Billy Elliot Rules Tonys
David Alvarez, Sir Elton John, Kiril Kulish and Trent Kowalik
It was boys' night out at the 63rd Annual Tony Awards as a trio of teenagers shared lead actor honors for Billy Elliot, the Musical.
David Alvarez, Trent Kowalik and Kiril Kulish's win marked the first time in Tony history three actors have shared the award. "We want to say to all the kids out there who might want to dance, never give up," Kulish said.
The win was one of 10 for Billy Elliot, which is based on Stephen Daldry's Oscar-nominated film. The production, about a British schoolboy who dances ballet, also took home best musical and musical director (Daldry).
In an upset, Next to Normal picked up original score, besting Billy Elliot. Elton John, who composed Elliot's score, originally suggested the film be adapted into a musical. Next to Normal's Alice Ripley was named best actress in a musical for her role as a bipolar housewife.
God of Carnage nabbed three wins, including best play and lead actress in a play for Marcia Gay Harden. Carnage's James Gandolfini and Jeff Daniels lost lead actor in a play to Exit the King's Geoffrey Rush.
Angela Lansbury won her fifth Tony for best featured actress in a play (Blithe Spirit). She ties Julie Harris for most Tonys won by an actress.
Liza Minnelli's Liza's at the Palace beat Will Ferrell's You're Welcome America. A Final Night with George W. Bush for best special theatrical event.
The night wasn't all smooth sailing. Bret Michaels, who opened the ceremony with his band Poison, was knocked in the head with a descending set piece as he exited the stage. A Tony spokeswoman said the extent of the injury wasn't known.
