Blog # 11

Colorblind casting is something I strongly stand behind and support, unless race is a necessary and crucial element in the production. Similar to Tyler, I remember growing up and watching Brandy star as 'Cinderella'. The only thing is, the color of her skin didn't phase me. I wasn't shocked or surprised when I saw Cinderella with dark skin and hair. She was still a beautiful princess to me. She brought the story to life with the grace and beauty I believed Cinderella would. 

Another example of colorblind casting is the new movie adaptation of 'Annie' hitting the theaters this Christmas. This movie stars the adorable Quvenzhane Wallis and Jaime Foxx. Wallis, who already proved her brilliant acting chops in 'Beasts of the Southern Wild' was an absolutely wonderful pick for Annie. I was discussing this movie with my little cousin who is about 8 and already familiar with the older movie with the white Annie. He is just as excited to see this new 'Annie' than the next Pixar film. I'm planning on seeing it with him. I think colorblind casting is a beautiful thing. Acting is telling a story, skin color shouldn't inhibit that.

The only obstacle I believe could stand in the way of being cast with a certain skin color would be if I affected the historical elements of the show. If the skin color of a character made the play historically inaccurate and didn't make sense, then that's when colorblind casting should be avoided. There are many shows that deal with certain racial struggles and issues, that I believe should be performed with the most accuracy that they can. 

In general, I stand fully behind colorblind casting. Unless the color of their skin affects the historical elements and storyline, then it shouldn't matter. A story is a story and it can be told beautifully, regardless the color of one's skin.