Catherine Zeta-Jones and Jude Law lead the way as Brits dominate Tonys

12 April 2012

The British invasion of Broadway has been recognised in its most prestigious theatre awards with Jude Law and Catherine Zeta-Jones heading the nominations.

In the Tony Award shortlists, unveiled today, Law, 37, is nominated for best actor in a play for his acclaimed performance in the Donmar Warehouse's production of Hamlet.

He is up against Alfred Molina for his depiction of artist Mark Rothko in another Donmar show, Red, which picks up four nominations including best play, best director for Michael Grandage and another acting nod for Molina's young co-star Eddie Redmayne, 28.

Zeta-Jones, 40, is nominated as best actress in a musical for her role in A Little Night Music.

Grandage, the Donmar's artistic director, said: "The Tonys are an important event . . .  to be honoured as we have been is a very special moment in the Donmar's ongoing relationship with the Broadway community. I am very proud and humbled by this extraordinary recognition of our work today."

La Cage Aux Folles, a production that began in the tiny Menier Chocolate Factory in London before reaching Broadway via the West End, proved the biggest hit.

The production of the camp American classic has scooped 11 nominations including best musical and best director for Terry Johnson.

Douglas Hodge, whose London first night in the role of a drag artist was hit by serious illness, sees his triumphant Broadway debut honoured as contender for best performance by a leading actor in a musical. His rivals include his New York co-star Kelsey Grammer. The tally of 11 was equalled by the show Fela! featuring the music of African star Fela Kuti, which will be seen at the National Theatre this year.

The Menier can celebrate a second set of nominations as its transfer of A Little Night Music is also recognised. Zeta-Jones and Angela Lansbury are both in the running, with the show winning four in total.

Enron, commissioned by the small theatre company Headlong before going to the West End and America, is also in the running in four categories and Alan Ayckbourn will be honoured with a special Tony award for lifetime achievement in the theatre. The winners will be announced on June 13.

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