Tony Awards nominees share their first reactions

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As nominations for the 2026 Tony Awards poured in, the nominees shared their reactions with the press. Nominees were announced by Tony nominee Uzo Aduba and winner Darren Criss in a livestream on the official Tony Awards YouTube channel on May 5. Nominations are listed below in chronological order as received.

David Lindsay-Abaire

Best Play, “The Balusters”

“I’m beyond honored to have ‘The Balusters’ included among this year’s Tony nominees — especially in a season with so many bold, beautiful new plays. The nomination is really a testament to the remarkable artists who brought the play to life — our astonishing director, Kenny Leon, our extraordinary ensemble of actors, our brilliant designers and the tireless crew, along with everyone at MTC. I’m so grateful to get to make theater and be part of a community that continues to sustain and inspire me in so many ways.”

Bill Rauch

Best Revival of a Musical, Best Direction of a Musical, “Cats: The Jellicle Ball”

“I am humbled to be part of a show that centers the Ballroom community. I am eternally grateful to Andrew Lloyd Webber and his team for entrusting us with this revival and to PAC NYC for launching it. ‘The Jellicle Ball’ is the culmination of five years of work from so many brilliant artists and theater makers, all of us sharing a determination to bring its radically queer joy to Broadway audiences. Appropriately enough, we are performing tonight for over 1,000 high school seniors thanks to the Theatre Development Fund; reaching young queer people and their potential allies has always been at the heart of this project. Directing is always an act of radical collaboration, but crafting the joy bomb of ‘The Jellicle Ball’ has the fingerprints of literally hundreds of caring artists, artisans and producers. It’s been a special privilege to co-create with Zhailon Levingston and our associate directors Cooper Howell and N’yomi Stewart.”

Michael Arden

Best Direction of a Musical, Best Lighting Design of a Musical, “The Lost Boys”

“I am overwhelmed with gratitude for this honor. To be working in the theater, let alone on Broadway, has been my dream since I transformed my grandparents’ garage into a stage as a kid. More important than the personal honor is the deep sense of pride I have for my fellow collaborators who poured their souls into the monumental undertaking that is ‘The Lost Boys.’ They are all my heroes and I am so grateful for the selflessness, rigor and passion they brought to work every day. Congrats to all the nominees and all the countless artists and technicians who make every show possible and who continue to delight and inspire audiences eight times a week on Broadway.”

Dane Laffrey

Best Scenic Design of a Musical for “The Lost Boys”

“‘The Lost Boys’ was as much of a thrill ride to make as it is onstage. I am incredibly honored to be nominated amongst the best designers working on Broadway and as part of a creative team that was recognized across the board for this biggest of swings.”

June Squibb

Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Play, “Marjorie Prime”

“I’m thrilled with what this nomination will do for my career. Over the moon for Danny as well! I share this nomination with everyone who worked so hard to bring ‘Marjorie Prime’ back to life.”

Lesley Manville

Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Play, “Oedipus”

“This is a bit of a moment for me. To be recognised in this way by such an esteemed body is as good as it gets. I couldn’t be prouder of ‘Oedipus’ and the remarkable team I got to navigate this highly complex play with eight times a week, most notably the magnificent Mark Strong.”

Carrie Coon

Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Play, “Bug”

“I am grateful to be counted among such luminaries as my friend Kelli O’Hara, the truly gifted Rose Byrne, an astonishing Susannah Flood and the legendary Lesley Manville. I’m also thrilled for my ‘Bug’ design team, who made a difficult job look deceptively simple.”

David Rockwell

Best Scenic Design of a Play, “Fallen Angels”

“What fantastic news to wake up to. I was working out, not watching it directly, but I got a text. I’m grateful to the American Theatre Wing and the Broadway League. Congrats to all of the other nominees, what a spectacular group. My deepest thanks [to] Scott Ellis and everyone at Roundabout. Scott is the most amazing leader, and he created the opportunity to bring this Noël Coward world to stage. And congratulations to Kelli, Rose and Jeff Mahshie and everyone else involved. This is a total, total thrill.”

Ali Louis Bourzgui

Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Musical, “The Lost Boys”

“Currently sitting at my kitchen table — my hands are still shaking typing this out! I watched the nomination announcements live with my partner Tassy and they started tearing up for me, but I haven’t even fully processed yet. This is such a massive honor and I’m so happy for the show as a whole getting multiple nominations, because everyone on this team really brought their deepest level of passion to the work. We love this show and each other so much, so for that work to be recognized feels amazing. My childhood theater mentor passed away last week and all I can think about is all the people, including him, who held my hand and believed in my ability to make it to this level. These moments are built on love.”

Zhailon Levingston

Best Direction of a Musical, “Cats: The Jellicle Ball”

“Today is for seven-year-old Zhailon, who watched ‘Cats’ every single day, today is for 15-year-old Zhailon, who came out and was unsure if there was a place for him, and today, like every day, is for the Black and queer ancestor for whom none of this would be possible.”

Ellenore Scott

Best Choreography, “Ragtime”

“I’m overwhelmed at the response to this incredible production. My work, along [with] all of the other tremendous artists being recognized for ‘Ragtime.’ What an honor.”

David Korins

Best Scenic Design of a Play, “Dog Day Afternoon”

“I started talking to Mark Kaufman, the producer of our play, well over a decade ago. Being a part of this extraordinarily loving and creative community never gets old. Every day is a pinch-me moment, this morning, and this news, is a double pinch-me moment. I have nothing to say, except that being part of this theatrical community was something I always wanted to be part of and cherish with all of my heart. My attitude is pure gratitude.”

Brian Usifer

Best Orchestrations, “Chess”

“I am so thrilled and honored to be nominated for this incredible show and stunning production. Working on this score has been the most rewarding and challenging experience, and my biggest priority has always been to honor the sound that Benny, Bjorn, Tim and Anders created more than 40 years ago. I need to give thanks to Ian Weinberger and the ‘Chess’ orchestra, as well as John Shivers and Brian Rau.”

Kevin Adams

Best Lighting Design of a Musical, “Chess”

“It’s an absolute honor to be nominated with all the great theater artists who designed Broadway plays and musicals this season.”

André De Shields

Best Featured Actor in a Musical, “Cats: The Jellicle Ball”

“I think it most appropriate to quote from the song, ‘My legs may be tottery. I must go slow, and be careful of Old Deuteronomy.’”

Richard Thomas

Best Featured Actor in a Play, “The Balusters”

“What a sweet, thrilling surprise! I’m humbled and happy to be in the company of these wonderful actors in my category. And I can’t wait to celebrate tonight by playing this beautiful play with such a superb company. Wow.”

Jack Knowles

Best Lighting Design of a Play, “Death of a Salesman”

“I’m riding on a high to be nominated for ‘Death of a Salesman.’ I am so grateful to work with such wonderful artists and collaborators on the show, creating a piece where every element is so intricately involved in the storytelling, of which I’m beyond proud. I’m thrilled to see all the appreciation for the show. A million thanks to my incredible team and all involved in the show as well as the whole Broadway community, Tony nominating committee, the League and the Wing.”

Mikaal Sulaiman

Best Sound Design of a Play, “Death of a Salesman”

“I’m beyond grateful for this nomination. Being part of this inventive production was already a privilege, but to receive this honor on top of that reminds me how lucky I am to do this work alongside artists I deeply admire. Many thanks to Joe Mantello, my fellow designers and my incredible sound team.”

Joshua Henry

Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical, “Ragtime”

“Just got nominated for a Tony Award — my fourth — for ‘Ragtime’ on Broadway, and I’m feeling really grateful and really warm inside. A lot of my castmates did too. Thank you all so much for all the ‘Ragtime’ love. Goodness gracious. Thank you also for the love for last night’s opening number at the [Met] Gala… What is life right now? These are the moments where you just zoom out and you think about what it took to get here — not to be celebrated, but to get to the point where you’re able to do good work.”

(via Instagram)

Danny Burstein

Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Play, “Marjorie Prime”

“I’m ridiculously grateful and honored to be nominated. I’m especially thrilled for June Squibb. ‘Marjorie Prime’ was a beautiful experience, and the entire cast is deserving of every accolade.”

Stephanie Hsu

Best Performance by a Leading Actress in a Musical, “The Rocky Horror Show”

“My heart is pounding, pouring over with gratitude. Thank you to the Tony committee for this humbling recognition. Returning to Broadway has been so artistically fulfilling and it moves me deeply to be witnessed and celebrated by the community. Gosh, I love the theater and I love being in ‘The Rocky Horror Show’ in the limitless sandbox that Sam Pinkleton has cultivated. It is a gift to unleash Janet Weiss night after night. I can’t wait to keep sharing her with you.”

Natasha Chivers

Best Lighting Design of a Play, “Oedipus”

“I’m completely over the moon to be nominated for my work on ‘Oedipus,’ which was redesigned for New York after the initial London run. It was, and always is, a pleasure to be welcomed by the Broadway community.”

Brandon J. Dirden

Best Featured Actor in a Play, “Waiting for Godot” 

“I’m currently on New Jersey Transit to Penn Station to go observe a brain surgery to research a television show I’m filming, but I think they are going to have to put me on an operating table because I cannot comprehend this news. I first heard from my manager David Williams and then my phone just started blowing up. I’m just trying to take it all in. Before David called, my phone sent me a notification about a memory from a year ago where my family was all gathered for my father’s funeral. And it’s so apropos because my dad has been with me this entire process, and I just think about him and how supportive he was my entire life. And how I would have loved to have shared this with him in person. But I know I get to share it with him now and every day moving forward. Thank you, Dad. Thank you Crystal, my wife, and Chase, my son. And all of the ‘Waiting for Godot’ team, Alex, Keanu, Michael, Zayn, Eric and Jamie Lloyd, our director, our stage management team, the designers and especially the crew at the Hudson Theatre who made it a joy to come to work every day. It’s really clarifying how many people it takes to arrive at a singular moment in your life, but it is just a really profound honor to represent everyone who worked so hard on the show and bringing it to the audiences. Here we go!”

Ben Levi Ross

Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Musical, “Ragtime”

“This is truly the honor of my life. To be a part of this show, at this time, with this cast. I’m simply overwhelmed with love and gratitude. ‘Ragtime’ is an example of this art form at its highest caliber thanks to the brilliant score by Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty and the genius of Terrence McNally. To have my first Tony nomination be with this production feels aligned and deeply meaningful.”

Brandon Uranowitz

Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical, “Ragtime”

“Anyone who knows me knows I’ve had a long, complicated history with ‘Ragtime.’ Coming back to the show 30 years later as Tateh has been one of the most healing and rewarding experiences of my life. This recognition is beyond my 11-year-old self’s wildest dreams. If there’s anything I’ve learned, it’s this: the things that are meant for you won’t pass you by. Just keep going. Thank you to the League, the Wing and everyone who’s supported me along the way.”

David Hornsby and Chris Hoch

Best Book of a Musical, “The Lost Boys”

“When we met in high school so many years ago, the last thing the two of us ever imagined is that we’d be lucky enough to be Tony-nominated writers of a Broadway vampire musical. We are so honored and grateful — especially to the cast and crew at the Palace who are making us look good eight times a week.”

Ana Gasteyer

Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Musical, “Schmigadoon!”

“Cheese and crackers! This is so exciting! I’m speechless! Thank you to the Broadway League and American Theatre Wing. I love our show so much and I’m so proud of everyone involved with ‘Schmigadoon.’ We’ve got life and jubilation in Schmigadoon!”

Doug Schadt

Best Orchestrations, “Cats: The Jellicle Ball”

“Hi everyone. This is Doug Schadt from ‘Cats: The Jellicle Ball’ and I’m so excited to find out today that we were nominated in the Best Orchestrations category at the Tonys. This is my first Broadway production, and it’s been such a joy to experience the infectious joy and creativity around this production, and it’s such a joy to share this nomination with David Wilson and Trevor Holder, and of course Andrew Lloyd Webber.”

Emilio Sosa

Best Costume Design of a Play, “The Balusters”

“I’m humbled and honored to be recognized by my peers! Theater is a collaborative art form and even more so in the costume world. I am in great debt to my team of costumers and artists, who are the backbone to what we do!”

Paul Tazewell

Best Costume Design of a Play, “Joe Turner’s Come and Gone”

“It is such a privilege to have the opportunity to be a part of bringing August Wilson’s characters to life. That privilege amplifies two-fold by having my work acknowledged with this year’s Tony Awards.”

Laurie Metcalf

Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Play, “Death of a Salesman”

“I am truly honored to have been nominated, and I’m especially proud that both ‘Death of a Salesman’ and ‘Little Bear Ridge Road’ got recognized this morning. Neither production has been a solo effort, and I’m deeply grateful for my onstage and offstage families, both led by the incredible Joe Mantello. I share this recognition with all of them.”

Joe Mantello

Best Direction of a Play, “Death of a Salesman”

“This was an idea Nathan and I hatched over 30 years ago, and today’s acknowledgment is really a testament to every person who showed up and trusted as we attempted to climb this great mountain of a play. It was, in every sense, a team effort, and I’m deeply grateful to all of my collaborators.” 

Marla Mindelle

Best Leading Actress in a Musical, Best Book of a Musical, “Titaníque”

“To quote Céline Dion, ‘This is Kooky Krazy Girlfriends!’ I’m beyond humbled and grateful. My category was announced just as we were about to perform on ‘The Today Show,’ and I had to react like a zombie because I couldn’t cry before performing in front of Al Roker! Well, guess what? I’m crying now! My mom just texted me that she hasn’t shaken like this since my first-grade talent-show performance of ‘The Trolley Song’ at Abrams Hebrew Academy. Somebody please tell my mother this is a bigger deal. I also feel like a proud parent to my brilliant co-authors, Constantine Rousouli and Tye Blue — this show is a testament to our friendship and the power of ‘lerve.’ Thank you to the American Theatre Wing and Broadway League for this incredible honor.”

Steve Bargonetti

Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre, “Joe Turner’s Come and Gone”

“It was an honor to be part of the ‘Joe Turner’s Come and Gone’ masterpiece written by August Wilson, which cried out for blues guitar! I am honored by my Tony nomination for Best Original Score Written for the Theatre, directed by the genius of Debbie Allen. My intent was to enhance August’s words, all the talent on stage, and honor the history of Blues from the Delta to Pittsburgh.”

Kenny Leon

Best Direction of a Play, “The Balusters”

“So humbled to receive this nomination in a field of so many excellent directors and storytellers. Our art is our weapon, and I am so proud to be afforded the opportunity to create on our stages. David Lindsay-Abaire and this excellent cast and creative team have allowed me to fall in love all over again with the mighty power of laughter, truth and theater.”

Isabella Byrd

Best Lighting Design of a Play, “Dog Day Afternoon”

“I’m so thrilled to be acknowledged amidst the season’s remarkable talent. It’s an honor to bring light to complicated personal and political stories in these strange modern times. Thank you so much to my full lighting team and the creative team and cast for inspiring and supporting this work!”

Ani Taj

Best Choreography, “The Rocky Horror Show”

“Absolutely stunned, honored and ecstatic to be amongst such terrific company — thank you for celebrating the dances in our weird little castle, brought to life by this exquisite company. Sam Pinkleton has created a miraculous world in which collaboration can thrive both rigorously and joyously, and we are so, so lucky to be a part of it.” 

Nicki Hunter, artistic director, and Chris Jennings, executive director of Manhattan Theatre Club

Best Play, “The Balusters”

“It’s been a banner year for Manhattan Theatre Club. We’re thrilled to have been honored with 10 Tony nominations, and that all three of our Broadway productions this season were recognized. We are especially excited to be nominated for Best Play for an MTC commission — David Lindsay-Abaire’s ‘The Balusters’ — and are grateful that this extraordinary world premiere is getting such a bright spotlight. We feel very fortunate to work with the most talented theater artists across all disciplines: writers, directors, actors and designers.”

Rachel Hauck

Best Scenic Design of a Musical, “Cats: The Jellicle Ball”

“What! What! I’m so thrilled. We are so, so, so proud of the ball and for the entire show to be seen. I just can’t believe it. I’m so proud and so thrilled. It’s an impossible honor. I just can’t believe it. Congratulations to everybody. I’m just thrilled to be in this company. I can’t believe it. Come on. Come one. Come all. Come to the ball.”

Justin Ellington

Best Sound Design of a Play, “Joe Turner’s Come and Gone”

“I am incredibly grateful to be recognized for my work alongside these other remarkable nominees. It is always a pleasure to work on August Wilson plays, and it was all made even more special being part of this incredible company of actors, creatives, crew, producers and managers. And let’s not forget our leader, Ms. Debbie Allen.”

Bryce Pinkham

Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Musical, “Chess”

“‘Chess’ has found its way into my life in unexpected and meaningful ways, from nearly 40 years ago when my father-in-law was part of the original West End company to almost a decade ago when I first stepped into the role of the Arbiter. I’m deeply grateful to Danny Strong for his trust and for being such a generous collaborator. To Michael Mayer, Tom Hulce and the incredible company who show up eight times a week with heart and precision, thank you for making this a journey of a lifetime. And of course nothing is made possible without my forever Queen, Scarlett Strallen. Thank you to the American Theatre Wing for this incredible honor.”

Caroline Shaw

Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre, “Death of a Salesman” 

“Being a part of this production of ‘Death of a Salesman’ has been a dream, and I’m so honored to receive a Tony nomination for the score. I want to express my endless gratitude to Suzana Peric and Brian Cavanagh-Strong (and Joe Mantello and Mikaal Sulaiman) for shaping this score so beautifully!”

Josh Schmidt

Best Sound Design of a Play, “Bug”

“I am thrilled to receive a Tony nomination for sound design of ‘Bug.’ I’d like to acknowledge my design associates Mike Deyo and Tyler Berg, as well as production sound engineer Kenneth Goodwin, for all of their work. It’s an honor to work on Tracy’s amazing play and also to work with David Cromer. Huge congratulations to Carrie Coon, Takeshi Kata and Heather Gilbert on their well-earned nominations, and to MTC for their brilliant production.”

Christiani Pitts

Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical, “Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York)”

“This may be the first break in tears I’ve had in the last hour. It’s hard to put into words the deep gratitude and honor I feel with this recognition. This show has been such a light and the gift of a lifetime. Thank you to the American Theatre Wing and the Broadway League for helping to make my dreams come true. Congratulations to all my fellow nominees, including my partner-in-crime, Sam Tutty, Jim Barne and Kit Buchan, Soutra Gilmour, Tim Jackson, Lux Pyramid and the entire company of ‘Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York).’ My heart can hardly handle the joy!”

Adam Honoré

Best Lighting Design of a Musical, “Cats: The Jellicle Ball”

“Wow, wow, wow, wow, wow. I am so tickled I don’t even know what to say. This is an incredible honor to be nominated in this category with such greats. I, not very long ago as a... you know, a young designer, looked up to all of these designers in this category with me and I cannot believe this morning has gone the way it has. ‘Cats: [The Jellicle Ball]’ was such an incredible journey. The entire process was so joyous. The room had a spirit and a light to it that was just incredible, and I am truly here just also along for the ride. So, it’s very cool to be nominated with everyone. Thank you.”

Mark Strong

Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play, “Oedipus”

“I feel incredibly honored to be nominated again for a Tony Award, and to be in such esteemed company as my fellow nominees. I’m so proud and grateful to be a part of this production of ‘Oedipus,’ and to have been given the opportunity to take a 2,500-year-old story and make it feel relevant and exciting for a modern audience means a great deal to me. In an age where we’re so dominated by screens, the power of theater feels more important than ever, and live productions on stage are truly invaluable. I’m also ecstatic that our production has been recognized across so many categories; it is a testament to the entire team, who all brought their absolute best to this project. It’s a reminder of what theater can be at its most powerful: something shared, immediate and genuinely moving. I must also acknowledge my extraordinary co-star, Lesley Manville, and our director Robert Icke. Their brilliance, generosity and unwavering commitment elevated everything. I’m on my way back home to see my family, who have a glass of champagne on ice, and I can’t wait to celebrate with them.”

Trevor Holder

Best Orchestrations, “Cats: The Jellicle Ball”

“Hi, I’m Trevor Holder from ‘Cats: The Jellicle Ball.’ We were just nominated for nine Tonys, y’all. This is amazing. And I was just nominated for Best Orchestrations. I’m just, I’m thrilled. I’m thrilled. It was such a privilege to work with amazing, talented, beautiful artists to put this production together. And we must thank Andrew Lloyd Webber for giving us a privilege to share this energetic revival and reimagination of his iconic show. Thank you, thank you. See you at the Tonys.”

Chloe Lamford

Best Scenic Design of a Play, “Death of a Salesman”

“I’m thrilled to be nominated for ‘Salesman’ — I loved making this show so much. It’s a real honor to be nominated alongside such brilliant artists — I feel very grateful, and particularly to everyone who worked so hard on this production.”

John Lithgow

Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play, “Giant”

“For me, ‘Giant’ has been the best theater experience in decades. I’m so grateful that the Tonys have honored all that work. Our two London runs were thrilling, but here on Broadway our audiences are absolutely stunned.”

Mark Rosenblatt

Best Play, “Giant”

“I am beyond thrilled that ‘Giant’ has been so wonderfully recognized by the Tonys. As a debut playwright, to share this category with three of America’s finest contemporary playwrights is a wildly gratifying, entirely unexpected honor. And to share this moment with my collaborators — Nicholas Hytner, who has given it such an impeccable, laser-guided production, and two of our exquisite cast — the inimitable John Lithgow and Aya Cash — makes this moment richer and more meaningful.” 

Aya Cash

Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Play, “Giant”

“I cannot fathom this. I just feel so grateful to be here. I think of the New York theater as my home, so to be acknowledged in my own community is a dream come true. I love this show, this cast and this creative team. Plays are a team sport, and I get to play with the most incredible team every night. This is just the icing on the cake. But man, that icing is sweet.”

Nicholas Hytner

Best Direction of a Play, “Giant”

“I’m honored to be nominated and delighted that the play and two remarkable actors have also been nominated.”

Ethan Popp

Best Orchestrations, “The Lost Boys”

“I’m deeply honored by this recognition from the Tony Awards. ‘The Lost Boys’ has been an extraordinary musical undertaking, and I’m incredibly proud of the orchestrations, arrangements and music production work that helped bring this score from the Rescues’ demos into a fully realized theatrical world. I’m grateful to our phenomenal musicians, the entire music team and all of my collaborators who helped make that possible.”

Walter Trarbach

Best Sound Design of a Musical, “Schmigadoon!”

“I’m delighted and honored to represent ‘Schmigadoon’ with this nomination. It is a true pleasure to work on a musical that brings so much laughter and joy into the world, and I’m proud to play a small part in sharing that joy with audiences eight times a week.”

Marylouise Burke

Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Play, “The Balusters”

“My ‘wake-up’ call this morning was phone calls and messages from friends and colleagues! So, I‘m feeling like the Most Lucky Sleepyhead in show business!”

Nichelle Lewis

Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Musical, “Ragtime”

“It is such an honor to be nominated amongst so many other beautiful women in this category as well as so many of my castmates. The team at ‘Ragtime’ exudes so much brilliance, love and care. I feel so honored to have received the guidance and support I’ve received from everyone from the cast to the creative team to the crew, who are also nominated for their brilliant work. I’m feeling elated, grateful and hoping my grandmother is looking down on me and feels as proud. This has been a difficult year, filled with many challenges and stepping into this role has been so fulfilling, following in Audra McDonald’s footsteps as well as those of LaChanze and other women who have played this iconic role of Sarah. They represent the women of America, then and now. It has been a great honor to connect with audiences every night, in a time that is so daunting, when so many feel unheard and undervalued, knowing that even though we have lost so much, we continue to look for hope, and Sarah exemplifies that.”

Whitney White

Best Direction of a Play, “Liberation”

“For directors, these moments are incredibly rare. So often our job is about the group. The story. The whole. We have to bring worlds to life and keep them running while caring for huge teams. So I am just incredibly grateful, humbled and really want to celebrate the women who have uplifted me and made this possible: my mother Janice, my aunts, my producers, my cast and of course the incomparable Bess Wohl. God, I love New York, I love our theater community and the stories that we tell. As the first Black woman to be nominated twice for the Tony Award for Best Direction of a Play, this is an incredible honor. I cannot wait to celebrate with everyone on June 7.”

Brenda Abbandandolo

Best Costume Design of a Play, “Dog Day Afternoon”

“I’m so surprised and honored to be in this group again! It’s always a thrill to be recognized and it’s always a group effort, so I just want to thank the amazing company, the costume and wardrobe team and Leah Loukas and Katie Gell for collectively getting it there.”

Daryl Roth, Eva Price and Rachel Sussman

Best Play, “Liberation”

“We’re so proud and honored to see Bess Wohl’s ‘Liberation’ earn five Tony nominations, including Best Play, a day after her winning the Pulitzer Prize for Drama. We’re also thrilled Whitney White was recognized for her direction, making them the only female playwright-director team nominated this season, and the only women in their categories. With nominations for Susannah Flood, Betsy Aidem and Qween Jean, this recognition reflects how deeply the play resonates. We’re grateful to everyone who helped bring ‘Liberation’ to life.”

Qween Jean

Best Costume Design of a Musical, “Cats: The Jellicle Ball”

“On the first day of our tech rehearsal, I quoted a speech from icon Junior Labeija, who plays Gus the Theater Cat in ‘Cats: The Jellicle Ball.’ And in Junior’s speech they described the era in which young black and brown queer people living in New York City at the height of ostracization, HIV stigma and injustice, despite that, community was formed, galvanized at the epicenter. Each night, a ball occurred. This experience has certainly unequivocally changed my life as a black trans woman in ballroom. To have the honor to illustrate and adorn these icons, legends, statements and  stars is an honor that I do not take lightly. In particular, this morning, I’m reflecting on the pioneer mothers, Pepper LaBeija, Angie Xtravaganza to Dorian Corey and Crystal LaBeija. I am grateful for the courage, love and sacrifices that these people have when they did not receive their flowers and love back. ‘The Jellicle Ball’ serves as a lighthouse. For all to come, to learn, to rejoice, and to be reminded that we are all that we need to survive. There is no legislation, evil rhetoric or executive orders that will diminish the light that we shine. I pray and I stand proudly... on the shoulders of leaders, pioneers, activists.”

Shoshana Bean

Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Musical, “The Lost Boys”

“This nomination is an extra special one because this show is an extra special one. I’m so over-the-moon proud of and obsessed with it and with this group of people! It has been the richest, most joyful experience so this beautiful recognition is the perfect icing on a pretty incredible cake.”

The Rescues (AG, Kyler England and Gabriel Mann)

Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre, Best Orchestrations, “The Lost Boys”

“We’re incredibly honored to be recognized by the Tonys. As three choir-geek-songwriters turned late-blooming-theater-kids, to be welcomed into the Broadway community is truly humbling and meaningful for us, and we are so proud to share this moment with our beautiful ‘Lost Boys’ family.” 

Jen Schriever

Best Lighting Design of a Musical, “The Lost Boys”

“I’m beyond excited to be nominated alongside the most daring collaborators. ‘The Lost Boys’ took a big, fearless leap, and getting to take that jump with my collaborators will be something that I will never forget. I am indebted to and so proud of the greatest lighting team on Broadway!”

Ryan Park

Best Costume Design of a Musical, “The Lost Boys”

“I’m caught off-guard and so honored to be recognized. I’m immensely proud of our team’s work and being able to see the ‘Lost Boys’ family getting so much love makes it extremely special.”

Adam Fisher

Best Sound Design of a Musical, “The Lost Boys”

“I’m completely overwhelmed by this nomination for ‘The Lost Boys.’ It’s been an epic journey to get here, and seeing the show receive so much recognition is truly incredible. It makes me feel so proud to be part of the Broadway community.”

Lauren Yalango-Grant and Christopher “Cree” Grant

Best Choreography, “The Lost Boys”

“We’re deeply grateful and honored by this Tony nomination. This recognition belongs just as much to our fearless, generous cast, whose commitment and heart bring this show to life eight times a week at the magical Palace Theatre. We’re especially thankful to Michael Arden for believing in us and championing our work, to the Rescues for their extraordinary music and to everyone who helped shape this piece of theater.”

Christopher Abbott

Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Play, “Death of a Salesman”

“What a morning! To earn my first Tony Award nomination in such an iconic literary masterpiece by Arthur Miller is a dare-to-dream moment. My heart has always been on the stage. I’m lucky to be surrounded by an amazing company led by Nathan Lane and Laurie Metcalf (congratulations Mom and Dad!). I have an abundance of gratitude for Scott Rudin and Joe Mantello for inviting me into this experience. And to the American Theater Wing and the Broadway League, I’m immensely grateful for your acknowledgment.”

Caissie Levy

Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical, “Ragtime”

“The Tony Awards are such a celebration of the theater, and it feels absolutely incredible to be recognized in this way by the community I’ve loved and worked in for the last 20 years. I’m overjoyed to share this moment with our stellar company — our cast, our creative team, our crew and our orchestra. To be nominated for the first time means so much to me. I’m truly overwhelmed and can’t stop smiling. And now, I’m going to drop my kids off at school! Balance.”

Arturo Lyons

Best Choreography, “Cats: The Jellicle Ball”

“Waking up feeling beyond grateful. A Tony nominee. We’re just two choreographers coming from ballroom and flipping this masterpiece our way — yeah, it’s major. This moment means everything, and we’re pouring our truth, our history and our artistry into every count. Ballroom is hitting Broadway and we’re not holding back. The energy, the storytelling, the precision — it’s all there and then some. This is for the culture, for the ones who paved the way, and for everybody ready to feel something real. So whenever you’re ready for a party, come meet us at the Broadhurst.”

Omari Wiles

Best Choreography, “Cats: The Jellicle Ball”

“This is for the young me who watched his parents build a legacy and community that nurtured the strength within me to pursue my dream. As a child, ‘Cats’ was the first Broadway show I ever saw, and this reimagining holds a much greater purpose than we could have ever imagined. It’s been a dream of mine to touch a Broadway stage, and now that dream lives on with ‘Cats: The Jellicle Ball.’”

Robert Icke

Best Director of a Play, Best Revival of a Play, “Oedipus”

“A production exists only because of the hard work, talents, and dedication of a huge team of actors, designers, stage managers and many, many others. These seven nominations are a wonderful recognition of the work of everyone who came together to bring ‘Oedipus’ to New York. I’m thrilled.”

Hildegard Bechtler

Best Scenic Design of a Play, “Oedipus”

“I’m thrilled to be nominated for this Tony Award. It’s the culmination of an inspiring collaboration with Rob Icke and a superb cast of actors and creatives. We’ve always loved working together in New York and this is the ultimate accolade. Thank you to everyone at the Tony Awards.”

Sonia Friedman, Sue Wagner, John Johnson and Patrick Catullo

Best Play, “Oedipus”

“We are thrilled to continue celebrating the extraordinary work of Robert Icke, our cast and the entire creative and design team of ‘Oedipus’ [with these seven nominations]. What defines this production — and why it is the very essence of a revival — is that it doesn’t simply revisit the play, it interrogates it and asks why it must exist now. It finds fresh urgency in ancient questions of power, fate and identity, allowing the story to speak with a force that feels new and dangerous. It was a profound honor to bring this production to Broadway, and we are deeply grateful to the Tony nominators for recognizing the remarkable artists behind it.”

Heather Gilbert

Best Lighting Design of a Play, “The Fear of 13”

“To help bring the story of Nick Yarris’s 22-year wrongful incarceration to audiences from all over the world has been an honor in itself. I am deeply touched and grateful that my contribution to this exquisite and exacting piece has been recognized. My deepest thanks to David Cromer, my ultimate collaborator; to Adrien and Tessa for leading our company with such grace and tenacity; and to my friends at Seaview for continuing to bet on me and take big swings.”

Winners of the 79th annual Tony Awards will be announced at Radio City Music Hall on June 7. The ceremony will be broadcast live via the CBS Television Network and Paramount+ beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.