Hamilton-born Broadway actress Caissie Levy won the prestigious Tony Award for best leading actress in a musical for her outstanding portrayal of Mother in the revival of “Ragtime.” Levy expressed gratitude to her Canadian roots and her parents during her acceptance speech at Radio City Music Hall. She emphasized the importance of teamwork and credited her parents for teaching her valuable life lessons. Levy also thanked her babysitters for supporting her dual roles as a Broadway actor and a mother.
Several Canadians achieved success at the 79th annual Tonys. Winnipeg-born Joshua Henry clinched his first Tony as best leading actor in a musical for his role as Coalhouse Walker Jr. in “Ragtime.” Lorne Michaels, creator of “Saturday Night Live,” secured his first Tony as a producer for the musical adaptation of the Apple TV series “Schmigadoon!,” which won the award for best new musical.
The best new play award went to Bess Wohl’s “Liberation,” a compelling narrative centered on a women’s group in 1970s Ohio. Wohl highlighted the struggles faced by women dealing with misogyny, racism, and societal expectations. The play garnered praise for its portrayal of feminism and empowerment.
“Death of a Salesman,” Arthur Miller’s renowned masterpiece exploring the disintegration of the American Dream, won the best play revival category. The production received six Tonys, including accolades for Laurie Metcalf, Joe Mantello, and the technical aspects of the show.
John Lithgow made history by winning his third Tony for best lead actor in a play for his role in “Giant.” At 80 years old, Lithgow became the oldest man to earn a competitive acting Tony. Shoshana Bean, recognized as the best featured actress in a musical for her performance in “The Lost Boys,” delivered a heartfelt speech acknowledging the strength and support of single mothers.
“Pink genial, exuberant as host” section summarizes Pink’s dynamic performance as the host of the gala. Pink’s energetic and engaging hosting style captivated the audience, with notable moments including a show-stopping rendition of “Lady Marmalade” and a lively performance of “All That Jazz” from the musical “Chicago.”
The evening also featured touching musical tributes during the “In Memoriam” segment, with Leslie Odom Jr. and Rachel Zegler delivering powerful performances to honor the memory of lost luminaries. The event concluded with a special reunion of the original cast members of “The Book of Mormon” to celebrate the show’s 15th anniversary.
