Entertainment

Tituss Burgess and Laura Benanti to Host Tony Awards Preshow

By Stephen KingPublished: May 20, 2026
Tituss Burgess and Laura Benanti to Host Tony Awards Preshow

Laura Benanti, a Tony Award winner, and Tituss Burgess, celebrated for his role in "Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt," have been announced as the hosts for "The Tony Awards: Act One" preshow ceremony. This event, scheduled for June 7, will kick off the festivities by presenting the initial set of Tony Awards to various creative team members. Theater enthusiasts can stream this special segment for free on Pluto TV, with the broadcast running from 6:35 to 8:00 p.m. ET (3:35 to 5:00 p.m. PT).

The preshow acts as a prelude to the main Tony Awards telecast, which will be hosted by the renowned artist Pink. The primary awards show will air live across the country at 8 p.m. ET (5 p.m. PT) on CBS and will also be available for streaming on Paramount+. Both events are slated to take place at the iconic Radio City Music Hall, celebrating excellence in Broadway theater.

Benanti's illustrious career includes a Tony Award for her performance in the 2008 revival of 'Gypsy,' alongside four other nominations. Her recent work includes a series regular role on Paramount+'s 'Mayor of Kingstown' and a co-starring role in the film 'No Hard Feelings.' Burgess, beyond his Netflix fame, has a significant Broadway presence, with notable performances in 'Oh, Mary!,' 'Moulin Rouge!,' and 'Jersey Boys,' and will soon appear in the film 'The Cat in the Hat.' The entire Tony Awards production is a collaborative effort between Tony Award Productions, the American Theatre Wing, and The Broadway League, with Raj Kapoor, Sarah Levine Hall, and Jack Sussman serving as executive producers for this year's show.

The annual Tony Awards ceremony is more than just an event; it's a vibrant celebration of theatrical artistry, dedication, and the power of storytelling. It recognizes the immense talent and hard work that bring Broadway productions to life, inspiring new generations of performers and creators. By highlighting these achievements, the awards foster a sense of community and elevate the performing arts, reminding us of the profound impact live theater has on our culture and collective imagination.

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