It’s been quite the year, it’s almost Christmas and what would the festive season be without some recognition of the best of 2023? Over the next 2 months we’ll shortlist five nominees in each of 16 categories for our Oscars, or monstas if you will, of 2023.

• Read on for the nominees for the monsta for Best Venue of 2023 Previous winners 2022: The Kit Kat Club at the Playhouse Theatre for Cabaret Tickets Review 1 Review 2 Review 3 Review 4 Review 5 2021: Gillian Lynne Theatre 2020: Bridge Theatre, 2019: Old Vic, 2018: Bush Theatre

1. Bridge Theatre, London (Guys and Dolls Review Tickets)

2. Liverpool M&S Arena (Eurovision 2023 Preview)

3. Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, London (La Cage Aux Folles Review Tickets)

4. @SohoPlace, London (Brokeback Mountain Review Tickets)

5. Victorious Festival, Southsea Common (Review Tickets)

• Who should win? Tell us in the comments below or email us at neildurham3@gmail.com. Want to know why we like this shortlist? Click on the tags to read our reviews. Winner revealed on this site on 30/12/23
• Vote for 2023’s best podcast, best venue , best TV/film actress, best TV/film actor, best supporting actor, best TV, best gig, best album, best new play, best new musical, best song, best theatre actor best film, best revival and best theatre actress
• Enjoyed this shortlist? Follow its author on Twitter @NeilDurham, email neildurham3@gmail.com and check us out on Instagram and Facebook