What are The British Audio Awards?

The Speakies is a prestigious new awards dedicated to celebrating excellence in audiobooks and audio drama, brought to you by The Bookseller and The Stage. As audio storytelling continues to captivate audiences, these awards aim to recognize the writers, narrators, producers, and creative teams who bring stories to life through sound.

From gripping crime thrillers to immersive fantasy epics, and from thought-provoking memoirs to groundbreaking audio dramas, The Speakies will highlight the finest talent and craftsmanship in the industry, elevating the status of spoken-word entertainment in the UK. It is the first such dedicated awards for audiobooks and drama in the UK, and a tribute to the format’s rise and listeners’ enthusiasm for the art.

Objective

The goal of ‘The Speakies’ is to champion quality storytelling and performance and to reward creativity and innovation in audiobooks and audio drama, offering recognition to the writers, voices, and productions that shape the industry. The awards will celebrate established talents while also providing a platform for emerging voices and creative breakthroughs. The awards will amplify the work of the sector in terms of showcasing and respecting audio as the fastest-growing format within book publishing, but also one perfectly suited to the growing interest in listening.

Style & Attitude

The prestige and professionalism from the team behind The British Book Awards but with the enthusiasm and joy that can be seen at The Stage Debut Awards. The Speakies will embody the energy, interactivity, and theatricality that fits the immersive nature of audio storytelling. The Speakies will be a celebration of sound, where guests feel engaged not just as spectators but as part of the storytelling experience. The atmosphere will be vibrant and engaging using theatricality to bring the power of audio to life. The event will be high-profile but welcoming – attracting top talent (big audiobook narrators, authors, and audio drama producers) while staying accessible to emerging voices. This is an awards show that’s not just prestigious and respected but vivid, theatrical, and immersive—bringing the magic of audio storytelling into the real world.

When are The British Audio Awards and how can I attend?

The British Audio Awards will take place on Monday 24th November 2025, in the Royal Opera House’ Linbury Theatre.

You can support the awards by purchasing a ticket and celebrating with us on the night! To find out about how to attend The British Audio Awards, please email speakies@thebookseller.com

Am I eligible for a British Audio Award?

Please read all the criteria and eligibility information.

Can I enter a submission more than once and for different categories?

Yes, please do

Interested in becoming a sponsor?

Benefit from increased brand visibility at one of the most new and exciting events in the arts and publishing industry.

We have a number of sponsorship packages available at The British Audio Awards to suit all organisation types and sizes; from sole sponsorship of a specific award category through to a supportive role for the awards as a whole.

All contributors will help to create a truly special experience for shortistees and guests.

To find out more contact sales manager, gaby.pitts@thebookseller.com or sarah.dumay@thestage.co.uk