Tony Nominees Share Their Secrets to Stage Success

During every awards acceptance speech, the winners usually thank the many people in their lives who made their work possible: their partner, their children, their agent. In that vein, at the Meet the Nominees junket May 14, Playbill invited the 2026 Tony Award nominees to reflect on their craft, and on how they're able to achieve greatness on the stage. Actors revealed how they're able to perform feats like acting in super-high heels or belting high notes, while creatives shared how they were able to juggle multiple shows in one season.

From pre and post-show rituals, to supportive cast mates, to pets—learn how this year's Tony nominees get it done. Flip through the gallery below for exclusive Tony portraits by Heather Gershonowitz, and scroll down to read reflections from 20 nominees (and two Tony honorees).

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Featured Gallery

Playbill x The Tony Awards: 2026 Nominees Portrait Studio

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_Originally reported by [Playbill](https://playbill.com/article/20-tony-nominees-on-how-they-get-it-done)._