The 77th Annual Tony Awards, held on June 16, 2024, at New York City’s Lincoln Center, celebrated the pinnacle of Broadway’s 2023-2024 season. Hosted by the charismatic Ariana DeBose, the evening was a testament to theatrical excellence, marked by groundbreaking performances, historic wins, and poignant moments that resonated with audiences worldwide.
A Night of Unforgettable Performances
The ceremony commenced with a dynamic opening number by host Ariana DeBose, setting an energetic tone for the evening. The night featured performances from all Best Musical nominees, each delivering a glimpse into their acclaimed productions.
“The Outsiders,” which later clinched the Best Musical award, captivated the audience with a powerful rendition that showcased its compelling narrative and musical prowess. “Hell’s Kitchen” delivered a soulful performance, highlighted by a surprise appearance from Alicia Keys, who joined the cast on stage, adding star power to the evening. “Suffs” presented a stirring number that underscored its historical themes, while “Illinoise” and “Water for Elephants” offered visually stunning performances that highlighted their unique storytelling approaches.
Historic Wins and Notable Achievements
The 2024 Tony Awards were marked by several historic moments, particularly in the recognition of female talent. Danya Taymor’s win for Best Direction of a Musical for “The Outsiders” was a significant highlight, as she followed in the footsteps of her aunt, Julie Taymor, making them the first aunt-niece duo to win in this category. Shaina Taub’s dual victories for Best Original Score and Best Book of a Musical for “Suffs” further underscored the evening’s celebration of women’s contributions to theater.
In the acting categories, Maleah Joi Moon’s win for Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical for “Hell’s Kitchen” was a standout. Her portrayal of Ali, a character inspired by Alicia Keys, was lauded for its depth and authenticity. Jonathan Groff’s victory for Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical for “Merrily We Roll Along” was met with enthusiasm, marking a significant milestone in his illustrious career.
Surprises and Memorable Moments
The evening was not without its surprises. “The Outsiders” winning Best Musical was considered an upset by some, given the strong competition from productions like “Hell’s Kitchen.” The presence of high-profile attendees, including Hillary Clinton and a pre-recorded segment featuring Jay-Z, added to the night’s allure. Alicia Keys’ live performance, alongside the cast of “Hell’s Kitchen,” was a highlight, blending her musical talents with theatrical storytelling.
Comprehensive List of Winners
The 2024 Tony Awards honored a diverse array of productions and talents. Below is a comprehensive list of winners:
- Best Musical: “The Outsiders”
- Best Play: “Stereophonic”
- Best Revival of a Musical: “Merrily We Roll Along”
- Best Revival of a Play: “Appropriate”
- Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical: Maleah Joi Moon, “Hell’s Kitchen”
- Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical: Jonathan Groff, “Merrily We Roll Along”
- Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Play: Sarah Paulson, “Appropriate”
- Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play: Jeremy Strong, “An Enemy of the People”
- Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Musical: Daniel Radcliffe, “Merrily We Roll Along”
- Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Musical: Kecia Lewis, “Hell’s Kitchen”
- Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Play: Will Brill, “Stereophonic”
- Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Play: Kara Young, “Purlie Victorious: A Non-Confederate Romp Through the Cotton Patch”
- Best Direction of a Play: Daniel Aukin, “Stereophonic”
- Best Direction of a Musical: Danya Taymor, “The Outsiders”
- Best Original Score: “Suffs,” music and lyrics by Shaina Taub
- Best Book of a Musical: “Suffs,” Shaina Taub
- Best Choreography: Justin Peck, “Illinoise”
- Best Costume Design of a Play: Dede Ayite, “Jaja’s African Hair Braiding”
- Best Costume Design of a Musical: Linda Cho, “The Great Gatsby”
- Best Orchestrations: Jonathan Tunick, “Merrily We Roll Along”
- Best Scenic Design of a Musical: Tom Scutt, “Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club”
- Best Scenic Design of a Play: David Zinn, “Stereophonic”
- Best Lighting Design of a Musical: Hana S. Kim, “Water for Elephants”
- Best Lighting Design of a Play: Jane Cox, “Appropriate”
- Best Sound Design of a Musical: Cody Spencer, “The Outsiders”
- Best Sound Design of a Play: Ryan Rumery, “Stereophonic”
Special Awards and Honors
In addition to the competitive categories, the Tony Awards also recognized individuals and organizations for their exceptional contributions to theater. Billy Porter received the Isabelle Stevenson Award for his activism in the LGBTQIA+ community, particularly with the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation and the Entertainment Community Fund. Directors Jack O’Brien and George C. Wolfe were honored with Special Tony Awards for Lifetime Achievement in the Theatre. The Wilma Theater in Philadelphia was the recipient of the Regional Theatre Tony Award, acknowledging its impact on the national theater landscape.
Reflections on the 2024 Tony Awards
The 2024 Tony Awards were a celebration of resilience, creativity, and the enduring power of theater. The evening highlighted the industry’s recovery and evolution, with a notable emphasis on diversity and inclusion. The recognition of female artists and creators, the celebration of groundbreaking productions, and the acknowledgment of theater’s role in reflecting and shaping society were central themes of the night.
As the curtain fell on the 77th Tony Awards, the theater community was reminded of its capacity to inspire, challenge, and entertain. The evening served as a testament to the transformative power of the arts and the unwavering spirit of those who bring stories to life on stage.
