New York — The Tony Awards celebrated Broadway’s finest on Sunday, with actors like Sarah Snook and Nicole Scherzinger receiving top honors. Scherzinger stood out for her performance as the once-glorious film star Norma Desmond in the acclaimed revival of Sunset Boulevard.

In her heartfelt acceptance speech, Scherzinger acknowledged her journey back to Broadway, emphasizing the significance of the moment two decades after launching her career with the Pussycat Dolls. "Growing up, I always felt like I didn’t belong," she said, expressing gratitude for the sense of acceptance she has found. She encouraged those who feel out of place to hold onto hope, affirming that love and perseverance make a difference.

Scherzinger’s talent was also recognized across the Atlantic, as she previously won the Olivier Award for her role in the West End production of the same show. In her tribute to composer Andrew Lloyd Webber, she said, "You saw in me what no one else did. You have changed my life forever." She further delighted the audience by performing "As If We Never Said Goodbye," introduced by Glenn Close, who played the iconic role on Broadway in the 1990s.

Snook, known for her role in Succession, mirrored her earlier success at the Olivier Awards by winning best leading actress in a play for her portrayal of all 26 characters in a solo adaptation of Oscar Wilde’s The Picture of Dorian Gray. In her speech, she reflected on her humble beginnings, saying, "This means so much for a little Australian girl to be here on Broadway." She acknowledged the collaborative spirit of theater, stating, "Even though it’s billed as a one-person show, I never feel alone."

Maybe Happy Ending, a musical exploring the emotions of outdated robots searching for connection, captured the award for best musical, further testifying to the diversity and creative vitality of the current Broadway season. Its star, Darren Criss, who previously starred in Glee, also received accolades for his performance. Criss expressed pride in being part of a richly diverse theater scene, crediting his wife’s unwavering support for his success.

The night also honored other productions, including Purpose, which won best play. This work, centering on an African-American family reuniting in Chicago, recently snagged a Pulitzer Prize for Drama. Additionally, Cole Escola was recognized as best actor in a play for his role in Oh Mary!, a thought-provoking piece reimagining Abraham Lincoln’s assassination through the lens of his wife.

Several revivals were also celebrated. Sunset Boulevard won the best revival of a musical, while Eureka Day, tackling vaccine hesitancy in a school setting, won best revival of a play. Other highlights included awards for Stranger Things: The First Shadow, based on the popular Netflix series, and Buena Vista Social Club, telling the story of a celebrated Cuban musical group.

The event was hosted by Cynthia Erivo at Radio City Music Hall, featuring performers like Sara Bareilles, who paid tribute to those lost in the theater community over the year. The original cast of Hamilton also thrilled the audience with a special performance celebrating the show’s tenth anniversary.

The past year has marked a significant resurgence for Broadway, drawing nearly 14.7 million attendees and grossing approximately $1.89 billion at the box office, highlighting the art form’s enduring appeal amid challenges. The Tony Awards not only reflect artistic excellence but also the resilience of the theater community.