-Avier Wanjou-Brass-
Cousins!
Broadway sensation, Strange Loop, is shaping up the Broadway industry, rightfully so, in a good way. Representing, while amplifying Black queer voices, ‘ A Strange Loop is breaking barriers not only on broadway but in Black Theatre.
One of their leading stars, award-winning actor Antwayn Hopper, is a true gem. Playing character Thought 6, Hopper was a part of the Obie-winning Off-Broadway production at Playwrights Horizons Theater before its Broadway incarnation. Now, winning a Tony Award for Best Musical, ‘ A Strange Loop,’ along with Hopper, is making an impact with their “big, Black, and queer-ass Great American Musical for all!” (A Strange Loop).
Before ‘ A Strange Loop’ and winning the 2020 Obie Award, humble beginnings started in Topeka, Kansas. Growing up in a military household, Hopper picked up a love for the creative arts and performing. He even credits his father for encouraging his artistic demeanor and liking the “discipline aspect,” which his father would end up being his coach.
“So, my dad actually became, like, kinda like my coach. He would come to shows– ayy son, that leg, that leg, you know he doesn’t know what he is saying, but he knows it will get to me,” says Hopper.
He continues, “Yes, I had a very solid foundation, and thank god for my parents, especially my mom.”
After graduating from the prestigious Carnegie Mellon University, Hopper set sights on NYC, where he would pursue his love for performing professionally.
“Not second-guessing myself and just going with what I love, that’s what drove me all the way here to New York, it got me through Carnegie Mellon, those four years, and all the way here.”
Besides being on the Pulitzer Prize-winning broadway show, Hopper has a long list of credits, including HAIR!, Rent, Jesus Christ Superstar, and many others.