James JohnsonThe ‘Wicked’ star leads Broadway’s biggest night with an empowering original number and standing ovation at Radio City Music Hall
New York City, June 8, 2025 — Broadway’s brightest stars shone under the spell of Cynthia Erivo as she opened the 78th Annual Tony Awards with a show-stopping musical number that immediately earned a standing ovation. Held at Radio City Music Hall, the 2025 ceremony celebrated the best in theater, and Erivo proved to be both a magnetic host and a vocal powerhouse.
The Tony-winning actress and Oscar nominee, best known for her portrayal of Celie in The Color Purple, set the tone for an electric evening with an original song performance that celebrated Broadway’s enduring spirit. The scene opened with cameras following Erivo from her dressing room to the stage — along the way, she received heartfelt encouragement from none other than Oprah Winfrey, who smiled and told her simply, “Be yourself.”
A Red-Hot Opening That Celebrated Broadway’s Finest
Donning a glittering red gown with a crisp white collar, Erivo emerged onstage backed by a robed gospel choir as she belted the refrain, “It’s our stories and our songs that let us soar.” The powerful lyrics, paired with Erivo’s soaring vocals, stirred the audience with emotion and pride.
The song cleverly paid tribute to many of this year’s Tony nominees, including Audra McDonald (Gypsy), George Clooney (Good Night, and Good Luck), Sarah Snook (The Picture of Dorian Gray), and Cole Escola, whose Oh, Mary! has garnered critical acclaim.
Erivo even took her performance into the audience, bringing the mic to Broadway favorites like Kristin Chenoweth, Aaron Tveit, and Adam Lambert, who joined in the joyous celebration.
A Host Worthy of the Stage
“I am so proud and excited to take on this glorious honor,” Erivo shared when her role as host was first announced. “I am looking forward to ushering the theater community at large through a night that celebrates the wonderful performances we have witnessed throughout the year. I hope I can rise to the occasion.”
Rise she did.
The London-born actress, who previously starred in West End productions such as Sister Act, The Umbrellas of Cherbourg, and I Can’t Sing, brought warmth, charm, and commanding stage presence to a role formerly held by legends like Neil Patrick Harris, Rosie O’Donnell, and Hugh Jackman. The last three ceremonies were hosted by Ariana DeBose, but Erivo’s performance marked a dynamic and heartfelt new chapter for the awards.
A Year of First-Time Nominees and Powerful Stories
This year’s Tony Awards marked a significant moment for many newcomers. The list of first-time nominees included Hollywood icons and rising stage talents: George Clooney, Nicole Scherzinger, Daniel Dae Kim, Sarah Snook, and Cole Escola, among others. Their inclusion showcased Broadway’s growing embrace of diverse voices and global talent.
What’s Next for Cynthia Erivo?
Erivo is far from slowing down. After captivating the Tony Awards audience, she’s set to reprise her much-anticipated role as Elphaba in Wicked: For Good, the second chapter in Jon M. Chu’s two-part cinematic adaptation of the iconic Broadway musical, alongside Ariana Grande. The sequel flies into theaters on November 21, 2025.
Before that, fans can catch Erivo in the lead role of Jesus Christ Superstar at the Hollywood Bowl this summer — another opportunity to witness the performer’s remarkable range and spiritual depth.
A Magical Night to Remember
The 78th Tony Awards were a celebration not only of theater, but of resilience, diversity, and transformation. And at the center of it all stood Cynthia Erivo — a true Broadway star whose voice, grace, and charisma cast a spell that left an indelible mark on the history of the Great White Way.
