Steve On Broadway (SOB)

Tony Time 2010

Tony Time 2010

This evening marks the American Theatre Wing's 64th Annual Tony Awards hosted by one of Broadway's newest stars, Sean Hayes.

The Tonys remain the highest honors bestowed annually upon Broadway's new and revived plays and musicals. Named for theatre legend Antoinette Perry, the first Tony Awards were held in 1947 at the Waldorf Astoria's Grand Ballroom with 11 awards presented in only 7 categories, along with 8 special awards.

This year, the Tony Award winners will be honored at Radio City Music Hall, where awards will be announced in a 26 categories -- one less than last year (the Special Theatrical Event category has been eliminated).

Fela! and La Cage Aux Folles lead the pack with 11 nominations each, followed by Fences with 10, Memphis with 8 and Red with 7 nods.

I have posted my Tony Awards predictions here for whom I believe will win, as well as weighing in on whom I think deserves to win.

Additionally, Special Tony Awards for Lifetime Achievement in the Theatre will honor the brilliance of both playwright Alan Ayckbourn and actress Marian Seldes. This year's Regional Theatre Tony Award will be bestowed upn the Eugene O'Neill Theater Center (Waterford, CT). David Hyde Pierce is flying back from London to receive the second annual Isabelle Stevenson Award for his work in the fight against Alzheimer's Disease. Last, but not least, four Tony Honors for Excellence in Theatre will be awarded, including to: the Alliance of Resident Theatres (New York), esteemed theatrical fight director B.H. Barry, the Midtown North and South New York City Police Precincts, and Tom Viola (Executive Director of Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS).

Just like last year, I'll be viewing tonight's ceremonies from the comfort of my own living room. Look for my full wrap-up later. And just like last year, I invite you to check out my live tweets throughout the course of the Tony Awards along the right hand side of SOB or by clicking here.

In the meantime, whether you're in Radio City Music Hall, in Times Square or watching on CBS beginning at 8 p.m. EDT tonight, here's hoping you enjoy this year's event.

Here's to all the nominees!

This is Steve On Broadway (SOB).

Labels: American Theatre Wing, Broadway, Fela, Fences, La Cage Aux Folles, Memphis, Red, Tony Awards, Tony Nominations, Tony Predictions

posted by Steve On Broadway (SOB) @ Sunday, June 13, 2010