A young Black actor from the same hometown as Wiletta, he is enthusiastic yet inexperienced in theater. He plays Job, Ruby's son, in Chaos in Belleville and looks to Wiletta for guidance.

The director of Chaos in Belleville, known for his Hollywood background and quick temper. He struggles to understand the implications of his work on racial portrayals.

An elderly Black actor who has survived in the business by accepting subservient roles. He has a past experience of witnessing a lynching, which influences his outlook.

A Black actress aged 35, who plays a supporting role in Chaos in Belleville, and is outspoken about her dissatisfaction with racial aspects of the play.

A young white actress fresh from Yale School of Drama, playing Carrie Renard in Chaos in Belleville. She grapples with her lines and her own privilege.

The elderly doorman at the theater with a long history in the industry. He shares a supportive relationship with Wiletta, often reflecting on life and work.

The white stage manager who constantly finds himself the target of Manners’s frustration. He is responsible for practical tasks, including handling the canned applause.

An older white character actor who joins the play in Act II, taking on the role of Renard in Chaos in Belleville. He fears change and has a tendency to avoid discomfort.