In a heartfelt moment during the 77th Annual Tony Awards, Angelina Jolie delivered a poignant speech before introducing the cast performance of “The Outsiders.” Emphasizing the timeless relevance of S.E. Hinton’s high school-era novel, Jolie highlighted the universal experience of feeling like an outsider. Her words resonated deeply with the audience at the David H. Koch Theater in New York City on June 16, 2024.
Angelina Jolie’s Insightful Speech
Angelina Jolie, 49, began her introduction by reflecting on the enduring impact of S.E. Hinton’s “The Outsiders.” She remarked, “S.E. Hinton wrote ‘The Outsiders’ in high school, half a century later, it still speaks to us. Society changes but the experience of being an outsider is universal. To any young person [and] any person feeling on the outside, you are not wrong to see what’s unfair.” Jolie further encouraged the audience to value their individual voices as the cast prepared to perform.
Jolie and Vivianne’s Role in ‘The Outsiders’
Angelina Jolie, alongside her 15-year-old daughter Vivianne, served as producers for the Broadway adaptation of “The Outsiders,” which garnered several Tony Award nominations, including Best Musical. Both mother and daughter made a stylish appearance at the awards ceremony, with Jolie donning a green Atelier Versace velvet gown and Vivianne in an emerald suit.
Ultimately, “The Outsiders” won the Best Musical award, marking the first Tony wins for both Jolie and Vivianne. Jolie shared in a statement from August 2023 that Vivienne’s thoughtful and supportive nature reminded her of her own mother.
Theo Wargo/Getty Images for Tony Awards Productions
Impact on Mother-Daughter Relationship
Jolie disclosed the unique bonding experience that working on the musical provided for her and Vivianne. She mentioned that the project allowed her to observe how the story resonated with her daughter and what it communicated about Vivianne’s perspectives and feelings. This collaboration fostered a deeper understanding between them.
Background on ‘The Outsiders’
“The Outsiders” is adapted from S.E. Hinton’s 1967 novel, which chronicles the struggles of teenager Ponyboy Curtis and his “greaser” friends in conflict with the more affluent “Socs.” The story was previously brought to the screen in 1983 by director Francis Ford Coppola, featuring stars such as Tom Cruise, Rob Lowe, Patrick Swayze, and Matt Dillon.
Wrapping Up
The successful adaptation of “The Outsiders” to Broadway not only highlights the enduring relevance of Hinton’s work but also marks a significant achievement for Angelina Jolie and her daughter Vivianne. This project has also enriched their personal bond, showcasing the transformative power of art. For more compelling stories and updates, visit HitPlay.