Broadway’s spotlight is shining brightly on two celebrated alumni of “Saturday Night Live,” Ana Gasteyer and Rachel Dratch, who have both received nominations for this year’s Tony Awards. Gasteyer is being recognised for her performance in the musical “Schmigadoon!”, while Dratch is nominated for her role as the Narrator in the revival of Richard O’Brien’s iconic “The Rocky Horror Show.” Their nominations mark a significant accomplishment for two stars who navigated the comedic landscape together on SNL during the late 1990s and early 2000s.
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At a recent event celebrating the nominees held at the Sofitel New York, Gasteyer, 59, and Dratch, 60, shared their excitement with PEOPLE about their nominations. Dratch, who has a long-standing affinity for Gasteyer’s work, revealed that her primary motivation for tuning in to the nominations announcement was to see if her friend had been recognised. “I was really delighted and surprised,” she said, reflecting on her own unexpected nomination.
Both performers are well-known for their respective contributions to SNL. Dratch is famous for her memorable character, Debbie Downer, while Gasteyer made her mark in various sketches, including the beloved “NPR’s Delicious Dish.” Their deep-rooted connection, forged during their time on the sketch comedy show, adds a personal touch to their shared success on Broadway.
The sense of pride and joy emanating from the duo is palpable as they celebrate this milestone in their careers. Dratch fondly recalled the moment she called Gasteyer to share the news of their nominations. “We were just like, ‘We get to go to all the things together!’” she reminisced, highlighting their mutual support and triumph as they navigate the theatre world.
Both actresses are relishing the current moment in theatre, particularly the spotlight on comedic performances. Gasteyer commented on the cultural significance of comedy, stating, “I think we’re in a cultural moment where people are really responding to comedy.” She emphasised the role of laughter as a balm for everyday troubles, echoing the sentiments of many who turn to the arts for joy and relief amidst challenging times.
The Broadway scene is peppered with talent from their SNL days, with other alumni making waves in various productions. Notable figures such as Maya Rudolph, Molly Shannon, and Kenan Thompson are also involved in the theatre community this season, showcasing the diverse range of comedic talent coming from the late-night programme. Gasteyer noted the camaraderie in their concurrent ventures, saying, “It’s fun that we all happen to be doing it at the same time,” reinforcing their connections formed in the world of comedy.
Dratch expressed how her current role in “The Rocky Horror Show” has been particularly thrilling due to the unique nature of the production. “There’s interaction with the audience, which is something you don’t usually see on Broadway,” she stated, reflecting on the lively atmosphere and engagement that distinguishes the cult classic from other shows. The production has received acclaim, garnering a total of nine Tony nominations, including acknowledgments for its leading cast.
Meanwhile, Gasteyer’s journey has woven through various iconic productions since her Broadway debut in “The Rocky Horror Show” in 2001. She has since graced the stage in “Wicked” and “The Threepenny Opera,” and her latest role as Mildred Layton in “Schmigadoon!” has proven to be both rewarding and challenging. “Vocally, it’s been really interesting,” she shared, hinting at the rigours of performing eight shows a week and the careful preparation required to maintain her performance quality.
Looking ahead, both actresses are keen to enjoy the celebration of their achievements at the upcoming Tony Awards. Scheduled for June 7, 2026, at Radio City Music Hall, the event promises to be a glamorous affair recognising the talents and contributions of the theatre community. The ceremony will be broadcast live, allowing audiences across the country to witness the festivities as Gasteyer, Dratch, and many other creatives gather to celebrate their successes.
Tickets for “Schmigadoon!” and “The Rocky Horror Show” are currently available for purchase, allowing theatre enthusiasts to experience the excellence these talented women bring to the stage. Their journeys from late-night comedy to Broadway stardom serve as a reminder of the intertwining paths of art and entertainment, as well as the importance of celebrating success within the creative community.