I agree it was, because she won. But I think it was only her year in the sense that she'd been nominated so many times (5) for so many performances that could easily have won (with the possible exception of Nice Work, which likely never stood a chance of winning), and still didn't have one -- she really should have won for Piazza at least (based on performance and competition that year). I didn't think her performance in King & I was anything too special, and nothing that brought much new to the role. She was very good in it, but I found the entire production a bit disappointing, her included (acknowledging that she is a good actress and glorious singer regardless of the show or production).
I didn't see OTTC, but I would have easily given it to Chita for The Visit over Kelli that year, possibly Beth Malone too (though Sydney Lucas is the Alison i'd have given a Tony to). Leanne Cope was also favored to win by many. So basically all the nominees, including Kristen from what I've heard and read, I'd have given it to before Kelli for K&I, even though she gave a perfectly good performance. |
