Going for 2012 Tony Gold! Handicapping the Race for Best Revival of a Play

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 Revival of a Play.

FRONTRUNNERS
The Best Man
This super-starry revival of Gore Vidal’s 1960 play, set during a national political convention, feels as fresh as ever—especially in an election year. It seems campaigning, conniving and backstabbing will forever be in fashion.

Death of a Salesman
Arthur Miller’s signature play gets a sure-footed revival proving that the drama about dreams deferred has grown in relevance since its premiere in 1949. Attention must be paid to this production and its ability to touch the 99%.

IN THE MIX
Master Class
Terrence McNally’s take on opera great Maria Callas looking back on her life and celebrated career remains a fascinating portrait of the diva.

Wit
A new production of Margaret Edson’s intelligent play about an English professor dealing with ovarian cancer revealed the piece has not lost its power.

Also possible: Don’t Dress for Dinner, Man and Boy, Private Lives, The Road to Mecca

BROADWAY.COM SHOUT OUT
A Streetcar Named Desire
Bravo to this sizzling new production of Tennessee Williams’ depiction of sex and secrets in the jazz-infused center of New Orleans’ French Quarter.