Acting stars Nicole Kidman and James McAvoy were awarded top prizes at the Evening Standard Theatre Awards on Sunday, which celebrated the best of London's theatre.

Kidman, 48, was named Best Actress for portraying DNA scientist Rosalind Franklin in "Photograph 51", a performance that won praise from critics.

The Australian-American star of "Moulin Rouge!" and "The Hours" said that she had taken the role because Franklin "was not recognised in her lifetime".

"Photograph 51 was written by a female playwright about a female scientist so to be able to champion that was an honour and a privilege," said Kidman, wearing an ornate high-necked lace dress.
Scottish actor McAvoy, of "Atonement" and "The Last King of Scotland", was awarded the prize for Best Actor for his role in "The Ruling Class".

His award was presented by US actress Gillian Anderson, who was dressed in striking red.

Other stars including singer Shirley Bassey and actor Ralph Fiennes were also guests at the event, which took place at London's Old Vic Theatre.