In 2024, the push for diversity and inclusion is stronger than ever before, and Broadway is no exception. More Asian performers are stepping into the spotlight and taking their rightful place on the Broadway stage. These rising stars are not just breaking barriers; they're also delivering breathtaking performances that prove their star power.
The Evolution of Asian Representation on Broadway
The first breakthrough in the history of Asian representation on Broadway came in the 1950s with shows like Flower Drum Song and The Teahouse of the August Moon featuring major Asian characters. However, these early productions often perpetuated stereotypes, casting Asian actors in exoticized roles.
In the 21st century, there's been a gradual but noticeable shift in the portrayal of Asian characters on Broadway. Shows like Allegiance, based on the experiences of Japanese-Americans during World War II, and Soft Power, a satirical take on East-West relations, have pushed boundaries and challenged stereotypes. We're also seeing more Asian actors taking on roles not specifically written for Asians, an encouraging sign of progress and inclusion. The rise of young Asian talent provides hope for a future where Broadway truly reflects the diversity of America and the world.
Justin David Sullivan in Broadway's & Juliet
Justin David Sullivan, a young non-binary actor of Korean and Mexican descent, has been making waves in the theatre community with their stellar performances. One of their most notable roles to date has been in the Broadway production of & Juliet, a riotous, pop-fueled reimagining of Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet. Sullivan plays the role of Juliet’s friend, May, whose comic timing and lovable charm have endeared them to audiences.
Sullivan's rise to the Broadway stage was not an overnight success story. They started their career in regional theatre, first dipping their toe into the world of musical theatre at the age of 15 with roles in Pippin, A Very Potter Musical, High School Musical: On Stage!
During a recent interview, Sullivan passionately shared their personal journey, stating, "Throughout my life, I've had to fight for the right to exist as my fully authentic self," they confessed, underlining the challenges they faced while embracing their true identity. Their words echo the struggle that many minorities face. “I am here to take up space for anyone who sees even the smallest bit of themselves in me. Please know that there is hope, and we are here to fight and advocate for you."
Eva Noblezada: From Miss Saigon to The Great Gatsby
Eva Noblezada, a talented actress of Filipino and Mexican descent, is another young performer who is making significant strides on Broadway. Noblezada is currently starring in the musical adaptation of The Great Gatsby, taking on the iconic role of Daisy Buchanan.
However, those familiar with Broadway will know that this is far from Noblezada's first time gracing the stage. She made her Broadway debut in the 2017 revival of Miss Saigon, where she reprised the role of Kim, which she first tackled in the West End at the age of 17. Her portrayal of Kim was met with critical acclaim and earned her a Tony® nomination. This was a full-circle moment for Eva, as her aunt Annette Calud had been an alternate for the role of Kim in the original 1991 production.
Following her success in Miss Saigon, Noblezada went on to star in the critically acclaimed musical Hadestown, where she played the role of Eurydice, earning her another Tony® nomination and cementing her status as one of the brightest stars on Broadway.
In a recent interview with People, Noblezada gushed about her current role in The Great Gatsby, stating, “Doing a new show that’s going full throttle in all its glamour and glory is very exciting to me! This company is also so extraordinary. I’m very grateful to be on this team.”
Jasmine Forsberg: Making a Mark in SIX
Jasmine Forsberg, a young actress of Filipino descent, is another name to watch in the Broadway community. Forsberg is currently lighting up the stage as Jane Seymour in the hit musical SIX, a modern retelling of the lives of Henry VIII's six wives. Prior to SIX, Jasmine was a part of a number of regional productions, including Love in Hate Nation and A Grand Night for Singing. She also starred in the lead role of Broadway’s Here Lies Love.
Forsberg's journey with SIX started with the North American "Aragon" Tour, where she played Jane Seymour. For her, this role has been nothing short of a dream come true. In an interview for The Riff Magazine, Forsberg stated, "There isn’t a doubt in my mind that this was the right path that could have been chosen for me.” For Forsberg, this is her first time being a part of a production with a predominantly female cast and crew. This includes the all-female band, the Ladies in Waiting, and even the audio engineers. "It is incredible to me to be surrounded by so much girl power," Forsberg commented. Not only does SIX tell a story about female empowerment, but it also does so with a diverse cast. All six queens are portrayed by women of color, adding another layer of significance to Forsberg’s role and the overall production.
Sonya Balsara: Shining in Aladdin and Her Previous Performances
Sonya Balsara, an actress of South Asian descent, is a rising star who is currently making her mark on Broadway in Disney's spectacular production of Aladdin as Jasmine. This show, based on Disney's 1992 animated film, is a delightful blend of magic, romance, and adventure.
Before her Broadway debut, Balsara had a background in regional theatre. Her resume features the pre-Broadway lab for The Karate Kid, Sense and Sensibility, and West Side Story, as well as appearances on television in shows like FBI on CBS and Mozart in the Jungle on Amazon Prime.
For Balsara, stepping into the iconic role of Jasmine was an honor. As a child, she found herself reflected in Jasmine's character, even portraying her on stage in Aladdin Jr. at the age of 12. Balsara admires Jasmine's courageous spirit, her resilience and her integrity. She appreciates how Jasmine demands the world to acknowledge her as an individual - self-reliant, on par with her male counterparts, and a born leader. Balsara also recognizes the significance of this role, stating, “It is a privilege to inspire young people, especially young girls who never saw themselves represented in other princesses or roles on Broadway.”
The Exciting Future of Asian Representation on Broadway: Upcoming Shows to Watch
Looking ahead, the future of Asian representation on Broadway seems promising, with upcoming shows reflecting a growing commitment to diversity and inclusion. Among the productions to watch for is Yellow Face, a semi-biographical play following a playwright who mistakenly cast a white actor as an Asian lead in his play, and the musical adaptation of Kevin Kwan's bestseller, Crazy Rich Asians. These upcoming productions, along with the rising stars we've spotlighted, give us hope that Broadway is moving in the right direction.
By supporting these shows, you will not just witness exceptional performances but also contribute to a future where the stage truly reflects the rich diversity of our society. So, let's make our choices count and play our part in shaping a more inclusive Broadway.