Casting Quote by Steven Berkoff
“Transgender casting is a kind of literalism. It is the same with racial casting. This means that you can now only play Othello if you are black. There is something quite tainted about it. It is a form of racism in itself.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: The Art of Casting, 2008
Casting based on identity reduces characters to stereotypes, turning representation into exclusion.
In simple terms: Casting by race or gender can become a new form of bias.
Key Takeaway
Seek authentic, inclusive casting choices.
Themes
diversity
representation
ethics
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
analytical
controversial
When to use this quote
- theatre production
- film casting
- media criticism
Key Concepts
identity politics
artistic integrity
Questions to Reflect On
- What balance should be struck between representation and artistic freedom?
- Can casting ever be truly neutral?
A Different Perspective
May overlook the artistic merit of performance beyond identity.
![“I was in a conversation and someone said: "You know, we were talking about the whole issue of transgender and how it has become so accepted now, and somebody said, 'You know the Oprah show, I think has had a big impact.'" I said, I don't think so. We did several transgender [shows], but we didn't…” quote by Oprah Winfrey](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/cd3/oprah-winfrey-186_accepted_i-was-in-a-conversation-and-someone-said_25645.jpg)
