Brian Anthony Moreland: Broadway’s Only Black Lead Producer and His Vision for Inclusive Storytelling

Brian Anthony Moreland is making history on Broadway as the sole Black lead producer this season. His latest venture, a revival of August Wilson’s Joe Turner’s Arrive and Gone starring Taraji P. Henson and Cedric “The Entertainer,” is not only a significant artistic undertaking but as well a testament to his commitment to diversifying representation in the theater industry. Moreland’s journey, marked by a passion for performance and a knack for problem-solving, offers valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs and leaders.

From Performer to Producer: The Power of Passion

Moreland’s path to becoming a Broadway producer wasn’t a direct one. It began with a childhood love for performing, sparked by a third-grade school play where he played Santa Claus. This early experience ignited a lifelong passion for theater. He now manages budgets ranging from $7.5 million to $16 million per production, skills honed through practical experience rather than formal business education.

This experience underscores the importance of pursuing one’s passions. Moreland’s advice is to “pursue what moves you emotionally and trust that the skills will follow.”

Conflict Resolution: Listen First, Solve Second

Moreland’s approach to problem-solving is remarkably simple yet effective: listen. He recounts an instance during a chaotic load-in for a touring production where he found his lighting, sound, and general managers in conflict. By speaking to each individual privately, he discovered the issue stemmed from faulty information provided by the theater, not internal disagreements. This allowed for a swift resolution and a successful show.

His philosophy emphasizes addressing the root of the problem rather than assigning blame. He advocates for fully understanding a situation before attempting to fix it.

The Art of Production: Being a Vessel for the Story

Having collaborated with renowned actors like Denzel Washington, Jake Gyllenhaal, Taraji P. Henson, and Cedric “The Entertainer,” Moreland attributes their sustained success to a shared commitment to the art itself. He describes the role of a producer as being “a vessel for the art,” focusing on one project, one script, and one story at a time.

Moreland chooses projects based on how they craft him feel, believing that genuine connection translates to a more impactful experience for the audience.

Joe Turner’s Come and Gone: A Historic Collaboration

The revival of August Wilson’s Joe Turner’s Come and Gone, set to begin previews on March 30, 2026, and open on April 25, 2026, at a Shubert Theatre (location to be announced), marks a historic moment for both Broadway and The Apollo Theater. The Apollo Theater is joining the producing team, making its Broadway debut. The production is directed by Debbie Allen and also stars Ruben Santiago-Hudson and Joshua Boone.

Kamilah Forbes, Executive Producer of The Apollo, emphasized the power of art to transform and the significance of uniting Harlem’s cultural heartbeat with Broadway’s brilliance.

Looking Ahead

Brian Anthony Moreland’s success story is a powerful reminder that passion, empathy, and a dedication to the art can pave the way for groundbreaking achievements. As he continues to break barriers on Broadway, his perform serves as an inspiration for aspiring producers and a beacon of hope for a more inclusive and representative theater industry.