In the video below (courtesy of The Hollywood Reporter Roundtables,), Leslie Odom Jr. of “Hamilton” succinctly breaks down a dilemma that many actors of color face, not only in theater, but also in film and TV, as he puts the state of the business into proper perspective. Essentially, while Broadway is seemingly having a “diversity moment” (given the success that a few high profile shows created by and starring actors of African descent have, and continue to enjoy – “The Color Purple,” “Eclipsed,” and the aforementioned “Hamilton”), it is just that… a moment; and it might be too soon to make any celebratory claims about doors being suddenly opened, or ceilings being smashed in terms of the availability and complexity of roles for actors of color (in this case, actors of African descent).
The conversation begins with the suggestion that Hollywood might have something to learn from Broadway in terms of diversity. But as Odom tells the other Tony nominated (and white) actors in the room with him, “not-so fast” guys. There’s still much work to be done. Let’s see Broadway put together successive years of even broader diversity (both on the stage, and backstage) before we pat ourselves on the back for a job well done.
“I think what we’re having is a rare moment,” said the “Hamilton” star who is nominated for the Best Actor in a Musical Tony Award. “What we really need to pay attention to is the next two seasons. I imagine if a white actor were having a similar situation to what I’m having, with the kind of success of the show, there might be three or four offers a week for the next shows you’re going to do. There are no shows for me to do. There’s just no roles.”
It’s similar to conversations we’ve had about black film or TV actors who have that “rare moment” Odom speaks of, only to find themselves without much to follow up with (offers for further interesting work) that would lead to even more “rare moments,” so much that, eventually, they aren’t so “rare” anymore.
AD- Buy or stream the HAMILTON cast Recording
Odom is joined in the roundtable by Reed Birney (‘The Humans’), Alex Brightman (‘School of Rock’), Danny Burstein (‘Fiddler on the Roof’), Gabriel Byrne (‘Long Day’s Journey Into Night’), Jeff Daniels (‘Blackbird’), and Zachary Levi (‘She Loves Me’).
It’s good stuff to watch and listen to. I appreciate that they also discussed the lack of diversity in the theater audience (Broadway specifically), putting some of the blame on how expensive a night at the theater can be, with tickets often over $50 each, and some prime shows (and seating) as much as 3 to 4 times that number.
