2021 Offwestend Theatre OnComm Awards
The OnComm Performance Awards
What they are
The OnComms (Online Commendations) are a new type of award for theatre presented online. They were launched by OffWestEnd, the London-based hub for independent, alternative and fringe theatre in May 2020 in the light of the lockdown arising from the Covid-19 pandemic.
How it works
You can invite the OnComm assessors to view your online production or event. If they decide it is award-worthy and it receives sufficient recommendations, it will then be put forward for an OnComm. Once approved, the OnComm will be announced online and via social media.
Eligibility criteria
Please note: the Eligibility criteria have been refined for 2021.
Shows must fall into one or more of the following categories:
- Recording (direct) – a recording filmed with little or no editing, and with no more than 1-2 cameras
- Recording (edited) – a recording filmed with several cameras and “significant” editing
- Live streamed production
- Platform-based – a production using a platform such as Zoom
- Audio production
- Series – i.e. of separate short pieces under an “umbrella” title
- Immersive or interactive – i.e. with active audience participation / involvement
- Innovative – you will need to explain exactly what is “innovative” about your show
- YPT – a production aimed at children or young people
Please check the full criteria and guidance on the Offies website.
How to apply
There is no fee to submit your show for an OnComm but from 1 January 2021, your show must be added to the online show listings on www.offwestend.com before it can be considered for an OnComm. Click this link to find out more.
Scenesaver is the host site for the OnComms and we want to showcase your work. Register and add your production here: https://www.scenesaver.co.uk/add-production/
Income to you
Scenesaver is committed to helping to generate funds for the creative sector in these difficult times. When you upload your footage, Scenesaver encourages its users and subscribers to view your work and they will be invited to make a donation – perhaps equivalent to the cost of a ticket – and, at this time, 100% of these donations will be passed to the company or venue presenting that show or event.
About OffWestEnd
OffWestEnd supports and celebrates the work of over 100 independent, alternative and fringe theatres across London. Established over 10 years ago, it is now a well respected and popular hub for information on the work of all these theatres.
Each (normal) year, OffWestEnd assessors see over 400 shows across London and propose nominations in the various Offies awards categories, which include performance, design, technical areas, music and directing. The annual Offies awards ceremony is now the highlight of the “offwestend” calendar – attracting over 500 guests when it was last held in March 2020.
The talent and creativity of many well known names – including Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Rufus Norris, Ardal O’Hanlon and Arinzé Kene – were first recognised with an Offie award or started their careers at an OffWestEnd venue.
