It was a good year for Tony performances. I had no problem picking five fantastic numbers from shows that I definitely want to learn more about now, and that’s all the more impressive considering the tumultuous season Broadway just had.
Girl from the North Country
One downside of jukebox musicals is that their Tony performances don’t typically give you much of an indication of what the show is about, but I can’t deny that this cast did a great job. Both of the actresses who were featured sounded excellent—in different ways—and I liked that some of the actors played music as well, especially the harmonica. Plus, I just love “Like a Rolling Stone,” so I guess I’m easy!
Company
Weirdly, the video for this performance doesn’t seem to be up online, which is annoying. But I still really liked Company’s performance of their opening number. This revival intrigues me and it was fun to get a glimpse of it. And apart from everything else, it was just poignant to watch a performance from a Sondheim show on the Tony stage after his passing.
A Strange Loop
The eventual Best Musical winner gave an intriguing performance that whetted my appetite. The song eluded me at times—I was getting William Finn vibes, and he’s definitely a composer that needs a few listens before his music really starts to sink in—but it also opened up in tremendous ways, especially during the lead character’s soliloquy verses. I also really liked the idea of the surrounding ensemble as his various inner voices.
Paradise Square
I didn’t know much about this show going into the Tonys, but the premise caught my eye and their performance captured my heart. After a bright opening with some fun dancing, out came Joaquin Kalukango to blow the roof off of Radio City Music Hall. Powerhouse vocals, but so controlled—she could go soft as a prayer when needed, and she could still belt while crying. I was in awe. This was like Andrew Rannells performing “I Believe” for The Book of Mormon or Cynthia Erivo performing “I’m Here” for The Color Purple. Everything in my brain went, “I’ve never heard of this woman, but she needs a Tony immediately.” Luckily, the voters agreed.
SIX
This was a great performance of a perfect Tony song—it’s not so plot-heavy as to confuse people who don’t already know the show, but it’s also not just fluff that doesn’t tell you anything about the show. All six ex-wives of Henry VIII got a verse to show off their pop-queen prowess and give you a taste of their story. I’ve heard a lot of buzz about SIX, and this performance left me with a strong impression.
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