'Cheese and Crackers!' Ana Gasteyer, Joshua Henry, Carrie Coon and More React to Their 2026 Tony Nominations
'Cheese and Crackers!' Ana Gasteyer, Joshua Henry, Carrie Coon and More React to Their 2026 Tony Nominations
Dave Quinn, Caroline KillileaTue, May 5, 2026 at 9:45 PM UTC
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The 79th Annual Tony Awards will honor the 2025–2026 Broadway season and air live on June 7 from Radio City Music Hall
Nominees expressed gratitude for their recognition, including standout reactions from Tye Blue, Marla Mindelle, and Joshua Henry
Pink will host the ceremony, with a pre-show, The Tony Awards: Act One, airing on CBS and Pluto TV
Tony Award nominations are out and Broadway's best are over the moon.
The nominees for the 79th Annual Tony Awards were announced on Tuesday, May 5 by Uzo Aduba and Darren Criss.
Presented by The American Theatre Wing and The Broadway League, the Tony Awards are considered the most prestigious honors in theater, recognizing excellence across acting, directing, design and more. They're also the "T" in EGOT — the grand slam of show business that represents the top awards in television (Emmy), music (Grammy), film (Oscar) and theater.
Honoring the best of the 2025–2026 Broadway season, this year's ceremony will be hosted by Pink. It will air on Sunday, June 7, live on both coasts on CBS and Paramount+ from Radio City Music Hall in New York City beginning at 8 p.m. ET.
CBS and Pluto TV will present The Tony Awards: Act One, a pre-show of live, exclusive content leading into the 79th annual Tony Awards. Additional details will be available at a future date.
In written statements to PEOPLE, the nominees — from Danny Burstein to Marla Mindelle to Kelli O'Hara to Joshua Henry and then some— all expressed their appreciation for the recognition.
See below for their reactions:
Tye Blue, Marla Mindelle and Constantine Rousouli during the 'Titanique' Broadway opening night curtain call at St James Theater on April 12, 2026 in New York CityCredit: John Lamparski/GettyBest Musical
Tye Blue, Titanique (also nominated for Best Book of a Musical): "I am so honored to receive these Tony Award nominations today for what has truly been a voyage of dreams on Titanique — hearing the news of the Best Musical nod this morning was so thrilling, and then to be recognized AGAIN alongside my amazing writing partners?! Beyond. I'd like to send a huge thanks to the American Theatre Wing and Broadway League, who have just changed my life forever. I shall try to do you proud! And huge congrats to both Marla and Layton for their performing nominations as well, which are so well deserved!"
Kit Buchan and Jim Barne, Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York) (also nominated for Best Original Score and Best Book of a Musical): "This is the proudest moment in mine and Jim's professional lives, and the most exciting moment in our friendship since the Strokes played the Brixton Academy in 2002. It gives us even greater pride to know that our collaborators Soutra, Tim, Sam, Christiani and Lux have all been nominated as well. Nothing that we have done would have been possible without them and from the bottom of our hearts we thank the nominating committee for recognizing the detail, intelligence and commitment they have brought to bear on our musical. ... This show began with two childhood friends in a Barnsbury bedsit trying to make each other laugh and cry. It is an extraordinary realization to know that, by the alchemy of theatrical magic, we have made this whole city laugh and cry as well. ... Jim and I met when we were nine years old; I wish I could travel back in time and tell those strange boys that this day would come."
Constantine Rousouli, Titanique (also nominated for Best Book of a Musical): “HA HA HA clink we've bamboozled commercial theatre, and I couldn't be more grateful to be recognized. To my peers who I've looked up to my entire life, thank you from the bottom of my heart.”
John Lithgow in 'Giant'Credit: Giant on BroadwayBest Play
Nicki Hunter, Manhattan Theatre Club's artistic director, Chris Jennings, MTC Executive Director, The Baulusters: “It's been a banner year for Manhattan Theatre Club, We're thrilled to have been honored with 10 Tony nominations, and that all three of our Broadway productions this season were recognized. We are especially excited to be nominated for Best Play for an MTC commission—David Lindsay-Abaire's The Balusters—and are grateful that this extraordinary world premiere is getting such a bright spotlight. We feel very fortunate to work with the most talented theatre artists across all disciplines: writers, directors, actors, and designers.”
Samuel D. Hunter, Little Bear Ridge Road: "I'm so honored that Little Bear Ridge Road is included among this year's Best Play nominees. I've had over a dozen of my plays produced here in New York, intimate stories about quiet lives in Idaho that have miraculously found homes here, but this is my first time on Broadway, which makes this all the more meaningful. And writing a play specifically for Laurie Metcalf and Joe Mantello was one of the greatest gifts of my career so far."
David Lindsay-Abaire, The Balusters: "I'm beyond honored to have The Balusters included among this year's Tony nominees—especially in a season with so many bold, beautiful new plays. The nomination is really a testament to the remarkable artists who brought the play to life—our astonishing director, Kenny Leon, our extraordinary ensemble of actors, our brilliant designers, and the tireless crew, along with everyone at MTC. I'm so grateful to get to make theater and be part of a community that continues to sustain and inspire me in so many ways."
Mark Rosenblatt, Giant: “I am beyond thrilled that Giant has been so wonderfully recognised by the Tonys. As a debut playwright, to share this category with three of the America's finest contemporary playwrights, is a wildly gratifying, entirely unexpected honour. And to share this moment with my collaborators - Nicholas Hytner, who has given it such an impeccable, laser-guided production, and two of our exquisite cast - the inimitable John Lithgow and Aya Cash - makes this moment richer and more meaningful.”
Daryl Roth, Eva Price, Rachel Sussman, producers of Liberation: “We're so proud and honored to see Bess Wohl's Liberation earn five Tony nominations, including Best Play, a day after her winning the Pulitzer Prize for Drama. We're also thrilled Whitney White was recognized for her direction, making them the only female playwright-director team nominated this season, and the only women in their categories. With nominations for Susannah Flood, Betsy Aidem, and Qween Jean, this recognition reflects how deeply the play resonates. We're grateful to everyone who helped bring Liberation to life.”
The cast of 'CATS: The Jellicle Ball' on BroadwayCredit: Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMadeBest Revival of a Musical
Bill Rauch, CATS: The Jellicle Ball: "I am humbled to be part of a show that centers the Ballroom community. I am eternally grateful to Andrew Lloyd Webber and his team for entrusting us with this revival and to PAC NYC for launching it. The Jellicle Ball is the culmination of five years of work from so many brilliant artists and theater makers, all of us sharing a determination to bring its radically queer joy to Broadway audiences."
Best Revival of a Play
Sonia Friedman, Sue Wagner, John Johnson, and Patrick Catullo — the producers of Oedipus: “We are thrilled to continue celebrating the extraordinary work of Robert Icke, our cast, and the entire creative and design team of Oedipus [with these 7 nominations]. What defines this production - and why it is the very essence of a revival - is that it doesn't simply revisit the play, it interrogates it and asks why it must exist now. It finds fresh urgency in ancient questions of power, fate, and identity, allowing the story to speak with a force that feels new and dangerous. It was a profound honor to bring this production to Broadway, and we are deeply grateful to the Tony nominators for recognizing the remarkable artists behind it.”
Joshua Henry, Caissie Levy and Brandon Uranowitz in 'Ragtime' on BroadwayCredit: Matthew MurphyBest Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical
Sara Chase, nominated for Schmigadoon!: “I am so overjoyed. I am living all my musical theatre nerd dreams. I am also contractually obligated to say that I couldn't have done this without Alex Brightman and my sponsors at Diet Detox Tea.”
Caissie Levy, nominated for Ragtime: "The Tony Awards are such a celebration of the theater, and it feels absolutely incredible to be recognized in this way by the community I've loved and worked in for the last 20 years. I'm overjoyed to share this moment with our stellar company - our cast, our creative team, our crew, and our orchestra. To be nominated for the first time means so much to me. I'm truly overwhelmed and can't stop smiling. And now, I'm going to drop my kids off at school! Balance.”
Marla Mindelle, nominated for Titanique (also nominated for Best Book of a Musical and Best Musical): “To quote Céline Dion, 'This is Kooky Krazy Girlfriends!' I'm beyond humbled and grateful. My category was announced just as we were about to perform on the Today show, and I had to react like a zombie because I couldn't cry before performing in front of Al Roker! Well, guess what? I'm crying now! My mom just texted me that she hasn't shaken like this since my first-grade talent show performance of The Trolley Song at Abrams Hebrew Academy. Somebody please tell my mother this is a bigger deal. I also feel like a proud parent to my brilliant co-authors, Constantine Rousouli and Tye Blue—this show is a testament to our friendship and the power of ‘lerve.' Thank you to the American Theatre Wing and Broadway League for this incredible honor.”
Christiani Pitts, nominated for Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York): “This may be the first break in tears I've had in the last hour. It's hard to put into words the deep gratitude and honor I feel with this recognition. This show has been such a light and the gift of a lifetime. Thank you to The American Theatre Wing and the Broadway League for helping to make my dreams come true. Congratulations to all my fellow nominees including my partner-in-crime Sam Tutty, Jim Barne and Kit Buchan, Soutra Gilmour, Tim Jackson, Lux Pyramid and the entire company of Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York). My heart can hardly handle the joy!”
Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical
Joshua Henry, nominated for Ragtime: “Waking up to getting my fourth Tony Awards Nomination for Ragtime on Broadway after my opening performance at The Met Gala last night... bro, what is happening?! My heart is bursting with gratitude. I feel grounded in God, my supportive family, and my creative community in a fiery way.”
Sam Tutty, Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York): “I am feeling so grateful and thrilled for everyone apart of this show. 8 Tony nominations feels like a dream come true, and I am so proud of everyone, especially for those behind the scenes who make this show happen 8 times a week! I am very very happy, and incredibly humbled — what a moment! Thank you to The American Theatre Wing and The Broadway League.”
Brandon Uranowitz, nominated for Ragtime: “Anyone who knows me knows I've had a long, complicated history with Ragtime. Coming back to the show thirty years later as Tateh has been one of the most healing and rewarding experiences of my life. This recognition is beyond my 11-year-old self's wildest dreams. If there's anything I've learned, it's this: the things that are meant for you won't pass you by. Just keep going. Thank you to the League, the Wing, and everyone who's supported me along the way.”
Shoshana Bean in 'The Lost Boys' on BroadwayCredit: Matthew MurphyBest Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Musical
Shoshana Bean, nominated for The Lost Boys: “This nomination is an extra special one because this show is an extra special one. I'm so over the moon proud of and obsessed with it and with this group of people! It has been the richest, most joyful experience so this beautiful recognition is the perfect icing on a pretty incredible cake.”
Hannah Cruz, nominated for Chess: “Waking up this morning to the news was an experience I will never forget. I love Broadway more than I can really express. And to be recognized in this way by The American Theatre Wing and The Broadway League is a dream come true. I'm so proud of our show and our cast and I'm truly honored by this nomination.”
Ana Gasteyer, nominated for Schmigadoon!: "Cheese and crackers! This is so exciting! I'm speechless! Thank you to the Broadway League and American Theater Wing. I love our show so much and I'm so proud of everyone involved with Schmigadoon. We've got life and jubilation in Schmigadoon!"
Nichelle Lewis, nominated for Ragtime: “It is such an honor to be nominated amongst so many other beautiful women in this category as well as so many of my castmates. … I'm feeling elated, grateful, and hoping my grandmother is looking down on me and feels as proud. … This has been a difficult year, filled with many challenges and stepping into this role has been so fulfilling, following in Audra MacDonald's footsteps as well as those of LaChanze … It has been a great honor to connect with audiences every night … knowing that even though we have lost so much, we continue to look for hope, and Sarah exemplifies that. … I'm super grateful for the nomination … and even more grateful to Sarah, and what she has taught me.”
Bryce Pinkham in 'Chess' on BroadwayCredit: Matthew MurphyBest Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Musical
Ali Louis Bourzgui, nominated for The Lost Boys: "Currently sitting at my kitchen table- my hands are still shaking typing this out! I watched the nomination announcements live with my partner Tassy and they started tearing up for me but I haven't even fully processed yet. This is such a massive honor and I'm so happy for the show as a whole getting multiple nominations because everyone on this team really brought their deepest level of passion to the work. We love this show and each other so much so for that work to be recognized feels amazing. My childhood theater mentor passed away last week and all I can think about is all the people including him who held my hand and believed in my ability to make it to this level. These moments are built on love.”
Bryce Pinkham, nominated for Chess: "Chess has found its way into my life in unexpected and meaningful ways, from nearly 40 years ago when my father-in-law was part of the original West End company to almost a decade ago when I first stepped into the role of The Arbiter. I'm deeply grateful to Danny Strong for his trust and for being such a generous collaborator. To Michael Mayer, Tom Hulce, and the incredible company who show up eight times a week with heart and precision, thank you for making this a journey of a lifetime. And of course nothing is made possible without my forever Queen, Scarlett Strallen. Thank you to the American Theatre Wing for this incredible honor."
Ben Levi Ross, nominated for Ragtime: “This is truly the honor of my life. To be a part of this show, at this time, with this cast. I'm simply overwhelmed with love and gratitude. Ragtime is an example of this art form at its highest caliber thanks to the brilliant score by Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty and the genius of Terrence McNally. To have my first Tony nomination be with this production feels aligned and deeply meaningful.”
Layton Williams, Titanique: "I am beside myself. I’m sat in my dressing room right now, 12 hours after I was on set at the Today show. I’ve had moments by myself to digest it and try and let it sink in, but honestly, I don’t think it ever will. This feels like one of the biggest achievements of my life. I came to New York purely just to make my Broadway debut, and just soak it all up. This is the icing on the cake - Tony nominee! I was in the middle of the street and I just screamed, and obviously because we’re in New York, everyone just cracked on. I just cried happy tears, called my family, FaceTimed my team, and we just rejoiced in the moment. This is huge for a Brit to come here and to have this reception. It just feels like such a warm welcome. Thank you so much from the bottom of my heart. You have genuinely changed my life forever, and I will forever be a Broadway girl!!"
Kelli O'Hara, Mark Consuelos and Rose Byrne in 'Fallen Angels' on BroadwayCredit: Joan MarcusBest Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Play
Carrie Coon, nominated for Bug: "I am grateful to be counted among such luminaries as my friend Kelli O'Hara, the truly gifted Rose Byrne, an astonishing Susannah Flood, and the legendary Leslie Manville. I'm also thrilled for my Bug design team, who made a difficult job look deceptively simple."
Lesley Manville, nominated for Oedipus: "This is a bit of a moment for me. To be recognised in this way by such an esteemed body is as good as it gets. I couldn't be prouder of Oedipus and the remarkable team I got to navigate this highly complex play with 8 times a week, most notably the magnificent Mark Strong."
Kelli O'Hara, nominated for Fallen Angels: "I'm overflowing with gratitude to be recognized for doing something that is THIS F'ing fun!!!"
Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play
John Lithgow, Giant: “For me, GIANT has been the best theater experience in decades. I'm so grateful that the Tonys have honored all that work. Our two London runs were thrilling, but here on Broadway our audiences are absolutely stunned.”
Mark Strong, nominated for Oedipus: "I feel incredibly honored to be nominated again for a Tony Award, and to be in such esteemed company as my fellow nominees. I'm so proud and grateful to be a part of this production of Oedipus, and to have been given the opportunity to take a 2,500-year-old story and make it feel relevant and exciting for a modern audience means a great deal to me. In an age where we're so dominated by screens, the power of theatre feels more important than ever, and live productions on stage are truly invaluable.
I'm also ecstatic that our production has been recognized across so many categories; it is a testament to the entire team, who all brought their absolute best to this project. It's a reminder of what theatre can be at its most powerful: something shared, immediate, and genuinely moving. I must also acknowledge my extraordinary co-star, Lesley Manville and our director Robert Icke. Their brilliance, generosity, and unwavering commitment elevated everything. I'm on my way back home to see my family, who have a glass of champagne on ice, and I can't wait to celebrate with them.”
Nathan Lane and Laurie Metcalf in Arthur Miller's 'Death of a Salesman' on BroadwayCredit: Emilio MadridBest Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Play
Betsy Aidem, Liberation: "I'm so so so thrilled for our play Liberation, for Bess Wohl winning the Pulitzer yesterday, for Whitney and Susannah and Qween Jean and the message about the power of women raising their consciousness that we sent out into the world! As for my category, I'm thrilled to be amongst a group where I assume four out of the five of us are collecting our Social Security! It's a great message about the longevity of a career in the theater."
Marylouise Burke, The Balusters: "My 'wake-up' call this morning was phone calls and messages from friends and colleagues! So, I'm feeling like the Most Lucky Sleepyhead in show business!"
Aya Cash, Giant: "I cannot fathom this. I just feel so grateful to be here. I think of the New York theater as my home, so to be acknowledged in my own community is a dream come true. I love this show, this cast, and this creative team. Plays are a team sport, and I get to play with the most incredible team every night. This is just the icing on the cake. But man, that icing is sweet."
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Laurie Metcalf, Arthur Miller's Death of a Salesman: “I am truly honored to have been nominated, and I'm especially proud that both Death of a Salesman and Little Bear Ridge Road got recognized this morning. Neither production has been a solo effort, and I'm deeply grateful for my onstage and offstage families, both led by the incredible Joe Mantello. I share this recognition with all of them.”
June Squibb, Marjorie Prime: “I'm thrilled with what this nomination will do for my career. Over the moon for Danny as well! I share this nomination with everyone who worked so hard to bring Marjorie Prime back to life.”
June Squibb and Danny Burstein in 'Marjorie Prime' on BroadwayCredit: Bruce Glikas/WireImageBest Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Play
Danny Burstein, Marjorie Prime: “I'm ridiculously grateful and honored to be nominated. I'm especially thrilled for June Squibb. Marjorie Prime was a beautiful experience, and the entire cast is deserving of every accolade.”
Richard Thomas, The Balusters: "What a sweet, thrilling surprise! I'm humbled and happy to be in the company of these wonderful actors in my category. And I can't wait to celebrate tonight by playing this beautiful play with such a superb company. Wow."
Best Original Score
Steve Bargonetti, Joe Turner's Come and Gone: “It was an honor to be part of the Joe Turner's Come and Gone masterpiece written by August Wilson, which cried out for BLUES GUITAR! I am honored by my Tony nomination for Best Original Score Written for the Theatre, directed by the genius of Debbie Allen. My intent was to enhance August's words, all the talent on stage, and honor the history of Blues from the Delta to Pittsburgh.”
The Rescues (AG, Kyler England, Gabriel Mann), for The Lost Boys (also nominated for Best Orchestrations alongside Ethan Popp): “We're incredibly honored to be recognized by the Tonys. As three choir-geek-songwriters turned late-blooming-theater-kids, to be welcomed into the Broadway community is truly humbling and meaningful for us, and we are so proud to share this moment with our beautiful Lost Boys family.”
Best Book of a Musical
David Hornsby and Chris Hoch, for The Lost Boys: "When we met in high school so many years ago, the last thing the two of us ever imagined is that we'd be lucky enough to be Tony-nominated writers of a Broadway vampire musical. We are so honored and grateful — especially to the cast and crew at The Palace who are making us look good eight times a week."
LJ Benet and Ali Louis Bourzgui in 'The Lost Boys' on BroadwayCredit: Matthew MurphyBest Direction of a Musical
Michael Arden, The Lost Boys (also nominated for Best Lighting Design of a Musical alongside Jen Schriever): "I am overwhelmed with gratitude for this honor. To be working in the theatre, let alone on Broadway, has been my dream since I transformed my grandparents' garage into a stage as a kid. More important than the personal honor is the deep sense of pride I have for my fellow collaborators who poured their souls into the monumental undertaking that is The Lost Boys. They are all my heroes and I am so grateful for the selflessness, rigor, and passion they brought to work every day. Congrats to all the nominees and all the countless artists and technicians who make every show possible and who continue to delight and inspire audiences 8 times a week on Broadway."
Lear deBessonet, Ragtime: “We are all so moved by this recognition and the 11 nominations for Ragtime. I am thrilled for the members of our cast and creative team; and we share this moment with the many, many collaborators across disciplines whose talent and humanity have made this production possible. Ragtime speaks so beautifully to Lincoln Center Theater's commitment to staging work that brings our many histories, voices, and communities into conversation, and I'm particularly overjoyed that this great American musical [by Terrence McNally, Stephen Flaherty, and Lynn Ahrens] is receiving the renewed celebration it has always deserved. On a personal note, I am so honored to be nominated alongside these exquisitely gifted directors who I love and who inspire me.”
Tim Jackson, Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York): "I'm overwhelmed, grateful, and so honoured to be nominated for Best Director, and thrilled that Two Strangers has received 8 nominations. These nominations reflect the collective brilliance of so many kind, funny, big-hearted collaborators who have poured their magic and immense talent into this special show over the last 8 years. Making this musical with Kit Buchan and Jim Barne has been a highlight of my career, and of my life. Every day together has been filled with laughter and a fizzy creativity, and I couldn't be happier for the two of them. The opportunity to tell an original story like this is a privilege, and the fact we've gone on this epic journey from a tiny basement studio to now Broadway is just bananas. I've had a pretty surreal day in rehearsals in London, and wish I could teleport to the Longacre tonight to give everyone the biggest hugs—especially Sam and Christiani, who deliver exquisite, stellar performances night after night and are so deserving of their nods, as are the ever-excellent Soutra Gilmour and Lux Pyramid. Thank you so much to the Broadway community for welcoming us all with such open arms. New York has become my second home in recent years, and receiving this recognition is extra special because of that. Sending huge congratulations and admiration to all the shows and nominees — I feel so proud to be a part of it all."
Zhailon Levingston, nominated for Best Direction of a Musical for CATS: The Jellicle Ball: "Today is for 7 year old Zhailon who watched Cats every single day, today is for 15 year old Zhailon who came out and was unsure if there was a place for him, and today like every day is for the black and queer ancestor for whom non of this would be possible“
The cast of 'Liberation' on BroadwayCredit: Little FangBest Direction of a Play
Nicholas Hytner, for Giant: “I'm honored to be nominated and delighted that the play and two remarkable actors have also been nominated.”
Robert Icke, Oedipus (also nominated for Best Revival of a Play): "A production exists only because of the hard work, talents, and dedication of a huge team of actors, designers, stage managers and many, many others. These seven nominations are a wonderful recognition of the work of everyone who came together to bring Oedipus to New York. I'm thrilled."
Kenny Leon, The Balusters: "So humbled to receive this nomination in a field of so many excellent directors and storytellers. Our art is our weapon, and I am so proud to be afforded the opportunity to create on our stages. David Lindsay-Abaire and this excellent cast and creative team have allowed me to fall in love all over again with the mighty power of laughter, truth and theatre."
Joe Mantello, Arthur Miller's Death of a Salesman: “This was an idea Nathan and I hatched over 30 years ago, and today's acknowledgment is really a testament to every person who showed up and trusted as we attempted to climb this great mountain of a play. It was in every sense, a team effort, and I'm deeply grateful to all of my collaborators.”
Whitney White, Liberation: “For directors, these moments are incredibly rare. … I am just incredibly grateful, humbled and really want to celebrate the women who have uplifted me and made this possible: my mother Janice, my aunts, my producers, my cast and of course the incomparable Bess Wohl. … As the first Black woman to be nominated twice for the Tony Award for Best Direction of a play, this is an incredible honor. … I am full of gratitude! This moment is a beacon of possibility … I hope that this moment ensures Liberation as a story that all of us will tell for a very long time! … I am the first Black woman to be a two-time nominee for Best Direction of a Play and I could not be more honored. … You are not. Keep chasing! Keep reaching.”
The cast of 'CATS: The Jellicle Ball' on BroadwayCredit: Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMadeBest Choreography
Arturo Lyons, co-choreographer of CATS: The Jellicle Ball: "Waking up feeling beyond grateful. A Tony Nominee. We're just two choreographers coming from ballroom and flipping this masterpiece our way-yeah, it's major. This moment means everything, and we're pouring our truth, our history, and our artistry into every count. Ballroom is hitting Broadway and we're not holding back. The energy, the storytelling, the precision-it's all there and then some. This is for the culture, for the ones who paved the way, and for everybody ready to feel something real. So when whenever you're ready for a party come meet us at the Broadhurst."
Ellenore Scott, for Ragtime: "I'm overwhelmed at the response to this incredible production. My work, along all of the other tremendous artists being recognized for ragtime. What an honor.”
Omari Wiles, co-choreographer of CATS: The Jellicle Ball: "This is for the young me who watched his parents build a legacy and community that nurtured the strength within me to pursue my dream. As a child, Cats was the first Broadway show I ever saw, and this reimagining holds a much greater purpose than we could have ever imagined. It's been a dream of mine to touch a Broadway stage, and now that dream lives on with CATS: The Jellicle Ball."
Lauren Yalango-Grant and Christopher “Cree” Grant, The Lost Boys: “We're deeply grateful and honored by this Tony nomination. This recognition belongs just as much to our fearless, generous cast, whose commitment and heart bring this show to life eight times a week at the magical Palace Theatre. We're especially thankful to Michael Arden for believing in us and championing our work, to The Rescues for their extraordinary music, and to everyone who helped shape this piece of theater.”
Mark Strong and Lesley Manville in 'Oedipus' on BroadwayCredit: Julieta CervantesBest Scenic Design of a Musical
Rachel Hauck, CATS: The Jellicle Ball: "What! What! I'm so thrilled. We are so, so, so proud of the ball and for the entire show to be seen. I just can't believe it. I'm so proud and so thrilled. It's an impossible honor. I just can't believe it. Congratulations to everybody. I'm just thrilled to be in this company. I can't believe it. Come on. Come one. Come all. Come to the ball."
Dane Laffrey, for The Lost Boys: "The Lost Boys was as much of a thrill ride to make as it is onstage. I am incredibly honored to be nominated amongst the best designers working on Broadway and as part of a creative team that was recognized across the board for this biggest of swings."
Best Scenic Design of a Play
Hildegard Bechtler, Oedipus: "I'm thrilled to be nominated for this Tony Award. It's the culmination of an inspiring collaboration with Rob Icke and a superb cast of actors and creatives. We've always loved working together in NY and this is the ultimate accolade. Thank you to everyone at the Tony Awards."
David Korins, for Dog Day Afternoon: "I started talking to Mark Kaufman, the producer of our play well over a decade ago. Being a part of this extraordinarily loving and creative community never gets old. Every day is a pinch me moment, this morning, and this news is a double pinch me moment. I have nothing to say, except that being part of this theatrical community was something I always wanted to be part of And cherish with all of my heart. My attitude is pure gratitude."
Joshua Henry and the cast of 'Ragtime' on BroadwayCredit: Matthew MurphyBest Costume Design of a Musical
Linda Cho, Ragtime: “What a morning. I'm beyond delighted that Ragtime has received so much recognition this season. I believe we honored this magnificent piece of the American Musical Theater canon. My heart is bursting with joy for all my collaborators and I am fiercely proud we get to share this moving cautionary tale with New York audiences.”
Qween Jean, CATS: The Jellicle Ball: “On the first day of our tech rehearsal, I quoted a speech from ICON Junior LaBeija about how, at a time of ostracization, HIV stigma and injustice, young Black and brown queer people in New York still built community — each night, a ball occurred. … This experience has unequivocally changed my life as a Black trans woman in ballroom, and it's an honor to help illustrate and celebrate these icons and legends. … I'm reflecting on pioneers like Pepper LaBeija, Angie Xtravaganza, Dorian Corey and Crystal LaBeija, whose courage and sacrifices continue to guide us. … The Jellicle Ball serves as a lighthouse — a place to learn, rejoice and remember that nothing can diminish our light. … As Grizabella says, ‘When people see a free world, they want to fight for it,' and CATS: The Jellicle Ball is a grand prize free world.”
Ryan Park, The Lost Boys: “I'm caught off guard and so honored to be recognized. I'm immensely proud of our team's work and being able to see The Lost Boys' family getting so much love makes it extremely special.”
The cast of 'Joe Turner's Come and Gone' on BroadwayCredit: Emilio MadridBest Costume Design of a Play
Emilio Sosa, for The Balusters: “I'm humbled and honored to be recognized by my peers! Theater is a collaborative art form and even more so in the costume world. I am in great debt to my team of costumers and artists, who are the back bone to what we do!”
Paul Tazewell, for August Wilson's Joe Turner's Come and Gone: “It is such a privilege to have the opportunity to be a part of bringing August Wilson's characters to life. That privilege amplifies two-fold by having my work acknowledged with this year's Tony Awards.”
Ali Louis Bourzgui and Dean Maupin in 'The Lost Boys' on BroadwayCredit: Matthew MurphyBest Lighting Design of a Musical
“We are delighted to be nominated alongside Don Holder and Adam Honoré for the Lighting Design of Ragtime. Working on Ragtime was a dream, and it is thrilling to be part of bringing these important stories back to the stage, now more than ever. We feel honored to be nominated among so many talented friends and colleagues.” – 59 Studio, Ragtime
Adam Honoré, CATS: The Jellicle Ball: "Wow, wow, wow, wow, wow. I am so tickled I don't even know what to say. This is an incredible honor to be nominated in this category with such greats. I, not very long ago as a... you know, a young designer, looked up to all of these designers in this category with me and I cannot believe this morning has gone the way it has. CATS: [The Jellicle Ball] was such an incredible journey. The entire process was so joyous. The room had a spirit and a light to it that was just incredible, and I am truly here just also along for the ride. So, it's very cool to be nominated with everyone. Thank you."
Adam Honoré, Ragtime: “I am incredibly tickled, humbled, and elated to be nominated alongside Don and 59 Studio for the Design of Ragtime. Working by the side of these industry greats has been the joy of a lifetime and a personal dream come true. Looking forward to continuing this important storytelling night after night and sharing our work on the Tony stage.”
Donald Holder, Ragtime: “Ragtime has and always will be one of my favorite musicals, so I feel particularly fortunate to be a part of this magnificent production. I'm truly honored and thrilled beyond words to be nominated for my work in collaboration with Adam and 59 Studio, and I couldn't be happier for Lincoln Center Theater, Lear deBessonet, and the amazing cast and crew of Ragtime.”
Jen Schriever, The Lost Boys (alongside Michael Arden): "I'm beyond excited to be nominated alongside the most daring collaborators. The Lost Boys took a big, fearless leap, and getting to take that jump with my collaborators will be something that I will never forget. I am indebted to and so proud of the greatest lighting team on Broadway!" -
Best Lighting Design of a Play
Natasha Civers, for Oedipus: “I'm completely over the moon to be nominated for my work on Oedipus which was redesigned for New York after the initial London run. It was, and always is, a pleasure to be welcomed by the Broadway community.”
Nicholas Christopher in 'Chess' on BroadwayCredit: Matthew MurphyBest Orchestrations
Trevor Holder, CATS: The Jellicle Ball: "This is amazing. And I was just nominated for Best Orchestrations. I'm just, I'm thrilled. I'm thrilled. It was such a privilege to work with amazing, talented, beautiful artists to put this production together. And we must thank Andrew Lloyd Webber for giving us a privilege to share this energetic revival and reimagination of his iconic show. Thank you, thank you. See you at the Tonys."
Ethan Popp, The Lost Boys (alongside The Rescues): "I'm deeply honored by this recognition from the Tony Awards. The Lost Boys has been an extraordinary musical undertaking, and I'm incredibly proud of the orchestrations, arrangements, and music production work that helped bring this score from The Rescues' demos into a fully realized theatrical world. I'm grateful to our phenomenal musicians, the entire music team, and all of my collaborators who helped make that possible."
Doug Schadt, for CATS: The Jellicle Ball: "I'm so excited to find out today that we were nominated in the Best Orchestrations category at the TONYs. This is my first Broadway production, and it's been such a joy to experience the infectious joy and creativity around this production, and it's such a joy to share this nomination with David Wilson and Trevor Holder, and of course Andrew Lloyd Webber."
Brian Usifer, of Chess: “I am so thrilled and honored to be nominated for this incredible show and stunning production. Working on this score has been the most rewarding and challenging experience, and my biggest priority has always been to honor the sound that Benny, Bjorn, Tim and Anders created more than 40 years ago. I need to give thanks to Ian Weinberger and the Chess orchestra as well as John Shivers and Brian Rau."
Carrie Coon and Namir Smallwood in 'Bug' on BroadwayCredit: Matthew MurphyBest Sound Design of a Musical
Adam Fisher, The Lost Boys: “I'm completely overwhelmed by this nomination for The Lost Boys. It's been an epic journey to get here, and seeing the show receive so much recognition is truly incredible. It makes me feel so proud to be part of the Broadway community.
Walter Trarbach, Schmigadoon!: "I'm delighted and honored to represent Schmigadoon! with this nomination. It is a true pleasure to work on a musical that brings so much laughter and joy into the world, and I'm proud to play a small part in sharing that joy with audiences eight times a week."
Best Sound Design of a Play
Justin Ellington, Joe Turner's Come and Gone: “I am incredibly grateful to be recognized for my work alongside these other remarkable nominees. It is always a pleasure to work on August Wilson plays, and it was all made even more special being part of this incredible company of actors, creatives, crew, producers, and managers. And let's not forget our leader, Ms. Debbie Allen.”
Josh Schmidt, Bug: "I am thrilled to receive a Tony nomination for sound design of Bug. I'd like to acknowledge my design associates Mike Deyo and Tyler Berg, as well as production sound engineer Kenneth Goodwin, for all of their work. It's an honor to work on Tracy's amazing play and also to work with David Cromer. Huge congratulations to Carrie Coon, Takeshi Kata, and Heather Gilbert on their well-earned nominations, and to MTC for their brilliant production."
on People
Source: “AOL Entertainment”
