When New York Times critics Ben Brantley and Charles Isherwood published their own Tony predictions last week, we noticed a discrepancy between their opinions and those of our fans. It was interesting enough that we wanted to dig a little deeper!
And it turns out, everyone agrees about the musical categories. There's consensus between fans and critics alike about both "Hamilton" (surprise!) and "The Color Purple". Both sets also agree that Cynthia Erivo will win Best Lead Actress in a Musical.
But when it comes to plays, it's a whole different story!
- The critics might be loving "The Humans", but only 37% of fans agree that it will take home the prize for Best New Play. The leading play amongst the fans? "Eclipsed", with 46% of the vote!
- For the Best Revival of a Play category, the divide is even greater. Only 15% agree with the critics that "Long Day's Journey Into Night" will take home the Tony. Instead, 37% predict "A View from the Bridge" will win.
- Indeed, audiences believe that "Bridge" will have a mini sweep of its own! 41% think Mark Strong will take home the Lead Actor award (where the critics picked Frank Langella), and 49% predict Best Direction will go to Ivo Van Hove (while the critics believe Joe Mantello will win for "The Humans").
- "Eclipsed" reigns supreme amongst members in the Lead Actress category, with a whopping 60% of voters thinking Lupita Nyong'o has the award in the bag! Isherwood and Brantley say Jessica Lange is the one to beat, but only 22% agree.
Do you agree with the fans or the critics? Or maybe have a different opinion altogether? Don't forget to make your voice heard (and nab a shot at 1,000,000 Audience Rewards points) by placing your Tony predictions!
