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Yellowface in the American Theatre

In response to the protest and aftermath of the New York Gilbert & Sullivan Players’ now canceled production of The Mikado, this series addresses the racist performance and casting practices of Yellowface in the American Theatre.

On the Merits of Yellowface
Essay

On the Merits of Yellowface

Why Casting the “Best” Actor for the Role Is Actually Just a Selection of Bias in a Racist System

9 October 2015

Nelson T. Eusebio III addresses the argument that the “best” actor must always be cast in a role, regardless of race.

Why The Mikado is Still Problematic
Essay

Why The Mikado is Still Problematic

Cultural Appropriation 101

8 October 2015

Director Desdemona Chiang provides an overview of Asian American discrimination and cultural appropriation in the US and argues that there is no way to divorce The Mikado from this problematic history. 

Leah Nanako Winkler, The Mikado, and This American Moment
Essay

Leah Nanako Winkler, The Mikado, and This American Moment

7 October 2015

Victor Maog interviews Leah Nanako Winkler on her response to the controversy around NYGASP's The Mikado.

History Is Not Just For The British
Essay

History Is Not Just For The British

6 October 2015

Playwright Rehana Lew Mirza argues that those who defend producing The Mikado using yellowface on the basis of its “historical significance” are supporting centuries of imperialism and oppression.

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