Casting Philosophy

The Department of Theater at Dartmouth is committed to the practice of color-conscious and gender-conscious casting with respect to the plays we present and our casting process. This means that we "intentionally consider the race and ethnicity of actors and the characters they play in order to oppose racism, honor and respect cultures, foster stronger productions, and contribute to a more equitable world."¹ We strive to craft performances in ways that respect, care for, and honor individuals, cultures and communities of the Global Majority. It means also that we actively seek casting opportunities for trans, nonbinary and gender-nonconforming people in any role regardless of biological gender, as well as the disability and neurodivergent community, acknowledging that they are currently underrepresented on our stages and screens.

While it is our priority to offer our major and minors appropriate and significant acting opportunities (in a wide variety of roles, from small to large), students who are not majoring or minoring in Theater are encouraged to audition and will be considered fully for any production.

We recognize that in order to prioritize growth, education and opportunity, we must commit to allowing this casting philosophy to grow and evolve. For this reason we welcome ongoing input, commentary, or discussion from students, staff, and faculty.

¹ Teresa Eyring, "Standing Up for Playwrights and Against 'Colorblind' Casting," American Theatre, January 7, 2016