over their decision to cast an international performer in a starring role rather than a local woman of colour.The Leading Player role, an imaginary friend of the show's title character that leads him on his journey of discovery, has traditionally been played by a woman of colour since the production was revived on Broadway in 2013.
, auditioned for the role but was cut after the first round. She said it was disappointing the show's producer, The Gordon Frost Organisation, elected to import a performer in one of a handful of roles available to performers of colour."Lead roles for a person of colour are few and far between," Stevens says. "It's been four years since I did, so four years since I have been able to walk into an audition room and know this is a role that I am suited to.
Broadway performer Gabrielle McClinton has been flown into Australia to play The Leading Player in Pippin.The decision to import an overseas performer comes at a time when diversity in musical theatre is a subject of focus in the performing arts industry. A brouhaha surrounding the Rob Guest Endowment, an annual award given to young music theatre performers, saw the finalists walk away from the award due to the lack of representation of performers of colour.
"People in power [in this industry] need to be told that if they can't find what they are looking for then look deeper. There are hundreds of young women of colour who want an opportunity like this. Find them."
nathanaelcooper 'I don't want it to come off like a disgruntled actor who didn't get a job' - too late!
nathanaelcooper They've clearly chosen a headliner and/or a person who's audition was better, they are allowed to do this. Storm in a teacup.
nathanaelcooper Reality check, she probably thought she had it in the bag, she should go to the US & see how far she gets.
nathanaelcooper Lol
nathanaelcooper more ‘critical race theory’ news
nathanaelcooper Quote: “While we looked for a local BIPoC artist, we could find none who were available with all of the specific skills in singing, dancing and acrobatics to the level required for this role, given the time constraints.” 🤷🏻♂️ the role is still being performed by a person of colour.
nathanaelcooper This always happens. We have so much amazing talent here and out entertainment industry never supports us. It’s always been this way. Can’t stand it.
nathanaelcooper Perhaps the decision was based on merit?
nathanaelcooper Meritocracy
nathanaelcooper Good point. If a Chinese Australian woman is talented enough, she should get the job.
nathanaelcooper What happened to “Best person for the job” or do we need to use the race card everytime someone gets rejected at an audition?
nathanaelcooper Uhm maybe they’re more talented?