The Tonys are presented by The Broadway League and The American Theatre Wing. In a statement Harris said, "The discipline of live theatre - doing the same perfect thing night after night, eight times a week - never ceases to amaze me. I'm truly honored to have been chosen as the Master of Ceremonies for this year's Tony Awards, and I hope to help provide a first-class evening for all."

The 2009 Tony Awards will be executive produced by Ricky Kirshner and Glenn Weiss of White Cherry Entertainment.

Weiss stated, "We are thrilled to be working with Neil on the most important theatre night of the year." Kirshner added, "His love for Broadway and great knowledge of theatre combined with his on-stage presence makes him the perfect person to guide us through what is sure to be a great night."

Neil Patrick Harris has been seen on Broadway in Assassins, Cabaret and Proof. He appeared in the Geffen Playhouse's production of All My Sons as well as the L.A. company of Rent, the Reprise! production of Sweeney Todd and the London mounting of tick, tick . . . BOOM! His screen credits include the current "How I Met Your Mother" as well as "Undercover Brother," "Doogie Howser, M.D.," "Stark Raving Mad" and "Joan of Arc."