//english.dbw.cn　　2016-04-05 08:39:41

Veteran British actress Judi Dench set a record, taking her eighth career trophy- supporting actress-at London's Olivier theater awards on Sunday for playing the wise adviser Paulina in a Kenneth Branagh-directed production of William Shakespeare's "The Winter's Tale."

Dench took the stage to thunderous applause, and declared herself "absolutely livid - because I had a bet with my grandson which I've now lost."

The lead acting prizes went to Denise Gough and Kenneth Cranham, who beat big-name nominees including Benedict Cumberbatch, Mark Rylance and Nicole Kidman with emotionally lacerating performances that wowed audiences and critics.

The high-stepping Broadway hit "Kinky Boots" was named best new musical, while Martin McDonagh's killer comedy "Hangmen" won the prize for best new play.

Founded in 1976, the Oliviers celebrated their 40th anniversary with an exuberant ceremony that featured numbers from nominated musicals including "Guys And Dolls," ''Bend It Like Beckham" and "Bugsy Malone," a performance by a pink-haired Lauper and prize presenters including "The Hobbit" star Luke Evans, musical diva Shirley Bassey and "Game of Thrones" star Kit Harington.

This month also marks the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare's death, and the ceremony celebrated the Bard with a musical performance of his Sonnet 18 - "Shall I compare thee to a summer's day" - by singer Jack Savoretti.

Named in honor of the late actor Laurence Olivier, the prizes honor achievements in London theater, dance and opera. Winners in most categories are chosen by a panel of stage professionals and theatergoers.

The audience award for most popular show, decided by public vote, went to Andrew Lloyd Webber's indefatigable musical "The Phantom of the Opera."