The annual awards gala known as the Tony Awards is not until June 16 at the Lincoln Center. The nominees for the 77th annual event will be announced on April 30.
Returning to host the Tony Awards for the third time is Academy Award winning actress Ariana DeBose. She will also produce the event and choreograph the opening number.
This is the third year in a row that DeBose will host the show. She joins fellow three timers Julie Andrews, Bud Collyer, Rosie O’Donnell, and James Sauter. Angela Landsberry leads the list of hosts with five.
DeBose first hosted the Tony’s two years ago amid the Writers and Hollywood actors strikes. Via a statement she said, “I couldn’t pass up the chance to host the Tony’s one more time at Lincoln Center. I’m excited to collaborate with the team to create and incredible celebration of this season’s achievements on Broadway for our community and for everyone at home.”
American Theatre Wing President and CEO Heather Hitchens and Broadway League Interim President Jason Laks via a statement, “we are incredibly honored to welcome Tony Award nominated actress Ariana DeBose as this year’s host for Broadway’s biggest night, taking place for the first time at the iconic Lincoln Center. Ariana’s unique sense of artistry, creativity, and talent continues to elevate the show and captivate nominees and viewers alike.”
DeBose has appeared in “West Side Story” on Broadway, “The Prom”, “Schmigadoon!”, the Disneyfilm “Wish”, “Argylle”, “Bring it One”, “Motown the Musical”, “Pippin”, “Hamilton”, “A Bronx Tale”, and “Summer: The Donna Summer Musical”.
The pre-show (Act One) will be broadcast on the streaming service Pluto-TV with the Tony Awards ceremony being broadcast on CBS.