Even if you’re not a musical theatre nerd, you already know what a big deal the Tony Awards are. It is the one night a year where all of Broadway hits the stage—together and as part of their shows—and show off their skills to their peers, friends, family, and fans. While not everyone gets to take home a trophy, getting nominated is one of the greatest moments, especially in an industry where even making it on the stage is the big dream.

As a big Broadway fan who gets to see dozens of show per year, getting to the Tony Awards always seemed out of reach. However, it even surprised me to hear just how easy it is for a fan to actually got to the show, not to mention even get the ultimate VIP experience.

Cosmopolitan was invited to go behind-the-scenes of Capital One and Mastercard’s exclusive Tony Awards experience, which cardholders can also join in on as part of their cardholder exclusive events.

The day kicked off at 3:30 PM, three hours before showtime, at the Times Square Edition. As soon as I stepped off the elevator, I knew it was going to be a good time. I immediately got my tickets to the show and hit up the raw bar. Forget every single other pre-theatre prix fixe menu in the city, this was my kind of pre-show meal!

Over in the corner, a piano player was playing tons of Broadway hits. On my way in, someone tells me I just missed out on former Glinda and current Just in Time star, Carrie St. James, singing a few tunes. While hanging out on the terrace, we could hear the screams coming from various theaters as stars headed from the stage door to their cars to head over to Radio City Music Hall for the big show. Not only did we also get to take home some fun goodies, but we also got portraits taken as well so we can remember the occasion.

Shortly before the show, we loaded on shuttles and made the trek down to Radio City, making the journey over easier on those of us who were wearing heels as per the Black Tie dress code. We promptly took our seats before the show started, which were located in the orchestra and not only gave us the best view of all the major performances and moments, but gave us the best vantage point to see some of our favorite celebs like Luke Evans, Bowen Yang, and Lisa Ann Walter.

After giving P!nk a standing ovation, screaming at the top of our lungs for our favorite winners, and waving our fans from Cats: The Jellicle Ball, it was time to head back home. But not before taking it all in one last time as Schmigadoon! took home Best Musical, which is fitting for a story that celebrates musical theater for everything that it is.

Officially, one of my biggest childhood dreams come true. And, luckily, there’s a chance I can experience something like it again. As I met with fellow Broadway lovers prior to the show, I realized that some of them are actually returning after scoring these same tickets last year. Not only that it made it obvious that this was the ultimate way to experience Broadway’s biggest night, but it also gave me some hope that I can do it all again in the future. Until then, there’s another incredible year of theater to look forward to and I can’t wait to celebrate it all with my fellow theater lovers yet again!