The moment Kara Young took her seat at the press preview for “Clyde’s,” it was clear she was destined for greatness. Petite, vibrant, and unmistakably electric, Young radiated a presence that demanded attention. I’ve praised her many times over the years, and it turns out I wasn’t alone in recognizing a history maker at first glance.
On Sunday, June 8, Young cemented that legacy. She won her second Tony Award for Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Play, this time for “Purpose,” in which she portrays Aziza, a Harlem-based social worker. The win marks a historic milestone: Young is now the first African American performer to win a Tony Award two years in a row. She has also earned four consecutive nominations.
In her acceptance speech, Young reflected on the power of storytelling and the role theater plays in fostering connection. “In this world that’s so divided, theater is… a safe, a sacred space that we have to honor and cherish. It makes us united,” she said.
Last year, she took home her first Tony in the same category for “Purlie Victorious: A Non-Confederate Romp Through the Cotton Patch.” She’s also been nominated for her roles in “Clyde’s“ and “Cost of Living.“
This year, she stood out among a formidable group of nominees, including Tala Ashe (English), Jessica Hecht (Eureka Day), Marjan Neshat (English), and Fina Strazza (John Proctor Is the Villain).
Before she even made it to the winners’ press stage, Kara Young stopped. A reporter handed her a headset so she could hear the live announcement for Best Play. She listened. Purpose was announced as the winner. She stood there, shaking. It was one of those human moments that is pure Kara. Pure, Kara Young.
Still visibly moved, she addressed the room. “I truly feel like we are so divided out here in the world, that we can literally sit in the theater and nothing else matters but the story—and our heartbeats, and our listening ears, or eyes, for those who need access,” she said. “I feel incredibly grateful. An overwhelming amount of gratitude. Diversity literally equals humanity.”
When asked what advice she would offer her younger self—or to others coming up in the industry—she didn’t hesitate. “Never let anyone clip your wings.”
Then came one final moment of recognition. As she was making her way from the stage to the photographers’ room, Young spotted me, Linda Armstrong, longtime theater critic for the New York Amsterdam News, and Joel Crump—one of Broadway’s youngest reporters and the founder of @broadwaytime_. Her joy overflowed. She beamed, stretched out her arms, and said with deep affection, “I love you.”
And Kara Young—two-time Tony Award winner—we love you right back.
