Tala Ashe recently stopped by the studio to discuss her Tony Award nomination for Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Play for her performance in English.
The play, penned by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Sanaz Toossi, is set in an Iranian classroom where four adult students and their teacher navigate the complexities of language and identity. Ashe portrayed Elham, a character grappling with the challenges of learning English and the cultural implications it carries. Her portrayal has been lauded for its depth and authenticity, contributing to the play's critical acclaim.
The Broadway play English has been nominated for five Tony Awards. These nominations are for Best Play, Best Scenic Design, Best Direction, and two nominations for Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role for Tala Ashe and Marjan Neshat. During the interview, Ashe reflected on the significance of the nomination, emphasizing the importance of representation and storytelling that resonates with diverse audiences. She expressed gratitude for the opportunity to bring Elham's story to life and to be part of a production that sheds light on the immigrant experience.
The 78th Annual Tony Awards will be held on June 8, 2025, at Radio City Music Hall in New York City, hosted by Cynthia Erivo.
Watch the full interview in the video player above.