Hamilton-native Caissie Levy, a prominent Broadway performer, clinched a Tony Award on Sunday evening. She secured the title of best actress in a leading role in a musical for her remarkable portrayal of Mother in the revival of “Ragtime.” During her acceptance speech at Radio City Music Hall, Levy expressed gratitude to her homeland, Canada, and her parents for their support throughout her career. She emphasized the importance of teamwork and acknowledged her parents, Mark and Lisa Levy, for instilling in her the values of kindness and collaboration.
Furthermore, Levy extended her appreciation to the babysitters who enabled her to balance her roles as a Broadway actress and a mother. Levy was part of a group of Canadian winners at the 79th annual Tonys. Joshua Henry, a nominee hailing from Winnipeg, clinched his first Tony as the best leading actor in a musical for his role as Coalhouse Walker Jr. in “Ragtime.” Lorne Michaels, the creator of “Saturday Night Live,” also celebrated his first Tony win as a producer for the musical adaptation of the Apple TV series “Schmigadoon!,” which was awarded the best new musical title.
The best new play honor went to Bess Wohl’s “Liberation,” a narrative highlighting a women’s group in 1970s Ohio striving against misogyny, racism, and traditional gender norms. Wohl, only the fourth woman to win the best play Tony, emphasized empowering women to speak out and be heard. The best play revival distinction was awarded to Arthur Miller’s “Death of a Salesman,” a timeless exploration of the American Dream’s disintegration, earning multiple Tonys, including best director for Joe Mantello.
In a historic moment, John Lithgow won his third Tony as the best lead actor in a play for “Giant,” becoming the oldest man to win a competitive acting Tony at 80 years old. Shoshana Bean’s win for best featured actress in a musical for her performance in “The Lost Boys” echoed the themes of empowerment and support for women. Additionally, “Cats: The Jellicle Ball” won for best direction of a musical, acknowledging the celebration of queer ballroom culture.
Lesley Manville’s Broadway debut in a modern retelling of Sophocles’ classic tragedy “Oedipus” earned her the best lead actress in a play award. The event was hosted by Pink, who delivered an energetic performance throughout the evening, featuring memorable musical tributes and performances by various Broadway talents.
The Tony Awards ceremony was a celebration of talent, diversity, and artistic excellence, honoring the outstanding achievements of the Broadway community.