Dispatches from Crackerville

A craigslist post by the San Diego Repertory Theatre is generating controversy online. An upcoming production of The Princess and the Black-Eyed Pea musical was seeking “AFRICAN AMERICAN singers, actors, dancers, and musicians” for what was described as “a soulful musical comedy set in the imaginary African kingdoms of Torel and Kheba.”

The point of contention among online respondents is the requirement that all participants – including the “seven musicians needed” – be African American. The play’s characters include King Kemo (“a hip poet with the rhymes to show it”), Queen Zauba (“the ultimate Queen Bee”), Rolin (“castle freeloader”), and a harmony girl-group featuring “Labelle,” “Latisha,” and “Lashaun.”

“I can understand wanting an all-African American cast,” posted one respondent (from “Cracker-ville”), “but the musicians too? Tell me how that’s NOT racist?!”

Also: “If a white person was doing that, refusing to hire anyone but white people, the play would never make it to opening day.”

“You cannot have it both ways…Do the right thing, and hire a diverse staff.”

“So qualifications, talent, and experience are secondary considerations, compared to skin color? Will white people be allowed to at least SEE this play?”

“Why do the musicians need to be black? Are you saying white musicians are not capable of playing the score? Or that the black performers and producers don’t want a bunch of white guys hanging around?”

One post sided with the Rep. “Black shows need black players. Screw PC…what’s next, Clay Aiken in the Wiz?”

At this writing, the San Diego Rep’s casting office had not replied to requests for comment.

– Jay Allen Sanford