They were the first minority actors to play leads in a hit romantic comedy.
He was among the first to use minority actors in major Shakespearean and other classic roles.
She became successful within the constraints for minority actors of the time.
Equity's council noted that in nearly 100 shows produced during the past season, 33 had no minority actors and 12 had only one or two.
Yet at least minority actors are getting opportunities they would not normally expect, even at the National.
"Miss Saigon" will have 34 of its 50 roles played by minority actors.
And until they do, minority actors should not be denied employment in ethnic roles on Broadway.
The producers said they had auditioned dozens of minority actors, but none were acceptable.
"It breaks the norm for a male minority actor to be in the classroom," he said.
The company has received national attention for its support of minority actors, writers and directors.