5 Tony Nominations We Hope to See

The 2016 Tony Award nominations will be announced tomorrow at 8:30 a.m.– the 2015-2016 Broadway Season has been leading to this moment! Let’s call a spade a spade: Hamilton will likely dominate the nominations. However, there are plenty of other shows to celebrate this season. Today, we’re highlighting some Tony nominations that we hope will be announced tomorrow morning.

Best Musical – Bright Star

It’s no secret that we’re obsessed with Bright Star here at Pop Culturalist. Unfortunately a nomination for the biggest category–“Best Musical”– isn’t a sure thing for this gem of a show. Why do I say that? Though it got Drama League and Outer Critics Circle nominations (all great signs!), it missed out on a Drama Desk nomination. What Tony nominations will the show definitely get? You can expect lead actress/our queen Carmen Cusack to get nominated for her exquisite performance. Similarly, expect a nomination for songwriters Steve Martin and Edie Brickell. But we’re hoping for a “Best Musical” nomination, too!

Best Lead Actor in a Musical – Zachary Levi, She Loves Me

Though Levi got a Drama Desk nomination, the Outer Critics Circle passed him over. His performance as Georg in She Loves Me is consistently charming. The American Theatre Wing will inevitably lavish nominations on She Loves Me (including Best Lead Actress for Laura Benanti and Best Revival), so it would be a shame if it overlooks Levi’s delightful performance.

Best Choreography – Tuck Everlasting

Though the production is not without problems– especially in terms of its music– the show as a whole is filled with heart. The standout moment is easily the beautiful, aching ballet that comes at the end of the show. This sequence feels like a loving tip-of-the-hat to Rodgers and Hammerstein musicals that routinely featured a dream ballet. The fact that Tuck Everlasting truly conveys story through dance means that Casey Nicholaw‘s choreography deserves at least a nomination.

Best Choreography – Bright Star

While Casey Nicholaw’s choreography in Tuck Everlasting is an homage to classic musicals, Josh Rhodes‘ intricate choreography in Bright Star is wholly original. At times, the choreography transforms actors into instruments, with their dance steps acting as percussion for the band in the center of the stage.

Best Scenic Design – Thérèse Raquin

Yes, this production had a lot of issues, thanks to a drab script. But, the show’s technical aspects were breathtaking. At times, Beowulf Boritt‘s scenic design was more interesting than the action happening on stage.

What productions and talent will be nominated? We can’t wait to find out!

Be sure to check Pop Culturalist for Tony-related content as we race towards Broadway’s biggest night!

Photo Credit: Heather Wines/CBS