Hamilton-born Broadway star Caissie Levy won the Tony Award for best actress in a leading role in a musical for her portrayal of Mother in the revival of “Ragtime.” Levy, expressing gratitude to her Canadian roots and parents during her acceptance speech at Radio City Music Hall, emphasized the importance of teamwork in her 20-year Broadway career. She also thanked her parents for teaching her valuable life lessons and acknowledged the support of babysitters who facilitated her dual roles as a Broadway actor and a mother.
Other Canadian winners at the 79th annual Tony Awards included Winnipeg-born Joshua Henry, who received his first Tony as best leading actor in a musical for his role as Coalhouse Walker Jr. in “Ragtime,” and Lorne Michaels, the creator of “Saturday Night Live,” who won his first Tony as a producer for the adaptation of the Apple TV series “Schmigadoon!” which was awarded best new musical. The musical’s creator, Cinco Paul, also secured Tony wins for the score and the book.
The best new play award went to Bess Wohl’s “Liberation,” a compelling portrayal of a women’s group in 1970s Ohio confronting societal challenges. Wohl, the fourth woman to win a best play Tony, acknowledged the courage of women using their voices and urged girls to speak their truths. “Death of a Salesman” was recognized as the best play revival, earning six Tonys, including Laurie Metcalf’s third Tony for her role as Linda Loman and Joe Mantello’s win for best director.
“Ragtime,” an impactful musical depicting societal transformations in America, triumphed as the best musical revival, with John Lithgow making history by becoming the oldest man to win a competitive acting Tony for his role in “Giant.” Shoshana Bean, awarded best featured actress in a musical for her performance in “The Lost Boys,” emphasized the strength of single mothers in her acceptance speech.
“Cats: The Jellicle Ball,” a reimagined musical celebrating queer ballroom culture, won best direction of a musical, highlighting the contributions of Black and brown LGBTQ+ pioneers. Lesley Manville, in her Broadway debut, clinched the best lead actress in a play award for her role in a modern adaptation of Sophocles’ classic tragedy “Oedipus.”
Pink, the host of the gala, entertained the audience with her lively performances and interactions with fellow artists throughout the event. Notable moments included tributes to iconic figures in the industry during the “In Memoriam” section and special performances commemorating Broadway milestones. The event also featured a reunion of the original lead cast members of “The Book of Mormon” to celebrate its 15th anniversary.