Tonys 2016 Opening: James Corden Celebrates Just About Every Musical In Intro Number [VIDEO]
James Corden performed a highly energized, entertaining opening number at the Tony Awards Sunday night, going through just about every major musical in an epic medley.
Corden, who hosted the Tony Awards this year, kicked off the ceremony in amazing fashion. The late night host first explained how his parents would taken him to the theater as a child, where he would become enthralled with the spectacle of what was happening on stage.
He then launched into an epic song and dance number, referencing Les Miserables, The Phantom of the Opera, The Lion King, Grease, Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street and Jesus Christ Superstar. He also had several costume changes while singing hits from shows like The Music Man, Funny Girl, Guys and Dolls, Annie, Cats, A Chorus Line, Evita, Fiddler on the Roof, Dreamgirls and Gypsy.
Corden then ended things in epic fashion, with all 20 musical acting nominees of 2016 performing on stage, singing "this could be you" to the viewing audience.
Before the opening number, Corden took the time to address the audience directly about the deadly Orlando terror attack.
"All around the world, people are trying to come to terms with the horrific events that took place in Orlando this morning," he said, with the lights dimmed. "On behalf of the whole theater community and every person in this room, our hearts go out to all of those affected by this atrocity. All we can say is you are not on your own right now. Your tragedy is our tragedy. Theater is a place where every race, creed, sexuality and gender is equal, is embraced, and is loved. Hate will never win. Together, we have to make sure of that. Tonight's show stands as a symbol and a celebration of that principle."
The night was indeed a celebration of the durable power of live theater, featuring performances from such acclaimed shows as Hamilton, The Color Purple, Waitress, Shuffle Along and more. Hamilton was the night's biggest winner, with 11 awards received including Best Musical.
