Tony Awards 2026 arrive Sunday night with Broadway’s top productions competing at Radio City Music Hall in New York. Grammy winner Pink will host the ceremony, which airs live on CBS and streams on Paramount+ from 8 to 11 p.m. Eastern.
Broadway Prepares for a Competitive Night
The Associated Press reported Sunday that 24 Broadway shows hope to win at least one award across 26 Tony categories. For many productions, a Tony win can bring national attention, stronger ticket sales and a longer run.
This year’s field includes major musicals, revivals and plays. “The Lost Boys” and “Schmigadoon!” lead the nominations with 12 each. Meanwhile, the revival of “Ragtime” follows with 11 nominations.
“Death of a Salesman” also enters the night with nine nominations. As a result, the awards could spread across several high-profile productions.
The season’s nominees reflect Broadway’s mix of familiar titles and new interpretations. For example, “The Lost Boys” adapts the 1987 vampire film. “Schmigadoon!” draws from the Apple TV series that parodies classic Broadway musicals.
Pink Hosts for the First Time
Pink brings a major pop presence to this year’s Tony Awards. AP reported that she plans to open the show with a large production number. Benj Pasek, Justin Paul and Mark Sonnenblick wrote the opening, which will feature about 170 people on stage.
The singer is known for athletic live performances. Therefore, the opening may include costume changes and wire work. Her role as host could also draw viewers who know her music but do not regularly follow Broadway.
The ceremony will air live to both U.S. coasts. In addition, the Los Angeles Times reported Sunday that pre-show coverage will stream on Pluto TV. Tony nominee Laura Benanti and actor Tituss Burgess will host “Act One.”
History Could Be Made
One of the night’s closely watched nominees is June Squibb. At 96, Squibb became the oldest Tony-nominated actor in history, according to AP. If she wins, she would become the oldest Tony winner.
That record currently belongs to Lois Smith. She won in 2021 at age 90.
The awards also carry business weight. A strong Tony night can help a show gain momentum with tourists and local theatergoers. In turn, that attention can support future touring audiences.
Productions that win or perform on the telecast often reach viewers beyond New York. Consequently, the ceremony can shape which shows attract national interest over the next year.
Why It Matters Beyond Broadway
For Texas audiences, the Tonys can offer an early look at productions that may later tour through Houston, San Antonio, Austin or Dallas/Fort Worth. Award-winning shows often influence regional theater programming and national touring schedules.
The ceremony also highlights the workers behind live performance. Actors, musicians, designers, stage crews, writers, directors and producers all help shape Broadway’s impact.
Moreover, the awards show how live theater continues to compete in a crowded entertainment market. Streaming, concerts and sports all fight for attention. Still, Broadway uses the Tonys to remind audiences why live performance matters.
As the Tony Awards 2026 begin, Broadway will celebrate creativity, endurance and live storytelling. For theater fans watching from home, the night offers a glimpse of which shows may define the next year of American theater.