Although the success story of Lin Manuel-Miranda's Hamilton gives the appearance of an encouraging rise in diversity on Broadway,
a serious race problem remains beyond the surface. Asian/Asian American, Black, Latino, and actors of other race/ethnicities continue to be
under-represented in shows or otherwise cast as an exception to the white-dominated standard set in Broadway culture. Our website uses demographic casting data collected by the Asian American Performers Action Coalition (AAPAC)
to track Broadway's race problem and hold the establishment accountable for future casting decisions.
Questions:
Has the diversity of Broadway shows improved over time (2008-2015)?
When Asian American, Black, Latino, and actors of other ethnicities are cast in shows what type of roles do they play (lead vs. background)? Does this trend contrast with the narrative of increasing diversity on Broadway?
As two artists, we understand the potential impact that a Broadway show can have on young people: the importance of not only seeing familiar narratives but also seeing themselves in actors who look like them taking spotlight on big stages like the Broadway.