Ep 1. The 50th Annual Tony Awards

The 50th Annual Tony Awards was a celebration of all things Broadway. Hosted by Nathan Lane and Rosie O'Donnell, the show featured performances from some of the season's most memorable shows, including Rent, Bring in 'da Noise, Bring in 'da Funk, and The King and I. The show also marked the debut of a new Tony award category: Best Original Score, which recognized the growing importance of music in modern theater.

In addition to the performances, the show also included a number of special tributes and awards. The cast of A Chorus Line paid tribute to the show's creator, Michael Bennett, who had passed away just a few months earlier. Frank Rich, then the theater critic for The New York Times, received a special Tony for his contribution to the world of theater criticism. And legendary producer Harold Prince was honored with a lifetime achievement award, which was presented to him by none other than Stephen Sondheim.

But perhaps the most memorable moment of the night came when Rent won the award for Best Musical. The show, which had been a surprise hit with audiences and critics alike, took the theater world by storm and became a cultural phenomenon overnight. The cast and crew of Rent were visibly emotional as they took the stage to accept the award, and composer Jonathan Larson, who had unexpectedly passed away just days before the show opened on Broadway, was remembered with a moving tribute from the show's cast.

Overall, the 50th Annual Tony Awards was a night of celebration, tribute, and recognition in the Broadway community. With its mix of exciting performances, heartfelt speeches, and well-deserved awards, the show was a fitting tribute to the many talented artists who make the theater world what it is today.