“The Lost Boys” and “Schmigadoon!” dominated the nominations for the 79th Tony Awards on Tuesday, earning 12 nods each, followed closely by the critically acclaimed revival of “Ragtime” with 11.
“Death of a Salesman,” a radical reimagining of Arthur Miller’s look at capitalism’s corrosive influence, was the top play, earning nine nominations, including nods for the performances of Nathan Lane, Laurie Metcalf and Christopher Abbott, as well as for Joe Mantello’s direction. The show marks the comeback of Scott Rudin, the superstar producer who retreated from Broadway following multiple allegations of bullying and abuse in 2021. Rudin not only produced “Salesman,” he also oversaw “Little Bear Ridge Road,” which earned a best play nomination.
This year’s Tony season has yet to determine a clear frontrunner. That 12-12-11 split among the top contenders is highly unusual in modern Tony history, where recent seasons have typically produced an undeniable favorite (i.e., “Hamilton” with 16 or “A Strange Loop” with 11 in their respective winning years).
“The Lost Boys” and “Schmigaddon!,” which are lavishly produced shows, will vie for best musical alongside two smaller-scale productions, the off-Broadway transfer “Titaníque” and the West End export “Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York).” “Ragtime” will compete for best musical revival against “Cats: The Jellicle Ball,” which transports the Andrew Lloyd Webber musical to the world of ballroom culture, and “Richard O’Brien’s The Rocky Horror Show,” a re-staging of the kinky cult favorite.
