theGrio’s 100: Condola Rashad, Broadway actress stuns in interracial ‘Romeo & Juliet’

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Who is Condola Rashad?

Condola Rashad might be the daughter of celebrated Cosby Show veteran Phylicia Rashad and sportscaster and former professional athlete Ahmad Rashad — but she is making a big name for herself on her own.

Following in her mother’s footsteps, the young thespian has thrilled wide audiences over the span of her relatively short professional career. How? Her stage portrayals in some of the most lauded Broadway shows in recent years featuring black leads and story lines have garnered her back-to-back Tony Award nominations — a huge feat.

Why is she on theGrio’s 1oo?

Rashad first gained widespread recognition for her roles in the successful plays Stick Fly and The Trip to Bountiful, both of which earned her Tony nods.

But it is her performance as Juliet in the mixed-race production of the Shakespeare classic Romeo & Juliet opposite Orlando Bloom that truly set her apart as one to watch. The successful show was an opportunity for Condola to shine not just as an actress, but also as a trailblazer. This multicultural representation of love served to broaden the scope of roles attainable by black actresses, and demonstrated the power of diversity to sell tickets and inspire society.

Rashad also received a 2013 Triumph Award from Rev. Al Sharpton’s National Action Network for her leadership in this regard.

What’s next for Condola Rashad?

Rashad’s star is continuing to rise, as the lovely starlet makes major moves from the stage to television.

It has just been announced that she will co-star in a new Fox television series called Hieroglyph. This fantasy show set in ancient Egypt will feature Rashad playing “the Pharaoh’s half-sister with a rare beauty that intimidates even the strongest of suitors… and she knows it,” Deadline Hollywood reports.

As her power as an actor continues to evolve, Rashad beautifully represents the beauty of all young black women in such dynamic roles.

Follow Condola Rashad on Twitter @phloella