Tony Awards laud android rom-com Maybe Happy Ending and history-making Purpose
Maybe Happy Ending, a rom-com musical about androids that crackles with humanity, had a definite happy ending at Sunday’s Tony Awards. The musical won the coveted title of best new musical, and it was a night of historic wins and emotional speeches.
Starring Darren Criss and Helen J. Shen, Maybe Happy Ending tells the story of two decommissioned robots who find love and connection in a world that seems devoid of emotion. The musical delves into human themes and the passage of time, leaving audiences with a sense of hope and joy. The chemistry between Criss and Shen was electric, and their performances were lauded by critics and audiences alike.
On the same night, Kara Young made history as the first Black person to win two consecutive Tonys, for her work in the play Purpose. Purpose, a poignant drama about an accomplished Black family grappling with hypocrisy and societal pressures, also took home the award for best new play. Playwright Branden Jacobs-Jenkins, who has had a remarkable year with both the Pulitzer Prize and the Tony win, urged viewers to support regional theaters where the play was nurtured.
Other notable wins included Nicole Scherzinger’s triumph in Sunset Blvd., a stripped-down production of the classic musical that won best musical revival. Scherzinger also won best lead actress in a musical, marking a career pivot for the former pop star and TV personality. Darren Criss, known for his roles in Glee and American Crime Story, won his first Tony for Maybe Happy Ending, which he co-produced and starred in.
The Tony Awards also honored a diverse range of talent, including Sarah Snook for her work in The Picture of Dorian Gray, Cole Escola for playing a deranged version of Mary Todd Lincoln in Oh, Mary!, and Francis Jue for his role in the revival of Yellow Face. The ceremony highlighted the importance of representation and diversity in the theater industry, with winners using their platforms to advocate for marginalized communities.
The evening ended with a powerful performance by Cynthia Erivo, the first-time host, who sang an original song with the Broadway Inspirational Voices choir. The show celebrated the resilience of Broadway after a challenging year and showcased the talent and creativity of the theater community. As the curtain closed on the 78th Tony Awards, it was clear that Broadway was back and stronger than ever.
