Going for 2012 Tony Gold! Handicapping the Race for Best Actor in a Musical
It’s almost Tony time, and let's face it: We’re obsessed! In anticipation of the 2012 Tony nominations, which will be announced on May 1, the Broadway.com editorial staff clocked 12 of the top races. Take a look at our forecast, including frontrunners, hopefuls and a “shout out” to one performer or show we hope the Tony nominators won’t forget. Below, our cheat sheet on the race for Best Actor in a Musical.
FRONTRUNNERS
Danny Burstein, Follies
As lovelorn Buddy in Follies, this two-nominee (for The Drowsy Chaperone and South Pacific) broke hearts and will easily be remembered on nomination day, even though the show left Broadway months ago.
Jeremy Jordan, Newsies
He made a name for himself delivering star-is-born turns in two new musicals on Broadway this year. But Newsies, not Bonnie & Clyde, will bring this popular newcomer his first shot at a Tony Award.
Steve Kazee, Once
Critics and audiences are swooning over his sexy, heartfelt performance as a struggling vacuum cleaner repairman/musician falling slowly in love on the streets of Dublin. We're thinking Tony nominators will, too.
IN THE MIX
Matthew Broderick, Nice Work If You Can Get It
A two-time past winner, Broderick is always a contender.
Raúl Esparza, Leap of Faith
This fan favorite could easily land his fifth nomination for this starry turn.
Norm Lewis, Porgy and Bess
His passionate portrayal could bring this longtime Broadway regular his first nom.
Paul Nolan, Jesus Christ Superstar
The Broadway newcomer brings quiet strength and serious vocal chops to the title role.
Ron Raines, Follies
He had the least showy role of the revival’s four stars, but could get swept up in the love for the show.
Also possible: Harry Connick Jr. (On a Clear Day You Can See Forever), Ben Fankhauser (Newsies), Richard Fleeshman (Ghost), Hunter Parrish (Godspell) and Josh Segarra (Lysistrata Jones).
BROADWAY.COM SHOUT OUT
Reeve Carney, Spider-Man, Turn Off the Dark
We’d love to see this newcomer on the nominee list, for his rocker take on the high-flying comic book hero and for not getting tangled up in the web of backstage drama that plagued the musical's early days.