“The Outsiders,” a gritty adaptation of the classic young adult novel, took center stage at the Broadway insider on Sunday, clinching the Tony Award for best new musical amidst a night of progress for women.
This musical, based on S. E. Hinton’s beloved book, delves into the world of rival gangs in 1960s Oklahoma. The victory also marked Angelina Jolie’s first Tony as a producer.
During his acceptance speech, producer Matthew Rego expressed gratitude to Hinton, who was in the audience at Manhattan’s Lincoln Center: “Susie, your story and its timeless themes of love, family, and resilience have truly impacted all of us.”
“Stereophonic,” a play capturing the journey of a Fleetwood Mac-inspired band through a tumultuous year, claimed the award for best new play, receiving a total of five awards. Penned by David Adjmi with songs by former Arcade Fire member Will Butler, the play took 11 years to come to life.
Special moments at the event included appearances by Jay-Z and Hillary Rodham Clinton. Clinton, a producer of a musical on suffragettes, introduced “Suffs.”
Charles Sykes/Charles Sykes/Invision/AP
Among the performances, Alicia Keys graced the stage with a piano rendition as the cast of her semi-autobiographical musical, “Hell’s Kitchen,” delivered a medley of songs. She joined forces with Jay-Z for a captivating rendition of “Empire State of Mind,” drawing thunderous applause.
Emphasizing the strides made by women in the industry, Danya Taymor clinched the award for best director for “The Outsiders.” Shaina Taub, only the second woman to write, compose, and star in a Broadway musical, snagged the best score award.
The night also saw notable wins for Jeremy Strong, Kara Young, Daniel Radcliffe, and many others, with memorable performances and heartfelt acceptance speeches marking a celebration of talent and dedication in the world of theater.
