New York Drama Critics’ Circle honors Tony contenders ‘Matilda’ and ‘Vanya’

The New York Drama Critics’ Circle met today to decide which Broadway productions would get top honors for this past Broadway season. The group picked Matilda The Musical and Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike, two contenders for the top Tony Awards as well.

Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike was written by Christopher Durang won Best Play, reports Playbill. The winner of the prize receives a $2,500 check thanks to a Lucille Lortel Foundation grant. The Checkov-inspired comedy earned six Tony nominations, including Best Play.

Matilda, based on Roald Dahl’s novel, first opened in London before coming to Broadway this season. Tim Minchin wrote the score and the book is by Dennis Kelly. It won Best Musical and is up for 12 Tony Awards, including Best Musical.

USA Today reports that the group gave a special citation to scenic designer John Lee Beatty, who is up for a Tony for The Nance. Other special citations were given to Soho Rep and the New York City Center's Encores! series.

The Critics’ Circle is a group of 26 theater critics based in New York. They will present the awards in a private ceremony Monday.

The Tonys will be handed out on June 9.