To celebrate Black History Month, BroadwayWorld is spotlighting the lives and legacies of Black artists from every corner of the theatrical spectrum.
Today we honor the life and legacy of history-making Broadway performer, screen actor, and recording artist, Juanita Hall.
Juanita Hall was an American musical theatre and film actress. In 1950, Hall became the first Black actor to win a Tony Award for her portrayal of Bloody Mary in the original Broadway production of Rodgers and Hammerstein s South Pacific.
Broadway Legacy
In addition to her history-making turn in South Pacific, Hall was personally chosen by Rodgers and Hammerstein to portray Madam Liang in Flower Drum Song, making her the rare exception among a predominately Asian cast.