Photo: Go Behind the Scenes With Kecia Lewis as She Gets Ready to Win a Tony Award

Kecia Lewis has been waiting a long time for this moment. After almost 40 years in the business, beginning as the understudy for the role of Effie White in the original production of Dreamgirls in 1981, Lewis was finally nominated for a Tony Award. She is currently in Hell's Kitchen, which features the music of Alicia Keys. It it, Lewis plays inspiring piano teacher Miss Liza Jane. And then, in a surprise on Sunday, June 16, Lewis became a Tony Award winner, as she won the Best Performance by a Featured Actress in a Musical prize, becoming the first Black actress to win in this category since Renée Elise Goldsberry won for Hamilton in 2016.

WATCH: Kecia Lewis Sings the Powerful 'Perfect Way to Die' From Hell's Kitchen

But before Lewis' name was called, the actor was focused on enjoying her evening. Below are exclusive photos of Lewis getting ready for 77th Annual Tony Awards at The Langham, New York, Fifth Avenue with her commentary.

"Crystal Foster and Tiffanie Garrett making art together. Laughing was a CONSTANT with these two."

Crystal Foster, Kecia Lewis, and Tiffanie Garrett at The Langham, New York, Fifth Avenue Thomas Mundell

"A moment of relaxation, enjoyed."

Crystal Foster and Kecia Lewis at The Langham, New York, Fifth Avenue Thomas Mundell

"What is this gorgeousness in the mirror honey?"

Kecia Lewis at The Langham, New York, Fifth Avenue Thomas Mundell

"Heading out with the BEST MANAGER EVER, Jed Abrahams."

Jed Abrahams and Kecia Lewis at The Langham, New York, Fifth Avenue Thomas Mundell

"Let’s find this car."

Kecia Lewis outside of The Langham, New York, Fifth Avenue Thomas Mundell

Backstage after her win, Lewis told Playbill in the moment that she was thinking of her father, who taught her the importance of perseverance: "My late father John Lewis, he was someone who wanted to perform as a young person, and he had a difficult time breaking in in the 50s…and when he had a kid who knew how to sing, he lit up…He was my person, he was my cheerleader." She added that Lewis helped her find her first voice teacher.

After the Tony Awards ceremony, it was time for the after party.