Ep 66: Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom with star Taylour Paige & casting director Avy Kaufman

We travel back to 1920s Chicago in this episode that celebrates the Netflix Original film, Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom. Starring Viola Davis as Ma, this musical drama tunes into one particular recording session of the famed blues singer. Anna chats to star Taylour Paige, casting director Avy Kaufman and critic Akua Gyamfi. Anna first chats to critic Akua about Viola’s exceptional portrayal of the musical icon. They explore the character’s image, sexuality, fame and unapologetic truth. Finding Ma Rainey relevant to the present day, Akua imagines her as a 21st century influencer, and reflects on Black women in the music industries. Whether busting conventions or being busted for lesbian orgies, Ma sparks endless intrigue and admiration. Anna is then joined by Taylour Paige who stars as Ma’s girlfriend Dussie May. Taylour unpicks her character’s role in the film and praises George C. Wolfe’s direction for allowing her to be playful. She also reveals what it was like to work with Viola both onscreen and offscreen… apparently she is quite the comedian! Finally, Anna welcomes Avy Kaufman to the podcast - our first casting director guest! Avy gives us an insight into the world of casting. She explains how she cast actors around Viola and why it was important to get the dynamic right between her and Taylour. More generally, Avy comments on bringing diversity to the screen, how the casting process has changed during the pandemic, and what makes a good casting director. This episode is in partnership with Netflix. Become a patron of Girls on Film on Patreon here: www.patreon.com/girlsonfilmpodcast Follow us on socials: www.instagram.com/girlsonfilm_podcast/ www.facebook.com/girlsonfilmpodcast www.twitter.com/GirlsOnFilm_Pod www.twitter.com/annasmithjourno www.twitter.com/netflixuk Watch Girls On Film on the BFI’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z Girls On Film is an HLA production. Executive producer: Hedda Archbold. Audio Producer: Tom Whalley. Principal Partner: Peter Brewer. Assistant Producer and Social Media Manager: Heather Dempsey. Assistant Producer: Elliana Jay.