Actor Shortage
So, normally, I don't read the dramaturgy listserve that I get emailed daily. It often seems like a bunch of snobby academics talking nonsense. Well, since I suppose I am aspiring to be one of these snobby nonsensical academics, I should start reading whatever they are writing. My first step has been to read the headlines at least and if a topic sparks my intersest, read on. WELL! Of course I would read every little word written about my heartthrob, Neil Labute, who wrote an OpEd on Color-Blind casting that stirred a commotion on the listserve. I'll spare you the ridiculous opinions of this very long-winded argument and reveal to you insider information from a producer in the Bay Area who said this:
"This whole discussion, while academically very worthwhile, is amusing to me
as a producer because it implies a luxury in casting that just doesn't exist
at the small theatre level in the Bay Area. Being color-blind is a survival
mechanism when you pay what we do. If I went looking for one or another
specific thing, I'd be weeping into my beer and pulling my hair out,
especially in the current actor shortage. I spose if I paid what the Big
Boys (TM) pay, I would have the luxury of being able to choose a position on
it, but as it stands now, I'm constantly on the prowl for actors. Talent,
sanity, and non-diva attitude are all the luxuries I can afford in the
basement."
GO GO GO!
"This whole discussion, while academically very worthwhile, is amusing to me
as a producer because it implies a luxury in casting that just doesn't exist
at the small theatre level in the Bay Area. Being color-blind is a survival
mechanism when you pay what we do. If I went looking for one or another
specific thing, I'd be weeping into my beer and pulling my hair out,
especially in the current actor shortage. I spose if I paid what the Big
Boys (TM) pay, I would have the luxury of being able to choose a position on
it, but as it stands now, I'm constantly on the prowl for actors. Talent,
sanity, and non-diva attitude are all the luxuries I can afford in the
basement."
GO GO GO!