Hello? Are you still there?
God bless CBS for continuing to air them despite the fact that no one watches.
Which is a shame because in many ways the Tonys are way more entertaining and fun than the Oscars and Emmys. Full production numbers from Broadway hits and witty acceptance speeches -- so what if you've never heard of 90% of the shows or nominees?
But of course, that's the problem. 99% of the country has not seen a single one of these shows. So it's hard to have a rooting interest. It's like crashing the awards ceremony for the Aetna Insurance Salespeople of the Year.
This year however, there is an interesting dynamic -- the usual traditional Broadway fare vs. more experimental off-Broadway-ish material. Example: Revival of a Musical -- the glossy KISS ME KATE vs the totally re-imagined OKLAHOMA. Not that there's going to be fist fights at the water cooler on Monday after the winner is announced.
But as long as Elaine May wins for Best Actress I'll be happy.
If you ever do get to New York, treat yourself to a Broadway show. At its best it's thrilling, it's magic. And at its worst it's still cheaper than a Knicks game.
I'll be watching Sunday night. The real suspense truthfully will come after. For years the Tonys have aired on CBS because Les Moonves was a big believer in them. Now he's gone. Who knows what the new regime will decide?
But at least for now, let's enjoy them while we can.
from By Ken Levine
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