Lovely energy accompanies Tony Awards

Now that the dust has settled (and Brett Michaels is healing …) I thought it would be fun to give you a behind-the-scenes peek at the Tony Awards.

There is a lovely energy in New York's Theater District during Tony weekend. The votes have been cast and the performers are running on adrenaline.

Rehearsals for the ceremony happen on Saturday and Sunday morning (the show airs Sunday evening), with participants often arriving and leaving by bus.

That means that if you're milling about at the right time, you'll be able to see your favorite cast or cast member. They probably won't stop for pictures though, they'll be on their way to their matinees.

New York is always a great place to spot the stars, but it's especially fun on Tony weekend. And, it's best when you're there with a friend who is always on the lookout, too.

While there, my friend and I saw:

Zachary Quinto, Spock in the new "Star Trek." He was sitting a few seats away from us at "Next to Normal." He was taller than I expected and seemed nice as he posed for pictures.

Rupert Everett, who is starring with Angela Lansbury in "Blithe Spirit," was spotted walking down Restaurant Row and nobody noticed — but us! (Thanks to my theater buddy's eagle eye).

Neil Patrick Harris, who was also taller than I expected, was waiting to see the cast of "Hair" after the show. Rumor had it Kristin Chenoweth was also there, too, but ol' Eagle Eyes didn't spot her.

Matthew Broderick was seen walking with three friends. Eagle Eyes didn't spot him because Mr. Broderick looks like a plain ol' middle-age man. (Not his fault I suppose … wouldn't it be awful to have to age in the public eye?)

I wasn't the only Utahn in town for the Tonys. Students from Hillcrest High School were there for the big event, too. Aimee Smith took a quick break from primping for the telecast to chat.

"There are about 15 of us," she said, "and we've seen three shows already." The group of four girls in Smith's room cast their ballot for "Billy Elliot" for best musical and, at least while I was on the phone with her, seemed to be doing a good job sharing mirror space.

After attending a Sunday matinee, my friend and I hoofed it to Radio City Music Hall where throngs of theater fans — and hoards of media — had gathered. The press area is just what you'd expect: people elbowing for room, microphones in hand, yelling names and trying to get interviews.