Tonys historic night

The 68th annual Tony Awards got off to a hopping start with Hugh Jackman jumping into his role as host.

History was made as actress Audra McDonald won her sixth Tony as Billie Holiday in "Lady Day at Emerson's Bar & Grill."

With tears streaming down her face she acknowledged her family and the women who came before her.

SOUNDBITE: Audra McDonald, actress, saying (English):

"I want to thank all the shoulders of the strong and brave and courageous women that I am standing on," she said. "And most of all Billie Holiday. You deserve so much more than you were given when you were on this earth."

As expected TV star Brian Cranston took home the trophy for in his Broadway debut as U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson in "All the Way."

And Neil Patrick Harris was named best lead actor for his role as a transgender rock star in "Hedwig and the Angry Inch."

SOUNDBITE: Neil Patrick Harris, actor, saying (English)

"A year ago I was hosting the Tonys, thi