Yes, but that's as it was per Tony nominating rules in those days, yes? I mean Tammy Grimes winning supporting for THE UNSINKABLE MOLLY BROWN?
I disagree with you regarding the status of Ed Earl - it's clearly the leading male role in the musical. The supporting roles in WHOREHOUSE are Reverend P. Thorpe and the Governor.
Perhaps worth noting that Carlin Glynn also won the Olivier Award in London for her performance in WHOREHOUSE -- in the leading category.
