Early Tony Predictions 2016: Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Play

Chris Peterson

OnStage Founder & Editor-in-Chief

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A little while back we released some of our way too early Tony predictions, but now that the nominations are just a month away, and with very little left to open on Broadway, it's time to start thinking about who might be hearing their named called on June 12th. 

So with that in mind, for the next couple of days, I'll be releasing my Tony nominations and possible winners. 

Today's Category:  Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Play

This is one of the tougher races to predict, because while there have been some great performances, no one seems like an absolute lock for a nomination nor is there a clear front runner to win.  But let's break it down. Some of these are pending Tony eligibility. 

Locks

None right now. 

Probable Nominees

  • Jayne Houdyshell - The Humans
  • Sarah Steele - The Humans
  • Saoirse Ronan - The Crucible
  • Julie White - Sylvia
  • Judith Light - Therese Raquin

On the Bubble

  • Tracee Chimo - Noises Off! 
  • Megan Hilty - Noises Off!
  • Phoebe Fox - A View from the Bridge

The closest thing to a lock for a nomination in this category would probably be Saoirse Ronan. After that I believe one of the cast members from The Humans will also get a nod but I'm not seeing multiple nominations for either show in this category. Initially I had both Eve Best and Kelly Reilly from Old Times here but they would be considered in the lead actress category. 

While neither Sylvia or Therese Raquin seemed to have made an impression, both White and Light were very well received in their roles which could get them in. 

As for the bubble, it's very possible one of these actresses will land a nod but only one. My guess? It should be Phoebe Fox. 

As for some names not on here? I would surprised if anyone else from Eclipsed will be nominated other than Lupita Nyong'o. 

Possible nominees from shows yet to open would be Colby Minifie from Long Day's Journey into Night and Kathryn Erbe from The Father

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