The 77th Annual Tony Awards will forever be etched in history as a night of groundbreaking achievements and unforgettable moments for Black actresses.
From the dazzling red carpet to the emotional acceptance speeches and show-stopping performances, these talented women left an indelible mark on Broadway’s biggest night. Brace yourself for a celebration of Black excellence that will inspire and captivate you.
1. Maleah Joi Moon Wins Best Lead Actress in a Musical
Maleah Joi Moon, who soars in the role of Ali in Alicia Keys’ Hell’s Kitchen, won “Lead Actress in a Musical.” The rising star kept her acceptance speech short and sweet, thanking God, her teachers, the Hell’s Kitchen cast and creative team, and Keys for making her Broadway debut an unbelievable journey.
She dedicated the award to her parents, who deferred their dreams to help Moon achieve hers. “I love you more than words, thank you,” she said breathlessly.
2. Kecia Lewis Takes Home Featured Actress in a Musical
Broadway veteran Kecia Lewis, who plays Moon’s mentor in Hell’s Kitchen (and made her Broadway debut in Dreamgirls 40 years ago), let out a gasp of surprised elation after being announced as the “Featured Actress in a Musical” winner.
She thanked God and her fellow women in the category. She encouraged all those seeking to achieve a dream to “never give up.”
3. Kara Young’s Triumph as Best Featured Actress in a Play
Kara Young won “Best Featured Actress in a Play” for her hilarious performance in Purlie Victorious: A Non-Confederate Romp through the Cotton Patch.
She started her acceptance speech by wishing all a “Happy Father’s Day” and thanked her ancestors, including her grandmother, who passed two weeks after seeing Young in the production.
She also honored Ruby Dee, who originated the role of Lutiebelle Gussie Mae Jenkins in the play, which was written by Dee’s husband Ossie Davis.
4. Ariana DeBose’s Electrifying Opening Number
The 77th Annual Tony Awards broadcast opened with an original All That Jazz-inspired number featuring third-time host Ariana DeBose.
During her high kicks and sultry riffs, she noted how seeing an August Wilson play on Broadway may have inspired the nominees to seek a career on the stage.
5. JAY Z and Alicia Keys’ Surprise Performance
Early in the night, JAY Z made an electrifying surprise performance, joining Keys and the Hell’s Kitchen cast on stage for “Empire State of Mind,” a number featured in the musical.
