**Cynthia Erivo Steals the Show as Host of Glittering 2025 Tony Awards Ceremony**
The 2025 Tony Awards, staged at the iconic Radio City Music Hall in New York, turned into a dazzling celebration of theatre’s biggest talents, both new and well-established. Leading the proceedings with warmth and wit was British actress and singer Cynthia Erivo, who returned to the Tony spotlight after her unforgettable win in 2016 for *The Colour Purple*. Her role as host was widely praised for its vibrancy, charisma, and undeniable stage presence.
A constellation of stars gathered under the Art Deco lights, with numerous standout moments marking a night dominated by positivity and celebration following a blockbuster year for Broadway. The ceremony recognised not only Broadway veterans but also a wave of fresh faces and talents making their mark on the theatre world. The list of major victors reflected the diversity and dynamism currently energising the industry.
Among the evening’s headline winners, Sarah Snook—famed for her turn in *Succession*—took home the award for Best Leading Actress in a Play. Meanwhile, Cole Escola was honoured as Best Leading Actor in a Play, signifying the indelible impact of their recent performances. This year’s musical categories also attracted broad attention, with *Glee* alum Darren Criss securing Best Leading Actor in a Musical. Nicole Scherzinger’s powerful portrayal of Norma Desmond in *Sunset Blvd.* earned her Best Leading Actress in a Musical, cementing her place as a Broadway leading lady to watch.
The show continued to charm audiences with a tailored mixture of musical numbers, heartfelt tributes, and comedic interludes. Erivo’s opening, dramatized from her dressing room, included a gentle dig as she bantered about her preparations—only to be counselled sagely by none other than Oprah Winfrey, who encouraged her to “just be yourself.” This blend of humour and humility set a relaxed yet joyous tone for the night.
Adding a special musical highlight, Erivo debuted the original number “Sometimes All You Need Is a Song,” a collaboration between renowned composers Scott Wittman, Marc Shaiman, Benj Pasek, and Justin Paul. Her monologue shone a light on newcomers like Sadie Sink and Louis McCartney, as well as a tongue-in-cheek nod to “an up-and-comer… George Clooney,” drawing appreciative laughs from the crowd.
A poignant moment in the evening arrived when Erivo and singer-songwriter Sara Bareilles joined forces to perform “Tomorrow” from *Annie* in memory of theatre luminaries who had passed away during the year. These tributes underscored the sense of community that the Tony Awards strive to foster and maintain.
The roster of guest presenters brought added star power, with appearances from Samuel L Jackson and LaTanya Richardson Jackson, Oprah Winfrey, Ben Stiller, and Lin-Manuel Miranda. Demonstrating the night’s playful spirit, Erivo handed Winfrey a gift bag, referencing the media mogul’s legendary talk show giveaways, much to the audience’s delight.
Creative triumphs played a central role, with *Maybe Happy Ending*, a romantic comedy focused on two androids, taking home a remarkable four awards: Best New Musical, Best Original Score, Best Scenic Design, and Best Direction of a Musical. Darren Criss, in an emotional speech accepting Best Actor for his role in the show, spoke movingly about the support of his family, saying that their love was a greater reward than any statuette.
Drama also had its moment, with *Purpose*, a new drawing-room play by Branden Jacobs-Jenkins, claiming Best New Play. Elsewhere, Sam Pinkleton was recognised for his direction of *Oh, Mary!*, illustrating the breadth of fresh voices resonating across Broadway’s brightest stage.
In a surprise reunion, the groundbreaking original cast of *Hamilton* returned to perform a celebratory medley, commemorating the 10th anniversary of the landmark musical and thrilling long-time fans. The night also offered space for reflection, as Francis Jue, awarded Best Featured Actor in a Play for *Yellow Face*, shared words of solidarity for those facing adversity in today’s political climate, reminding attendees: “This community sees you.”
As the curtains closed on the 2025 Tony Awards, Erivo summed up the night by declaring, “Broadway is officially back,” a sentiment that resonated strongly following the industry’s most successful season to date. The ceremony was a resounding affirmation of theatre’s enduring power—and a promise of more unforgettable nights to come.