This week’s announcement of the Tony Awards nominations has once again highlighted the boundless creativity and fervour embedded in every aspect of the theatrical experience. Scheduled for June 16, the 77th Annual Tony Awards are set to honour the extraordinary talents and dedication that animate Broadway’s most engaging productions.
In the Best Play and Best Musical categories, the nominees demonstrate the pinnacle of storytelling and artistic expression, serving as a source of inspiration for performers worldwide. From the deep familial explorations in Mother Play to the electrifying self-discovery journey in Hell’s Kitchen, each nominee rekindles our passion for the stage and underlines the transformative power of theatre.
As we eagerly await the awards ceremony, let’s immerse ourselves in the excitement and enthusiasm of this moment. The Tony Awards not only recognize the achievements of Broadway’s brightest stars but also act as a beacon of inspiration for performers everywhere. They remind us that with persistence, perseverance, and a sprinkle of magic, our dreams can indeed take centre stage. Join us in celebrating the very best of Broadway and find inspiration for your own artistic journey.
BEST PLAY:
The Best Play category highlights the depth and richness of storytelling on Broadway. Here are the nominees:
Jaja’s African Hair Braiding
5 Nominations
Jocelyn Bioh’s play invites you into the lively world of a bustling Harlem hair braiding salon. Here, West African immigrant hair braiders weave not only hairstyles but also stories and dreams. Underneath the vibrant day-to-day activities, however, lies the simmering uncertainty of their lives. When tensions reach a peak, this close-knit community must face what it means to be outsiders on the fringes of the place they call home.
Author: Jocelyn Bioh
Theatre: Samuel J. Friedman Theatre
Mary Jane
4 Nominations
Amy Herzog’s Mary Jane portrays a single mother navigating a challenging family landscape. Armed with relentless optimism and humour, and supported by a community of women, she faces each new day with courage. This play examines whether inner strength and new friendships can sustain her through tough times.
Author: Amy Herzog
Theatre: Samuel J. Friedman Theatre
Mother Play
4 Nominations
Set in 1962 just outside Washington D.C., Mother Play shows a family in transition. Matriarch Phyllis oversees her teenage children with a strict blueprint for success, fuelling family dynamics with her strong will. This play is a poignant exploration of family bonds and personal identities clashing against societal expectations.
Author: Paula Vogel
Theatre: Hayes Theatre
Prayer for the French Republic
3 Nominations
Joshua Harmon’s play spans over seventy years, tracing the lives of several generations of a French Jewish family. From the dangers of World War II to modern-day challenges, it delves deep into themes of safety, belonging, and the enduring impact of history on a single family.
Author: Joshua Harmon
Theatre: Samuel J. Friedman Theatre
Stereophonic
13 Nominations
Stereophonic dives into the highs and lows of artistic creation, set in a 1976 music studio. This play captures the intense moments before a rock band hits superstardom, offering a raw look at the creative process and the brink of fame.
Author: David Adjmi
Theatre: John Golden Theatre
BEST MUSICAL:
The Best Musical category celebrates the enchanting blend of song and dance on Broadway. Here are the nominees:
Hell’s Kitchen
13 Nominations
Set in the vibrant streets of Manhattan’s Hell’s Kitchen during the mid-90s, 17-year-old Ali finds herself drawn to the promise of freedom and adventure that the neighbourhood exudes. This musical captures the essence of youthful aspiration and the quest for personal discovery, with an inspiring soundtrack by Alicia Keys.
Music & Lyrics by Alicia Keys; Book by Kristoffer Diaz
Theatre: Shubert Theatre
Illinoise
4 Nominations
Inspired by the Sufjan Stevens album “Illinois,” this musical brings to life the stories shared among friends by a campfire. With live music and expressive choreography, it explores universal themes of love, loss, and growing up.
Music & Lyrics by Sufjan Stevens; Book by Justin Peck and Jackie Sibblies Drury
Theatre: St. James Theatre
The Outsiders
12 Nominations
Adapted from S.E. Hinton’s novel and Francis Ford Coppola’s film, The Outsiders revisits the tale of Ponyboy Curtis, Johnny Cade, and their fight for belonging in a world that seems relentlessly hostile. It’s a powerful story about brotherhood, dreams, and defiance.
Book by Adam Rapp and Justin Levine; Music & Lyrics by Jamestown Revival (Jonathan Clay & Zach Chance) and Justin Levine
Theatre: Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre
Suffs
6 Nominations
Set in 1913, Suffs illuminates the vigorous campaign by women suffragists fighting for their right to vote. This musical celebrates their determination, the conflicts they faced, and their monumental impact on history.
Book by Shaina Taub; Music & Lyrics by Shaina Taub
Theatre: Music Box Theatre
Water for Elephants
7 Nominations
Based on Sara Gruen’s novel, this musical follows a young man who, after a great personal loss, finds a new beginning with a traveling circus. It’s a touching reminder that life can offer second chances and new beginnings, regardless of age.
Book by Rick Elice; Music & Lyrics by PigPen Theatre Co.
Theatre: Imperial Theatre
