NPH Can Give Kristan & Alan Tonys Hosting Advice

Broadway’s biggest night is just around the corner, and, this year, the Tony Awards has not one, but two well-known hosts to get the show rolling. As the nominees for the 69th annual Tony Awards were announced Tuesday morning, we also have our hosts: Kristin Chenoweth and Alan Cumming. Both are no strangers to the stage, what with Cumming in the iconic role of Emcee in Cabaret and Chenoweth in basically everything, but the question is, how good are they in the role of host?

In the past, the Tony Awards have had some amazing hosts — Hugh Jackman, Whoopi Goldberg, Sean Hayes, just to name a few. But, by far, no one tops the king of hosts himself, Neil Patrick Harris. Over the past few years, Harris has hosted a grand total of 10 award shows (four of which were for the Tonys). And, based on the fact that his reviews shine each time, I would say that he knows what he's doing.

So, if Cumming and Chenoweth really want to impress the audience, then they better start rehearsing. Since their announcement as hosts came fairly later than usual, they only have about six weeks to get ready for the big night on June 7. As they get their costumes and jokes together, here are some lessons they can learn from the iconic Tony Awards host, Neil Patrick Harris.

Appeal To Your Viewers

Know who's watching at home and play off of that during the show.

Don't Be Afraid To Make Fun of Yourself

Sure, there will be some fun jokes poked at the people in the audience, but don't be afraid to laugh at yourself too.

But Don't Forget To Talk Yourself Up

Do it in good humor, of course, but this is Cumming and Chenoweth for crying out loud. They're legendary!

Use Social Media To Your Advantage

Don't forget to live tweet or post a pic behind stage for all your followers out there. Nothing like keeping viewers engaged on multiple media platforms.

Give a Shout Out to the Broadway Community

Yeah, Broadway performers are pretty awesome. Make sure everyone else recognizes that in your speech.

Play to Your Strengths

If cheesy is what you do best, do it. If you like making jokes, make them. The audience will love you better if you're 100 percent being yourself.

Your Opening Number is EVERYTHING

Don't forget to have a killer opening number. Again, you have some big shoes to fill, but take note of Harris' 2013 Tony Awards opening. It's pure gold.

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