Photographer Simon Annand is unveiling a collection of his latest works in an exhibition, entitled, The Half, at London's Idea Generation Gallery. The shots, such as this one of Matt Lucas in Les Miserables, capture some of the biggest stars in London's West End as they prepare to go on stage.

The title, The Half, was chosen as all the pictures were taken half-an-hour before the performers were due on stage. The final call is a crucial moment for the actors to get into character, before facing the audience. Here, Daniel Radcliffe composes his thoughts before his starring role in Equus.

Annand has worked within the theatre industry for 30 years. The photographer says he finds shooting the actors once they have received their final curtain call intriguing as they are at their "most photogenic". Amanda Holden recently finished playing the role of Princess Fiona in the original production of Shrek the Musical, which began in May.

The photographer says he became drawn to live theatre because, unlike other mediums there are no "second chances". He adds that it is because of this that the performer is "very exposed" which makes their role "romantic and heroic". In 2005 Kevin Spacey took to the stage to play Richard II at the Old Vic.

Annand has earned himself a reputable reputation within the theatre world and has worked with some of the industry's biggest stars, including Cate Blanchett (pictured), Daniel Day Lewis, Dame Judi Dench, Jim Broadbent, Jeremy Irons and Ralph Fiennes.

Annand began his career when he climbed the lighting tower during a performance of Charley's Aunt at the Lyric Theatre in 1983. He was working in the theatre bar at the time. Benedict Cumberbatch starred in director Danny Boyle's Frankenstein at the National last year.

The photographer has gone on to work with some of the world's leading theatre companies including, The National Theatre, The Royal Shakespeare Company, The Royal Court, The Old Vic Glyndebourne Opera, Royal Court, Moscow Arts and Theatre, and the Comedie Francaise. He has unprecedented access to the stars, such as Kelly Brook gearing up for her performance in Calendar Girls.