Broadway star designs tony awards greenroom – a vip oasis for stars
Krysta Rodriguez, the rising star taking over Roxie Hart in Chicago, isn't hitting the stage at the Tony Awards this year. Instead, she’s transforming the event’s greenroom into a luxurious haven, a bold move showcasing her burgeoning interior design talent.
From broadway to boutique design
Rodriguez, a veteran of Spring Awakening and In the Heights, has rapidly established herself as a sought-after designer among Broadway’s elite. What began as a personal passion – sketching ideas and experimenting with color palettes – quickly blossomed into ‘Curated by Krysta Rodriguez,’ a private interiors firm specializing in dressing rooms and residences for the city’s brightest talents. Her meticulous eye and ability to craft intimate, evocative spaces have garnered significant attention.
A cunard-inspired retreat
For this year’s Tony Awards, Rodriguez partnered with luxury cruise line Cunard to create a truly unique experience. The resulting greenroom is a meticulously curated blend of Art Deco glamour and the sophisticated ambiance of a transatlantic voyage. ‘The Tonys is the height of a theater kid’s experience, which I am,’ Rodriguez told ELLE Decor. ‘To have something where I'm sort of responsible for the experience seemed really exciting to me.’
More than just a backdrop
The design goes far beyond mere aesthetics. Rodriguez envisioned a space that could cater to the diverse needs of the performers – from bleary-eyed actors arriving early for run-throughs to the glamorous presenters in the evening. Strategic use of faux walls creates distinct zones, including a sophisticated bar and a dedicated VIP area, complete with custom cocktails. ‘I want no matter who’s in the room to feel famous when they walk in there – like they're getting the full VIP treatment,’ she explains.
A designer’s perspective
Rodriguez draws parallels between her design work and acting, recognizing that both involve understanding a client’s emotional needs. ‘Part of building a character is [considering] how do I need to feel today, and how do I want the audience to feel,’ she states. ‘Design can be about beautiful things. But, without an atmosphere—without telling somebody ‘this is how we want you to feel’—it doesn't have the same impact.’ The space, located just off the Radio City stage, embodies this philosophy, inviting guests to step into a world of refined luxury.
The Carlyle’s lobby and the former Cunard slogan “Feel famous, sail Cunard” served as inspiration for the space. Florals by Kate Bailey add a final flourish to this carefully considered environment. Ultimately, Rodriguez’s goal was simple: ‘What does the room where I would want to celebrate the Tonys look like?’ A room that captures the joy and camaraderie of this incredible event, and, more importantly, celebrates the individual success of each performer.’