Attracting More Diverse Actors: Why You Should Consider Anti-Racism Training

We’ve often heard from theatres that they struggle to attract a more diverse talent pool for their shows. They’ll often avoid putting on certain shows because they’re afraid of not being able to cast them appropriately.

But before you think about your next production of West Side Story or Hairspray, you should ask yourself “Am I creating a safe environment for performers and crew of color? Am I engaging authentically with the communities I want to have portrayed?”.

This is where anti-racism seminars and training come in, to help your performing group gain insight on how to support more diverse communities.

The Imperative for Change

The performing arts industry, like many others, has been historically marred by systemic biases. These biases, often unconscious, have hindered the growth of diverse voices. By actively engaging in anti-racism initiatives, theatres take a significant step towards dismantling these barriers and creating a more inclusive environment.

Anti-racism seminars are dynamic platforms for candid conversations about race, privilege, and inequality. They provide participants with the tools to recognize and address unconscious biases. This, in turn, fosters an environment where every artist feels heard, understood, and valued.

Attracting More Diverse Talent

A commitment to anti-racism initiatives sends a powerful message to the community: this is a space where all artists are not only welcome but celebrated. This inclusivity becomes a magnet for a broader range of talent, enriching productions with a kaleidoscope of perspectives and experiences.

Again consider: Am I creating a safe environment for performers and crew of color? Am I engaging authentically with the communities I want to have portrayed?

Diversity in theatre isn’t merely a box to tick; it’s the key to unlocking richer, more authentic storytelling. Different voices bring different narratives, breathing life into characters and plotlines. This creates a more dynamic and compelling theatrical experience for audiences.

When theatres authentically engage in anti-racism, they become agents of change in the broader community. They inspire other industries and organizations to follow suit, contributing to a more inclusive society at large.

How to Implement Anti-Racism Into Your Theatre

Anti-racism trainings and seminars are quite common in more corporate environments and have been started to become embraced by performing groups and theatre alliances throughout the country. They help teams understand their own implicit biases and mitigate negative behavior.

So where should your group start?

1. Diversify Your Leadership: Before jumping right into trainings, one of the best ways that performing groups can engage with more diverse communities by bringing them to the table. Consider adding new leadership to your board, creative team, or director team. When planning how to tell diverse stories, it should start with bringing in more diverse voices.
2. Engage Experts: Collaborate with organizations or professionals specializing in anti-racism training. Look for accredited consultants who have a track record in guiding organizations through nuanced discussions and strategies.
3. Resource Centers and Non-Profits: Many non-profit organizations and resource centers specialize in diversity and inclusivity training. Organizations like The Racial Equity Institute and Race Forward are excellent starting points.
4. Anti-Racism Pledge: Committing your theatre or performing group to a pledge of inclusivity and anti-racism goes a long way in establishing your commitment to fostering a better environment for more diverse performers and crew. Check out this pledge from the New Jersey Theatre Alliance.
5. Harassment Reporting Policy: All theatres should have a Code of Conduct that all volunteers and employees sign which includes a harassment reporting policy for discrimination.
6. Local Experts and Activists: Consider reaching out to local activists or experts in your community who may be able to customize anti-racism training to suit the specific needs of your theatre.

Creating Safer Spaces

Establishing an atmosphere of trust is paramount. Ensure that artists feel comfortable sharing their experiences and concerns. Provide channels for anonymous feedback and implement policies that protect against discrimination. Read more about the importance of anonymous feedback here.

To gauge the effectiveness of your anti-racism initiatives, establish measurable goals. Monitor progress and be prepared to adapt strategies to better align with the evolving needs of your community.

Not a Simple Fix

While not a quick and simple fix, by wholeheartedly embracing diversity through expanding your team to be more diverse and anti-racism training, theatres not only enrich their productions but also contribute to a broader societal shift towards equality, understanding, and acceptance.