| MULTI ETHNIC THEATER |
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- COLOR CREATIVE CASTING AT MULTI ETHNIC THEATER
- by Deborah Peifer SF WEEKLY, December 1995
I've been thinking a lot about Bosnia. I believe so firmly in the power of theater to transform lives that I naturally look to
theater to find an answer for the anger and hatred.
Enter Multi Ethnic Theater. Founded in 1992, MET, according to Artistic Director Lewis Campbell, "is dedicated to
developing multi-cultural harmony and appreciation. We bring together artists and audiences from a large variety of
cultures and a wide range of economic status."
Rather than color blind casting, Campbell describes MET's efforts as "color creative. We often ignore racial reality in
creating family relationships." This creativity extends to casting against gender, and to casting actors with disabilities.
The result, says Campbell, is an acting company that "... is a celebration of multi-culturalism in a pluralistic society."
Multi-culturalism is reflected in the choice of plays as well. Selecting plays for both entertainment and social relevance,
Campbell and his company design a season that serves "to showcase a multi-ethnic company of actors breaking
stereotypes." MET doesn't throw out the cannon of great drama; he instead insists that the canon reflect the plurality of
both actors and audience. MET's deliberate choice to work for multi-ethnicity represents real courage, and it gives
hope for the future.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS ABOUT MET'S COLOR CREATIVE CASTING
Doug Konecky, America On Line - Entertainment
Multi Ethnic Theater is a multicultural, intergenerational and gender inclusive ensemble that can take on tough plays and
make them seem new. Their tiny theatre makes productions feel intimate with good friends as the cast.
Winifred Mann, The Potrero View
In The Trojan Women it was refreshing to see how naturally and gracefully actors with disabilities were integrated into
the action. With its themes of war, rape, slavery, lust and loss, the play maintains its poignancy even today. The
contemporary feel, fed by modern costumes and sound effects lasts throughout the production.
Lysa Allman, San Francisco Bay View
MET wonderfully utilizes multi ethnic players, often disregarding the original or expected racially assigned cast of
characters. The performances are illuminating and truly transcend ethnic boundaries.
Max Millard, The Sun Reporter
Multi Ethnic Theater lives up to its name. The staff, the actors, and the audience are bringing people together for a
common goal. An organization like this deserves support.
| MULTI ETHNIC THEATER |
| MULTI ETHNIC THEATER |
| MET is a project of Theater Residencies, Incorporated (TRI ), a California non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation. |