'Black Broadway' tells the history of African-Americans on Great White Way

NEW YORK, NY (WABC) -- There is new book called "Black Broadway" that chronicles the trials, tribulations and triumphs of African Americans on the Great White Way.

It is written by Stewart Lane, a six-time Tony Award-winning producer.

"The influence of the African American community has been tremendous," Lane said. "Not just on Broadway as performers, but in the creation of the three original art forms in America: jazz, tap dancing and musical theater."

Lane says he wanted to focus the spotlight on the African American men and women on the stage and behind the curtain who helped make Broadway great.

His book chronicles theatrical history from the 19th century, when blacks were barely allowed to appear on stage, through the prolific Harlem renaissance and on to more recent, groundbreaking shows.

Broadway star Ben Vereen says he is honored to be included among the famous faces in the book.

"To be a part of this is a truly high honor," he said.

The legendary actor even fought back tears as he relived moments from his own turns at center stage. as well as those of dear friends.

"We shared a lot together, and to see them again and have them honored this way, thank you," he said.

Lane says he wants the book to educate and enlighten as well as preserve forever the rich history of African-Americans in the theater.

"We put so much of ourselves into the characters that we create, into the writing that we do, it becomes very, very personal," he said.