Tony Awards 2025: Celebrating Diversity and Theatrical Excellence

A Night of Triumph at the Tony Awards
At the recent Tony Awards, the prestigious Best New Play award was awarded to 'Purpose,' a thought-provoking drama by Branden Jacobs-Jenkins that delves into the complexities of a successful Black family trapped together during a snowstorm. This accolade capped off an impressive season for Jacobs-Jenkins, who also received the 2025 Pulitzer Prize for the same work, coinciding with his involvement in the Met Gala host committee.
Jacobs-Jenkins Makes History
This marks Jacobs-Jenkins’ second consecutive Tony win, following last year's Best Revival award for 'Appropriate.' He has now made history as the first Black playwright to receive the Best New Play award since August Wilson won for 'Fences' in 1987. During his acceptance speech, Jacobs-Jenkins encouraged viewers to support regional theatre.
Honoring Asian Artists
Francis Jue took home the Best Actor in a Featured Role award for his role in the revival of 'Yellow Face.' Dressed in a tuxedo gifted by a fellow Asian performer, Jue dedicated his award to the many deserving Asian artists who have come before him, stating, 'To those who don’t feel seen; I see you.'
A Bold Statement for Trans Rights
Jak Malone won Best Featured Actor in a Musical for his role in 'Operation Mincemeat: A New Musical,' where he portrays a female character. He expressed hope that his victory would send a strong message in support of trans rights.
Cynthia Erivo's Dazzling Opening
First-time host Cynthia Erivo kicked off the ceremony with flair, making a dramatic entrance after being called by the stage manager. She dazzled in a red, sequined gown and performed the original song 'Sometimes All You Need Is a Song,' composed by Marc Shaiman, Scott Wittman, Benj Pasek, and Justin Paul.
Musicals Shine Early
Before the main event, several musicals gained momentum. 'Maybe Happy Ending' won Best Book and Best Score, with lyrics by Hue Park and music by Will Aronson. It also secured the award for Best Scenic Design of a Musical, entering the night as a frontrunner for Best New Musical.
Broadway's Play-Centric Season
This Broadway season was characterized by a focus on plays rather than musicals, featuring A-list talent. Alongside Jacobs-Jenkins, stars like George Clooney, Denzel Washington, and Jake Gyllenhaal contributed to the critical buzz surrounding productions.
Musical Contenders
Three musicals competed for the top honor: 'Maybe Happy Ending,' a romantic comedy about androids; 'Dead Outlaw,' which tells the tale of a drifter whose embalmed body becomes a relic; and 'Death Becomes Her,' a satire on vanity and female rivalry. Each of these productions entered the night with ten nominations.
Sarah Snook's Remarkable Performance
Sarah Snook won Best Leading Actress for her extraordinary performance in 'The Picture of Dorian Gray,' where she portrays all 26 characters. She credited her team for the success and emphasized that she never feels alone on stage.
Kara Young's Historic Win
Kara Young made history as the first Black actor to win Tony awards in consecutive years, following her win for 'Purpose' this year after her success last year. She is also the only Black woman to be nominated for four consecutive years, expressing gratitude for the unifying power of theatre.