LaChanze's Advice to Fellow Tony Honorees? Party!

The sunny, talented LaChanze made her Broadway debut as a tap dancer in the ensemble of Uptown…It's Hot!, but she is probably best remembered for her breakout performance in Once on This Island, for which she earned Tony Award and Drama Desk Award nominations. She went on to appear in Dessa Rose (Obie Award and Drama Desk Award nomination), The Vagina Monologues and The Bubbly Black Girl Sheds Her Chameleon Skin (Drama Desk nomination). However, it wasn’t until the beloved performer took on the role of Celie in 2005’s The Color Purple that this star took home her first Tony.

Which year did you win your first Tony?
2006

For which role and show?
I won for the role of Celie in The Color Purple.

Where were the awards held?
Radio City Music Hall.

Who hosted?
Various Broadway legends.

What did you wear?
A vintage couture Portuguez gown with jewelry from Harry Winston.

Who was sitting next to you?
My husband and Alice Walker.

Who did you think would win your category?
Chita Rivera.

What was the first thing that ran through your mind when they said your name?
Disbelief! "Really?"

Did you forget to thank anyone?
YES! My director.

Did you cry?
Actually, no I didn't!

If you could relive that night, would you change anything?
I would have wanted to thank my director and producers all by name.

Who were you most surprised to hear from after your win?
I was surprised by the huge amount of love and support I got from everyone.

Did winning a Tony change your life? How?
I seem to be a little more popular now...I get invited to more events!

What's your biggest memory of the night?
A personal exchange I had with my husband...we had a very private and memorable moment that night.

What's the best piece of advice you can offer for getting through Tony night?
When it's all over have a good time at the party!

Where do you keep your Tony?
In my living room on a mantel right next to the fireplace.