By Andrew Gans
08 Jun 2009

Those watching the opening number of the 2009 Tony Awards may have noticed a backdrop descend on rock singer Bret Michaels, who performed with the cast of the Tony-nominated Best Musical Rock of Ages.

A spokesperson for Michaels told The New York Times that Michaels was sent for X-rays but suffered only minor injuries, including bruises on his nose and lips.

His spokesperson said that following the incident Michaels joked, "I'm a trooper. I've gotten hit by harder things." In fact, the famed singer watched the rest of the Tony Awards program before heading to the doctor.

Neil Patrick Harris hosted the 2009 Tony Awards June 7 at Radio City Music Hall. Following the opening number, Harris joked that Michaels' run-in with the scenery gave "a whole new meaning to headbanging."

Poison on the red carpet at the 2009 Tony Awards
photo by Aubrey Reuben