How students can use the Tonys as a guide to picking the most exciting shows for their trip
Step into the vibrant fabric of New York City, where each avenue invites student travelers to explore a unique blend of learning, culture and discovery. Art and history collide on every corner, connecting past and present in inspiring ways. In the heart of it all, Broadway shines brightly, bringing stories to life through music and emotion like no other medium can. For visitors seeking guidance on which Broadway shows to explore, the Tony Awards® are a trusted compass, spotlighting critically acclaimed productions that guarantee a memorable experience.
Inspire the Next Generation of Performers – Introduce students to the magic of Broadway with guidance from Student Travel Pro and hassle-free booking via Broadway Inbound.
What Makes the Tony Awards the Ultimate Quality Seal?
The Tony Awards, presented by the American Theatre Wing and The Broadway League, stand as more than accolades—they are the highest honor in American theatre. Since 1947, these annual awards commend outstanding achievements across a variety of categories, from performances to technical design. Earning a Tony® transforms a production into a must-see event, promising exceptional storytelling and outstanding performances—making it an essential part of your New York theater experience.
The Power of a Best Musical Win
Many consider the Best Musical award the night’s highest honor—it’s the final award presented, after all—and winning it secures a show’s place in musical theatre history. From the Golden Age gems like Guys and Dolls and The Music Man to current blockbusters like Hamilton and The Book of Mormon, a Tony Award for Best Musical marks a show as a true Broadway legend.
Catching the Best Musical winner in its first year on Broadway can be particularly exciting. Being the first in the know carries a quiet kind of power—and a whole lot of bragging rights! This year, Maybe Happy Ending took home the Best Musical award, taking its place in theatre history. With its charm and compelling story, it’s poised to join the ranks of Broadway’s most celebrated musicals. And tickets to see it? Let’s just say you’ll want to be in the room where it happens.
Plot & Classroom Tie-Ins
Maybe Happy Ending is a poignant, futuristic musical that tells the story of two outmoded helper robots rediscovering love, meaning and connection in a world that has moved beyond them. Starring Darren Criss and newcomer Helen J Shen, the musical not only took the Best Musical prize but also saw creators Will Aronson and Hue Park receiving Tonys for Best Book and Best Original Score. With additional nods for Best Scenic Design, Best Direction, and Best Actor for Criss, Maybe Happy Ending was the biggest winner on “Broadway’s Biggest Night.”
The Outsiders – The Curtis House. Photo by Matthew Murphy
Still-Running 2024 Winner: The Outsiders
You still have the chance to catch last season’s acclaimed Best Musical winner, The Outsiders. Adapted from S.E. Hinton’s beloved novel, this musical stays true to the original story’s core and themes of class struggle and found family, while infusing it with dynamic new energy. Its innovative audio technology creates an immersive surround-sound experience, garnering the musical a Best Sound Design win, alongside its win for Best Lighting. The musical features a thrilling and cheer-inducing rumble scene, which showcased Danya Taymor’s impressive directional skills and no doubt contributed to her Best Direction win.
While the Best Musical winner captures headlines, Broadway is alive with outstanding nominees that are just as remarkable, showcasing a diverse range of talents and stories.
Cast of Operation Mincemeat. Photo by Julieta Cervantes
Don’t Miss This Year’s Stand-Out Nominee: Operation Mincemeat
Operation Mincemeat, a standout in this year’s Broadway season, earned several nominations for its inventive storytelling and unique blend of humor and history. With a nod to its sharp performances, the show secured a well-deserved win for Best Featured Actor in a Musical, awarded to Jak Malone for his scene-stealing role. This quirky musical offers a one-of-a-kind World War II history lesson, recounting the unbelievable true story of a British intelligence mission that used a stolen corpse to deceive the Nazis and help shift the course of the war. Blending the charm of Singin’ in the Rain with the intrigue of Strangers on a Train, Operation Mincemeat captivates audiences with its fast-paced narrative and satirical flair—securing its place as one of Broadway’s most memorable and inventive new arrivals.
How to Build an Educational Broadway Line-Up
Planning a theatre trip to NYC might seem overwhelming, but the Tony Awards can help streamline the process by spotlighting the season’s top productions. By exploring nominations and winners, educators and students can select shows that align with their educational objectives. This strategic approach addresses common issues like ticket scarcity and pricing, often heightened by a Tony win. To simplify the logistics, Broadway Inbound, as an authorized ticket seller, provides access to specialized group pricing, making it easier to secure seats and manage budgets efficiently.
Maximize Learning with Workshops & Tours
Educators should also look for opportunities to engage with the shows beyond just viewing them. Workshops, discussions, and behind-the-scenes tours can further enrich the experience. With shows often delving into complex themes, these additional activities can help students gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the material. Broadway Inbound can help here, too, with a full slate of customizable workshops available to enhance any student theatre trip.
With the right resources and a bit of planning, the Tony Awards can help shape a theatre trip that’s both meaningful and memorable. And when Broadway Inbound takes care of the details, you’re free to focus on the magic onstage.
Inspire the Next Generation of Performers – Introduce students to the magic of Broadway with guidance from Student Travel Pro and hassle-free booking via Broadway Inbound.
