David Tennant's Richard II shortlisted for WhatsOnStage award

Some critics said they found David Tennant's tresses 'distracting' in Richard II

David Tennant's performance as Shakespeare's Richard II is in the running for best actor at the WhatsOnStage awards.

The star's long-haired version of the monarch is up against Tom Hiddleston, who is nominated for his portrayal of Roman tragic figure Coriolanus.

In the musical stakes, Wet Wet Wet singer Marti Pellow in nominated for his lead role in Evita.

The winners will be disclosed at a ceremony in London on 15 February 2015.

They are determined by a public vote.

Other stars noted for their stage and musical performances include Gillian Anderson for her lead role on A Streetcar Named Desire, singer Beverley Knight for starring in Memphis the Musical and Gemma Arterton for musical adaptation Made in Dagenham.

Also competing for best actress in a play are Imelda Staunton, Billie Piper for new production Great Britain, and Helen McCrory for her role as Greek tragic figure Medea.

The revival of Miss Saigon leads the nominations with 12 nods, while Arthur Miller's The Crucible and Coriolanus head the field in the plays category with six apiece.

The productions shortlisted for the title of best West End show are Matilda, Memphis the Musical, Miss Saigon, Wicked and long-running hit Les Miserables.

This year's awards saw triumphs for Harry Potter stars Daniel Radcliffe and Rupert Grint for their stage work.

The full list of nominees for the 2015 awards can be found on the WhatsOnStage website.

A 25th anniversary gala performance of Miss Saigon was staged in September