Broadway's Big Night: Cole Escola Makes History!
Okay, so the 2025 Tony Awards were HUGE. Seriously, I felt the energy buzzing through the city all weekend. It wasn't just about the glitz and glamour—though there was plenty of that at Radio City Music Hall—it was about celebrating Broadway's triumphant return after the pandemic, a return that was apparently very financially successful (over $1.89 BILLION at the box office, can you believe it?). And it was the night Cole Escola etched their name into Broadway history.
A Night of Firsts and Fan Favorites
Cole Escola took home the Tony for Best Actor in a Play for their breathtaking performance in "Oh, Mary!", becoming the first openly non-binary actor to achieve this incredible feat. I mean, honestly, the whole room seemed to hold its breath during their acceptance speech. It was incredibly moving. They thanked their mom (aww!), their friends, and even managed to crack a joke about the "warm salads" served at the pre-show lunches—a touch of Cole Escola's signature humor.
But Cole wasn't the only one celebrating a first. Darren Criss won Best Actor in a Musical for "Maybe Happy Ending", making history as the first Asian American to win the award. This South Korean musical adaptation swept the awards, winning six Tonys in total. It was truly a night of incredible talent being recognized.
- Other big wins included: Nicole Scherzinger (Best Actress in a Musical for "Sunset Boulevard"), Sarah Snook (Best Actress in a Play for "The Picture of Dorian Gray"), and Michael Arden (Best Direction of a Musical for "Maybe Happy Ending").
- The show also featured some seriously amazing performances, including a "Rose's Turn" from Audra McDonald that left everyone speechless, and a captivating "As If We Never Said Goodbye" by Scherzinger.
Even with all the incredible performances and wins, there was a palpable sense of relief and joy throughout the evening. It felt like a collective exhale after years of uncertainty.
"Oh, Mary!" Takes Center Stage
Cole Escola's "Oh, Mary!" may not have won Best New Play (that honor went to "Purpose"), but the play's two wins—Best Actor and Best Direction—were a testament to its dark humor, powerful story, and Escola's utterly captivating portrayal of Mary Todd Lincoln. The play's success is incredibly exciting for the future of non-binary representation on Broadway.
I have to admit, I’m curious to see Tituss Burgess take over the role after June 21st! That's gotta be some big shoes to fill. The play's official description calls it a "theatrical sensation," and honestly, that seems about right. The reviews have been incredibly positive, praising its cleverness and Escola’s comedic genius.
Beyond the Awards: A Night to Remember
Beyond the individual wins, the 2025 Tonys were a celebration of Broadway's resilience and its commitment to diversity and inclusion. It was a night filled with emotion, laughter, and a whole lot of unforgettable moments. I think everyone left Radio City feeling inspired and hopeful for the future of American theater.
Want to experience the magic for yourself? Check out "Oh, Mary!" while it's still running, or catch one of the many incredible shows currently playing on Broadway. This was honestly one of the most memorable Tony Awards, and a clear sign of great things to come.
