‘Billy Elliot,’ ‘Next to Normal’ Win Big at 2009 Tonys

Uplifting hit Billy Elliot has enjoyed a charmed run that culminated with ten wins at the 2009 Tony Awards, held Sunday, June 7 in New York. The winner of Best Musical, Billy Elliot features music and lyrics by legend Sir Elton John (PRS). Next to Normalalso enjoyed a big night as it garnered three awards, including Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre, composed by Tom Kitt (music) and Brian Yorkey (lyrics). Next to Normal was developed in the prestigious BMI Lehman Engel Musical Theatre Workshop, and in his acceptance speech, Yorkey thanked “the great BMI Workshop.” 

Sir Elton John performs with cast members of Billy Elliot during the 2009 Tony Awards in New York. (Photo by Anita & Steve Shevett)

Lyricist Brian Yorkey and composer Tom Kitt pause for a photo at the 2009 Meet the Press event held May 6. Yorkey and Kitt garnered Tonys for Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre. (Photo by J.Kempin / Wireimage.com)

For a complete list of Tony Award winners, please visit www.tonyawards.com.