Whether it's your first or twenty-first, how would react to news that you've just been nominated for Broadway's biggest award?! Who would be the first person you'd call, text, or tweet?
Although the Tony season has been pushed to later than previous years, nothing can stop the Broadway's biggest awards show from celebrating the work of this past season.
Even though Broadway shows sadly remain dark, there was still so so much beautiful art from this past season that deserves to be celebrated. Last week, Tony winner James Monroe Iglehart announced the nominees for the 2020 Tony Awards. Check out their reaction to receiving the exciting news below!
Tom Hiddleston (Betrayal), Best Leading Actor in a Play
"My deepest thanks to the American Theatre Wing, The Broadway League & the Tony Committee for this great honour, and my congratulations to my fellow nominees. I'm very grateful. I share it with the whole company, creative team and everybody involved in our production of Betrayal. These uncertain and extraordinary times have put our theatre communities at home and abroad under great strain. The best way to keep theatre alive is to help take care of all those who make it happen. If you are working in the industry and need help, please visit https://actorsfund.org/ (US) and https://theatreartists.fund/ (UK). I miss the theatre - it means so much to so many. I hope we'll all find a way back soon.
Ian Barford (Linda Vista)- Best Leading Actor in a Play
Muhammad Ali once uttered a two word poem that may be my favorite of all: 'Me. We.' In this time of extreme polarization, when our nation is consumed with righteous hatred toward 'other' - I am reminded of how theater-making is fundamentally collaborative. Let's find our way to Ali's 'we'. Any recognition for ME is shared with ALL of my collaborators, most especially Tracy Letts whose writing is second to none. I am sincerely honored to be recognized. Thank you.
Paul Englishby (The Inheritance)- Best Score
I'm absolutely delighted and honoured to receive a Tony nomination for Best Original Score. It's been an incredibly difficult time for Theatre practitioners and musicians, but I have great faith that our community will be back stronger than ever. Right now, the next vital thing is to get out and vote.
Myra Lucretia Taylor (Tina)- Best Featured Actress in a Musical
I am so honored to be nominated. It is thrilling to be recognized in this way, and it is thrilling to be part of this community that is strong and determined to carry on. Broadway will be back. America will be back. It is up to us, all of us, to have hope, and vote.
Jeff Sugg (Tina)- Best Scenic Design of a Musical
Wow! I'm so excited and honored to be recognized by the Tony nominating committee and my community of theater makers. In these days of physical separation it feels great to be able to celebrate this together. It is also an important opportunity to remember that there is so much work to be done to make our lives, our theater, and our country more equitable and open. I have been blessed with so much and am humbled by the responsibility that comes with this nomination. VOTE!
Alanis Morissette (Jagged Little Pill)- Best Musical
I couldn't be happier for our jagged little pill musical community! everyone has generously offered their whole selves to this collective mission of shining light on our deeply held values of inclusion, de-stigmatizing human experiences, connection, relational healing and grace, race love and multiple forms of fierce activism in such an expressed and deeply empathic story-slash-movement. i am overcome with emotion about this beautiful team-effort resonating with anyone who might be assuaged in this wildly unusual and challenging time. sending big love!
Diane Paulus (Jagged Little Pill)- Best Direction
The incredible recognition for JLP is a tribute to ALL the artists, crew, Impact Board members, and staff on Broadway and at the A.R.T. who have cared so deeply about this story and our production. I am ever grateful for the continual learning and deepening of empathy that Alanis inspires and that has been at the center of our JLP journey.
Any activity around Tonys this year is a celebration of the entire theater community and the collective presence with audiences that we all profoundly miss. My deepest hope is that the jolt of energy sparked by today's announcement inspires greater participation in and advocacy for our democracy, and for transformative equity in our industry.
Sean Allan Krill (Jagged Little Pill)- Best Featured Actor in a Musical
I am simply flabbergasted. As a theater actor, it's a dream come true to be nominated for a Tony Award, and I am incredibly honored. Working on Jagged Little Pill and bringing Steve Healy to life has been one of the greatest joys of my career. I am so proud of the show and the difficult, necessary stories it brings to light. We are living in a particularly troubling time, and the show's central message of communication and compassion moving toward growth, forgiveness, acceptance and understanding is more timely than ever. Theater is essential; it enriches our lives and shows the depths of our humanity and our true potential. I'm incredibly proud to be a part of a Tony season that I hope can, in this unsettling 'intermission', help bring back the joy and sense of community that live theatre can bring to artists and theatregoers alike!
Aaron Tveit (Moulin Rouge! The Musical)- Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical
It's a huge honor and I am so grateful to be nominated!! It's also vitally important to highlight that this recognition represents, collectively, thousands of hours of work by hundreds of individuals working on Moulin Rouge! The Musical. All the brilliant craftspeople, technicians, stagehands and crew that run our show night to night, those in the front and back of the house, inside and outside our stage doors, our incredible audience and fans, and of course the cast, creative team, and producers.
A day hasn't gone by since the shutdown began that I haven't missed the theatre and I look forward to when we can all return. I hope this can be a positive lift amidst an industry shut down with an ever-changing timeline, as well as a reminder of power of live theatre, and what it can do for us as individuals. And for our world.
Jonathan Deans (Jagged Little Pill)- Best Sound Design of a Musical
What does the nomination mean to you this year?
During this time of Pandemic, layered with the ongoing social unrest and inequalities, receiving a nomination on one-hand reminds me of the isolation and on the other-hand it represents.... HOPE.
Looking back on your experience in this show, what is your favorite memory?
The amazing welcoming creative team, cast, musicians and crew. The entire production is my favorite memory.
What are you most looking forward to when Broadway can re-open?
Seeing and hearing the streets of Broadway come alive again, with open arms for change.
What's helping you to stay positive/motivated in the meantime?
I have been sharing my experience and knowledge with Sound students from around the world, in groups and one-to-one. Plus being with my family.
Celia Rose Gooding (Jagged Little Pill)- Best Performance by a Featured Actress in a Musical
What does the nomination mean to you this year?
I can't put it to words yet. I've been dreaming of this day for so long, I didn't imagine these exact circumstances of course, but I'm just so so so so so so so grateful.
Looking back on your experience in this show, what is your favorite memory?
My favorite memory changes all the time. But today I'm thinking about the 2/21 performance. It was the end of curtain call, right before the cast dances off stage for the final time. Lauren Patten and I always dance off together, it's been a ritual since the out-of-town tryout at ART. I remember grabbing her hand, looking at her, and saying, "that was my last performance as a teenager." and just dancing off. She had a very funny reaction, I think there's a video of it somewhere. I've been with this show since I was about 17, so to close that chapter of my life on that stage and with her, it was all just really special.
What are you most looking forward to when Broadway can re-open?
I'm really looking forward to taking everything I've learned about myself and the world around me and putting it into the show. I love how current Jagged can always be, some part of it always rings true to whatever is going on a specific day, and post-COVID Jagged it going to be amazing.
What's helping you to stay positive/motivated in the meantime?
Lots of good food, good TV (I just got all caught up on Lovecraft, highly recommend), and just taking it day by day. I've stopped pressuring myself to be "okay" all the time, and sometimes I'm not positive or motivated. I'm learning to honor that, and keep space for all of my feelings, no matter what. That's been a huge help.
Karen Olivo (Moulin Rouge! the Musical)- Best Performance by a Leading Actress in a Musical:
Not one of us in the theater does ANYTHING by ourselves. And that is why I am so happy that the work of A.J. Littlefield (dresser for Satine), Daniel Mortenson (Hair/Makeup Supervisor), & Ashley Loren (standby for Satine) is being highlighted by this nomination. I hope that the spotlight on the Tony Awards will illuminate the fact that Arts Workers everywhere, not just on Broadway, are struggling. By all means, let's celebrate the work of all of these artisans but let us also seek the government mandated financial assistance that will ensure we exist beyond this global pandemic.
Lois Smith (The Inheritance)- Best Featured Actress in a Play
I have a Tony nomination! For my role in THE INHERITANCE, which I found to be a celebration all the time. A day of good news, not many of those lately. Thank you Tony committee. Now let's vote, and keep well, and instead of working for Law and Order, which has come to have a frightening meaning, let's rename it Justice and Civility, and see how much of that we can offer each other. Then we can celebrate.
Kenny Leon (A Soldier's Play)- Best Direction of a Play
So honored to be recognized in this way ..This gives us fuel to continue to tell everyone's story on a raised stage in front of the whole community. We stand on the shoulders of Charles Fuller, August Wilson, Ruby Dee, Harry Belafonte and so many others as we continue to build a better Broadway inclusive of all.
Alex Timbers (Moulin Rouge! the Musical)- Best Direction of a Musical
I'm so excited and honored to be nominated alongside such incredible directors I admire and for "Moulin Rouge," a show I love so much. There's obviously great sadness right now, and the fact that we're in a period without plays and musicals in New York can feel like an incomparably small part of that. But "Moulin Rouge" itself is a musical about "show people" and their resilience in times of struggle and I take inspiration from it every day and the knowledge that Broadway will be back - and that we'll all be reunited with our own "show families." It's wonderful that the American Theater Wing and Broadway League have made the choice to celebrate the theater industry and a season that we all felt very lucky to be a part of.
Catherine Zuber (Moulin Rouge! the Musical)- Best Costume Design in a Musical
During this unprecedented time, I often think about all the theaters of NYC patiently waiting since March 12, for their performers, crew, and audience to bring the energy of live performance back to our beloved city. Moulin Rouge exemplifies an explosion of the celebration of love, of life, of deep friendships and artistic freedom. With my brilliant team of associates and collaborators, I am so honored to be recognized with this Tony nomination.
Peter Hylenski (Moulin Rouge! the Musical)- Best Sound Design in a Musical
I'm honored to be nominated alongside my Moulin Rouge family. Our shows' ideals of Truth, Beauty, Freedom, Love are something we can continue to strive for, even during the challenges of 2020. Now, more than ever, it's crucial for us as an industry to support one another, to become leaders of change, and examples of strength and compassion.
Diablo Cody (Jagged Little Pill)- Best Book of a Musical for
I'm honored to be nominated but I obviously wish the field had not been limited by current circumstances. With that said, I believe in my heart that art can heal; Jagged Little Pill was always intended as a balm in anxious times. I'm pleased that the Tonys are going forward, because I think it's important to recognize not only the work that has moved us, but the beloved industry so many are determined to protect and resurrect. While the Tonys might not be a traditional celebration this year, I hope the show will be a memorable opportunity to express love for the theater and demonstrate solidarity.
Jake Gyllenhaal - Triple nominee as Best Actor in a Play; and lead producer for two Best Play nominees: SEA WALL / A LIFE & SLAVE PLAY
I am deeply honored to be nominated today, but also recognize what an uncertain time this is for the theater world, and the world at large. So I encourage everyone first to VOTE and then, if you can, donate to The Actors Fund in support of the many amazing people who depend on live theater. Being without theater right now has left a huge void in anyone who cherishes the communal experience of artists coming together to tell a story in front of a live audience. I miss the incredible work of the theater community and I cannot wait to be back on stage with you all soon!
Tom Sturridge, Best Actor in a Play for SEA WALL / A LIFE & SLAVE PLAY
Congratulations to my fellow nominees. I am so proud of everyone involved in this production. The journey from a reading in a windowless back room of The Public to here has been a kind of magic. The best way to celebrate theatre is to support its practitioners in these uncertain times. Please give to the Actors Fund if you can. And no vote matters more than the one on November 3rd.
Robyn Hurder - Best Performance by a Featured Actress in a Musical for Moulin Rouge
"The two things I've kept repeating this afternoon: "This isn't real. Is this real life?" When I saw my name appear on the screen, I burst into the most horrific ugly cry and roared like a dying lion. My husband and son latched onto me and we cried. Hard. I am so unbelievably honored to have received this recognition from The Broadway League and American Theatre Wing. I truly was not expecting this at all. I will cherish this day for the rest of my life, and I cannot wait to get back on that beautiful stage at the Hirschfeld and welcome everybody back into our gorgeous underworld, The Moulin Rouge."
Sahr Ngaujah - Best Performance by a Featured Actor in a Musical - for Moulin Rouge
I am overjoyed to be recognized in this way! I hope that my nomination serves to inspire young artists for whom the idea of working in an elite sector of this field seems so far away. It is definitely hard work, and the tireless efforts of thousands of theater practitioners all over this industry are seldom recognized in such a big way. But these types of awards would never be given out were it not for the daily passion and craftsmanship that so many of our colleagues come to work with every day. We thus inspire each other to do our best work again and again. Until we all meet again to conjure magic in dark theaters and bright rehearsal halls all over this planet, please VOTE!
Alex Timbers - Best Direction of a Musical for Moulin Rouge
I'm so excited and honored to be nominated alongside such incredible directors I admire and for "Moulin Rouge," a show I love so much. There's obviously great sadness right now, and the fact that we're in a period without plays and musicals in New York can feel like an incomparably small part of that. But "Moulin Rouge" itself is a musical about "show people" and their resilience in times of struggle and I take inspiration from it every day and the knowledge that Broadway will be back - and that we'll all be reunited with our own "show families." It's wonderful that the American Theater Wing and Broadway League have made the choice to celebrate the theater industry and a season that we all felt very lucky to be a part of.
Daniel Kluger - (double nominee for Best Sound Design of a Play for SEA WALL / A LIFE & THE SOUND INSIDE)
I'm so surprised and honored by the nominations - it was a huge privilege to be a part of both special productions SEA WALL / A LIFE and THE SOUND INSIDE. We're all mourning the loss of live theater right now, and this is a reminder that our community of artists and workers struggling under the weight of this recession and pandemic. The industry desperately needs support, and I implore us all to elect competent progressive leaders who will fight for working people, a functional government, and a progressive society.
Robert O'Hara, Nominee for Best Director of a Play, SLAVE PLAY
I'm honored to be nominated especially for leading a team helmed by black and brown artists. BIPOC voices are vital to the theater, but also to the ballot box. Please take this opportunity to vote and make sure your voice is heard.
Katori Hall - Tina: The Tina Turner Musical - Best Book of a Musical and as a producer in the Best Musical Category
Being nominated this year is a bittersweet honor. The intermission our industry is experiencing is unprecedented and its impact will undoubtedly be felt for years. But the curtain being down has allowed many to lift the veil on the pervasive and stubborn roots of racism that still infect our nation. In this dark moment, we are plagued by the virus of COVID-19 and the virus of racism. But both Goliaths can be slain. I feel so blessed to have laid my hands on a musical about a woman who slayed-who conquered the Goliaths of domestic abuse and industry-wide sexism and racism. The story of Tina Turner is truly an inspiration for these dark and turbulent times, and I'm so proud of our team for bringing TINA: THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL to the world.
Kathryn Gallagher, Best Featured Actress in a Musical - JAGGED LITTLE PILL
I am so proud of our Jagged Little Pill family today and so deeply honored to be included in this group of Tony Nominees. This show has taught me so much about what it means to speak up for what's right and to speak your truth so to get this nod of celebration amidst such uncertainty is an immense honor and just the inspiration needed to keep working towards a better future for America. See you at the polls!
Mary Louise Parker -Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Play
At this moment Broadway may be dark longer than it ever has, but I'm praying it's just waiting for us and I have my own ghost light on and burning bright until those stage doors open again. I'm longing for my theater family but grateful we have today to connect and that I can celebrate my Sound Inside collaborators as well. Thank you for your faith in us, I can speak for the entire theater community when I say we cannot wait to tread the boards again.
Adrienne Warren (TINA - THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL) - Best Leading Actress in a Musical
During this time, I wasn't sure how to feel about today...then my heart is exploded with pride for our entire show and everyone involved. Thank you to the nominating committee for this recognition! I am truly honored and grateful.
Lauren Patten (Jagged Little Pill) - Best Featured Actress in a Musical
I am incredibly grateful for this Tony nomination, which is made so much more special for me because I share it with my entire Jagged Little Pill family. I am deeply proud of our show and everything that it stands for. I can't wait until we are all able to return safely to our theatres to share the brilliant work of the shows that opened, and the shows that were not able to open because of the coronavirus pandemic. As a country and as an artistic community, we are going through deeply difficult times, and I hope that this moment of reflection and celebration can fuel and inspire us to return to Broadway stronger, and with true equity and justice for our entire community.
Sonya Tayeh (Moulin Rouge! )- Best Choreography
Moulin Rouge! The Musical is made up of one of the hardest working teams I've ever been a part of, both on stage and off. It is a show where the craft of dance is celebrated and honored. Our beloved ensemble fires off an electricity that echoes, and I'm so grateful to them. As an Arab-American queer choreographer, it has been an honor to work on a show that celebrates otherness and a freedom for all humanity. Even though unpredictability abounds for the arts in this uncertain time, I am proud to celebrate this year with my fellow nominees. This moment serves as a giant reminder that we're still here and of just how vital the arts are - as the heartbeat of New York City, and beyond.
Bess Wohl (Grand Horizons)- Best Play
I am incredibly honored that my work and that of our entire company and crew was recognized, and am deeply grateful to Williamstown Theatre Festival and to Second Stage for producing Grand Horizons. At the same time, my heart is with the countless arts workers who are currently unemployed or have been otherwise devastated by the pandemic. Wear a mask. Vote. And I look forward to when we can all gather together again on Broadway.
Lindsay Jones, double nominee for Best Score & Best Sound Design of a Play for SLAVE PLAY
Thank you so much for these nominations, it is truly a dream come true. Throughout my life, I have received so much from the theatre community: love, support, values, empathy, and so much more. Although I could never begin to repay what I have received, I can only ask that everyone who believes in the arts to please reach out to their elected representatives and urge them to immediately pass COVID support measures (such as #SaveOurStagesAct) so that our theatres can continue to thrive and support the artists of the future.
Ato Blankson-Wood, Best Featured Actor in a Play for Slave Play
My heart is bursting. This is a literal dream come true and I am honored to be nominated. I am incredibly proud of Slave Play and the work we did and CONTINUE to do to confront America's relationship to its violent racial history. It's an exhausting and necessary conversation and as I celebrate this moment, I'm left wondering; How will we keep that conversation moving forward?
Tom Kitt (Jagged Little Pill) - Best Orchestrations
This is a huge honor. I share this with my entire Jagged Little Pill family, especially the brilliant Alanis Morissette, and all of the wonderful collaborators who inspired my work. I also want to acknowledge all of the shows that were not able to open, so today I'm thinking of all of the great artists who were supposed to be a part of the '19-'20 season, and I can't wait to see all of their beautiful work when Broadway returns.
Ethan Popp (Tina- The Tina Turner Musical) - Best Orchestrations
I'd like to express my profound thanks to the Broadway League, The Tony Awards, and my entire TINA family. We have so many reasons to be thankful and to celebrate our industry and our show through these awards. Seven months after the lights went down on Broadway, however, we need the public's support more than ever. Hundreds of thousands of actors, musicians, creatives, stage hands, ushers and more have been furloughed without an indication of when we might return to our beloved jobs. Thousands of small businesses in New York City and across the country that rely on Broadway, touring and regional theater to bring patrons to their doors have been severely affected or have shut their doors forever. The arts aren't a "luxury" - we're a cultural necessity that allow creators to inform, entertain, and act as a social barometer in our society. Broadway will be back, for sure - but for now, please reach out to your representatives and let them know you care about the arts and that they should, too. AND VOTE!!
Elizabeth Stanley (Jagged Little Pill)- Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical
When I began the lab of Jagged Little Pill three years ago - almost to the day - I couldn't have even dreamt that it would lead to this morning. Cue me today...finally getting cell service at the end of an off the grid hike squealing into the Colorado wilderness with joy for the acknowledgment that our show has received (the wildlife was terrified). Thank you, thank you, American Theatre Wing, I am honored.
Bringing the role of Mary Jane to life has absolutely been the highlight of my career. The entire experience has taken me to the depths of my soul and taught me so much. I am continually in awe of our generous creative team, and I have been humbled each night by my incredible cast mates-every one of whom poured their beautiful hearts in to creating each track with vulnerability and integrity. I am humbled to be telling the messy story of a fierce mother, a fighter, a survivor, and an addict. I'm thrilled that our show has been recognized, and I feel very proud to be a part of a production that is doing what I think art does best: helping us see ourselves and encouraging us to heal-which feels more necessary than ever. Immense gratitude to the many, many people who have shared your personal stories with me as I studied to play this role with respectful accuracy and tenderness.
Carmen Pavlovic (Moulin Rouge! The Musical)- Best Musical
Moulin Rouge! The Musical is so grateful to The Broadway League and the American Theatre Wing for providing the chance to come together as theater lovers and theater creators in this history-making moment. This year's Tony Award nominees share the most unusual of bonds. At such a difficult time for so many people, including the thousands who make up the industry behind the scenes, we welcome this opportunity to take a moment to celebrate the remarkable achievements of our finest artists. We are humbled by these nominations and honored every day to stand with the Broadway community. We look forward to joining all the nominees to acknowledge our industry's work and everything Broadway is rebuilding itself to be in the future.
John Logan (Moulin Rouge! The Musical)- Best Book of a Musical
I'm thrilled to be nominated alongside my Moulin Rouge comrades. The show really was a labor of love for us -- and until the theater makes its long awaited and desperately needed return, I'm heartened by all the memories of Truth, Beauty, Freedom and Love.
Danny Burstein (Moulin Rouge! The Musical)- Best Performance by a Featured Actor in a Musical
I'm humbled and honored by this nomination. I just wanted to take a moment to acknowledge every member of the Moulin Rouge family; the producers, artistic staff, stagehands, dressers and, of course, the company. I know this nomination is because of them. I'd also like to say that my heart is with every person suffering in any way because of this pandemic. It's been a hell of a year. Please vote.
Derek McLane (Moulin Rouge! The Musical/Soldier's Play)- Best Scenic Design in a Musical/Play for A Soldier's Play
I am so honored and grateful for to be recognized for these two shows "Moulin Rouge" and "Soldier's Play", both of which have meant so much to me. In the midst of an enormously difficult and painful year, this is a great moment of joy!
Justin Levine (Moulin Rouge! The Musical)- Best Orchestrations
I'm so proud and grateful for my team and the many music makers who helped bring this score to life. I hope this time off we've been granted/forced to take is used to make our industry a more just, equitable and inclusive place to create. We as artists and performers can do a lot within our own circles to achieve this and I am committed to being part of the change so many of us wish to see.
Chalia LaTour, Best Featured Actress in a Play for SLAVE PLAY
I am so grateful to be nominated among this amazing collection of artists. As a part of the Slave Play team, I was able to be in the bravest of company to investigate the history of racism and oppression in this country. In the spirit of our work, I encourage all to get to the polls and to support the Black Lives Matter Movement. Both are integral in creating a world that acknowledges and learns from our history rather than repeating it
Matt Stine (Moulin Rouge! The Musical)- Best Orchestrations
It has been an honor and a joy to work on Moulin Rouge and to be a part of this brilliant music team led by my dear friend Justin Levine. I'm thrilled to be nominated and thrilled that the Tony Awards will go on this year so all of us who work in the theater have something fun to look forward to this year!
Katie Kresek (Moulin Rouge! The Musical)- Best Orchestrations
I'm so very grateful for the opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the work of my colleagues and the life force that is Broadway. Collaboration and unity is at the heart of what we do, and I'm so moved to know we will have this moment to come together during such tumultuous times. I hope this year's Tonys shines a light on our industry, that has been so devastated by this pandemic, and reminds us all that the arts are essential to New York City and the world.
Clint Ramos - double nominee for Best Scenic Design of a Play for SLAVE PLAY and Best Costume Design of a Play for THE ROSE TATTOO
Thank you very much for the nominations and for honoring all the many shows and peers. May our desire for a more equitable American theatre reflect the immense love we have for it. In addition: #Vote #BlackLivesMatter #BeAnArtsHero #costumeindustrycoalition #savethecostumeindustry
Jiyoun Chang, Best Lighting Design of a Play for SLAVE PLAY
Thank you very much for this nomination. I am so proud to be a part of this production with amazing and passionate artists.
While we are celebrating, the arts community is in desperate need of support in this dark time. If you are able, please donate to The Actors Fund. And if you are someone working in the industry in need of support, please visit https://actorsfund.org/"
Joaquina Kalukango, Best Actress in a Play for SLAVE PLAY
Thank you to the American Theatre Wing for this honor alongside such an amazing group of Artists, whom I have long admired. With this nomination I would be remised if I didn't speak about the support that is so desperately needed for our arts community. So many people lost their livelihoods and I encourage anyone who can to donate to the Actors Fund as well as Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. This news lifted my spirits and I hope that we all can lift each other up during this difficult time.
James Cusati-Moyer for Best Featured Actor in a Play for SLAVE PLAY
I am so beyond honored to be nominated amongst such exquisite artists. To be an actor is the greatest gift and responsibility that I have had the privilege of undertaking. We must keep the theatre and storytelling alive to give a voice to the unheard and shed light to the unseen; the arts are a beacon in the darkest of times to guide us and light the way. Please consider donating to the Actor's Fund to help those storytellers in need until the curtains rise once again. Use your voice and VOTE. Thank you for acknowledging my work. It is my life's duty to be one torchbearer amongst the many and mighty community that makes the American Theatre.
Rob Howell, Best Costume Design of a Play and Best Scenic Design of a Play for A Christmas Carol
I am delighted about this. A Christmas Carol is a profound contemplation on community, kindness and spirit. With the world as it is at the moment, Dickens's masterpiece is a timely reminder of what everyone should be reaching for. We are looking forward to remounting it on Broadway in 2021 and also a simultaneous American national tour. To have any part of our production of Jack Thorne's fresh adaptation recognized is incredible, and the entire team are all grateful to the Broadway League and American Theatre Wing, not only for the nominations but also for the herculean efforts in making this year's awards possible. this year's awards possible.
Matthew López, Best Play for The Inheritance
Matthew López: I'm grateful to the American Theatre Wing for recognizing The Inheritance with 11 nominations today, including Best Play. The closing of Broadway theatres (indeed almost all American theatres) this year has left us without a vital resource to gather together and examine ourselves and our nation and has reminded us just how important live theatre is to our personal and civil lives. In its absence, I urge everyone in these next three weeks to channel their energies into electing Joe Biden and Kamala Harris. And once theatres do re-open, I urge commercial producers and non-profit companies to listen to the voices of those who have been crying out this year for racial and economic justice in our country, in our cities, and in our arts organizations. One of the themes of The Inheritance is our responsibility to listen to each other's stories and lift up our fellow citizens, rather than tearing them down. Theatre, at its best, helps call us to those better instincts of our nature. I look forward to the day we can all return safely, joyfully to those sacred spaces and to tell each other stories of our lives and of our nation.
Hugh Vanstone, Best Lighting Design of A Play for A Christmas Carol
This nomination is particularly poignant for me because my husband George Stiles suffered a stroke last year which meant I could be only partially present to make "A Christmas Carol" happen. The sheer outpouring of love and support from the Broadway friends I've made over the past 20 years was overwhelming and seems to be encompassed by the spirit of Dickens' story. I owe my indebted gratitude to all the incredibly talented Broadway folk who worked on this show, but in particular Jimmy Fedigan, Randy Zaibek and the team of A-list production electricians who slaved tirelessly to deliver a feat of electrical wizardry wiring some 800 hanging lanterns in the auditorium, programmer Scott Tusing, production manager Ryan Murphy, and last but not least my incredibly talented associates, Craig Stelzenmuller and Sam Waddington, for their genius in creating the Lyceum version of the play.
Clint Ramos, Best Costume Design of a Play for The Rose Tattoo, and Best Scenic Design of a Play for Slave Play
Thank you very much for the nominations and for honoring all the many shows and peers who created joy through their work. May we always remember that this is only intermission. May our desire for a more equitable American theatre reflect the immense love we have for it. In addition: #Vote #BlackLivesMatter #BeAnArtsHero #costumeindustrycoalition #savethecostumeindustry "
Jamie Lloyd, Best Director of a Play for Betrayal
I am very grateful for the nominations for our production of BETRAYAL. Harold Pinter once said: "I believe that despite the enormous odds which exist, unflinching, unswerving, fierce intellectual determination, as citizens, to define the real truth of our lives and our societies is a crucial obligation which devolves upon us all. It is in fact mandatory. If such a determination is not embodied in our political vision we have no hope of restoring what is so nearly lost to us - the dignity of man." These words feel more urgent than ever. Thank you.
Annie McNamara, Best Featured Actress in a Play for SLAVE PLAY
Being a part of this brilliant play's journey was an honor. Everyone included is in my heart. Forever. This nomination is good news amidst so much bad. Remember good news? Let's get some more of that on November 3rd. Vote your heart.
Jagged Little Pill Producers, Best Musical
"We're so proud of all our nominees and the entire Jagged Little Pill family, and grateful to them for giving us something to celebrate at a time when celebration feels hard to come by," said producers Vivek J. Tiwary, Arvind Ethan David and Eva Price. "We have been consistently inspired by the incredibly thoughtful, inventive, and miracle-making company and creative team. Their creative collaboration and camaraderie is something that has continued to lift us up during these troubling times. This show is about speaking your truth and raising your voice in times of turmoil, and we are hopeful that Americans are reminded today to support the arts industry that is so vital to our nation's culture, and vote in the coming election. Broadway will be back -- in a more fervent, vibrant, and equitable way than ever before. The purpose of art is to make the world a better place, and theater should always be a powerful platform for social change."
Derek Klena, Best Featured Actor in a Musical for Jagged Little Pill
I'm honestly so stunned and unbelievably happy and proud of our beautiful show. I'm proud to be a part of this incredibly fearless, empathetic, passionate group of actors and creatives. From day one, we aimed to push buttons, challenge social, political and societal norms, and ignite the hard conversations. To stand up and not stand by. In a year of such division, unrest, and devastation, to be a part of this work and have it be recognized and applauded in this way, brings me so much joy and hope for better, brighter days to come.
Riccardo Hernández, Best Scenic Design (along with Lucy McKinnon) for Jagged Little Pill
Thank you so very much for this great honor. I am thrilled to be nominated alongside Lucy McKinnon whose work is absolutely stunning. I am likewise ecstatic for our entire Jagged Little Pill family - our fearless leader Diane Paulus and the most amazing group of people I've been fortunate enough to collaborate with: Alanis, Diablo Cody, Larbi, Tom, the entire design collective, and the brilliant cast. Profound gratitude goes to our producers and to the American Repertory Theater. Congratulations to all of our fellow productions in this Broadway season sadly shortened by the pandemic. I would also like to extend congratulations to my Frankie and Johnny family for the Best Revival nomination and to the incomparable Audra McDonald. But most importantly, in this time of awakening, growth, rage and change I salute my fellow BIPOC colleagues whose powerful vision and artistry is truly inspiring and reshaping the American Theater. I am proud to celebrate this moment with these amazing artists!
Justin Townsend, Double nominee for Best Lighting Design in a Musical for Moulin Rouge! The Musical and Jagged Little Pill
"I'm deeply honored and thrilled to be nominated for two Tony Awards. Both Jagged Little Pill and Moulin Rouge! The Musical hold a special place in my heart as singular and vital storytelling. I'm grateful for the reminder of the joy and camaraderie that these productions have brought and will bring again. I especially am thankful for the huge support and work from Programmer Brad Gray who worked with me on both Productions as well as for Moulin Rouge the Associate Nick Solyom, assistant Katy Atwell and the Production Electrician Jeremy Wahlers. All who worked tirelessly to keep track of the countless cues, lightbulbs, and dreams. On Jagged Little Pill - Associate Christopher Thielking, assistant Kate McGee and Production Electrician James Maloney and Justin Freeman. Truly without all of these people's support, tenacity, and care they and so many other people on our team helped achieve the design. Broadway is a handmade art form and I long for the times that we all may be back in each other's presence to make and share world class productions."
Charlie Rosen, Best Orchestrations for Moulin Rouge!
"Thrilled to be recognized by the community! It's a strange time and climate to become a Tony nominee, but I am honored none the less to be considered! Huge thanks to my fellow orchestrators, and anybody who has exposed me to any music ever in my 30 years of life!"
Simon Baker, Best Sound Design of a Play for A Christmas Carol:
What does the nomination mean to you this year?
Personally I'm delighted - the year has been tough so the nomination has been a real treat. A reminder of what we do and how exciting and what a privilege it is to do it.
Looking back on your experience in this show, what is your favorite memory?
When Matthew first talked to me about the show he said it would be a simple low tech affair - like old school pub theatre. Then I watched the first rehearsal of Scrooge locking all the doors and realized that this was going to be some extraordinary pub!
What are you most looking forward to when Broadway can re-open?
That excitement and fizzy expectation you can feel when you walk around Broadway just as all the houses open.
What's helping you to stay positive/motivated in the meantime?
Both at Matthew Warchus's Old Vic and at my home with Emma Rice's Wise Children we've tried to stay busy. We've got shows live streaming, made podcasts even built a radio a station - all so we can stay in touch with our audience and try new ways of telling stories. Christmas Carol will be live streaming this year! Nothing stops the Holiday Season.
Christopher Nightingale (A Christmas Carol)- Best Original Score
What does the nomination mean to you this year?
If I'm honest I have to pinch myself about it - so yes, physically it means forearm bruising. But seriously this year has been characterised by uncertainty and an unsettled background noise of dread for everyone. I feel so lucky to have had my spirits lifted by this honour.
Looking back on your experience in this show, what is your favorite memory?
My favourite memory of Christmas Carol has to be working with the orchestra. Over the years I've discovered an extraordinary alchemic process that happens with musicians playing new music as a group. A first playthrough is like individual scouting missions - discovering how certain phrases work with others, discovering how harmonies work and each instrument's place within them. The second playthrough is more of a musical conversation - world class musicians know exactly when to 'speak' louder or softer and when to shape their phrasing with others. By the third - with almost no actual words between them - there is a 'performance'. A negotiation has taken place entirely musically and it's fascinating and joyous to watch and hear. That's my favourite memory... that and being regularly called a "plonker" by our emphatically Anglophilic cellist, in her 'English' accent! They used to taunt me to say "Firestarter" in a US accent - almost impossible for me - so I'm getting my own back.
What are you most looking forward to when Broadway can re-open?
I want to walk through a stage door and stand on the stage and look out again. I cannot wait to sit in technical rehearsals with my NY friends and then race to Gallaghers' Steakhouse on 52nd for a beer and home made potato chips. I really miss my NY friends and I know how demoralising Broadway's closure has been for them.
What's helping you to stay positive/motivated in the meantime?
Playing the piano - as mentioned above - and getting this wonderful nomination!
