2018 Tony Nomination Surprises & Snubs

This morning the nominations were announced for the 2018 Tony Awards. As per usual there were a number of surprises and snubs in virtually every category. Let's break it down and also see how we did with our own nominee predictions. 

Nickelodeon beats out Disney

It's not everyday Nickelodeon can celebrate a victory over the Mouse-house but twelve nominations for Spongebob Squarepants versus just three for Frozen would certainly qualify as one. While I had wondered about Frozen's chances due to its absence from other awards, I was surprised to see it not fare better in at least the technical awards. On the other hand, Spongebob was nominated in almost every category it qualified for. It's going to be a long night for Disney too because I don't see them winning any of the three categories they're nominated in. 

Summer Love

Given the thrashing it took from critics last week, I was surprised to see Summer: The Donna Summer Musical walk away with two acting nominations. No disrespect to LaChanze or Ariana Dubose, but I don't think anyone expected them to be there. Especially not over the likes of Erika Henningsen(Mean Girls), Patti Murin(Frozen) and Lea Salonga(Once on this Island), all of which I felt were more deserving. 

Tonys So Diverse

As the awareness for more representation of performers of color on our stages and screens heightens, the Tonys continued to prove that they are helping to lead the charge with 11 nominations going to performers of color across the acting categories with more in the design categories as well. 

Escape to Margaritaville and Prince of Broadway Shut Out

It doesn't look like we'll be hearing any Jimmy Buffet on Tony night as his musical Escape to Margaritaville was shut out for nominations. I was surprised to see that the Prince of Broadway didn't get a single nod, given its talented cast, subject matter and positive reviews. 

So how will the Tonys play out? Tune in June 10th!