At a graduate drama program in New York City, an all-white acting class have just had auditions for their Shakespeare project: Othello. While they are uncomfortable, the men are still resistant to take a stand with the women against the production. Now facing backlash, they are called to an affinity group meeting to figure out how to be an effective ally, and ultimately what their place is now.
Through the development process, the director and I came to the conclusion that the play is most effective when it is cast as written -- white men in a room, and what they say when they're alone. However, I am open to subversive interpretations as well, as long as discussed beforehand.
Danny
25,
White
,
Male
MFA Acting student
Can be played by:
Age:
20s, 30s
Race/Ethnicity:
White
Gender:
Male
Adam
25,
White
,
Male
MFA Acting student
Can be played by:
Age:
20s, 30s
Race/Ethnicity:
White
Gender:
Male
Malcolm
30,
White
,
Male
MFA Playwriting student; Allies Kinship Group facilitator