Antoinette Perry was a prominent American actress, director, and co-founder of the American Theatre Wing. She established a successful career on stage before transitioning into directing, where she was known for her meticulous and insightful work. Her tireless dedication to the theatre community during World War II was instrumental in supporting the arts and artists. In her honor, the prestigious Antoinette Perry Awards for Excellence in Broadway Theatre, commonly known as the Tony Awards, were established in 1947 to celebrate achievements in live American theatre.