Acrimony steals show
as Tonys mark 50 years
June 2, 1996
Web posted at: 10:00 a.m. EDTFrom Correspondent Cynthia Tornquist
NEW YORK (CNN) -- This year marks the golden anniversary of the Tony Awards, which will be televised live Sunday from Broadway's Majestic Theater.
As the cast of the musical "Rent" rehearsed for the annual award show, few of the young stars could believe they're performing in a Broadway hit, let alone appearing on the televised event. "Rent" received 10 Tony Award nominations, more than any other show this year.
"I'm just completely thrilled to be going to the Tonys. It's something I never thought I was going to do, much less be nominated for something," said cast member Adam Pascal.
Meanwhile, fellow cast member Daphne Rubin-Vega had more practical things on her mind. "I hope I can get out of my outfit and into my gown in time without lipstick smearing, without frizz. I hope that I can say my speech in 20 seconds if I get the chance to say my speech," she said.
Although its organizers would prefer the focus of the awards this year to be a fond look back at their last 50 years, the celebration has been clouded by controversy. First came the stunning announcement by Julie Andrews refusing her nomination for best actress in the musical "Victor/Victoria." She won't even attend the ceremony, although like it or not, her name will remain on the ballot.
Then came a lawsuit by producer David Merrick claiming his musical "State Fair" was unfairly treated by the nominating committee.
No sooner did a judge rule against Merrick when word came that Broadway stagehands might strike, threatening the Tony telecast. However, a settlement was reached Friday, and a strike was averted.
As for the black cloud that seems to have been hanging over the Tonys, Nathan Lane, the host of this year's awards, sees a silver lining: the possibility of more people tuning in because of all the controversy.
"It certainly has given me a lot of material. God bless Julie Andrews," he said.
The irony in all the controversy is that this was one of the best seasons ever on Broadway. Attendance reached an all-time high, and ticket sales totaled more than $430 million.
Related stories:
- Tony tussle: Julie Andrews snubs nomination - May 9, 1996
- 'Rent' snags most Tony nominations - May 6, 1996
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