4 answers
Takaiya
Student
1
Question
Asked
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Why is it so hard to get acting jobs in the black community? Is it more complex then just skin tone?
I was a theatre magnet student for 3 years, I'm 16, and I am very interested in getting back to acting and Broadway.
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4 answers
Henrien McDonald
Teacher
14
Answers
Las Vegas, Nevada
Updated
Henrien’s Answer
Look for small theatre groups. Also, check out the local colleges and take their theatre classes. Also, look for community classes.
Or write your own play and act in it with your friends.
Or write your own play and act in it with your friends.
Thank you so much!
Takaiya
Autymn Harris
DE+I Program Manager
18
Answers
Wake Forest
Updated
Autymn’s Answer
Hi Takaiya,
That’s a really important question. Historically, the entertainment industry has been shaped by systems of exclusion, where people of color, especially Black actors, were often limited to stereotypical roles or left out of opportunities altogether. Even though progress is being made, these systemic issues still affect access to certain roles and opportunities.
Get in the Black theater community. Many cities have theater groups or initiatives that specifically focus on promoting Black artists and stories, providing a space for you to showcase your talents and connect with others. Look for mentorship opportunities from experienced actors, directors, or producers who can give you guidance and help you navigate the industry. And don’t forget about networking—attend local theater events, join online communities for aspiring Broadway performers, and follow casting calls that might be a good fit. The more you immerse yourself in the local arts scene, the closer you’ll get to your Broadway dreams. Keep believing in your ability and your unique perspective—it’s a journey worth taking!
I’m really excited to see where your acting journey takes you, and I have no doubt that one day we’ll see you on Broadway! Keep putting in the hard work, and the opportunities will follow.
That’s a really important question. Historically, the entertainment industry has been shaped by systems of exclusion, where people of color, especially Black actors, were often limited to stereotypical roles or left out of opportunities altogether. Even though progress is being made, these systemic issues still affect access to certain roles and opportunities.
Get in the Black theater community. Many cities have theater groups or initiatives that specifically focus on promoting Black artists and stories, providing a space for you to showcase your talents and connect with others. Look for mentorship opportunities from experienced actors, directors, or producers who can give you guidance and help you navigate the industry. And don’t forget about networking—attend local theater events, join online communities for aspiring Broadway performers, and follow casting calls that might be a good fit. The more you immerse yourself in the local arts scene, the closer you’ll get to your Broadway dreams. Keep believing in your ability and your unique perspective—it’s a journey worth taking!
I’m really excited to see where your acting journey takes you, and I have no doubt that one day we’ll see you on Broadway! Keep putting in the hard work, and the opportunities will follow.
Thank you so much!
Takaiya
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1879
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Takaiya!
I can write a book on this subject, but let's suffice it to say, as a non-African American actress, I not only have studied Black Film History but have performed in predominantly Black Theatre productions and this was not recently, rather in the 1980's. I have seen rich success for African American actors, directors, theatre owners and know some producers in the field, too. The industry has greatly changed and you will begin to learn that casting has to do with the overall character that was created by the playwright and the vision of the director. Some roles can be interchangeable racially and some are specific to a script. Sometimes productions are ethnocentric, some mixed and you'll find a variety of casting notices specifying exactly the type they want. That is part of being in the business.
When I was a young actress, I wrote a play (one act) and cast a Black actress in one of the leads opposite me. It's all about talent, how much you can add life to the character, what the director or casting people have in their mind, and contacts, contacts, contacts. Who you know and who knows you is vital in this industry.
It is very important that no matter what color, size or anything you are not be made to be a barrier for you. This may mean sometimes submitting your materials or auditioning for things you don't see a role for yourself for, and it may mean creating your own platform so you can act. Henrien McDonald's advice is spot on by mentioning to create your own acting troupe. Gather people you know who act, write and direct and find venues in your community to perform. Audition for everything at your school. Every audition is personal growth for you as an actress.
In conclusion, I want to mention that it is important to not veil oneself in the victim persona. Everyone's past nationality, ethnic and racial history is filled with negativity, but you are in the here and now. We've always had civil rights laws since 1964 and the constitution and Bill of Rights. It is important to move forward and not backwards. You are special, Takaiya, and can bring something to acting that no one else can. We all, regardless of who we are, have to be stronger than attitudinal barriers of possibly other people. You can do it as I know many have. You will be expected to work with people of all types. I even worked with a deaf actress once that required all physical cues for our scene in the play. You will learn so much just by being an actress.
Nothing is guaranteed in life and that is the way it is for Acting, too. Being adventurous, tenacious and healthy of mind and body will take you very far ! Definitely return here for more advice along the way ! Best wishes to you in all you do !
I can write a book on this subject, but let's suffice it to say, as a non-African American actress, I not only have studied Black Film History but have performed in predominantly Black Theatre productions and this was not recently, rather in the 1980's. I have seen rich success for African American actors, directors, theatre owners and know some producers in the field, too. The industry has greatly changed and you will begin to learn that casting has to do with the overall character that was created by the playwright and the vision of the director. Some roles can be interchangeable racially and some are specific to a script. Sometimes productions are ethnocentric, some mixed and you'll find a variety of casting notices specifying exactly the type they want. That is part of being in the business.
When I was a young actress, I wrote a play (one act) and cast a Black actress in one of the leads opposite me. It's all about talent, how much you can add life to the character, what the director or casting people have in their mind, and contacts, contacts, contacts. Who you know and who knows you is vital in this industry.
It is very important that no matter what color, size or anything you are not be made to be a barrier for you. This may mean sometimes submitting your materials or auditioning for things you don't see a role for yourself for, and it may mean creating your own platform so you can act. Henrien McDonald's advice is spot on by mentioning to create your own acting troupe. Gather people you know who act, write and direct and find venues in your community to perform. Audition for everything at your school. Every audition is personal growth for you as an actress.
In conclusion, I want to mention that it is important to not veil oneself in the victim persona. Everyone's past nationality, ethnic and racial history is filled with negativity, but you are in the here and now. We've always had civil rights laws since 1964 and the constitution and Bill of Rights. It is important to move forward and not backwards. You are special, Takaiya, and can bring something to acting that no one else can. We all, regardless of who we are, have to be stronger than attitudinal barriers of possibly other people. You can do it as I know many have. You will be expected to work with people of all types. I even worked with a deaf actress once that required all physical cues for our scene in the play. You will learn so much just by being an actress.
Nothing is guaranteed in life and that is the way it is for Acting, too. Being adventurous, tenacious and healthy of mind and body will take you very far ! Definitely return here for more advice along the way ! Best wishes to you in all you do !
Loved reading this, thanks!
Takaiya
You are very welcome, Takaiya ! Have an awesome day !
Michelle M.
Megan Sumpter
Writer
8
Answers
Tulsa, Oklahoma
Updated
Megan’s Answer
It often is more complicated than skin-tone.
A lot of the time, theaters choose actors who fit the costume pieces they have to save money (art is not a lucrative endeavor as a rule).
Sometimes, it's a clash with an actor's conscience (a lot of shows will ask if you are comfortable kissing onstage, either literally or implied. Other things, such as midriffs, real or covered in skin-toned fabric, might be difficult for some to wear).
Sometimes, it's related to the ethnicity required for the show to make sense (Gone with the Wind is not the same if Miss Scarlett has a different ethnicity; the same as for the children in The King and I; the same for any show that demonstrates a clash of cultures.)
Sometimes, it's availability (although I have had amazing availability and did not get a lead before).
Sometimes, it's vocal range or choreography acquisition (musicals).
Sometimes, it's repertoire (the more you've been in, the more likely you'll be in again).
Sometimes, it's simply nepotism.
Furthermore, a lot of shows don't really care about skin-tone, anyway. Many shows involve areas where skin-tones are mixed already (Egypt, Carribean, India, Australia, the United States, most Islands) or comprise of fictional settings (Fairy Lands, Animal Kingdom, Outer Space).
I have played roles set in the animal kingdom at least 5 times (dog, meerkat, lioness, monkey queen, coconut tree (technically also a human), rat); I have played a role in Disney's Mulan and the Lion King (twice) and the Jungle Book (twice); I have been in Oklahoma! twice; I have been in Fiddler on the Roof--my favorite show by far! Out of these specific shows listed, I fit the skin tone and ethnicity of only Oklahoma!--which doesn't require any specific ethnicity, anyway!
Even still, out of these specific shows, I had a lead role twice. That's a 1/4 or 25% rating. I have won two theatre awards and was the nominee for a third--two of which were for Chorus Member.
In short, it's simply HARD to progress in theatre at all. It shouldn't be so difficult for those who look outside Hollywood and Broadway, but it is.
My advice would be, firstly, to not give up. It's been several years since my last theatre show--about 5 1/2 years now--and for various reasons.
Secondly, NEVER compromise your conscience to play a part in any show that asks you to. The latter is temporary; the former is permanent in the scarring.
Thirdly, research shows you wouldn't mind being in. When someone puts them on, you know what you're getting into from the playwright's perspective. While not the only side to the show you should consider, it will serve you well as a basis for upholding your character whilst doing what you love.
Fourthly, if you are looking for shows that star characters with your skin-tone, don't despair. There are some that require it for the story to make sense. Most do not.
Lastly, if you think you'd write something worth the producing, I would. It will take time, effort, tears, and a good message; but, as someone who's turned to writing from the stage, it is a way to perform without the need to remotely fit the characters being written.
A lot of the time, theaters choose actors who fit the costume pieces they have to save money (art is not a lucrative endeavor as a rule).
Sometimes, it's a clash with an actor's conscience (a lot of shows will ask if you are comfortable kissing onstage, either literally or implied. Other things, such as midriffs, real or covered in skin-toned fabric, might be difficult for some to wear).
Sometimes, it's related to the ethnicity required for the show to make sense (Gone with the Wind is not the same if Miss Scarlett has a different ethnicity; the same as for the children in The King and I; the same for any show that demonstrates a clash of cultures.)
Sometimes, it's availability (although I have had amazing availability and did not get a lead before).
Sometimes, it's vocal range or choreography acquisition (musicals).
Sometimes, it's repertoire (the more you've been in, the more likely you'll be in again).
Sometimes, it's simply nepotism.
Furthermore, a lot of shows don't really care about skin-tone, anyway. Many shows involve areas where skin-tones are mixed already (Egypt, Carribean, India, Australia, the United States, most Islands) or comprise of fictional settings (Fairy Lands, Animal Kingdom, Outer Space).
I have played roles set in the animal kingdom at least 5 times (dog, meerkat, lioness, monkey queen, coconut tree (technically also a human), rat); I have played a role in Disney's Mulan and the Lion King (twice) and the Jungle Book (twice); I have been in Oklahoma! twice; I have been in Fiddler on the Roof--my favorite show by far! Out of these specific shows listed, I fit the skin tone and ethnicity of only Oklahoma!--which doesn't require any specific ethnicity, anyway!
Even still, out of these specific shows, I had a lead role twice. That's a 1/4 or 25% rating. I have won two theatre awards and was the nominee for a third--two of which were for Chorus Member.
In short, it's simply HARD to progress in theatre at all. It shouldn't be so difficult for those who look outside Hollywood and Broadway, but it is.
Megan recommends the following next steps:
Thank you so much for the advice.
Takaiya
@Megan Sumpter ~ Your advice is spot-on terrific ! I just couldn't resist telling you that I once played a Harp Seal and it was a musical so I was a singing Harp Seal. Most fun ever ! Have a great day, Megan Sumpter !
Michelle M.