Change or Die

North Shore’s production of Evita is one of a growing number of theatrical productions facing backlash for their "white washed" casting choices, and it has sparked a number of interesting conversations among my friends, both in and outside the Biz. If you aren't aware of the situation, the company believes they have hired the best talent for the job, but they are receiving heat for the fact that, albeit talented, their cast is entirely caucasian... for a show that takes place in Argentina. The argument is that “Talent” in most of these cases is synonymous to credits. A Broadway credit, a Tony nomination… these equate to “Star Power” which speaks less to ability than to box office potential. But let’s get clear… the majority of performers currently successful enough to be deemed a “Star” are white.

Despite the liberal, inclusive leanings of the individuals that make up the performing community, until VERY recently, White Supremacy has steered economic decisions in the arts. For most industries, it still does, but I would argue that the performing arts community has a narrower path to walk, largely BECAUSE we are comprised of liberal, inclusive individuals who can no longer stand the hypocrisy. While money is still a major player in our ability to produce our work, art belongs to the soul, and as artists, we will be the first required to change. The era of White Supremacy in the arts is ending, and those who are unwilling to shift or see it, will be left behind. I believe it is in every production company’s best financial interest to diversify, especially those that have the potential to draw top-of-the-line talent. They will not only be on the right side of history, but they are investing in their own future. The future is bright, but it is certainly not orange.

#WhiteWashing #WhiteSupremacy #Acting #Performing #Playbill #socialjustice