Articles last March, posed a question about whether the ad for the casting of Hamilton, the New York Broadway Musical, violated New York City Human Rights.
CBS News brought up the fact that the Broadway Union took issue with the Hamilton casting call for “non-white performers.” Even though the play’s producer defended the casting notice, the union general counsel denied approving the wording for this ad. Policy at Actors’ Equity, the Broadway Union is that “…producers agree that auditions for all productions… will be conducted in such a manner as to provide full and fair consideration to actors of all ethnicities.”
Hamilton Musical Details
The Broadway musical Hamilton is a story about the founding fathers including former President Alexander Hamilton and his demise after dueling with Aaron Burr. The director’s artistic license was to convey the message of diversity and provoke thought by casting African American and Hispanic actors in the roles of white historical figures. He purposely filled Hamilton roles this way to make a comment on past history by looking through the lens of our present day society.
Directors’ Casting
When directors fill roles that call for characters of certain ages, hair color, height, physique and race or ethnicity, they create a casting call that conveys the specifics for actors who would qualify for the part. As understood in the acting industry, there is no discrimination involved in such calls.
However, the wording of a casting ad is important for legal purposes and the wording as “non-whites” became legally questionable.
Get Legal Help with Advertising
Employers must adhere to legalities when advertising or promoting positions. If you have questions, you should seek legal counsel.
Stephen Hans & Associates has decades of employment law litigation experience and can assist you with anti-discrimination policies and employment issues.