It's Showtime
Sunday 5 July 2026 - Richmond Theatre
Where young performers take their first bow on a truly iconic stage
This summer, Stage Nation proudly launches its very first live event at the historic Richmond Theatre. A professional venue steeped in theatrical heritage, wrapped in red plush, gilt detail, and real West End magic.
For our performers, this isn’t just a show, it’s their moment. Lights up, music ready, audience waiting. A confidence-building, unforgettable experience on a stage that has hosted generations of talent.
Connecting Young Performers
With Industry Professionals
Special Guest Host
Our special guest host will lead the event, full of energy and help create an unforgettable day for every performer both on and off the stage.
Industry Mentors
An Industry mentor will be present to support, inspire, and share their knowledge, giving performers valuable insight into the world of professional performance.
Guest Performers
Guest performers from top performing arts colleges will take to the stage, giving students the opportunity to watch, learn and be inspired by performers who are training at the highest level.
Abi Carter-Simpson
Special Guest Host
We are delighted to welcome Abi Carter-Simpson as the official host for The Debut 2026 at Richmond Theatre.
Abi is a comedian, singer-songwriter, actor and presenter, and was a semi-finalist on Britain’s Got Talent 2023. With over 12 years of experience performing on stage and screen, she brings professionalism, warmth, and incredible energy to every audience she performs for.
Trained at the Guildford School of Acting and passionate about supporting young performers, Abi is the perfect person to guide our performers through an unforgettable show day, helping create an atmosphere that is exciting, supportive, and truly special from start to finish.
Laine Theatre Arts
Guest Performers
We are proud to welcome performers from Laine Theatre Arts, one of the UK’s leading professional training colleges, known for producing outstanding performers working across musical theatre, commercial dance, and the wider performance industry.
For our young performers, this is more than just watching a performance. It’s the opportunity to see the standard of the professional world up close, meet performers who are training and working at the highest level, and feel inspired by what is possible with dedication, training, and passion.
This is about raising aspirations, building confidence, and showing students exactly where their training could take them.
Matt Wesley
Industry Mentor
Matt is a choreographer, resident director and associate choreographer whose work spans theatre, live entertainment, television and film. His professional credits include major productions such as Chicago, The Bodyguard, Priscilla Queen of the Desert, South Pacific, Grease, and Mamma Mia: The Party.
Matt regularly teaches workshops and masterclasses across the country, helping the next generation of performers understand what the industry really expects and what it takes to succeed.
This is exactly the kind of real industry insight and inspiration that Stage Nation is proud to bring to its performers.
Fill In Our
Application Form
Complete the form below and our team will be in touch with the information you need.
If you have any additional questions, please feel free to contact us.
