NEW YORK — Broadway celebrated a night of nostalgia, reinvention, and standout performances as “Schmigadoon!” and “Liberation” emerged as major winners at the 79th Tony Awards, held Sunday at Radio City Music Hall and hosted by pop star Pink.
The ceremony highlighted a strong showing for Broadway revivals and socially resonant new works, with historic wins, emotional speeches, and high-energy performances marking one of the most talked-about Tony nights in recent years.
‘Schmigadoon!’ Wins Best Musical
The top honor for best new musical went to “Schmigadoon!”, a stage adaptation of the satirical Apple TV series that parodies classic Golden Age Broadway productions such as “Oklahoma!” and “The Music Man.”
The story follows a modern couple who stumble into a whimsical, song-filled town inspired by vintage musicals. Creator Cinco Paul earned recognition for both book and score, completing a redemption arc after the television version of the project was canceled after two seasons.
Producers credited the show’s blend of humor and homage for its success, with industry figures praising its return to traditional Broadway spectacle.
‘Liberation’ Takes Best Play
Best new play went to “Liberation”, written by Bess Wohl, a drama centered on a 1970s women’s consciousness-raising group in Ohio. The production, which also won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama earlier in the year, explores gender roles, identity, and social change through personal storytelling.
Wohl became only the fourth woman in Tony history to win best play, joining a small group of landmark female playwrights. In her acceptance speech, she dedicated the award to women finding their voices and encouraged audiences to listen to lived experiences across generations.
Major Wins for Revivals and Classic Works
Revival categories saw strong competition, with “Death of a Salesman” earning best play revival. The Arthur Miller classic also secured multiple awards, including acting honors for Laurie Metcalf and direction for Joe Mantello.
The musical revival category went to “Ragtime”, which also delivered standout acting wins for Caissie Levy and Joshua Henry, both of whom earned their first Tony Awards for leading performances.
Meanwhile, “Cats: The Jellicle Ball” earned recognition for its direction, reimagining the iconic musical through the lens of ballroom culture.
Historic Acting Milestones
John Lithgow made Tony history by becoming the oldest man ever to win a competitive acting award at age 80, earning best lead actor in a play for “Giant.” The win marked his third Tony overall and highlighted a decades-spanning stage career.
Other acting honors included Shoshana Bean for “The Lost Boys” and Lesley Manville, who won for her Broadway debut in a modern adaptation of “Oedipus.”
Pink’s Theatrical Hosting Debut
First-time host Pink delivered a high-energy opening, featuring aerial stunts, musical medleys, and comedic moments alongside former host Neil Patrick Harris.
The performance-heavy ceremony included large ensemble numbers, tributes to Broadway history, and appearances by stars including Megan Thee Stallion and Lea Michele. Pink also led a celebratory rendition of “Lady Marmalade” with dozens of performers.
Tributes and Closing Moments
The In Memoriam segment featured a performance of “Without You” by Leslie Odom Jr., honoring figures such as Robert Redford, Diane Keaton, Robert Duvall, and playwright Tom Stoppard. Rachel Zegler also performed a tribute from “A Chorus Line.”
The evening concluded with cast reunions and anniversary performances, reinforcing Broadway’s blend of legacy and innovation.