London, Dec 31 Andrew Lloyd Webber has topped the poll of the 100 most influential figures in theatre over the last decade.

The Stage newspaper has named Webber as the most powerful theatre personality in six out of its past ten theatre power charts.

Lloyd Webber, 60, who has had huge success in the West End and Broadway, is best known for creating hit musicals such as 'Cats' and 'The Phantom of the Opera'.

"It's no surprise that Lloyd Webber has come out on top. Every year, he has been there or thereabouts, holding the top spot in the Stage 100 for six out of the last ten years. He has been a hugely important figure on the theatrical landscape and continues to be so," BBC quoted The Stage's news editor, Alistair Smith, as saying.

Cameron Mackintosh came second in the poll.

"Last year's winner Mackintosh, though, has never been far behind and we'll have to wait until later this month to discover who has topped this year's Stage 100," said Smith.

Standing third in the list is Ambassador Theatres boss Howard Panter, while impresario David Ian took the fourth spot.

Panto producer Nick Thomas and National Theatre director Nicholas Hytner tied at fifth position.

Each year The Stage lists the top 100 people, who at the time of the poll, are contributing to the theatre industry.

The Stage's top five of 100 most important influential figures in theatre are:

1. Andrew Lloyd Webber

2. Cameron Mackintosh

3. Howard Panter

4. David Ian

5. Nick Thomas

5. Nicholas Hytner(ANI)