While it seems as if most awards shows are relatively predictable these days, this year’s Tony Awards ceremony should be anything but – following the COVID pandemic and the ongoing writers strike, the Tonys have seen better years than recently, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t some exciting things you should (and shouldn’t) look forward to!

EXPECT: To See People You Love

While the Tonys recognize theater performances only, that doesn’t mean you won’t see any familiar faces. Nominees this year include Oscar-winning actors like Jessica Chastain, film icons like Samuel L. Jackson, and television starlets like Julia Lester of "High School Musical: The Musical - The Series" fame. 

DON'T EXPECT: An Opening Number

Ariana DeBose will be returning as host for the second consecutive year and had a Lin Manuel Miranda-penned number to open the show with – however, due to the ongoing writers strike, the opening number and any other scripted material have been scrapped.

EXPECT: Non-Binary Performers To Take Center Stage

This year’s ceremony recognized two non-binary actors with nominations: J. Harrison Ghee for Some Like It Hot and Alex Newell in Shucked. & Juliet star Justin David Sullivan opted out of submitting themselves for a nomination because Tonys acting nominations are gendered but will likely still be in attendance as the show was nominated for Best Musical.

DON'T EXPECT: The Ceremony To Air Exclusively On CBS

For fans that are no longer committed to their cable bill, you can watch the Tonys streaming live on Paramount+, though the show will air live on CBS, too, of course.

EXPECT: A Pre-Show To Air Exclusively On PlutoTV

This year, the Tonys collaborated with free streaming television service PlutoTV to provide fans with an exclusive pre-show that will air 6:30-8:00pm ET/3:30-5:00pm PT.

DON'T EXPECT: A Boring Show

While this ceremony may look different due to the writers strike, the WGA agreed not to picket the event, so the night should go off without any significant flubs – as always, you should anticipate the producers will put on a show full of live performances, passionate speeches, and backstage content. 

Be sure to tune in to the 76th Tony Awards on Sunday, June 11th at 5:00pm PT/8:00pm ET!