Honoring the legacy - Award-winning Black artists in Broadway history

Broadway has long been a stage for storytelling, showcasing humanity in its vast and varied forms. Among its most remarkable narratives are the contributions of Black artists—actors, playwrights, composers, and directors—who have redefined the landscape of American theatre. From historic breakthroughs to transformative performances, here’s a look at the milestones that have shaped Black excellence on the Great White Way.

Bert Williams in The Ziegfeld Follies (1910)

Bert Williams became the first Black performer to share Broadway’s spotlight with white performers as a headliner in The Ziegfeld Follies of 1910. Williams brought dignity and wit to his performances, breaking stereotypes associated with minstrel shows and paving the way for Black entertainers in mainstream theatre.

Charles Gilpin in The Emperor Jones (1920)

When Charles Gilpin took the title role in Eugene O’Neill’s The Emperor Jones, he became the first Black man to lead an integrated cast on Broadway. His powerful performance revolutionized the perception of Black actors onstage and challenged norms with its authenticity.

The Groundbreaking Success of Shuffle Along (1921)

With its syncopated rhythms and sophisticated melodies, this jazz-fueled hit was a game-changer for Black musicals. Created by Eubie Blake and Noble Sissle, Shuffle Along not only thrilled audiences but also desegregated seating, allowing Black patrons to sit in the orchestra section for the first time.

Anne Brown and Todd Duncan in Porgy and Bess (1935)

Anne Brown and Todd Duncan originated the roles of Bess and Porgy, respectively. Their performances helped turn this opera into a celebrated classic and solidified their places as icons in musical theatre.

Paul Robeson’s Othello (1943)

Paul Robeson’s portrayal of the Moor in Shakespeare’s Othello marked a historic achievement. With an all-star cast including José Ferrer and Uta Hagen, the production ran for 296 performances—setting a record for Shakespearean plays on Broadway.

Lorraine Hansberry’s A Raisin in the Sun (1959)

As the first play on Broadway written by an African-American woman, A Raisin in the Sun redefined representation. Lorraine Hansberry’s searing drama about a Black family’s pursuit of the American Dream remains a landmark in theatrical history.

Pearl Bailey in Hello, Dolly! (1967)

Pearl Bailey’s magnetic performance in an all-Black revival of Hello, Dolly! breathed new life into the classic musical and earned her a special Tony Award in 1968.

Geoffrey Holder and The Wiz (1975)

Geoffrey Holder transformed The Wiz, a disco-era retelling of The Wizard of Oz, with his visionary direction and costume design. Despite initial challenges, the show became a four-year hit and won seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical, thanks in part to the iconic “Ease on Down the Road.”

Savion Glover in Bring in 'da Noise, Bring in 'da Funk (1996)

Savion Glover’s innovative choreography and electrifying tap performances earned him a Tony Award, redefining how Black history and artistry were celebrated on stage.

Audra McDonald’s Tony Sweep (1994-2014)

Audra McDonald became the most decorated Broadway performer, winning six Tony Awards across musicals and plays, with standout performances in Ragtime, Carousel, and Porgy and Bess.

Heather Headley in Aida (2000)

Heather Headley’s commanding and soulful portrayal of Aida in Elton John and Tim Rice’s musical Aida, earned her a Tony Award for Best Actress, making her a standout figure in the 2000s.

Cynthia Erivo in The Color Purple (2015)

Cynthia Erivo’s show-stopping performance as Celie in The Color Purple revival earned her a Tony Award, showcasing her incredible talent alongside co-stars Jennifer Hudson and Danielle Brooks.

Leslie Odom Jr. in Hamilton (2015)

Leslie Odom Jr.’s portrayal of Aaron Burr in Hamilton, earned him a Tony Award, with his nuanced performance standing out in a diverse and revolutionary cast led by Lin-Manuel Miranda.

Jeremy O. Harris’ Slave Play (2019)

Jeremy O. Harris’ Slave Play broke records with 12 Tony nominations, including a nod for Joaquina Kalukango, whose riveting performance stunned audiences.

Myles Frost in MJ the Musical (2022)

Myles Frost’s transformative portrayal of Michael Jackson in MJ the Musical earned him a Tony Award, honoring his breathtaking performance and celebration of Jackson’s music.

Michael R. Jackson’s A Strange Loop (2022)

Michael R. Jackson became a Broadway sensation when A Strange Loop, a deeply personal and groundbreaking musical, won both the Pulitzer Prize and the Tony for Best Musical.

These milestones represent the countless contributions of Black artists who have shaped Broadway into what it is today. Their stories continue to inspire and pave the way for future generations of performers, creators, and audiences alike.