The 70th Annual Tony Awards took place in New York City, just hours after the largest mass shooting occurred in Orlando, FL. Typically a night filled with celebration and joy, the Tonys had a somber tone as the stars of Broadway reflected on the tragedy that happened that morning.
“Hamilton” creator Lin-Manuel Miranda brought the theatre guests to tears during his acceptance speech for Best Original Score as he read a sonnet that he wrote.
This sonnet is gonna make me cry for awhile:https://t.co/YEdQWGhwoh@Lin_Manuel #Hamilton #TonyAwards #OrlandoShooting
— Jamie Gump (@JamieGump) June 13, 2016
“When senseless acts of tragedy reminds us that nothing here is promised. Not one day,” he said in reference to the nightclub shooting. “This show is proof that history remembers, we live through times when hate and fear seem stronger, we rise and fall and light from dying embers, remembrances that hope and love last longer.”
Miranda continued, “Love is love is love is love is love, and love cannot be killed or swept aside. Fill the world with music, love and pride.” Miranda wasn’t the only star to mention the horrific events that killed 50 people and left at least 53 injured in the Florida town.
“Hate will never win,” said James Corden, the evening’s host. “Together, we have to make sure of that. Tonight’s show stands as a symbol and celebration of that principle.”
In addition, Frank Langhella spoke about the event while accepting his fourth Tony for Best Actor in “The Father.”
“I urge you Orlando to be strong,” he said. “I’m standing in a room full of the most generous human beings on earth and we will be with you ever step of the way.”
As for the night’s winners, “Hamilton” took home 11 awards, including Best Musical and Best Leading Actor, awarded to Leslie Odom Jr., who plays Aaron Burr. Other wins include “The Color Purple” taking home a Best Musical Revival award and Cynthia Erivo winning leading actress in a musical for her role as Celie in that award-winning show.
Photo Credit: Creative Commons