This year’s Tony Awards were unforgettable. Here’s why.
1. Support for Orlando.
In the wake of the Pulse nightclub tragedy, this year’s Tony Awards were a much-needed source of light, community, and support. Host James Corden began the evening by dedicating the ceremony to the victims and their loved ones. The night was filled with speeches acknowledging the tragedy of the event and encouraging strength in this time of despair. This year’s Tonys truly made clear the power and beauty of art in the midst of a heartbreaking event such as this one.
The Broadway community is doing all that they can to support those affected in the aftermath of the Orlando shootings. Lin-Manuel Miranda and Broadway Cares created a t-shirt with some of the words from his incredible acceptance speech; “Love cannot be killed or swept aside. Now fill the world with music, love and pride." The proceeds from the shirt sales will go to benefit Equality Florida, an LGBTQ advocacy group which is supporting victims of the tragedy. The shirts recently sold out, but you can donate to Equality Florida here!
In addition, Seth Rudetsky (radio host on Sirius/XM’s On Broadway station) organized some of Broadway’s most popular stars to record a “We Are the World” style benefit single, “What the World Needs Now is Love,” and the proceeds from song sales will benefit the GLBT Center of Central Florida. The song can be purchased now on Broadway Records and will soon be available on iTunes! A music video for the song is also scheduled to be released soon.
2. The winners.
This year’s Tonys made history when all four of the awards for actors in musicals were presented to actors of color for the first time ever! Cynthia Erivo won lead actress for her portrayal of Celie in “The Color Purple,” and Leslie Odom Jr., Renée Elise Goldsberry and Daveed Diggs from “Hamilton” won lead actor, featured actress and featured actor, respectively. These sensational actors gave some seriously amazing performances. The push for diversity on Broadway is making strides, and it’s clear that while the performance business is certainly not perfect, Broadway is certainly headed in the right direction. Opportunities for actors of color to shine are growing, and it is so exciting that these performers were recognized for their spectacular work.
All the winners of the night were incredibly talented and deserving. And those who didn’t take home awards were exceptional as well! As always, it was a year full of immense talent for Broadway.
3. The fun.
The Tonys are every theatre kid’s favorite night of the year, and this year’s festivities certainly did not disappoint. It was the magic of Broadway in all its glory. James Corden, while perhaps a bit pitchy at times, was an ideal headliner! His adorable opening number which featured a “Hamilton” spoof, a precious younger version of himself, Corden playing countless iconic Broadway roles, and an inspirational call to action for the theatre kid dreamers of the world was a huge success. No one really compares to NPH, but James Corden definitely did a fantastic job as host. And his carpool karaoke? Definitely one of the night’s highlights.
All the musical numbers were wonderful as well! The (obviously) amazing cast of “Hamilton” kicked butt in their number, emotional and magnificent Jessie Mueller singing “She Used to Be Mine” from the wonderful Sara Bareilles’ “Waitress,” the tapping sensation “Shuffle Along” with (pregnant) Audra McDonald (that lady never fails to blow me away), the insanely talented ladies of “The Color Purple,” the captivating cast from the Deaf West production of “Spring Awakening”... These performances were wow after wow! Maybe I’m easily impressed, but I loved every moment.
As per usual, but this year more than maybe any other, the Tonys reminded me why I love theatre so very much. Theatre is special because it is so filled with hope. This year’s Tonys were a perfect example of the power and impact theatre can have on the world.
