Host Neil Patrick Harris performs in the opening number during the American Theatre Wing's 65th annual Tony Awards ceremony in New York, June 12, 2011.[Photo/Agencies]??

NEW YORK – CBS' Tony Awards show was seen by 6.9 million viewers, roughly the same number as last year, according to preliminary Nielsen figures released Monday.

But the program, hosted by Neil Patrick Harris, posted a 9 percent year-to-year gain in the ratings for the 18-to-49 demographic.

The Tony broadcast faced stiff competition, airing opposite Game 6 of the NBA Finals, in which the Dallas Mavericks clinched the championship against the Miami Heat. ABC's coverage of the game was the night's most-watched telecast.

Updated ratings figures will be available on Tuesday.