Quick Read
- The 78th Annual Tony Awards took place on June 8, 2025, at Radio City Music Hall, hosted by Cynthia Erivo.
- The night crowned ‘Buena Vista Social Club’ as Best Musical and ‘English’ as Best Play.
- George Clooney and Audra McDonald took home acting awards in leading roles.
- Special honors were awarded to Harvey Fierstein and ‘Stranger Things: The First Shadow’ for technical effects.
On June 8, 2025, Broadway’s brightest stars gathered at New York City’s iconic Radio City Music Hall for the 78th Annual Tony Awards. Hosted by acclaimed actress and ‘Wicked’ star Cynthia Erivo, the evening celebrated the best of American theater in a dazzling ceremony broadcast live on CBS and Paramount+. The anticipation leading up to the event was palpable, with standout productions like Buena Vista Social Club, Death Becomes Her, and Maybe Happy Ending vying for top honors.
Major Winners of the Night
The coveted award for Best Musical went to Buena Vista Social Club, a vibrant production that captivated audiences with its heartfelt storytelling and extraordinary music. Meanwhile, English, a poignant play exploring themes of identity and communication, triumphed as Best Play. Both productions were among the most nominated of the evening, underscoring their dominance this season.
In the acting categories, Hollywood heavyweight George Clooney won Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play for his role in Good Night, and Good Luck, marking a significant moment in his illustrious career. Broadway legend Audra McDonald added yet another Tony to her collection, winning Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical for her breathtaking performance in the revival of Gypsy.
Notable Highlights from the Ceremony
The 2025 Tony Awards were not only a celebration of theatrical excellence but also a showcase of powerful performances and heartfelt speeches. Cynthia Erivo’s opening monologue set the tone for the night, blending humor, inspiration, and a deep love for the theater.
Special awards brought additional emotional resonance to the ceremony. Harvey Fierstein was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award, a tribute to his transformative contributions to the theater world. The technical team behind Stranger Things: The First Shadow received recognition for their groundbreaking illusions and effects, highlighting the innovative spirit of modern stagecraft.
Breakout Winners and Surprises
While many winners were favorites going into the night, there were some surprises that delighted audiences. Darren Criss won Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical for Maybe Happy Ending, a deeply moving story of love and technology. Similarly, Patricia Delgado and Justin Peck’s choreography for Buena Vista Social Club earned accolades, beating stiff competition from productions like Gypsy and Death Becomes Her.
In the technical categories, Maybe Happy Ending and Death Becomes Her stood out for their lighting, sound, and costume designs, showcasing the creativity and craftsmanship that go into bringing Broadway shows to life.
The Legacy of the 78th Tony Awards
As the curtains closed on this year’s Tony Awards, the legacy of the evening was clear: 2025 was a year of bold storytelling, diverse voices, and groundbreaking artistry. Productions like Buena Vista Social Club and English demonstrated the enduring power of theater to connect, inspire, and challenge audiences.
For Broadway veterans and newcomers alike, the Tony Awards are a testament to the hard work, passion, and creativity that define the theater community. As audiences look forward to the next season, the impact of this year’s winners will undoubtedly resonate on and off the stage.
The 2025 Tony Awards remind us that the magic of theater lies not just in its spectacle but in its ability to tell stories that matter. Congratulations to all the winners and nominees who continue to shape the future of Broadway.