Are there african american roles in the play, Oliver?

Question

They are holding auditions in my area and I was wondering if they have roles that would be suitable for my type. Thanks!

Answer 1

umm no there aren't any african american roles because it takes place in london. do you mean black?

Answer 2

There aren't any specifically written originally written for African Americans, no.

HOWEVER, don't let that stop you from auditioning. That does not mean that you wouldn't get cast in major role. It all depends on the production and the director - and your ability, of course. I see that kind of casting all the time and I think it's great. I've seen African American musketeers (cast as one of the main three), other Dicken characters, Shakespeare characters - and as leads not just ensemble, etc. even though it wouldn't have happened in the time the pieces were originally written. So, there are definitely opportunities for lead roles in these kinds of productions.

I'm not sure of your age, but the Artful Dodger seems like a role very likely to go to someone talented regardless of race. Fagin, as well. Maybe even Oliver. They have a black Billy Elliot now - so why not an Oliver or any other character?

The point is, you should always just go and audition. If they can't cast you in this production, no big deal. They may remember you for something else they're casting down the line.

Too often actors talk themselves out of going to auditions for some reason or other. Don't do that to yourself. Just go and be proud of yourself for doing it.

Answer 3

There weren't any written, specifically for black people, considering the time of the events taking place in the story, it is pretty likely that there were, at least, some people of African descent living in Dickens' time.

Almost certainly, there would have been some orphaned African and mixed white and African children.

I mean, if you get right down to it, there weren't any roles written for WHITE Americans, either.  All of the characters were British.

Answer 4

No, sorry honey.