Ep 1. The 70th Annual Tony Awards

It’s that time of year again—the Tony Awards season has arrived! The 70th Annual Tony Awards air tonight, and theatre fans everywhere are buzzing with excitement to see which plays, musicals, and performers will take home the coveted awards.

The Tony Awards have been recognizing excellence in the theatre industry since 1947, and this year’s ceremony promises to be a spectacular celebration of the best Broadway has to offer. The show will be hosted by James Corden, the beloved comedian and late-night talk show host, who is sure to bring his signature humor and wit to the proceedings.

The first award of the night is always one of the most highly anticipated: Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play. The nominees this year include some of the most talented actors working in theatre today, including Jeff Daniels for his role in Blackbird, Gabriel Byrne for his role in Long Day’s Journey Into Night, and Frank Langella for his performance in The Father.

Of course, the leading ladies are just as impressive, and the award for Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Play is sure to be hotly contested. Lupita Nyong’o, who made her Broadway debut in Eclipsed, is up for the award, as is Michelle Williams for her performance in Blackbird. Meanwhile, Jessica Lange is nominated for her remarkable turn in Long Day’s Journey Into Night.

The Tonys also celebrate the best musicals of the year, and the award for Best Musical promises to be one of the most exciting of the night. Hamilton, the hip-hop retelling of the life of Alexander Hamilton, is widely considered to be the frontrunner for the award, having dominated the Broadway scene with its sold-out performances and critical acclaim. However, it faces stiff competition from the likes of Waitress, the charming and heartfelt musical about a waitress dreaming of a better life, and Bright Star, the bluegrass-infused musical about love, redemption, and the power of storytelling.

Of course, the Tony Awards aren’t just about recognizing individual performances and productions—they’re also an opportunity to celebrate the art of theatre as a whole. The show will feature performances from some of the biggest Broadway stars, showcasing the incredible talent that the theatre community has to offer.

This year, the Tonys will also pay tribute to a true icon of the theatre industry: the legendary Barbra Streisand. The multi-talented performer and musical superstar has had an enormous impact on the world of theatre, and the 70th Annual Tony Awards will honor her legacy with a special tribute performance.

All in all, the 70th Annual Tony Awards promises to be a night to remember, celebrating the best of Broadway and honoring the talented performers, productions, and creators who make the magic of theatre possible. Whether you’re a die-hard theatre fan or just tuning in to catch the highlights, this year’s Tonys are sure to be a spectacle worth watching.