Joaquina Kalukango has captivated Broadway audiences with her powerful vocals and captivating stage presence, making an indelible mark on the world of musical theater. Her Broadway debut came in 2015 in the critically acclaimed revival of Alice Walker's The Color Purple, where she originated the role of Nettie, showcasing her soulful voice and emotional depth.
In 2019, Kalukango took on the challenging role of Kaneisha in Jeremy O. Harris's provocative play Slave Play, delivering a performance that was both nuanced and groundbreaking. Her portrayal earned her a Tony Award nomination for Best Actress in a Play, cementing her status as a rising star in the Broadway universe.
Kalukango's Broadway journey reached new heights in 2022 with the musical Paradise Square, where she stepped into the shoes of Nelly O'Brien, an enslaved woman navigating the complexities of love and identity in pre-Civil War New York. Her captivating performance, characterized by her vibrant voice and raw emotional connection, earned her the prestigious Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical, a testament to her exceptional talent and artistry.
Beyond her Broadway triumphs, Kalukango has also appeared in television productions such as One Night in Miami, When They See Us, and Lawmen: Bass Reeves.