The 2024 Tony Awards lit up New York City on Sunday, delivering the song-and-dance extravaganza that theater aficionados across the globe had been eagerly anticipating. The event was filled with standout performances and heartfelt speeches, but a few key moments truly stole the spotlight.
First-Time Tony Winners Shine
Daniel Radcliffe and Jonathan Groff: It was a spellbinding evening for “Harry Potter” star Daniel Radcliffe, who clinched his first Tony Award for Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Musical for his role in “Merrily We Roll Along.” His co-star Jonathan Groff also nabbed his first Tony for Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role. Both actors expressed profound gratitude, with Groff calling his involvement in the theater community the “greatest gift and pleasure” of his life.
Sarah Paulson: Known for her television work, Sarah Paulson triumphed in the theater world, winning Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Play for “Appropriate.” In her acceptance speech, Paulson thanked her cast, crew, and long-time partner Holland Taylor.
Jeremy Strong and Kecia Lewis: “Succession” star Jeremy Strong and Kecia Lewis, who celebrated her 40-year journey to the Tony stage, were also first-time winners. Lewis humorously thanked her ENT doctor for preserving her vocal range, adding a light-hearted touch to her victory for Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Musical for “Hell’s Kitchen.”
A Star-Studded Reunion
Jay-Z and Alicia Keys: The audience was electrified when Jay-Z joined Alicia Keys on stage for a performance of “Empire State of Mind” during a medley from her musical “Hell’s Kitchen.” This unexpected reunion added an extra layer of excitement to the evening. “Hell’s Kitchen” went on to win two Tony Awards.
Celebrations and Tearful Moments
Angelina Jolie and Vivienne: “The Outsiders,” a stage adaptation of S.E. Hinton’s novel, won four Tonys, including Best Musical. Producer Angelina Jolie and her daughter Vivienne, who inspired her to take on the project, shared a tearful celebration. Director Danya Taymor’s win for Best Direction of a Musical was a particularly poignant moment for the duo.
Political Spotlight
Hillary Clinton: Former First Lady and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton received a warm welcome as she introduced a performance by the cast of “Suffs,” a musical about the Suffragettes. Co-produced by Clinton, Malala Yousafzai, and Tony-winner Shaina Taub, the musical highlights the fight for women’s voting rights. Clinton used her platform to remind the audience of the importance of voting, especially in light of the upcoming election.
The 2024 Tony Awards celebrated both established and emerging talents in the theater world, underscoring the enduring appeal and impact of live performance.
