NEW YORK — The Tony Awards on Sunday evening saw “Maybe Happy Ending” emerge as the standout winner, capturing best new musical with its captivating story of androids infused with human emotions. In a night of remarkable moments, Kara Young also carved her place in history by becoming the first Black individual to win consecutive Tony Awards for her performance in “Purpose,” which secured the title of best new play.
Featuring the talents of Darren Criss and Helen J. Shen, “Maybe Happy Ending” explores the relationship between two obsolete robots, transforming into a poignant commentary on human experiences and the nature of time. The production triumphed with a total of six Tony Awards.
“Purpose,” a drama centered on a distinguished Black family unraveling secrets and pressures during a snowstorm confinement, added to playwright Branden Jacobs-Jenkins’s extraordinary year. Along with consecutive Tony victories—his previous work “Appropriate” achieved best play revival last year—Jacobs-Jenkins was honored with the Pulitzer Prize for “Purpose.” This significant achievement marks him as the first Black playwright to win in this category since August Wilson’s “Fences” in 1987. In his acceptance speech, Jacobs-Jenkins encouraged support for regional theaters, citing the role of Chicago in nurturing “Purpose.” Young, in her acceptance, emphasized the unity and sanctity of theater.
Memorable Moments of the Evening
“Sunset Blvd.,” featuring Nicole Scherzinger as a former screen icon yearning for her past glory, claimed best musical revival, granting composer Andrew Lloyd Webber his first competitive Tony since 1995. This recent rendition is noted for its minimalist approach. Scherzinger’s performance also earned her the award for best lead actress in a musical, outshining notable challenger Audra McDonald. Embracing the moment, Scherzinger said, “Growing up, I always felt like I didn’t belong, but you’ve made me feel like I belong and I’ve come home at last.” She imparted a message of resilience to those feeling misplaced or overlooked.
The multi-talented Darren Criss, known from “Glee” and “The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story,” secured his first Tony Award for his role in “Maybe Happy Ending,” sharing the honor with co-star Helen J. Shen.
Sarah Snook was recognized as lead actress in a play for her dynamic portrayal in “The Picture of Dorian Gray,” where she masterfully embodies 26 different characters. Snook acknowledged the dedicated individuals on and off stage who contribute to the show’s success.
Cabaret sensation Cole Escola captured the best actor in a play award for their role in “Oh Mary!,” triumphing over film giants like George Clooney and Daniel Dae Kim. Director Sam Pinkleton credited Escola’s influence, underscoring the importance of following passion over expectations.
Francis Jue celebrated his win as best featured actor in a play for the revival of “Yellow Face,” attributing his success to previous generations of inspirational Asian artists. Meanwhile, Jak Malone highlighted the significance of his best-featured actor award in the musical “Operation Mincemeat: A New Musical” as a testament to trans rights advocacy.
“Operation Mincemeat” also garnered accolades, including best featured actor in a musical. Jonathan Spector’s “Eureka Day,” a social comedy about vaccine debates among liberal parents, received the best play revival honor.
Celebrating “Hamilton’s” 10th anniversary on Broadway, the original cast, including Lin-Manuel Miranda, delivered a vibrant medley of hit songs in a symbolic reunion.
The Evening’s Host
Cynthia Erivo, in her first time hosting, kickstarted the awards with a captivating performance from Radio City Music Hall, inspired by Oprah Winfrey’s advice to be herself. Dressed in a dazzling red gown, she delivered a powerful rendition of “Sometimes All You Need Is a Song,” accompanied by the Broadway Inspirational Voices choir, setting a resonant tone for the ceremony.
In her remarks, she acknowledged first-time nominees Cole Escola, Louis McCartney, Sadie Sink, and the potential breakout star, George Clooney. Erivo reported a landmark gross of $1.9 billion for the 2024-2025 season, pointing to Broadway’s post-pandemic revival. “Broadway is officially back,” she proclaimed, jestingly cautioning against potential depletion of cast members from the television series “Succession.”
Alongside Sara Bareilles, she rendered a heartfelt in memoriam tribute, encompassing notable figures whose loss marked the year.
Erivo’s presence shone throughout the show, joining audience members in playful banter and a humorous moment involving Oprah Winfrey, gifting a toy car reminiscent of an infamous moment.
Preliminary Honors
“Maybe Happy Ending” received acclaim for best book and best score, with lyrics penned by Hue Park and music by Will Aronson. Celebrating Pride Month, director Michael Arden’s joy was palpable as the production also garnered best scenic design.
Justin Peck and Patricia Delgado celebrated their choreography accolade for “Buena Vista Social Club,” a musical inspired by Wim Wenders’ acclaimed documentary on Cuban music. Commemorating origins in their personal life, Peck reflected on the distinction with fondness.
Costume design accolades were split between Marg Hornwell’s work on “The Picture of Dorian Gray” and Paul Tazewell for “Death Becomes Her,” furthering his groundbreaking achievements in the field.
Harvey Fierstein received a lifetime achievement award, reflecting on the irreplaceable magic of theater and dedicating it to theater’s devoted audience, capturing the profound gratitude of performers for the role audiences play.