The prestigious Tony Awards are gearing up for a grand celebration in 2026, with Broadway luminaries Laura Benanti and Tituss Burgess set to host “The Tony Awards: Act One.” This pre-show event will be streamed live via Pluto TV, preceding the main ceremony and celebrating the achievements of the year in theatre.
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Scheduled for Sunday, 7 June, the pre-show will commence at 6:35 PM ET, wrapping up just in time for the 79th annual Tony Awards to begin at 8 PM ET on CBS. This coveted awards ceremony, known as a hallmark of excellence in the theatrical world, will also be available for streaming on Paramount+. Viewers will have the opportunity to access Act One on various platforms, including smart TVs, streaming devices, mobile apps, and through the Pluto TV website.
Benanti, a Tony Award winner renowned for her remarkable performances in shows such as “Gypsy,” “Into the Woods,” and “My Fair Lady,” has become a staple in the Broadway community. The 46-year-old actress is also well-known for her roles on screen, including appearances in “The Gilded Age” and “Younger.” Additionally, her comedic talents have garnered attention through her memorable impressions on “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.”
Joining her is Burgess, a dynamic performer celebrated for his role as Titus Andromedon on the popular series “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt.” The 47-year-old has received four consecutive Emmy nominations and recently graced the Broadway stage in productions like “Oh, Mary!” and “Moulin Rouge! The Musical.” With another project, “The Cat in the Hat,” set to release later this year, Burgess continues to be a vibrant force in the industry.
The Tony Awards, presented by the American Theatre Wing and The Broadway League, are renowned for recognising exceptional talent in theatre across a variety of categories including acting, directing, and design. These accolades represent the pinnacle of achievement within the performing arts, and winning a Tony is a hallmark of distinction, often considered essential for any serious theatre professional.
Adding to the excitement of this year’s event, pop icon Pink will take the helm as the host for the main ceremony. Expressing her enthusiasm, Pink remarked that it is “the honour of an entire lifetime” to lead this celebration of hard-working individuals within the entertainment realm. Sharing her appreciation for Broadway, she emphasised how the community has significantly influenced her artistic journey, describing it as a space filled with support, talent, and a sense of camaraderie.
The nominations for the upcoming awards season are particularly noteworthy, with “The Lost Boys” and “Schmigadoon!” leading the pack, each securing twelve nominations. Other productions, including “Ragtime,” “Titaníque,” “Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York),” and “CATS: The Jellicle Ball,” are also contending for top honours, hinting at a competitive and thrilling evening ahead.
As the date approaches, theatre enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating not only the announcement of winners but also the dazzling array of performances that the Tony Awards are famous for. With a host of talented individuals and productions vying for recognition, Broadway’s biggest night promises to be an unforgettable celebration, honouring the artistry and dedication that defines the theatrical landscape.
The Tony Awards stand as a testament to the enduring spirit of theatre, bringing together performers, creators, and audiences in a shared appreciation of the magic that unfolds on stage. With such a wealth of talent and creativity this year, viewers can expect an evening filled with excitement, emotion, and a true celebration of the performing arts.