Double Win for LIPA theatre design graduates at Linbury Prize

Two LIPA Theatre & Performance Design graduates have been named winners of the Linbury Prize for Stage Design, the UK’s leading award for emerging theatre design talent. 

Emily Mahon and Isaac O’Brien, who both completed their degrees in June, are among just 12 winners nationwide. Their success follows a double win for LIPA graduates at the last Linbury Prize in 2023. 

For Emily, the news came as a shock. “I seriously couldn't believe it. It felt like my life had been completely changed and all the hard work from the last few years had paid off. But I'm so grateful to share this journey with Isaac. He's one of the most talented and hardworking people I know.” 

 Emily and part of her independent project Paradise Rot. Images Joe Norman

Isaac described the award as a major confidence boost. “It means the absolute world to me. I have a bit of imposter syndrome and to have multiple designers look at my work and think I have potential feels like a seal of approval.  

“Hopefully this award will open up more doors in the future. It’s really lovely to share it with someone who’s not only a brilliant designer but also a very good friend of mine.” 

Isaac and a production shot from Common, on which he was set designer and lead scenic artist. Images Emily Mahon and Andrew AB

The competition required entrants to submit a 10-page portfolio showcasing both finished work and the creative process behind it. “There’s a big emphasis on process,” Isaac explained. “They definitely want to see where you get your ideas from and how you develop them. Getting the balance right between finished designs and process was quite difficult.” 

Top image: Speculative costume design for Emilia at Unity Theatre by Isaac. Below, speculative costume design for Paradise for Liverpool Everyman by Emily.

As part of their prize, winners receive a £6,000 bursary to support an associate placement with an established designer. Their work will also go on public display at the Linbury Prize Exhibition, opening at the National Theatre on 2 December 2025. 

Emily said it’s an amazing opportunity. “The National Theatre is such a hub for passion and creativity. To have my work exhibited there is truly an honour beyond my imagination.” 

Lois Maskell is Programme Leader for Theatre & Performance Design, she’s delighted for Emily and Isaac. “It’s always a privilege to watch our students grow in confidence and critical thinking over their three years of practical and project-based learning at LIPA. The work can be demanding, but it’s inspiring to see the creativity, stamina, and spirit that Emily and Isaac bring to both their collaborations on productions and independent studio work being recognised and celebrated. 

“I know that LIPA graduates and current students alike (across the disciplines) will be sharing in our pride at Emily and Isaac’s achievements. We wish them every success on the next stage of their journeys and are grateful for the Linbury Prize’s ongoing support of emerging designers.” 

Find out more about BA (Hons) Theatre & Performance Design

Find out more about the Linbury Prize 2025

Production shot from The Tenant of Wildfell Hall, co designed by Emily and Jessica Arthur Keenan
Photographer: Andrew AB

Production shot from Common, Set Designer and Lead scenic artist – Isaac O’Brien. Photography Andrew AB

Credits for Common and The Tenant of Wildfell Hall
Common by DC Moore
Paul McCartney Auditorium, LIPA
Directed by Nickie Miles-Wildin
Set Designer and Lead scenic artist – Isaac O’Brien
Costume Design - Poppy Aindow
Assistant Set Designer - Daniel Gidden
Lighting Design - Sam Bailey
Sound Design - Patch Middleton

The Tenant of Wildfell Hall by Anne Brontë
George Harrison Workshop Studio, LIPA
Director: Russell Bolam
Co-designers: Emily Mahon, Jessica Arthur Keenan