How Pink's Tony Awards Opening Came Together

Key Points:

• The Tony Awards opening number featured Pink suspended from the rafters, Megan Thee Stallion rapping, and Lea Michele making self-deprecating jokes about not winning, with lyrics like “Gitchie, gitchie Lesley Manville. Gitchie, gitchie Carrie Coon” gaining popularity.
• The number was created by composers Benj Pasek, Justin Paul, and Mark Sonnenblick, who aimed to celebrate Broadway’s leading ladies and the broader theater community, involving over 170 performers and incorporating playful references and cameo appearances.
• Lea Michele’s line “We don’t do it for the awards” was included to honor performers who contribute to theater beyond winning accolades, and June Squibb surprised audiences by singing her own solo, showcasing her musical theater background.
• Pink’s idea to lift Neil Patrick Harris using only her legs during the performance highlighted her desire to poke fun at herself and add a memorable stunt, with close collaboration between the performers and creative team.
• The rehearsal process was intense and fast-paced, with many sections rehearsed separately and no full cast rehearsal until the day of the Tonys, reflecting the dedication and community spirit of the Broadway performers involved.