Tony Awards 2024: Broadway’s Best Shine
Cynthia Erivo‘s stunning opening and history-making wins highlight a night of celebration.
The 78th Tony Awards showcased Broadway’s finest, with a captivating opening by Cynthia Erivo and landmark victories for several artists.From powerful performances to poignant speeches, the night celebrated the magic and importance of live theater.
A Captivating Start
Rejecting elaborate theatrics, Cynthia Erivo, guided by advice from Oprah, commenced the 78th Tony Awards with a raw and authentic performance. The Wicked: For Good star showcased her award-winning vocal talent, emphasizing the emotional connection fostered by Broadway’s storytelling.
Triumph for Purpose and Kara Young
Kara Young shone brightly, securing her second consecutive Tony Award for her performance in Purpose. Her passionate acceptance speech resonated deeply, as she proclaimed, “Theater is a sacred space.”
Purpose also clinched the best Play award, marking another consecutive win for Branden Jacob Jenkins, an EBONY Power 100 honoree. Jenkins acknowledged Phylicia rashad,the director,and encouraged viewers to “support your local theater.”
First-Time Wins and History Made
Natalie Venetia Belcon celebrated her first Tony award for Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a musical for Buena Vista Social club. paul Tazewell achieved a historic feat, winning both an Oscar for Wicked and a Tony for Death Becomes Her in the same year, adding to his previous Tony win for Hamilton in 2016.
Remembering Legends
The “In memoriam” segment honored luminaries such as Judith Jamison,James Earl Jones,and Quincy Jones,celebrating their indelible contributions to the performing arts.
A Dreamgirls Finale
Erivo concluded the evening with a memorable performance, singing an original wrap-up to the tune of Dreamgirls‘ “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going.”
This performance left many hoping for a revival of the classic musical.
