“Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” Makes Racial Statement
The new 2008 Broadway revival of “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” has a surprising element. It will feature an all black cast. This is a particularly interesting choice, given the fact that the play is about a wealthy plantation owning family in the south.
The play will feature stars from the small and big screen. Terrence Howard, best known for his Oscar nominated role in “Hustle and Flow,” will be playing Brick. James Earl Jones, also known as the voice of Darth Vader, will be playing big Daddy. And Phylicia Rashad, from “The Cosby Show,” will be playing Big Mama. The play will be directed by Debbie Allen, the sister of Rashad.
The decision to choose an all black cast raises many interesting issues. The play is written specifically for white actors. The theater world has traditionally done color-blind or multi-racial casts. But this would not be classified as color-blind since color clearly was a factor in the casting choices. Race in this case is being used to make a statement. Without having seen the play, it’s hard for me to know what the statement would be.
If you’re interested in finding out for yourself, feel free to buy Broadway tickets online.
Tags: broadway tickets, broadway tickets online, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, Debbie Allen, James Earl Jones, Phylicia Rashad, Terrence Howard