Funnyman James Corden paid tribute to the victims and their loved ones of the Orlando shooting, using his opening address at the Tony Awards to tell those affected by the shooting that they are not alone.
“All around the world, people are trying to come to terms with the horrific events that took place in Orlando this morning,” he said. “On behalf of the whole theatre community and every people in this room, our hearts go out to all of those affected by this atrocity. All we can say is you’re not on your own right now.”
“Your tragedy is our tragedy. Theatre is a place where every race, creed, sexuality and gender is equal, is embraced, and is loved. Hate will never win. Together, we have to make sure of that. Tonight’s show stands as a symbol and celebration of that principle.”
Tonys: James Corden Gives Somber Opening on Orlando Shooting https://t.co/vVdfltQoHb
— Hollywood Reporter (@THR) June 13, 2016
At least 50 people died and 53 were injured after a heavily armed gunman opened fire in a gay nightclub in the early hours of Sunday morning. It is the worst mass shooting in US history.
Lin-Manuel Miranda also paid tribute to all those affected by the massacre while accepting the Tony Award for best score for his hit musical ‘Hamilton‘.
Claiming he was too old to freestyle, he instead wrote a sonnet, addressing both his wife Vanessa Nadal and the unfolding tragedy in Florida.
My wife’s the reason anything gets done
She nudges me towards promise by degrees
She is a perfect symphony of one
Our son is her most beautiful reprise.
We chase the melodies that seem to find us
Until they’re finished songs and start to play
When senseless acts of tragedy remind us
That nothing here is promised, not one day.
This show is proof that history remembers
We lived through times when hate and fear seemed stronger;
We rise and fall and light from dying embers, remembrances that hope and love last longer
And love is love is love is love is love is love is love is love cannot be killed or swept aside.
I sing Vanessa’s symphony, Eliza tells her story
Now fill the world with music, love and pride.
Photo: Twitter / The Hollywood Reporter.
