‘MISS SAIGON’ WATCH : Equity Regained

Actors’ Equity did the right thing. The union reversed its monstrous decision that would have barred the English star Jonathan Pryce from taking a role on Broadway because he allegedly wasn’t the right race for the part. That move outraged theater lovers everywhere--and threatened to kill the show.

In now approving Pryce to play a Eurasian pimp in the U.S. version of the London hit musical “Miss Saigon,” the union’s council said the actor qualifies as a “star.” Under an agreement between American and British unions, a star billing allows a foreign actor such as Pryce to perform in the United States.

The union had originally voted against Pryce in an effort to dramatize its campaign to open up more roles to Asian actors. This is a laudable and inarguable goal, and Asians have long struggled with the limited number of roles--and a great deal of stereotyping--in the entertainment industry.

But Actors’ Equity’s cure was worse than the disease. It was an assault on freedom of artistic expression and choice. It triggered widespread criticism and objections from within and outside entertainment circles. “Miss Saigon’s” producer retaliated by canceling plans to bring the musical to New York. But now “Miss Saigon” could be back on track and headed for Broadway’s lights. A decision will be made in a few days.

That’s good. But let us not forget the very real and troublesome problem that the incident brought to light: continued racism in the entertainment industry against Asian actors.