The Original Tony
Kert created Tony opposite Carol Lawrence's Maria at the Winter Garden Theatre. His recording of “Something's Coming,” “Maria” and “Tonight” helped establish the musical's sound for generations of listeners.
Broadway biography & archive
Larry Kert: The Original Tony in West Side Story
Larry Kert was the actor, singer and dancer who created Tony in the original 1957 Broadway production of West Side Story. More than a decade later, his acclaimed performance as Bobby in Stephen Sondheim's Company earned him a 1971 Tony Award nomination and a unique place in Tony history.
This rebuilt archive follows the full career: the early stunt and dance work, West Side Story, television, Company, cabaret, later stage roles, recordings and the 1990 reunion with Carol Lawrence.
Two defining roles
1957
1970–72
From Tony to Bobby
The Tony-Nominated Bobby
Kert replaced Dean Jones in Company, became the first—and still the only—cast replacement nominated for a Tony in a competitive category, then took the role to London.
“The right singer and the right song.” Stephen Sondheim's sleeve notes for Larry Kert Sings Leonard Bernstein connected Kert directly with the creation of “Something's Coming.”
Explore Larry Kert's Career
Stage Career
A selected theatre chronology from Tickets, Please! to Nymph Errant.
Johnny Carson & Television
A much fuller screen database, including the extensive 1971–77 Tonight Show appearance list.
Songs & Videos
Surviving performances of “Tonight,” “Maria,” “Being Alive” and television appearances.
Larry & Carol
The Tony-and-Maria partnership, Ed Sullivan appearance and 1990 Rainbow and Stars reunion.
Archive & Sources
IBDB, Playbill, Tony Awards, NYPL, Masterworks Broadway, Paley Center and archival photographs.
Beyond West Side Story
A Career That Deserves More Than One Role
Kert's identification with Tony was so strong that later career summaries often begin and end with West Side Story. Yet his work extended across Broadway, regional theatre, national tours, cabaret, recordings, television and film.
The New York Public Library's Larry Kert papers document that broader career in scores, scripts, photographs, audio, moving-image recordings, programs, correspondence and printed material.