Nikki M. James gave a rambling, effusive speech thanking colleagues and family members. She also thanked the show for "changing the face of American theater." The actress plays a member of the African village visited by two American Mormon missionaries.
Nikki M. James beat out stiff competition in her category, including Patti LuPone, Laura Benanti, Tammy Blanchard and Victoria Clark.
"The Book of Mormon" has so far won five Tonys for the evening. The musical won't sweep the awards, however, since it lost in the choreography category to "Anything Goes."
During a commercial break, the revival of "The Importance of Being Earnest" picked up an award for costume design for a play.
Nikki M. James wins Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Musical
