11 Tony Awards Musical Numbers We Love

With its rousing musical numbers, and all those gay winners thanking their partners, Broadway's Tony Awards is the gayest live show on television. As the 69th Annual Tony Awards approaches on June 7, hosted by gay icon Kristin Chenoweth and bi icon Alan Cumming, we look back on 11 musical numbers that proved that great theatre can make for great television.

Whether the numbers were from nominated musicals, Broadway icons, or cheeky opening numbers featuring dashing hosts like Hugh Jackman or Neil Patrick Harris, these performances stopped the show.

"I've Decided to Marry You" from A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder (2014)

While last year's ceremony was a hit-and-miss affair, this whip-smart number from Robert L. Freedman and Steven Lutvak's Best Musical Tony winner knocked it out of the park.

"I Believe" from The Book of Mormon (2012)

Andrew Rannells nails his big number in this wildly irreverent Best Musical winner from South Park creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone.

"Kiss L.A. Goodbye" (2013)

Neil Patrick Harris and his somewhat less successful Broadway-to-TV colleagues Andrew Rannells, Megan Hilty, and Laura Benanti debate the benefits of the stage versus the small screen.

"Defying Gravity" from Wicked (2004)

Tony-winner Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth perform the Act One finale that shows how Oz's Witch of the West became Wicked.

"It's Not Just For Gays Anymore" Opening Number (2011)

Gay host Neil Patrick Harris clearly revels in the witty irony of this opening number.

"Buenos Aires" from Evita (1981)

Tony-winner Patti LuPone proves why she became an overnight sensation as Andrew Lloyd Webber's Evita.

"Bosom Buddies" from Mame (1987)

Angela Lansbury and Bea Arthur reprise the roles they originated on Broadway for an encore performance of their big duet from Mame.

Newsies (2012)

Jeremy Jordan and the high-stepping newsboys from the Disney musical strut their stuff -- and bring down the house.

"Anything Goes" (2011)

Sutton Foster shows how she earned her second Best Actress in a Musical Tony Award in this revival of Cole Porter's classic show -- without even breaking a sweat.

"One Night Only" Opening Number (2004)

While the video quality here isn't ideal, Hugh Jackman's performance set the gold standard of Tony Awards opening numbers.

"Bigger" Opening Number (2013)

Nine years after Jackman's "One Night Only" performance, Neil Patrick Harris pushed the opening number bar even higher -- by going bigger.