A thrilling mix of well-known actors and unexpected choices marked this year's Tony nominations.  The nominations for Broadway's top honors were announced on a Thursday.  The big names included George Clooney, Sarah Snook, and Sadie Sink.  The list of nominees also included Darren Criss, Daniel Dae Kim, and Bob Odenkirk.  However, some big stars were left out.  Denzel Washington, Jake Gyllenhaal, Nick Jonas, David Hyde Pierce, and Idina Menzel did not receive nods from the nominators.  This year's nominations highlighted a particularly star-studded season on Broadway.

Audra McDonald, a seasoned stage performer, and Nicole Scherzinger, a former Pussycat Doll making her Broadway debut, were among the five women nominated for best leading actress in a musical.  McDonald, starring in a revival of "Gypsy, " is a front-runner in this category.  This is her 11th nomination, making her the most-nominated performer ever.  She has already won six times, the most competitive Tonys.  McDonald's consistent excellence on stage is a testament to her talent and dedication.

This season saw 14 new musicals, making it a robust year for Broadway.  Three shows tied for the most nominations, with 10 each: "Buena Vista Social Club, " "Death Becomes Her, " and "Maybe Happy Ending. "  These musicals will compete with "Dead Outlaw" and "Operation Mincemeat" in the best musical category.  "Buena Vista Social Club" tells the story of beloved Cuban musicians.  "Death Becomes Her" is a stage adaptation of the film about two frenemies who take an immortality potion.  "Maybe Happy Ending" explores a relationship between two robots.  "Dead Outlaw" tells the strange story of a train robber whose corpse became an attraction.  "Operation Mincemeat" is about a bizarre World War II British intelligence operation.

The Tony nominations this year reflect the diversity and creativity of Broadway.  From established stars to newcomers, and from classic stories to innovative concepts, this year's nominations showcase the best of what Broadway has to offer.  The competition is fierce, and the performances are sure to be memorable.  It's an exciting time for theater lovers, with so many talented actors and captivating shows to choose from.

The Tony Awards celebrate the best of Broadway, and this year's nominations are no exception.  With a mix of familiar faces and fresh talent, and a variety of compelling stories, the 2023 Tony Awards promise to be a night to remember.  Whether you're a longtime theater fan or a newcomer to the world of Broadway, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Big Names and Surprises in Broadway's Tony Nominations

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