I loved the Oscars when the likes of Johnny Carson (first and foremost) and Billy Crystal hosted. There were other good ones along the way, but those guys ruled. For me, the 1970s through 1990s were prime years for the show - and for the general public's interest in it and reception to it. And it really was a springtime celebration, of sorts, even in L.A., as opposed to the late winter hell theyve consigned it to. And there was something so "right" about it being held at the Dorothy Chandler or the Shrine.
I likewise liked the Tonys more before the Radio City years. I loved that recent year when it was held in the older theeder uptown. But I also agree that the Tonys, too, are so much less interesting on the whole these days.