Tony Award

Definition

The Tony Award is an annual recognition for excellence in live Broadway theatre, established in 1947. Named after Antoinette Perry, a notable figure in American theatre, these awards honor outstanding productions, performances, and technical achievements in various categories. Winning a Tony is considered one of the highest accolades in the theater industry and can significantly elevate the visibility and success of a play or musical.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Tony Awards are presented by the American Theatre Wing and the Broadway League.
2. There are multiple categories for the Tony Awards, including Best Play, Best Musical, Best Performance by an Actor/Actress, and several others.
3. Winning a Tony can greatly impact a production's box office success, often leading to extended runs or national tours.
4. The awards ceremony is broadcast live on television and attracts significant attention from both the theater community and the general public.
5. The Tonys also include special awards that recognize lifetime achievement or contributions to the theater community.

Review Questions

• How do the Tony Awards influence the landscape of Broadway productions?
  • The Tony Awards significantly influence Broadway by elevating the profile of winning shows, which often leads to increased ticket sales and media attention. A win can validate the quality of a production, encouraging audiences to attend. This recognition not only benefits individual shows but can also raise the overall standard of theatrical productions on Broadway as creators strive for excellence to earn such prestigious accolades.
• Discuss the criteria for selecting winners of the Tony Awards and how these criteria reflect trends in contemporary theatre.
  • Winners of the Tony Awards are selected based on votes from members of the American Theatre Wing and the Broadway League, who evaluate performances, productions, and technical elements. The criteria include originality, creativity, and overall impact on audiences. These standards often reflect current trends in contemporary theatre, such as increasing diversity in storytelling and innovative approaches to staging, showing how the awards adapt to changes within the industry.
• Evaluate the role of the Tony Awards in promoting new works versus established productions within Broadway's ecosystem.
  • The Tony Awards play a crucial role in promoting both new works and established productions on Broadway. New shows that win Tonys can gain instant credibility and visibility, leading to longer runs and touring opportunities. Conversely, established productions often benefit from their history of accolades as they attract audiences seeking quality experiences. This dual promotion helps maintain a dynamic theatre environment where fresh voices are encouraged while honoring the tradition of successful classics.

Related terms

Broadway: A theatrical district in New York City known for its vibrant live performances, featuring both musicals and plays.

Theatre Critics: Professionals who review and evaluate theatrical performances, often influencing public perception and attendance.

Playwright: A person who writes plays, responsible for creating the dialogue, characters, and story structure in a theatrical production.