Hey guys! The nominations for the 2023 Tony Awards are finally here, and the buzz is real! If you're anything like me, you've been waiting on the edge of your seat to find out which shows made the cut for Best Musical. So, let’s dive right into the incredible productions that are vying for the most coveted award in Broadway. The energy and creativity this year have been off the charts, so buckle up, theater lovers! Each nominee has brought something unique and unforgettable to the stage, making this year's competition exceptionally thrilling.

& Juliet

First up, we have "& Juliet," a vibrant and exhilarating musical that dares to ask: What if Juliet didn't die at the end of Shakespeare's classic? This isn't your grandma's Romeo and Juliet! The musical explodes with a playlist of Max Martin's iconic pop anthems, reimagining the tragic tale with a modern, feminist twist. Miriam-Teak Lee's portrayal of Juliet is nothing short of sensational, bringing a fierce independence and infectious energy to the character. The musical's book, penned by David West Read (of Schitt's Creek fame), is witty, clever, and surprisingly poignant, offering a fresh perspective on love, loss, and self-discovery. But "& Juliet" isn't just about the music and the story; it's a visual feast. The costumes are a riot of color and texture, blending Elizabethan ruffs with contemporary streetwear. The set design is equally dynamic, transforming the stage into a dazzling array of locations, from Verona's bustling streets to the glamorous courts of Europe. The choreography is a high-octane blend of contemporary dance styles, perfectly capturing the energy of the music and the spirit of the story. "& Juliet" is a celebration of joy, empowerment, and the power of rewriting your own narrative. It’s a musical that will leave you dancing in the aisles and questioning everything you thought you knew about Shakespeare. It's definitely a must-see for anyone who loves a good pop song and a thought-provoking story.

Kimberly Akimbo

Next, we have "Kimberly Akimbo," a musical that's as heartwarming as it is unconventional. This show tells the story of Kimberly, a bright and witty teenager with a rare condition that causes her to age rapidly. Despite facing incredible challenges, Kimberly approaches life with a remarkable sense of humor and an unwavering optimism. Victoria Clark's performance as Kimberly is nothing short of transformative, capturing the character's vulnerability, strength, and indomitable spirit. The musical's score, composed by Jeanine Tesori (of Fun Home fame), is beautiful, poignant, and perfectly captures the emotional complexities of the story. David Lindsay-Abaire's book is equally impressive, balancing humor and heartbreak with remarkable sensitivity. "Kimberly Akimbo" is a musical that celebrates the beauty of life, even in the face of adversity. It's a story about finding joy in the present moment, cherishing the relationships we have, and embracing the unexpected twists and turns that life throws our way. What makes "Kimberly Akimbo" so special is its ability to find humor in the darkest of situations. The show is full of witty banter, quirky characters, and laugh-out-loud moments that will leave you smiling from ear to ear. But beneath the surface, there's a deep well of emotion that will resonate with anyone who's ever felt like an outsider. "Kimberly Akimbo" is a testament to the power of human connection and the resilience of the human spirit. It's a musical that will stay with you long after the curtain falls.

New York, New York

"New York, New York" steps onto the stage as a grand, sweeping musical love letter to the city that never sleeps. Inspired by the iconic Martin Scorsese film, this production transports audiences back to post-World War II New York, a city brimming with hope, ambition, and a vibrant artistic spirit. The musical follows the intertwined stories of a diverse group of individuals chasing their dreams in the bustling metropolis, each character navigating the challenges and opportunities that the city presents. The score, a blend of classic tunes and original compositions by John Kander and Fred Ebb (the legendary duo behind "Chicago" and "Cabaret"), captures the energy and romance of the era. The choreography, a dazzling display of tap, jazz, and ballroom, evokes the spirit of iconic New York institutions like the Copacabana and the Cotton Club. "New York, New York" isn't just a musical; it's an immersive experience that celebrates the resilience, diversity, and artistic spirit of the city. It's a story about finding your place in the world, pursuing your passions, and embracing the unexpected detours that life throws your way. The set design is a marvel of engineering, transforming the stage into a sprawling cityscape, complete with towering skyscrapers, smoky jazz clubs, and bustling street corners. The costumes are equally stunning, capturing the glamour and sophistication of the era. "New York, New York" is a must-see for anyone who loves classic musicals, big dance numbers, and stories about chasing your dreams.

Shucked

"Shucked" is a quirky and charming musical that brings a slice of rural Americana to the Broadway stage. Set in the small, isolated town of Cob County, where the corn is dying and the way of life is threatened, this show follows a young woman named Maizy as she embarks on a journey to the big city in search of someone who can save her beloved corn crop. The musical's score, written by the Grammy Award-winning songwriting team of Brandy Clark and Shane McAnally, is a delightful blend of country, bluegrass, and folk, capturing the heart and humor of rural life. Robert Horn's book is equally clever, filled with witty one-liners, eccentric characters, and a surprisingly poignant story about community, resilience, and the importance of staying true to your roots. "Shucked" isn't just a musical; it's a celebration of small-town America, the power of community, and the importance of finding joy in the simple things in life. The set design is simple yet effective, transforming the stage into a charming rural landscape, complete with cornfields, barns, and a cozy general store. The costumes are equally authentic, capturing the down-to-earth style of the characters. "Shucked" is a must-see for anyone who loves country music, quirky comedies, and stories about the power of community.

Some Like It Hot

Last but definitely not least, we have "Some Like It Hot," a dazzling and delightful musical adaptation of the iconic 1959 film. Set in the roaring 1920s, this show follows two musicians who witness a mob hit and must disguise themselves as women to escape the wrath of the gangsters. The musical's score, written by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman (the Tony Award-winning team behind "Hairspray"), is a vibrant blend of jazz, swing, and Broadway, capturing the energy and glamour of the era. Matthew López and Amber Ruffin's book is equally clever, filled with witty banter, hilarious situations, and a surprisingly progressive message about identity, acceptance, and the power of love. "Some Like It Hot" isn't just a musical; it's a celebration of joy, freedom, and the importance of being true to yourself. The choreography, a dazzling display of tap, Charleston, and other 1920s dance styles, is sure to get your feet tapping. The costumes are equally stunning, capturing the glitz and glamour of the era. "Some Like It Hot" is a must-see for anyone who loves classic comedies, big dance numbers, and stories about finding love in unexpected places. It’s a vibrant, high-energy show that’s guaranteed to leave you smiling!

So there you have it, folks! The nominees for Best Musical at the 2023 Tony Awards. Each of these shows has brought something special to the Broadway stage, and I can't wait to see who takes home the prize. Which one are you rooting for? Let me know in the comments below!