Black Sparta Tickets

The term "Black Sparta" has been used in the Broadway community to describe the growing number of Black creatives and performers revolutionizing the industry. It is a reference to the ancient Greek city-state famed for its military prowess, discipline, and power.

The phrase was popularized by Tony Award-winning producer Ron Simons in an interview with The New York Times, where he noted that Black artists are organizing themselves, building their own networks, and creating their own projects, much like the Spartans did centuries ago.

In recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in Black representation on Broadway. Shows like “Hamilton,” “The Color Purple,” “Ain't Too Proud: The Life and Times of the Temptations,” and “Jagged Little Pill” have all featured a predominantly Black cast, crew, and creative team. In fact, “Hamilton” made history when it won 11 Tony Awards in 2016, including Best Musical, making it one of the most awarded Broadway productions of all time.

At the heart of this change is a renewed emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion within the theatre industry. There have been concerted efforts to provide more opportunities for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) artists, including mentorship programs, casting initiatives, and training workshops. Organizations like Broadway Advocacy Coalition, Black Theatre United, and We See You White American Theatre have been at the forefront of advocating for racial justice and advocating for systemic change within the industry.

However, despite these gains, Black representation on Broadway still has a long way to go. According to a study by The Actors Equity Association, only 19% of Broadway performers during the 2017-2018 season were Black, while only 12% of stage managers, 6% of directors, and 4% of choreographers were Black.

The emergence of the term "Black Sparta" reflects the determination of Black creatives to assert their power and create their own narratives. It is a call to action for more equitable representation and opportunities within the industry.

As Broadway begins to reopen after the COVID-19 pandemic, it will continue to be important for producers, theatre owners, and audiences to prioritize diversity and inclusion in all aspects of theatre production. By doing so, we can truly build a Broadway that reflects the richness and diversity of our society and helps to break down barriers for all BIPOC artists.