Tim Minchin, Cyndia Lauper Land Tony Nominations

Aussie Tim Minchin has scored a nomination for this year's Tony Awards for his work on the musical Matlida The Musical.

Considered the most prestigious awards for theatre and musicals, comedian and musician Minchin has been nominated in the category for Best Original Score Written For The Theatre. He's up against Benj Pasek and Justin Paul (A Christmas Story, The Musical), Trey Anastasio and Amanda Green (Hands On A Hardbody) and Cyndi Lauper (Kinky Boots) - the latter just announced Australian dates.

Matilda was one of the most successful titles from the nominations, as it also scored a nomination for Best Musical alongside Kinky Boots, Bring It On and A Christmas Story. As the New York Times points out, the strong influence of the Tony Awards was highlighted after 'serious' production The Testament Of Mary swiftly announced a closing date when its lead actress Fiona Shaw missed out on a nomination.

Minchin has built a strong career for himself in the musical sphere in recent years, particularly with his role in Jesus Christ Superstar.

The awards ceremony will take place Sunday 9 June. Locally they will be screened on Arena from 10am Monday 10 June.