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re: THE WIZ -- not MUSIC MAN -- might be NBC's next live musical

Posted by:	Chromolume 05:40 pm EST 01/16/15
In reply to:	re: THE WIZ -- not MUSIC MAN -- might be NBC's next live musical - Greg_M 05:25 pm EST 01/16/15

Most shows are, IMO, neither "black" or "white," when issues of race (or real historical people portrayed onstage, etc) aren't an integral part of the plot or concept of the show. But when they are - and I think The Wiz is one of those shows that has a clear concept of being an unmistakable African-American perspective on the Wizard Of Oz - I think it's important to honor that. I would have no problem with a mixed-race company of The Wizard of Oz - the story (and the way it's presented as a theatrical property) have nothing to do with race or ethnicity. It's a level playing field (as opposed to being a specifically "white" show IMO), so I feel any actor can potentially play those roles. The Wiz is an adaptation of that story meant to be told from a unique black perspective. I feel there's an enormous difference there. There's nothing stopping anyone from casting it as they see fit, of course - I just think it makes the most sense when the show rings true as a specifically black adaptation.

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