Student Scholar Symposium Abstracts and Posters
Document Type
Presentation
Publication Date
Fall 11-29-2023
Faculty Advisor(s)
Dr. Jocelyn Buckner
Abstract
Theatre has been a practiced art form for many centuries; it has no beginning and no end, no preference for space or time, and no bias toward cultures and people. Specifically, theatre in America has been around for as long as its people have been. It is important to study the errors of American theatre, notably its mistreatment of minority voices, in order to create a healthy, inclusive environment and provide diverse opportunities for all. Racism and discrimination are subconsciously woven into almost every aspect of our lives, just as Critical Race Theory implies. Therefore it is essential to investigate how it affects the art of theatre, those who contribute to it, and those who learn from it. In this paper, I unmask why theatre companies in America have failed to provide adequate support for minority artists, and how the theatre industry, along with society, can work towards creating a foundation for racial harmony within the arts. To start, I intend to highlight the misuse of minority funding provided to theaters as well as the recent funding crisis affecting various theaters nationwide. Additionally, I will focus on those in leadership positions, the support provided to them, and the lasting influence a diverse leader can offer a company. Next, I aim to look at the season programming of major theater companies and the tragic cancellations of recent seasons. Finally, I will study the application of discriminatory performances and casting practices that can still be found in some theaters today and its effects on the play’s underlying message to the audience. Some mediums I have used to study my cases include researching scholarly journals, company websites, blog posts, and online magazines. Through this research, I implore that it is intrinsic to be “anti-racist”, especially in the performing arts, in order to promote theatre as an art form that embraces all those who practice and enjoy it.
Recommended Citation
Chhagan, Rhea, "Unmasking The Exploitation of Minority Voices in American Theatre Throughout the 21st Century" (2023). Student Scholar Symposium Abstracts and Posters. 709.
https://digitalcommons.chapman.edu/cusrd_abstracts/709
Comments
Presented at the Fall 2023 Student Scholar Symposium at Chapman University.