Jamael Westman, 26, plays the title role of Alexander Hamilton in the critically acclaimed musical about America’s founding fathers.
He said its crowds had been noticeably more diverse than those for some other shows, but high ticket prices made it difficult to change the make-up of audiences.
The star, who grew up in Brixton and Streatham, said: “I think there is still work to be done. Obviously Hamilton as a production can make the effort in terms of diversifying the company and making sure a range of voices and personalities can be found on stage and that you have a reflection of the society that people walk out into, but when you think about the West End in general it’s a challenge.
“Of course we live in a society where there is such a disparity between those who are making plenty of money — the middle-class white person for instance — and those who don’t make as much money including people of colour and that’s just a reality.
“As big as Hamilton is, it’s a much longer process to change the audiences. Hamilton can’t do it alone which is why we need more theatres to challenge that and make more voices heard.”
The most expensive tickets for Hamilton, which is being staged at the Victoria Palace Theatre, cost £250. But the show operates a daily lottery system, with tickets for £10, and there are 240 tickets for each performance at £37.50 or less.
2018's biggest musicals
Westman is backing a campaign raising funds for five theatre companies, including groups that work with teenagers and refugees, through an online auction. Prizes include afternoon tea with Juliet Stevenson, a tour of the Old Vic and vocal training from an RSC coach.
The auction goes live at midday tomorrow and runs until May 14. Details at uk.pro.givergy.com/london21consortium
