) James Brining because it was his idea to do it."

Set designer Alex Lowde said, "A huge thank you to everyone at the Rep. Dundee Rep is a really special place to work."

Now in its eighth year, the awards presentation took place at the Festival Theatre Edinburgh and was attended by some of the leading figures in Scottish theatre. Guest presenters were director of the Edinburgh International Festival Jonathan Mills and actress and comedienne Karen Dunbar.

Dundee Rep has certainly racked up a host of awards since the inception of CATS, taking 15 across the categories and putting itself ahead of any other Scottish theatre.

http://www.dundeereptheatre.coluk/