By: Jai McDonald ’27
In the vibrant world of theater, diversity is a dynamic force that can either elevate or stifle creative expression. An insightful interview with Kahlil Harvey (Musical Theater Class of 2027) sheds light on the experiences of a theater artist, highlighting moments of feeling seen and heard, as well as the challenges of navigating an industry in flux.
Kahlil recalls a pivotal moment during their involvement in The Color Purple at Theatre Macon. Breaking barriers as the first all-black show at the venue, the production not only sold out but also resonated profoundly with the audience. This experience offered a glimpse into the power of representation, signaling a demand for diverse narratives in the traditionally white-dominated theater landscape. Yet, Kahlil candidly shares the struggle of feeling overlooked during their initial foray into the theater community. As a newcomer and a person not naturally inclined to be boisterous, the sense of being undervalued emerged, compounded by the challenge of breaking through racial biases. While these feelings persist, there’s a glimmer of resilience, acknowledging that the journey toward equitable recognition is ongoing.
Kahlil’s, as well as my own, love–hate relationship with Broadway’s current trajectory of diversity is palpable. While celebrating recent milestones, such as the first black Glinda in Wicked, there’s a poignant critique of the slow progress. His specific response was, “The show has been open for 20 years and it took 19 to cast a single black Glinda. It’s growing, but painfully slowly and it needs to happen faster for it to feel equitable.” Kahlil points out the need for a mental shift, urging the theatrical community to dismantle racial hierarchies and embrace an inclusive pedestal where all talents stand on equal ground.
When asked about feeling represented and respected within their theater community, Kahlil wisely responds with a conditional perspective. His response was, “Depends on which theater community you ask me about!” The acknowledgment that experiences vary based on the theater community emphasizes the need for a nuanced understanding of the challenges faced by artists in different settings.
Kahlil offers a profound solution to foster a more inclusive environment—eradicating the stigma that perpetuates racial hierarchies. Calling for a collective shift in mentality, the emphasis on dismantling biases and treating all individuals on an equal pedestal becomes a clarion call for change.
In the face of pushback, Kahlil shares invaluable advice: stay in your lane, work on yourself, and disregard those who do not appreciate your presence. The call to stop being a people pleaser resonates with the wisdom that self-focus and personal growth can be powerful tools to overcome adversity in the theater industry. As the theater community grapples with issues of diversity, this interview serves as a reflection on both triumphs and tribulations. It underscores the imperative for a collective commitment to change, fostering an inclusive environment where every voice is heard, and every artist is seen. We have done so much great work, but there is still so much more to be done.