Ep 1. The 38th Annual Tony Awards

The 38th Annual Tony Awards, which aired during the 1983-1984 Broadway season, is a celebration of the best productions and performances in American theater. This episode features musical numbers and presentations from nominated shows, as well as appearances from popular guests and presenters.

The show begins with a high-energy opening number featuring the cast of La Cage Aux Folles, which is nominated for several awards including Best Musical. Host Angela Lansbury, a Tony-winning actress herself, welcomes the audience and introduces various presenters throughout the evening.

One of the highlights of the show is a tribute to Stephen Sondheim, one of the most acclaimed composers in Broadway history. Sondheim is presented with a special award for his contributions to the theater, and a group of performers from different Sondheim shows come together to sing a medley of his songs.

There are also several standout performances from nominated shows. The cast of Sunday in the Park with George performs the stirring "Sunday," while the cast of The Rink performs the upbeat "Chief Cook and Bottle Washer." The tap-dancing extravaganza My One and Only performs the show-stopping "Kickin' the Clouds Away," and the cast of Baby performs a touching rendition of "I Want It All."

The awards themselves are presented throughout the show, with categories ranging from Best Costume Design to Best Actor in a Musical. Many of the evening's winners are first-time Tony recipients, including Tom Stoppard for Best Play (The Real Thing) and Elizabeth Ashley for Best Actress in a Play (Cat on a Hot Tin Roof). The cast of La Cage Aux Folles takes home several awards, including Best Musical and Best Actor in a Musical for George Hearn.

In addition to honoring the best in theater, the Tonys also celebrate the actors, directors, and designers who make Broadway productions possible. Throughout the show, various presenters pay tribute to legends of the theater world, including choreographer Bob Fosse and actress Ethel Merman. The audience is also treated to performances by iconic performers, such as Chita Rivera and Liza Minnelli.

Overall, The 38th Annual Tony Awards is a lively celebration of the best in American theater. With performances from some of Broadway's most beloved shows and appearances from talented performers and presenters, it's a must-watch for anyone who loves the magic of the stage.