BEST PERFORMANCE BY A LEADING ACTRESS IN A MUSICAL
Kerry Butler, Xanadu
Patti LuPone, Gypsy
Kelli O'Hara, Rodgers & Hammerstein's South Pacific
Faith Prince, A Catered Affair
Jenna Russell, Sunday in the Park With George
Winner: Patti LuPone
Spoiler: Kelli O'Hara
I cannot believe I even have to acknowledge a spoiler. The New York Times has become O'Hara's personal campaign manager, which is fine, but I don't understand all the fuss. She's lovely as Nellie Forbush. But she'll be lovely in the future. LuPone is playing Mama Rose. It's a star turn. It's a Tony-winning role. It's the kind of performance that comes along once in a lifetime. Give her the damn Tony.