Hillary Clinton made a surprise appearance at the 2024 Tony Awards, held at the David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts in New York City. The former U.S. Secretary of State received a standing ovation from the audience as she took the stage to present a musical number from “Suffs: The Musical,” a Broadway production that delves into the American women’s suffrage movement.
Clinton, who is a co-producer of the musical, expressed her pride in the production. “I have stood on a lot of stages, but this is very special,” she said. “I know a little bit about how hard it is to make change.” Her words resonated deeply with the audience, who applauded her acknowledgment of the suffragists’ relentless fight for women’s right to vote.
“Suffs: The Musical,” created by Shaina Taub, has garnered significant acclaim, earning six nominations at the 77th Tony Awards. Taub, a two-time Tony winner, was praised by Clinton for her work. “It is about some American originals,” Clinton continued. “The suffragists who fought so valiantly for so long to give women in our country the right to vote. It’s almost impossible to think about what a challenge that was.”
Clinton also took the opportunity to remind everyone of the importance of voting, especially in an election year. “In an election year, we need to be reminded about how important it is to vote,” she emphasized, drawing a connection between the historical struggle for voting rights and the present-day political climate.
The musical “Suffs” is set in 1913 and follows the suffragists as they organize to secure the right to vote for American women, a right that was finally granted with the passage of the 19th Amendment in 1920. The production highlights the intersection of generational, racial, and class divides, showcasing the complexity and determination of the women involved in the movement.
Clinton’s involvement in the musical as a co-producer, alongside notable figures like Malala Yousafzai, Jill Furman, and Rachel Sussman, underscores her commitment to highlighting significant historical narratives. Her presence at the Tony Awards not only celebrated the achievements of the musical but also served as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and justice.
The 2024 Tony Awards, broadcast live on CBS and Paramount+, saw “Suffs” competing for Best Musical against other notable productions like “Hell’s Kitchen,” “Illinoise,” “The Outsiders,” and “Water for Elephants.” Taub’s wins for Best Book of a Musical and Best Original Score were a testament to the musical’s impact and relevance.
During her acceptance speech for Best Original Score, Taub echoed Clinton’s sentiments about the importance of organizing and coming together to effect change. “This is a hard year in our country, and I just hope that we can remember that when we organize, when we come together, we are capable of making real change and progress in this country for equality and justice,” Taub said. Her words served as an inspiration to the audience and viewers, reinforcing the musical’s message of perseverance and unity.
Clinton’s appearance at the Tony Awards was a significant moment, not just for the recognition of “Suffs,” but also for the broader conversation about the importance of voting and civic engagement. Her remarks about the suffragists’ struggle and the current political landscape resonated with many, highlighting the enduring relevance of the fight for women’s rights.
As the evening progressed, the audience’s response to Clinton’s speech and the performance of “Suffs” underscored the powerful connection between art and activism. The standing ovation she received was a testament to her influence and the impact of the musical in bringing historical narratives to the forefront of contemporary discussions.
In a year marked by political challenges and social movements, Clinton’s presence at the Tony Awards served as a reminder of the importance of remembering and honoring the past while continuing to strive for a better future. Her call to action, urging people to vote and stay engaged, was a fitting conclusion to a night that celebrated the power of theater to inspire and provoke thought.
The 2024 Tony Awards will be remembered not only for the outstanding performances and productions but also for the powerful messages conveyed by figures like Hillary Clinton and Shaina Taub. Their contributions to the evening highlighted the enduring significance of the arts in shaping and reflecting societal values and aspirations.
