NEW YORK (AP) — “The Outsiders,” a raw and compelling adaptation of the iconic young adult novel, emerged as a Broadway sensation on Sunday, clinching the Tony Award for Best Musical at the 2024 Tony Awards. This victory marked a significant milestone for women in the industry, with Angelina Jolie, one of the producers, celebrating her first Tony win.
The musical, inspired by S. E. Hinton’s cherished book, delves into the lives of rival gangs in 1960s Oklahoma, exploring themes of class conflict and camaraderie. During his acceptance speech, producer Matthew Rego expressed gratitude to Hinton, who was present at the event held at Manhattan’s Lincoln Center. “Susie, your story and its timeless message of love, family, and staying gold have profoundly impacted all our lives,” he said.
The night was filled with memorable moments, including a heartfelt appearance by Vivienne Jolie-Pitt, Justin Levine, and other members of “The Outsiders” company. The 77th Tony Awards, held on June 16, 2024, in New York, was a night to remember, with numerous accolades and emotional speeches.
“Stereophonic,” a play about a band reminiscent of Fleetwood Mac recording an album during a tumultuous year, won Best New Play and garnered the most awards of the night, with a total of five. Written by David Adjmi and featuring songs by former Arcade Fire member Will Butler, the play’s journey to the stage took 11 years. Adjmi, visibly emotional, emphasized the importance of funding the arts in America.
The evening also saw electrifying appearances by Jay-Z and Hillary Rodham Clinton. Clinton, a producer of the musical “Suffs,” presented the show and shared her thoughts on the challenges of enacting change. Alicia Keys kicked off the musical presentations with a medley from her semi-autobiographical musical “Hell’s Kitchen,” including a performance of her hit “Empire State of Mind” with Jay-Z.
Newcomer Maleah Joi Moon won Best Leading Actress for her role in “Hell’s Kitchen,” a character loosely based on Keys’ life. The 21-year-old dedicated her award to her parents. Danya Taymor, niece of Julie Taymor, became the sixth woman to win the Tony for Best Direction of a Musical for “The Outsiders.” Shaina Taub, the creator of “Suffs,” made history as the second woman to write, compose, and star in a Broadway musical, winning Best Score and Best Book earlier in the night. Taub encouraged everyone to vote, dedicating her win to all the “loud girls” out there.
Jeremy Strong, known for his role in “Succession,” won his first Tony for Best Lead Actor in a Play for his performance in the revival of Henrik Ibsen’s “An Enemy of the People.” Kara Young, the first Black performer to be nominated for a Tony three consecutive years, won Best Featured Actress in a Play for “Purlie Victorious.” She thanked her ancestors and the original cast members who inspired her.
Daniel Radcliffe, famous for his role in “Harry Potter,” won his first Tony for Featured Actor in a Musical for the revival of “Merrily We Roll Along.” Radcliffe expressed his gratitude for the experience and thanked his parents for introducing him to Sondheim’s music. “Merrily” also won Best Musical Revival, earning Jonathan Groff his first Tony for Leading Actor in a Musical. Groff, emotional and grateful, thanked his co-stars and family for their support.
Kecia Lewis, a 40-year Broadway veteran, won her first Tony for her role in “Hell’s Kitchen.” She encouraged others not to give up on their dreams. “Appropriate,” a play by Branden Jacobs-Jenkins, won Best Play Revival, with Sarah Paulson taking home the award for Best Leading Actress in a Play. Paulson expressed her honor in being able to explore the human condition through her work.
The night also featured a special tribute to three-time Tony winner Chita Rivera, with performances by Audra McDonald, Brian Stokes Mitchell, and Bebe Neuwirth. Host Ariana DeBose, who won an Oscar for her role in “West Side Story,” joined in the tribute and co-choreographed the opening number, “This Party’s for You,” celebrating those who dedicate their lives to theater.
The 2024 Tony Awards was a night of celebration, recognition, and inspiration, with “The Outsiders” standing out as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and the impact of theater on our lives.
