Broadway theater fans will turn their attention to the Tony Awards this weekend, with many new devotees drawn to the immensely popular “Hamilton.”
The hip-hop-and-history-infused musical, fresh off receiving the Pulitzer Prize for drama, goes into the Tonys with a record-setting 16 nominations.
The 70th annual event honors performers, writers, directors and others behind the productions seen in 40 of New York City’s large professional theaters.
Tony-winning stars who’ve graced Broadway stages over the years have also graced stamps, including the first lady of American theater, Helen Hayes, who was honored with a stamp in 2011.
Among other Tony winners who’ve received a standing ovation from the Postal Service are actor José Ferrer, featured as part of the Distinguished Americans series in 2012; playwright Tennessee Williams, honored with a haunting 1995 stamp as part of the Literary Arts series; and dramatist-director Moss Hart, commemorated in 2004 on the 100th anniversary of his birth.
Many songwriters and musicals were highlighted in the 1990s, including Ira and George Gershwin and “Oklahoma!”
Playbill magazine has rounded up more fun facts about the Tony Awards, which CBS will broadcast Sunday, June 12, at 8 p.m. EDT.