Wiletta Mayer: The central character of the play, Wiletta Mayer is an experienced middle-aged African American actress who speaks out about racist problems in the script of the play-within-a-play as well as its demeaning director.
Millie Davis: A quick-witted African American actress, Millie Davis is in her mid-thirties and is unhappy about the roles she has to play because of her race.
Sheldon Forrester: A wise, elderly, non-confrontational African American actor and aspiring songwriter.
Henry: An elderly Irish doorman at the theatre, Henry is Wiletta’s only consistent ally.
Al Manners: The condescending white director of the play-within-a-play being rehearsed for Broadway.
John Nevins: An idealistic African American actor making his Broadway debut, John Nevins is skeptical of Wiletta’s advice to him.
Bill O’Wray: A middle-aged white actor who is constantly worried.
Judy Sears: A young, naive white actress who recently graduated from college and is acting in her first job.
Eddie Fenton: The stage manager.
