Jun 16, 2024 - News

"Illinoise," "Tommy" headline Chicago nominations at the Tonys

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Photo of actors on a stage gathering around lights on the ground — The company of Chicago Shakespeare Theater's production of "Illinoise." Photo: Courtesy by Liz Lauren

The Tony Awards take over Broadway tonight to recognize some of the great talent and shows gracing the New York stage.

Zoom in: For Chicagoans, there's some local rooting interests.

Instead of frantically searching the internet for clues, here are three recommendations of shows and actors with local connections nominated tonight:

🎸 Monica's pick: Didn't see "Tommy" when it was here at the Goodman, but she heard Pete Townsend talk about it at the University Club. She hopes it wins tonight.

💃🏽 Carrie's pick: "Illinoise," which premiered at Chicago Shakespeare Theater, was unique, beautiful, imaginative, sad and joyful. She would love to see music from it performed at the Tonys and take home a win!

🏆 Justin's pick: Keep a lookout for Brian d'Arcy James. The Northwestern alum is not only one of Broadway's best, but he's spent time on Chicago stages, including in shows like "Hair" and "Secret of My Success."

He's up for Best Actor in a Musical for his critically acclaimed performance in "Days of Wine and Roses."
He's been nominated before but never won. Let's go, Brian!

How to watch: The show airs live at 7pm on CBS and streams on Paramount+.

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"Illinoise," "Tommy" headline Chicago nominations at the Tonys

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