The anticipation for the 77th Tony Awards, set to take place on June 16 at Lincoln Center’s David H. Koch Theater in New York City, is palpable. The Hollywood Reporter recently convened six of the most notable performers from the 2023-24 Broadway season at PMC’s east coast headquarters for their annual Tonys Roundtable. Among the distinguished guests were Rachel McAdams, Daniel Radcliffe, Eddie Redmayne, Sarah Paulson, Leslie Odom Jr., and Kelli O’Hara.
Rachel McAdams, known for her roles in “Mean Girls” and “The Notebook,” is making her Broadway debut in “Mary Jane,” earning her a Tony nomination for Best Actress in a Play. McAdams shared her initial trepidation about returning to theater after a long hiatus, having transitioned directly from theater school to film and television. However, the role of Mary Jane captivated her, compelling her to take the leap. She described the experience as transformative, feeling a deep responsibility to honor the autobiographical nature of Amy Herzog’s play.
Daniel Radcliffe, who gained fame as Harry Potter, is nominated for Best Featured Actor in a Musical for his role in “Merrily We Roll Along.” Radcliffe’s journey to Broadway began at a young age, influenced by his parents’ love for theater. His performance in “Equus” marked a significant turning point, allowing him to redefine his career post-Potter. Radcliffe’s dedication to his craft is evident in his commitment to singing and dancing, skills he honed specifically for his Broadway roles.
Eddie Redmayne, an Oscar-winning actor, is nominated for Best Actor in a Musical for his performance in “Cabaret.” Redmayne’s love for theater was ignited by the mega-musicals of the ’80s in London. His Broadway debut in “Red” in 2010 earned him a Tony, and his return to the stage has been met with critical acclaim. Redmayne’s passion for theater is palpable, describing the electric atmosphere of Broadway as a constant source of inspiration.
Sarah Paulson, known for her collaborations with Ryan Murphy and her role in “American Horror Story,” is nominated for Best Actress in a Play for “Appropriate.” Paulson’s connection to theater began in her childhood, influenced by her mother’s job at Sardi’s in New York. Her Broadway debut at 19 set the stage for a career that seamlessly transitions between Hollywood and Broadway. Paulson’s portrayal of complex characters continues to captivate audiences and critics alike.
Leslie Odom Jr., who originated the role of Aaron Burr in “Hamilton,” is nominated for Best Actor in a Play for “Purlie Victorious.” Odom’s journey to Broadway began with a cattle call audition in Philadelphia, leading to his first role in “Rent.” His performance in “Purlie Victorious” is a reclamation of American history, blending joy and gravity in a way that honors Ossie Davis’s original work. Odom’s dual role as actor and producer underscores his deep commitment to the theater.
Kelli O’Hara, a Broadway veteran with eight Tony nominations and one win, is nominated for Best Actress in a Musical for “Days of Wine and Roses.” O’Hara’s journey from Oklahoma to Broadway was marked by a love for movie musicals and a serendipitous connection with Kristin Chenoweth. Her collaboration with composer Adam Guettel and co-star Brian d’Arcy James on “Days of Wine and Roses” spans two decades, resulting in a deeply personal and musically tailored performance.
These six performers, each with their unique paths to Broadway, share a common dedication to their craft and a profound respect for the theater. Their stories highlight the diverse journeys that lead to the Great White Way, from childhood dreams to transformative roles. As the Tony Awards approach, the spotlight shines brightly on Rachel McAdams, Daniel Radcliffe, Eddie Redmayne, Sarah Paulson, Leslie Odom Jr., and Kelli O’Hara, celebrating their contributions to the vibrant world of Broadway.
