Growing up in Norwalk, California, Lindsay Mendez never saw people who looked like her taking on leading roles in Broadway musicals, apart from a few exceptions like Chita Rivera. Now, she is nominated for a Tony Award for her role in Stephen Sondheim’s “Merrily We Roll Along.” Mendez acknowledges the lack of diversity in the industry but is honored to be part of a shift towards more inclusivity. Since winning a Tony Award in 2018 for “Carousel,” Mendez has continued to work in theater and on TV, including starring in the series “All Rise” on CBS/OWN. The pandemic made her reflect on her life and career and she is happy to see efforts to diversify storytelling in the theater industry.
Latino performers like Eden Espinosa have also been making waves on Broadway. Espinosa, known for her roles in shows like “Wicked” and “Rent,” was nominated for a Tony Award for her lead role in “Lempicka.” She believes that awards are not the ultimate measure of success and validation, but acknowledges the honor of being recognized by her peers. She encourages young performers to embrace their uniqueness and not be deterred by rejection. Espinosa’s role in “Lempicka” highlighted universal themes and showcased diversity on stage. Despite challenges, Espinosa remains content with her career and is grateful for the recognition she has received.
In an industry that is predominantly white, other Latinos nominated for Tony Awards this year include Emilio Sosa, David Israel Reynoso, Leslie Rodriguez Kritzer, and playwright Kristoffer Diaz. Diaz credits Latino artists like John Leguizamo for inspiring him to tell his own stories through theater. He expresses gratitude for the trailblazers who paved the way for the next generation of Latino artists. Scenic designer Riccardo Hernández, who received his third Tony nomination, emphasizes the importance of finding one’s own voice in the theater world. Hernández draws inspiration from Latin American literature and encourages his students to stay true to their artistic vision.
Looking ahead to the Tony Awards ceremony, Mendez reflects on her journey and the impact of the roles she has played. She acknowledges the challenges and joys of balancing motherhood with a thriving career in theater. Mendez’s Tony Award sits alongside her daughter’s accomplishments in her home, symbolizing a household filled with trophies and achievements. She is proud of the work she has done and the opportunities she has had in the industry. As she continues to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of Broadway, Mendez remains committed to telling diverse stories and representing underrepresented voices on stage.
