Who are the Tony Award named after?

The Tony Awards are named after Antoinette Perry, an American actress, director, and producer who was a leading figure in the Broadway theatre community for over half a century. Perry was born in Denver, Colorado, in 1888 and began her acting career in 1903. She appeared in over 80 stage productions on Broadway and also had a successful career in film and television.

In addition to her performing career, Perry was also a vocal advocate for the theatre and helped to establish several important theatre organizations, including the American Theatre Wing, which presents the Tony Awards. She was also instrumental in founding the Actors' Equity Association, which represents the interests of American actors and stage managers.

Perry died in 1946 at the age of 58. In her honor, the American Theatre Wing created the Antoinette Perry Awards, which were first presented in 1947. The awards are now known simply as the Tony Awards and are considered the most prestigious theatre awards in the United States.