Colorblind Casting

Jordan-the black little orphan Annie thing got me thinking. A lot. Sometimes we just can't colorblind cast something. Broadway standards like Annie were, indeed, written at a time where the historical context would change entirely if the race of the main character was different. And there are times when valid social context is altered because of colorblind casting. For example, West Side Story has a very strong message about gang violence and interracial relationships. I saw a production with a 95% white cast, including a white Maria. All of the rich social context was taken away and it was merely just another play. The same thing would happen to Hairspray or the Color Purple were colorblind cast. Having said that, I believe that there is such a thing as an artistic vision and making choices. I think that directors are allowed to be bold and choosy. And if a director wanted to make a statement and cast a black little orphan Annie, then they can do that. However, there are plenty of plays and shows out there with the ability to cast people of all races because racial issues or the historical context isn't an issue. I once read a play where there was a footnote that said "Casting should reflect the racial diversity of New York City." It's all based on the context.