And the Tony for Best Projection Design Goes to...

Chris Peterson

OnStage Editor-in-Chief

If you've been one of the lucky few to see Dear Evan Hansen, you've been treated, not only to an incredible score and poignant story, but also some of the strongest examples of projection design ever seen in a Broadway musical. 

While the concept of projections in Broadway shows is nothing new, given the latest technology, it's quickly become the latest "how did they do that?" when it comes to theatre design. 

From shows such as Dear Evan Hansen to A Gentleman's Guide to Love & Murder to Spiderman: Turn Off the Dark to the forthcoming Anastasia, we've seen more and more projection design used, not only to back drop a scene but to interact with the actors as well.

Take for instance the 2008 Revival of Sunday in the Park with George. It was one of the first times that I had seen projection design used as almost a character in the show.  

Given not only the quantity of its usage on Broadway today but also the way in which its used, I think it's only fair to ask, when will there be a Tony Award for Best Projection Design? 

Of course suggesting something like that is easier said than done. Decisions like these are a part of a lengthy process that has to go through committee after committee. However, regardless of how long it might take, I believe it's an prize worth awarding.

What is encouraging is that the American Theatre Wing at least knows the importance of projection design because they did a feature on it in 2015. 

In the meantime, a special shout out to Peter Nigrini for his work on Dear Evan Hansen. I hope that for an awards organization known for taking away awards, they seriously consider adding this one.