Hugh Jackman did many things as the host of the Tony Awards held on Sunday. What was most surprising to many was his rap with LL Cool J and T.I. Before rapping, Jackman recalled the time when he auditioned for The Music Man, and said “Broadway composer Meredith Wilson, he might have actually created one of the very first rap songs ever back in 1957.” Jackman was referring to one of the songs from The Music Man entitled “Rock Island.”
Rappers T.I. and LL Cool J then entered the stage and Jackman said, “I think it’s time we brought The Music Man into the 21st century!”
The three then start to rap “Rock Island,” much to the delight of the audience. However, not everyone was pleased with their performance. Caroline Moss, a reporter, said “LL Cool J and T.I. are performing “Rock Island” from The Music Man and I no longer want to be associated with theater. Like at all.”
What do you think of their performance? Watch.
Another highlight from the Tony Awards was Neil Patrick Harris, who was honored for his role in Hedwig and the Angry Inch, wherein he plays a German transgender who is the lead singer of a rock band. “A year ago I was hosting the Tonys. This is crazy pants!” he said.
Just woke up this morning and found this. Turns out, it wasn’t a dream! Thanks, everyone, for your sweet Tony tweets! pic.twitter.com/4Jy7kdW5yr
— Neil Patrick Harris (@ActuallyNPH) June 9, 2014
Prior to accepting his award for lead actor in a musical horror, Harris gave a performance from Hedwig and the Angry Inch and gave Sting a lap dance.
Broadway ballad performances from Idina Menzel and Sutton Foster also received rave reviews from viewers.
Ummmmm…@idinamenzel …wow…wow…we are all speechless here at the party.
— James Snyder (@thejamessnyder) June 9, 2014
Does Sutton Foster know she’s the most adorable Amazing human being too ever exist. How is she so perfect?!?
— mariah:-) (@Broadwayybaby) June 10, 2014
Bryan Cranston, known for playing the role of Walter White on Breaking Bad, won his first Tony, taking home the best lead actor in a play award for portraying former President Lyndon B. Johnson in All The Way.
Big Ups to @BryanCranston for Tony Win last nite! Pure Nitro as LBJ!! A Joy to watch!
— Samuel L. Jackson (@SamuelLJackson) June 9, 2014
The 68th Tony Awards wrapped up with Jackman asking the winners to join him on stage to sing “Lullaby of Broadway.”
PSA: The Tonys stole the directorial ideas of Steve Spera by closing the show with lullaby of broadway. #bob5foreva
— sydnee. (@S_Budda) June 9, 2014
Image via YouTube