MEXICAN ARTISTS THAT HAVE SHONE ON BROADWAY
Representation is media, and the entertainment industry has been a topic of debate for more than a decade now. Seeing yourself in talented people with a similar background, ethnicity, or identity can positively affect aspects of your character and self-esteem.
There is a category of actors and actresses that might go unnoticed by many Broadway artists.
In my opinion, Broadway is one of the hardest areas of Hollywood to break through. Here are the Mexican talents that have shown to be pivotal for the representation of the Latino and Mexican-American community, inspiring hundreds of aspiring actors from similar backgrounds.
Romney Brent
According to IDBD, one of the earliest and most prolific Mexican-born Broadway artists was Romney Brent. Born in Saltillo, Brent made his Broadway debut at just 20 years old in The Lucky One (1922).
Brent wasn’t just a performer. After acting, he transitioned into writing, penning works such as The Mad Hopes and Tomorrow’s a Holiday, showcasing his range and contributing to the creative backbone of Broadway. His iconic career was the foundation for future generations of Mexican artists.
Katy Jurado
Despite her brief appearance on Broadway, Katy Jurado left a significant mark in the industry. She is better known for her characters in Hollywood Westerns. Her presence symbolized a broader shift toward Mexican representation in the American scene. Jurado’s crossover from screen to stage was a powerful statement in an era when Latina actresses faced significant barriers in both industries.
Florencia Cuenca
Fast forward to 2025, and another Mexican artist is making headlines: Florencia Cuenca. A Mexican immigrant and acclaimed performer, Cuenca is originating the role of Estela in Real Women Have Curves: The Musical. Her journey to Broadway is deeply personal—not just as a performer, but as someone still navigating the complexities of the American immigration system.
Sara Ramirez
Another standout is Sara Ramirez, born in Mazatlán, Mexico. Best known for her work on stage and screen, Ramirez has long been a celebrated figure in entertainment. Her work in theater, including a Tony-winning performance in Spamalot, proved that Mexican talent belongs at the top. Offstage, Ramirez has used their platform to advocate for marginalized communities, becoming an icon for immigrant representation.
In an interview for Broadway World by David Clark, Florencia Cuenca reflected on the lack of representation of Mexicans in Broadway.
“I feel like, in general, we don't get to see a lot of immigrants on Broadway. We don't have representation at all. “It's very different being a citizen than an immigrant. Even the rights that you can achieve as a citizen than an immigrant are very different. If you're an immigrant, they still can say, ‘You're not part of here, you go home,' and, as a citizen, they cannot do that.” Read the full article here
As Broadway continues to evolve, the presence of Mexican voices ensures that its future is not only more inclusive but also more truthful. Behind every role, there is a real story and more often than not, it’s one that deserves a spotlight.
