You know what they say, folks: if theatre is the spice of life, then the Tony Awards are the seasoning that makes it all come together. The nominees this year range from shows that will leave you singing in the shower all week, to others that will have you thinking about life’s big questions – like, why do cows have udders? Let’s take a look at the contenders for best new musical, starting with “& Juliet”. It’s a riveting twist on Shakespeare’s classic love story, filled with catchy pop tunes that’ll have you dancing in your seat.

Next up is “Kimberly Akimbo”, a heart-warming tale about a teenage girl who has a rare genetic condition and a family that’s straight out of a horror movie. Then we’ve got “New York, New York” – because if we’re being honest, what’s better than a musical that’s all about the city that never sleeps? Nothing, that’s what. Oh, and did we mention “Shucked”? It’s a hilarious country comedy that’ll have you shucking and jiving in your boots. And finally, we have “Some Like It Hot”, a show set in the jazz age about two performers who dress up in drag to escape the mob. Sounds like a hoot, doesn’t it?

Now, hold onto your top hats and get ready for a twist: two of these musicals are actually movie adaptations! That’s right, “New York, New York” and “Some Like It Hot” have made their way from the big screen to the bright lights of Broadway. And don’t even get us started on “& Juliet” – it’s got an all-star soundtrack written by none other than Max Martin, the man behind some of the biggest hits of our time. Plus, “Shucked” features new music from two Nashville powerhouses, Brandy Clark and Shane McAnally. And finally, “Kimberly Akimbo” is a favorite for the award, with critics raving about its originality and strong performances.

But wait, there’s more! The nominees for best play are just as impressive, with “Ain’t No Mo’” providing a hilarious take on race relations in America, “Between Riverside and Crazy” exploring the perspective of a retired police officer, “Cost of Living” touching on topics of caregiving and disability, “Fat Ham” providing a southern twist on “Hamlet”, and “Leopoldstadt” chronicling the struggles of a Jewish family before, during, and after the horrors of World War II. And get this – three of the plays have already won the Pulitzer Prize in drama.

So don’t forget to tune in at 9 a.m. on the Tony Awards YouTube page to see the full list of nominees. And keep checking back here throughout the day for updates on reactions from the stars, expert analysis from reporters, and witty commentary from critics – all served up with a side of humor, of course.

Serious News: nytimes