The 2026 Broadway.com Audience Choice Awards: A Celebration of Broadway's Best
The 26th annual Broadway.com Audience Choice Awards (BACAs) have arrived, and it's time to celebrate the best of Broadway! This year's winners were decided by Broadway fans, for Broadway fans, making it a truly special event. From beloved revivals to fresh new musicals, the awards showcase the diverse talent that graces the Great White Way.
One of the biggest winners of the night was the Cold War-era musical Chess, which took home four awards, including Favorite Musical Revival and three performance awards for its star, Lea Michele. Her return to Broadway was a triumph, solidifying her status as a Broadway legend. Chess dominated the night, proving that classic musicals can still captivate modern audiences.
In the realm of new musicals, The Lost Boys emerged as a standout, winning Favorite New Musical and featuring the talented Shoshana Bean as Lucy Emerson. The show's vampire-themed story and energetic performances left a lasting impression on voters.
The awards also recognized the power of plays, with Death of a Salesman taking home multiple awards, including Favorite Play Revival and acting honors for Christopher Abbott and Laurie Metcalf. This classic Arthur Miller play continues to resonate with audiences, offering a timeless exploration of the American Dream.
But it wasn't all about revivals and new musicals. Dog Day Afternoon was named Favorite New Play, and Hadestown continued its long-running success, winning Favorite Long-Running Show and Favorite Tour. These awards highlight the enduring appeal of these productions and their ability to engage audiences over time.
The individual performances were a highlight, with Joshua Henry and Sam Tutty both winning awards for their leading roles. Lea Michele's performance in Chess was a standout, earning her the coveted Performance of the Year (Musical) award. Daniel Radcliffe's turn in Every Brilliant Thing was also highly acclaimed, securing him the Performance of the Year (Play) prize.
The awards also celebrated the art of song, with the original song 'New York' from Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York) taking home the Favorite Original Song award. This musical comedy, with its unique take on New York City, proved that originality and creativity can thrive on Broadway.
In conclusion, the 2026 BACAs were a testament to the power of Broadway's storytelling and the passion of its fans. From the classic Chess to the fresh The Lost Boys, and from the timeless Death of a Salesman to the long-running Hadestown, these awards celebrated the very best of what Broadway has to offer. As we continue to navigate the ever-changing landscape of theater, the BACAs remind us of the magic that happens when audiences and artists come together to create something extraordinary.
