Word: mackintosh
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...trouble began this past summer when British producer Cameron Mackintosh announced that English actor Jonathan Pryce would reprise is starring role as a Eurasian pimp in the Broadway version of the much heralded London musical. The Actor's Equity Association and several members of the theater community opposed Mackintosh's casting decision and in response Mackintosh threatened to cancel the show...
After a few weeks of negotiations with Equity, Mackintosh agreed in writing to cast Asians in central and understudy roles. Pryce also consented to discontinue the use of eye prosthetics and make-up which made him appear Asian...
Associate News Editor of Equity News Helaine Feldman comments that "since the settlement, casting has gone on smoothly--but no new [definite] casting decisions have been made yet." Equity is consulting with Mackintosh during the casting process...
After much debate and criticism, the controversy has died down. But the conflict between maintaining artistic freedom and integrating the drama world is not easily resolved. Certainly the agreement between Actor's Equity and Mackintosh offers no ideal solutions...
...that is just what will happen if Mackintosh keeps his word. But greed -- or even common sense -- will surely rescue this farce. "There's so much money involved," says producer Papp, "that I can hardly believe it won't be done here in some way." Already Equity and Mackintosh are making murmurs toward compromise. Miss Saigon is scheduled to open April 11. Before then, the warring sides will probably find a way to make nice, make a buck and save face...