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Home , 51st Tony Awards, 57th Tony Awards, Arian Moayed, Beth Leavel, Bill Irwin, Gregory Jbara

JUNE “We must walk consciously 2011 only part way toward our Volume 96 goal and then leap in the Number 5 dark to our success.” EQUITYNEWS — Henry DavidThoreau A Publication of ’ Equity Association • NEWS FOR THE THEATRE PROFESSIONAL • www.actorsequity.org • Periodicals Postage Paid at , NY and Additional Mailing Offices MoreTheatregoers Fourteen Elected to Council Will Enjoy Broadway ourteen members— Julia Breanetta Simpson CENTRAL REGION from the Eastern Region, (incumbent) Principal Five-Year Term Through Unprecedented Fone from the Central James Ludwig (incumbent) Mark David Kaplan Region and four from the Bob Knapp ((incumbent) Not elected: Daniel Mooney Western Region—have been Gil Rogers (incumbent) Accessibility Initiative WESTERN REGION elected to serve five-year terms Brian Myers Cooper (incumbent hanks to a unique PASS worked closely with the Principal Five-Year Term on the Council. Ballots were Chorus Councillor) partnership between entire Catch Me If You Can Larry Cahn (incumbent) tabulated on May 21, 2011 by Not elected: Daniel Robert Alliance for Inclusion in team—producers, marketing, Not elected: Stephen Pawley T Election Services Corp. Sullivan, Douglas Leland the Arts and G-PASS, 1.1 media, web designers—as Chorus Five-Year Term There were 5,861 valid ballots Chorus Five-Year Term million New Yorkers and 56 as the Nederlander Jennie Ford (incumbent Principal cast, of which 2,414 were cast Francis Jue (incumbent Principal million Americans with Organization and Councillor) electronically. Following are the Councillor) disabilities can now enjoy more Theatre staff to create Not elected: Scott Watanabe results: Ronald L. Brown Broadway shows than ever accessible and comprehensive Stage Manager Five-Year Term Not elected: Al Bundonis before. The Broadway services.” EASTERN REGION Pat Loeb Stage Manager Five-Year Term Accessibility/Audience In addition to Catch Me If You Principal Five-Year Term D. Christian Bolender Jason A. Quinn Expansion Initiative sets a new Can, the Initiative—supported Nancy Slusser (incumbent) Not elected: Vernon Willet Not elected: Tom Helmer standard for collaboration by funds from The City of New between producers and York Theater Subdistrict accessibility specialists at all Council, LDC and the City of stages of production. The New York—will provide these program kicked off in May with services to an additional three Broadway’s new musical, Catch new commercial productions at Me If You Can. no cost to the producer or “The Initiative enables more audiences, strengthening theatregoers with disabilities to Broadway’s position as the gold enjoy as complete and standard for theatre access and captivating an experience as doubling its current offerings. their non-disabled peers,” says With groundbreaking Sharon Jensen, Executive computerized systems by Director, Alliance for Inclusion in Sound Associates, Inc., creators the Arts. “The Alliance and G- (continued on page 2)

Chicago’s Lookingglass Gets RegionalTheatreTony

ookingglass Theatre, the contributions to theatre’s growth -based troupe nationally. Lookingglass is the Canadian Equity LeadersVisit founded in 1988 by a fifth Chicago theatre to receive L quity met with Canadian McColl, AEA Executive Director; President; Kerry Davidson, group of young graduates of this prestigious award. Others Actors’ Equity Kerry Ann Doherty, CAEA 1st CAEA 1st Vice President; Karen are the Goodman, Steppenwolf, Association (CAEA) Vice-President; Nick Wyman, Master, AEA Organizing and (including David Schwimmer of Victory Gardens and Chicago E leaders in New York on May 4, AEA President; (middle row) Immigration Assistant; (seated) TV’s ) has received the Shakespeare Theater. 2011 to review the reciprocal Douglas Irons, CAEA Controller; Rick Berg, AEA Eastern 2011 Tony Award ® for Regional Lookingglass creates new agreement and other issues of Arden R. Ryshpan, CAEA Regional Director; , Theatre given to a professional works through its gglassworks mutual concern. Attending the Executive Director; Flora AEA Principal Councillor and regional theatre company for program, stages world meeting were: (back row, l to r) Stamatiades, AEA National Keith Davidson, CAEA Director artistic achievement and premieres on the Lookingglass Russell Lehrer, AEA Senior Director – Organizing & Special of Business Representative Mainstage, and reaches out to a Business Representative; Mary Projects; Ira Mont, AEA 3rd Vice Services. diverse and underserved community through its education and community programs department. To date, Lookingglass has Public Policy Committee Continues produced 53 world premieres and has received more than 40 Monitoring National Issues; Jefferson awards and citations. “The Central Regional Board Urges Members toTake Action and the membership-at-large he AFL-CIO has include a 70% reduction to the activities (including lobbying, are proud to once again have extended its “We Are granting budget of the television advertisements and the Regional Tony Award ® TOne” campaign, which Pennsylvania Council on the petitions) in place. There will be presented to a Chicago-based was launched in support of the Arts (PCA). The PCA helps a rally but the date and the company,” said Central Regional public sector workers in stimulate the state’s creative specifics have yet to be Director Kathryn V. Lamkey. Wisconsin. The campaign will economy through several key determined. “Lookingglass has long been a have events throughout the funding programs, and (continued on page 2) prized jewel in the crown of the month of August, culminating in community based grants. Chicago theatre scene. Now Labor Day Parades and other Governor Corbett has asked for Index the rest of the nation and the activities around the country. level funding for the PCA. world have the opportunity to The events, rallies and parades Activity around Marriage 2011 Election results ...... 1 recognize their compelling work. will be handled through the Equality is heating up in the From the President ...... 3 We are pleased to have worked NEWS State AFL-CIOs, individual State of New York, with a push Theatre Spotlight...... 4 with them since their early years unions and various City Labor to pass a law in favor of and it is gratifying to see them Councils. Marriage Equality as early as Robe take their place as one of the The Pennsylvania June. Governor Cuomo has 2010-2011 season ...... 6 UITY cornerstone theatres utilizing Appropriations Committee has indicated he’d like this bill to be National News ...... 8 Q the Chicago Area Theatre passed an amendment to the put forward. Spearheaded by 165 West 46th Street New York, NY 10036 Address Service Requested Second Class Postage Paid in New York, NY E Letters...... 12 Agreement.” budget that, if enacted, will Empire Pride, there are various 2 / EQUITY news JUNE 2011

Accessibility Initiative With D-Scriptive, blind or low- direct result of new technologies and consult at all levels to Area Liaison vision patrons hear a detailed such as D-Scriptive and I- enhance the theatregoing Hotline system continued from page 1 description of all the visual Caption, I have been able to experience. Along with my aspects of the production, enjoy live theatre again, since colleague Guthrie Nutter, I have of the original Infrared Listening including choreography, lighting, the complete loss of my sight. I worked with the Alliance on Call 877-AEA-1913 System, G-PASS develops and sets, and costumes. It is timed am thrilled that audiences with press, marketing and outreach Equity has a National toll-free implements D-Scriptive audio perfectly to the show’s cueing disabilities will now have the efforts, as well as assisted G- hotline system for members who description, I-Caption personal system, and adjusts itself opportunity to experience PASS with testing and refining I- live in Area Liaison and office captioning, and ShowTrans according to any fluctuations in humanity at its best and worst, Caption, their groundbreaking translation services. cities. The number is 877-AEA- the performance. Initiative live and onstage.” hand-held captioning system.” “As a result of the 1913 (honoring the year of Eq- consultant and Equity member I-Caption is an automated ShowTrans provides revolutionary technology by uity’s founding). Each Area Christopher Roberts has been system, which displays verbatim translations for foreign-language Sound Associates, we have Liaison city has its own exten- an integral part of the Initiative’s texts of the entire show, patrons, integrating the show’s been able to introduce special sion, where members can ac- success. “I am honored to have including lyrics, announcements light and sound cueing system accessibility services to every and show information on a to the action. cess news and information in been the accessibility consultant performance of selected for Finian’s Rainbow, The hand-held device and is To reserve I-Caption, D- their region. Broadway productions,” states Miracle Worker and now, Catch controlled by the same master Scriptive or ShowTrans services (1) Dial 877-AEA-1913 Anne Tramon, President of G- Me If You Can on Broadway,” he system used by D-Scriptive. “As following ticket purchase, go to (2) Dial your city extension: PASS. “In collaboration with the notes. “My work and contribution a consultant who is Deaf,” www.G-PASS.org, or call (888) Alliance, we can expand these 811 Atlanta will help enhance the theatrical explains Equity member 876-0801. services to more productions, experience and have lasting Alexandria Wailes, “I have been For more information on 812 Austin/San Antonio and hopefully, one day, become effects for patrons with able to bring my 20 years of Alliance for Inclusion in the Arts, 813 Boston standard.” disabilities. In recent years, as a experience to the production visit www.inclusioninthearts.org. 814 Buffalo/Rochester 815 Chicago 816 Cincinnati/Louisville Public Policy merchant’s fair share of the 817 Cleveland LORT Agreement Includes costs) and could give retailers continued from page 1 818 Dallas/Fort Worth $14 billion in windfall profits. The 819 Denver Self-Submission Rule Senate Health Federal Reserve was directed to exempt small institutions like 820 Detroit increase your chance of being Committee has moved SB 810, By Keith Howard credit unions, but the rule 821 Florida – Central given an appointment. the state’s single payer health Director of Auditions essentially subjects these 822 Florida – South Here are a few tips for care bill, out of committee. The f it seems that the number of institutions to the same rate cap. 823 Houston ensuring that your submission vote was 5 to 3, with one casting notices requesting The result could be increased 824 Kansas City comes across as professional abstention. SB 810 will move to photo/resumes for LORT pro- rates on credit cards, loss of I and worthy of serious appropriations in the next few 825 ductions has gone way up in the rewards programs and other consideration: months. Actors’ Equity is an 826 Los Angeles past couple of years, you’re not services (like free checking). In Read casting notices affiliate of Labor United for 827 Milwaukee/Madison imagining things. The LORT • response are two bills currently carefully, and submit only if you Universal Health Care, a non- 828 Minneapolis/St Paul Agreement now requires employ- under consideration - Senate are “right” for one or more roles. profit organization committed to 829 Nashville ers to send photo/resume re- Bill 575 and House of For these appointments, casting the support and passage of 830 quests for posting by Equity Representatives Bill 1081 - that personnel are not looking for single payer health care for all 831 New York whenever they plan agent-sub- will address this situation. The actors for “future reference”; they mitted auditions in New York, Californians. There are a Actors Federal Credit Union is 832 Philadelphia want submissions from good Chicago or Los Angeles. This is number of ways Californians asking that members write to 833 Phoenix/Tucson candidates for the roles they’re one of the many benefits Equity can encourage the passage of their representatives urging 834 Pittsburgh currently casting. achieved in the most recent the bill, including calls and them to co-sponsor these bills. 835 San Diego Submit only if you are free Agreement. • letters to their representatives. To learn more about these 836 to work during the entire In NYC alone, five of these At press time, plans for an event issues and how you can take rehearsal/performance period. 837 Seattle Self-Submission requests are in San Francisco June 15-17 action (letter writing, petitions, If your headshot and 838 St. Louis published every week, on • were in development. attending events) visit the resume aren’t digital yet, it’s time 839 Washington DC/Baltimore average. Just letting members The Federal Reserve Board Advocacy page for your Region to get this done, because some know that a LORT Theatre is in recently proposed a rule that on Equity’s website casting personnel prefer e-mail town, casting a certain would cap interchange rates (a (www.actorsequity.org). production, might be helpful. But submissions. If your the new benefit doesn’t stop photographer didn’t give you a there. The LORT employer is digital file of your photo, ask for required to give audition one. If no digital version is The Actors Fund’s Artists Health appointments to Equity members available, scan your photo. who self-submit (one per Consider converting your Insurance Resource Center: available role, or five total – resume into a PDF, because Keeping Equity Members Insured whichever is greater). almost every computer can open It’s important for members to them. If you don’t have the re you losing your health one-to-one counseling in person, EQUITYNEWS realize that this new benefit does conversion software, online insurance, uninsured by phone and via e-mail. services can do this for you free Editor: DICK MOORE not change any LORT Anow, or can’t afford to AHIRC is also working to help Associate Editor: HELAINE FELDMAN employer’s EPA/ECC of charge. maintain the insurance you cur- the entertainment community Carefully follow any Equity News Advisory Committee requirements. LORT employers • rently have? understand and benefit from the instructions provided by casting Christine Toy Johnson, Chair still hold Equity Principal Since 1998, the Artists Health new health care reform (Eastern) Auditions and Local Equity personnel. These folks Insurance Resource Center legislation. In addition to the Nancy Daly (Western) Auditions on a seasonal basis, sometimes get dozens (or even (AHIRC), a program of The downloadable Every Artist Diane Dorsey (Central) and they still hold Equity Chorus hundreds) of self-submissions in Actors Fund, has been helping Insured: Understanding Health Nicole Flender (Eastern) response to each notice, and Equity members across the Care Reform booklet, AHIRC is Bruce Alan Johnson (Eastern) Calls for each chorus musical. they can be forgiven for deleting Kevin McMahon (Western) The Self-Submission benefit country get and keep affordable conducting an Every Artist Liz Pazik (Central) gives members yet another submissions that don’t follow health insurance and find quality Insured Tour—www.ahirc.org/ Barbara Roberts (Western) chance to be seen by people reasonable instructions. Get medical care. everyartistinsuredtour— Melissa Robinette (Eastern) seen, not deleted! Read the AHIRC’s website— throughout the remainder of Buzz Roddy (Eastern) who can hire them or recommend them for casting. entire Self-Submission notice www.ahirc.org—provides an up- 2011, offering seminars at union EQUITY NEWS (ISSN: 00924520) is carefully, noting all instructions to-date, comprehensive and offices, theatres and arts published monthly except for com- With every benefit comes (some of which may appear on bined issues in Jan./Feb., July/Aug., responsibility, of course.You unbiased database of health organizations across the country Oct.,/Nov., by Actors' Equity already know that members who the Breakdown page), and follow care resources for artists, that point attendees to new and Association, 165 West 46th Street, attend EPAs and ECCs are them to the letter. performers, freelancers and the affordable options for coverage. New York, NY 10036. Telephone: Since the Self-Submission self-employed.You will also find The Actors Fund’s AHIRC has (212) 869-8530. Periodicals responsible for reading casting rule went into effect in 2009, short guides on how to get a mission—to have everyone in postage paid at New York, NY. and notices carefully, typing hundreds of members have been additional mailing offices. Copyright themselves in or out, preparing affordable health care and health entertainment and the arts 2003, Actors' Equity Association. well and auditioning seen at LORT appointments. insurance in 18 cities and insured by 2014! Services are Subscription price for non-members professionally.When self- Even though the program is new, regions across the country. available to all entertainment and of Actors' Equity Association: $25 submitting, members should we have already heard of casting Counselors at AHIRC’s offices arts-related professionals. For per year. Postmaster: Send address successes. Take advantage of changes to Equity News, 165 West observe some simple, common- in New York (212-221-7301 ext. more information, brochures and 46th St., New York, NY 10036. sense guidelines. When you this great benefit, and let us 265) and Los Angeles (323-933- events near you, visit submit professionally, you’ll know how it’s working for you. 9244 ext. 32) are available for www.ahirc.org or call today. JUNE 2011 EQUITY news / 3 Facts to Know About From the PRESIDENT Festival/Code Productions By Nancy Slusser Festival show—enjoy! But, as Eastern Principal Councillor an Equity member you should The Five C’s tiers. The Production Contract be armed with some facts about By Nick Wyman attempting to enact national, pring is here and another one-size-fits-all contracts from committee and its proposal the Code/Contract or hen I consider a festival season is upon coast to coast is sometimes selection team have put the Agreement that you will be possible job, it is us. To this end, Equity re- finishing touches on the S working. counter-productive. not usually to star cently hosted a New York Musi- W An interesting perspective is Production Contract proposals, All Festival/Code productions above the title in a new cal Theatre Festival (NYMF) to think about the Five C’s as a but we are still looking for follow specific AEA guidelines Sondheim musical or to have seminar. AEA Business Reps template for why we got into this ideas/suggestions for the LORT outlined through our AEA Spielberg’s next summer tent- Michelle Kelts and Kenneth business. It probably wasn’t to contract. How flexible do you Showcase Codes.You can pole franchise built around me. Naanep were present, along get Rich and Famous, and it think we should be in the LORT check out these individual It is usually a more modest with Gil Rogers, Chair of the certainly wasn’t to get health negotiations? In which areas? Codes by visiting our website, venture and to evaluate it, I use Off-Off-Broadway Committee. coverage; it was to exercise our Among the Three C’s, what are actorsequity.org and clicking on a template I call the Five C’s. In Equity members brought up creativity and be part of an your priorities? the Document Library. The 2011 generally descending order of their concerns regarding NYMF artistic community. That’s the I assume you keep my NYMF season will be under a importance, these five are Cash and Fringe productions. real bottom line for most of us; columns stacked next to your NYMF Special Agreement (will it bring me substantial This seminar was informative and along the way, we’d also like bedside for inspiration (or to unless on an AEA contract. sums of money?), Career (will it and pointed out the fact that to earn some money, keep our cure insomnia); if not, they are Questions from members: raise my profile, balance my many of our members still don’t vocation viable and maybe earn archived on the President’s Am I guaranteed two comps resume and/or move me along quite understand how Festivals some health coverage. The page on our website. Look them just as I am in other Showcase in my career?), Creative (will produced under the Basic tricky dance for the staff and over. There is a theme running productions? this role feed my artistic soul?), Showcase Code differ from an elected leadership is how to through them beyond the purple Answer: Yes. All AEA Actors Coverage (will this show give AEA contract. Therefore, I maximize the number of creative prose and soporific style. It is performing in the show are me needed weeks for health thought a FAQ column might opportunities while at the same that your personal success and given two comps. However, you coverage?), and Community (is help. time maintaining decent the success of the Union must request these comps this a chance to act with my It’s wonderful to be part of a compensation for those depend upon your participation before the producer sells all of friends or be of service to the Festival and a new production. If opportunities. As I said, we and communication. Vote. Send his/her allowable tickets to a folks I like?). I have taken jobs you get the chance to do a know the priorities and balance us your ideas. Join a committee. (continued on page 4) for each of these five reasons. thereof are different in different Plan. Network. Support one I offer you this template free areas of the country, so we another. No matter how big or of charge, though your order strive to be flexible. small the acting pieces in your may be much different from my Council Approves New In the next few months, we “mosaic,” we are all in this own. One thing that was clear at will negotiate AEA’s two biggest together. I hope your Career is a our Plenary National Larry Leon Hamlin/ contracts: Production and LORT. marathon not a sprint; I hope Conference was that the (In negotiations, the Five C’s your Creativity is frequently reasons why members do a Equity Code become Three C’s: challenged and fulfilled; I hope particular job are many and Compensation and (Working) you regularly earn health t its meeting on May 17, Equity Actors and contracts. varied and that these reasons Conditions and (Health) Coverage; I hope you make 2011, Council approved The Larry Leon differ greatly between the office Contributions.) These contracts some meaningful Cash; and I a new Larry Leon Ham- Hamlin/Actors’Equity Code does cities and the liaison cities. This A are both national, but we have am glad you are part of my lin/Actors’ Equity Code, for the not supplant, nor can it be used is one of the reasons that shown our flexibility by creating Community. exclusive use of the National to avoid, any existing Equity Black Theatre Festival. The Code or Contract; Actors may Code, which was recommended not join Equity under this Code; by the three regional Equal Em- and non-resident Aliens may not ployment Opportunity Commit- be used in Code productions. Congratulations to Equity’s tees, is named for the late The Actors and producers using founder of the Festival. the Code agree to negotiate a Tony Award® Nominated Members sum to be paid to the for BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN of the Desert , How to the project and this money is to ACTOR IN A LEADING ROLE Succeed in Business Without be considered a fee, rather than BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN IN A PLAY Really Trying salary. No benefits (pension, ACTRESS IN A LEADING , The Importance Forrest McClendon, The health, FICA) are included and ROLE IN A MUSICAL of Being Earnest Scottsboro Boys no Equity Working Dues will be , Anything Goes Bobby Cannavale, The , Baby, It’s You Rory O’Malley, The Book of deducted. The producer is to Motherf**ker with the Hat Patina Miller, Sister Act Mormon provide housing and round trip Joe Montello, The Normal , The People in transportation for the Actor and BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN Heart the Picture there will be a per diem rate for ACTRESS IN A FEATURED , The Merchant of meals and incidentals. If BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ROLE IN A MUSICAL Venice programs are provided, names ACTOR IN A FEATURED , Women on the , Jerusalem of all Equity members in the ROLE IN A PLAY Verge of a Nervous Breakdown production are to be so BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN Mackenzie Crook, Jerusalem , How to ACTRESS IN A LEADING , Arcadia Succeed in Business Without Larry Leon Hamlin designated. Larry Leon Hamlin founded ROLE IN A PLAY , The Really Trying the North Carolina Black Nina Arianda, Normal Heart Victoria Clark, Sister Act Luther Goins, Equity’s Repertory Company in 1979 Frances McDormand, Good , Bengal Tiger at Nikki M. James, The Book of National Equal Employment and the National Black Theatre People the Baghdad Zoo Mormon Opportunity Coordinator, Festival (NBTF) in 1989, both in Lily Rabe, The Merchant of Yul Vázquez, The Motherf**ker Patti LuPone, Women on the supported adoption of the Code Winston-Salem, NC. Held Venice with the Hat Verge of a Nervous Breakdown and wrote to Council outlining , Driving biennially, the NBTF takes place BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ® its goals: to support members Miss Daisy during the first week of August ACTRESS IN A FEATURED FOR LIFETIME of color that, due to a to, according to Mr. Hamlin, Hannah Yelland, Brief ROLE IN A PLAY ACHIEVEMENT IN THE producer’s financial limitations, “unite black theatre companies Encounter , THEATRE are not in a position to secure BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN , The House of Blue (nationally) and ensure the an Equity contract for the ACTOR IN A LEADING ROLE Leaves survival of the genre into the Philip J. Smith Festival; provide opportunities next millennium.” The NBTF IN A MUSICAL , Lombardi for non-Equity actors of color to attracts more than 65,000 , Catch Me If Joanna Lumley, La Bete REGIONAL THEATRE TONY discuss the importance of people during the six-days of You Can Elizabeth Rodriguez, The AWARD ® working as a Union actor; and, performances and events. Josh Gad, The Book of Motherf**ker with the Hat Lookingglass Theatre even though the Code is not an Since 1989, NBTF has Mormon BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN Company (Chicago, IL) organizing tool, to present presented over 291 theatre Joshua Henry, The Scottsboro ACTOR IN A FEATURED TONY HONORS FOR opportunities for minority-based companies and productions. Boys ROLE IN A MUSICAL EXCELLENCE IN THE theatre companies across the August 2011 marks the 21st Andrew Rannells, The Book of Colman Domingo, The THEATRE country to discuss the anniversary of the Festival. Mormon Scottsboro Boys Sharon Jensen and Alliance for possibilities of working with , Priscilla Queen Adam Godley, Anything Goes Inclusion in the Arts 4 / EQUITY news JUNE 2011

Eastern Region Central Region America’s Oldest : Almost as Traditional Summer Old as Equity Theatre Celebrates 81st “St. Louisans have always had a warm spot in their hearts for Season in New Hampshire the living tradition that is The Muny, and they’ve made us their The Barnstormers in Tamworth Gardens, the barn theatre’s 70th anniversary. family tradition,” says Dennis M. Tamworth, New Hampshire is in behind the Tamworth Inn, where Francis Cleveland remained Reagan, current President and its 81st year. Founded in 1931 they built a stage and had hard active with the theatre up until CEO of The Muny.“There are au- by Francis Cleveland (youngest wooden chairs. They then his death. He performed with the dience members who are third child of U.S. President Grover toured to various local towns, company until 1989 and and fourth and even fifth genera- Cleveland), his wife Alice, and closing on Saturday back in continued to direct although he tion season ticket holders. It’s the their friend Ed Goodnow, the Tamworth; hence the name, The had been diagnosed with audiences’ affection for The theatre, which operates under Barnstormers. In 1935, they macular degeneration in 1991 Muny that inspires everything we an Equity CORST contract, bought the Pollard’s Store and was legally blind. put on the stage.” claims to be America’s oldest building on Main Street and “The Barnstormers is an Equity members also have af- professional summer theatre still turned it fection for The Muny. doing the traditional eight shows into a 282- (Drama Desk recipient, Ain’t Mis- in eight weeks. “That’s the way it seat behavin’ and was done in the heyday of theatre. in the original Broadway produc- in Singin’ in the summer stock, and that’s the The same tion of ) and Lara Teeter Rain at The Muny. way we still do it,” says Artistic theatre, (Tony nominee for the Broadway Director/Producer and Equity renovated revival of ) both “No where else in the world member, Bob Shea. “To call The and have strong Muny and St. Louis can you take the two most Amer- Barnstormers ‘special,” he adds, updated, ties. Ken was born in St. Louis, ican things and put them into “is an understatement, not only but looking began his career there in 1973 one: baseball and theatre,” says due to longevity and the sheer much the and has performed there almost Lara Teeter. “When you come to volume of work, but mostly same, is every summer since 1994. Lara The Muny, you can sing the Na- because of the excellence of still the (From l) Equity members Frank T. Wells, Scott has performed there often and tional Anthem, have some beer this artistic community. For ten troupe’s Severance, Doug Shapiro and Dale Place in A Funny within the last couple of years and some popcorn, and watch weeks every summer The home. Thing… at The Barnstormers. moved his family to St. Louis the Great American Musical. The Barnstormers Theatre is at a Touring where he’s head of the musical Muny has been a great St. Louis crossroad, a dynamic point of ended with World War II. exceptionally loyal family, theatre department at Webster tradition for 93 summers.” connection for actors, designers Mr. Cleveland, who died in providing me with 33 years of University.This summer he’ll be The Muny, short for Municipal directors, musicians, dancers, 1995 at the age of 92, was an work,” says Equity member Jean Albert Peterson in Bye Bye Theatre Association of St. Louis, technicians and most Equity member who had Mar Brown. It has given me Birdie and his children will also has been around almost as long importantly for our network of appeared in the original roles that run the gamut, from perform in the children’s ensem- as Equity. In 1917, it was built supportive patrons and trustees. Broadway productions of Our one line maids to leading parts, ble, and both he and his eight- from scratch in 49 days, minus Eight overlapping creative Town and Dead End. He joined empowering me by its trust and year old daughter will be in Little seven days lost to rain, and has teams that collide in mid-air and the Union around 1937 when belief that the job could be Mermaid. lasted for 93 years—and count- done, and in a week.” catch each other in the embrace initiation was $40 and Equity ing. The massive stage W. Clapham Murray (known of respect and inspiration. We minimum was $25. “In about was constructed, an or- as Cope Murray), Equity are very lucky to be in residence 1937 more of the actors that chestra pit built to hold up member and Actor at The here for a privileged time in our came here were Equity to 200 musicians, all the Barnstormers since 1958, artistic and professional lives.” members. Then it began to be concrete was poured and Director and Artistic Director In the early days, the troupe everybody and it became an dressing rooms added be- from 1995-2002 says, “An Actor would rehearse in Tamworth Equity theatre,” he wrote in a hind the stage. All this comes to Barnstormers as a and open on Monday at The history published for the went forward despite the juvenile or ingénue, works his fact that the country was way to leading parts, then engaged in World War I. at any time. This may be hard to character roles and finally fades Facts to Know The theatre was com- do, but if you feel that your rights away into the archives of pleted on June 2, 1917 continued from page 3 are in jeopardy—leave. memory. It’s a special place. and Verdi’s was its Don’t rehearse extra hours We’re a family.” performance. first presentation. The first that aren’t stipulated by your “Thirty years ago, Francis Do I get health weeks on musical presented at the Code. The AEA Showcase Code Cleveland took a chance on me this Code? now-incorporated Muny was created to help showcase and every summer since then Answer: If your Festival was Robin Hood in 1919. our members’ talents, not to I’ve been able to work with good show is on an AEA Code you The Muny claims to be workshop new material. If there friends in a beautiful part of the will not receive health weeks. the “nation’s oldest and is not enough time to develop country. For me, The Only shows on an AEA contract largest outdoor musical your show through the Festival Barnstormers is the definition of receive salary, health weeks theatre.” It is surely the guidelines, perhaps your show a theatre family. It’s amazing and a pension contribution. Ken Page in Cats at The Muny. oldest. As for the largest, is better suited to an AEA what can be done in a week,” How much money will I there are larger ones, but contract. says Equity member Dale Place. make on my Festival “Way back in the dark ages of those venues also present con- Elect a deputy and report “As of the end of our 2010 production? 1973 before I left my hometown certs and other events. The any questions/concerns to season, we have put on 592 Answer: This depends on of St. Louis, I was hired for the Muny is the largest to host only Equity. Remember, if you don’t productions of 409 different the Festival. At minimum, you singing ensemble of The Muny,” Broadway style . report something, Equity will not plays,” reports Anne McKey will receive travel and expense recalls Ken Page. “It was the “The size of our stage (the know about it and therefore Batchelder, an Equity member reimbursement. most highly regarded and profes- stage opening is 90 feet wide) cannot help you. who was on the stage crew and Some other things you sional theatre job you could get dictates the size of the shows Check on any subsidiary a stage manager and actress should know: in St. Louis at the time. That and the level of spectacle we put rights you are entitled to by with the company from 1949- If you have any questions at summer I earned my Equity card on,” says Mr. Reagan. “We have, being part of your Festival 1962 and now serves on the any time, call AEA. Speak to our and was introduced to this amaz- for instance, used a 110-piece production. This is especially Board of Directors. “The eighth Showcase Rep. Equity can only ingly run theatre. It made a last- marching band for the finale of helpful if your production show of our 2011 season will be help if our Business Reps are ing impression on the young Music Man. We’ve flown a vin- graduates to a contract our 600th production in informed of a problem. Be man that I was and set an artistic tage World War II plane over the production in the future. Tamworth.” assured that all correspondence standard that I would take with theatre during the overture of Our best resource as with Equity is confidential. It is me to New York. I returned to and we believe Actors/Stage Managers is vital that you call while you are The Muny in 1994 to recreate my ourselves to be the only theatre communication. Communicate in production. Calls made Broadway role in Ain’t Misbe- anywhere to have had a real hel- with your fellow AEA members. Office Closing afterwards regarding concerns havin’ and have returned for icopter flyover during Miss Ask questions of our AEA Reps are difficult to verify and correct. All Equity offices will be closed nearly every summer since. I Saigon. We call these spectacu- and enjoy working. I know how NOTE: As an AEA member, on Friday, July 1 and Monday, would have to say quite simply, lar touches ‘Muny moments,’ and fulfilling doing Festival shows you have the right to walk away July 4, 2011 in observation of there is no place else like The they’re one more element that can be. I have done two myself. from any Showcase production Independence Day. Muny.” makes The Muny JUNE 2011 EQUITY news / 5 Yes, You Can—Book Jobs Through Policy Changed to Allow EPAs and ECCs Members-at-Large to Call By Melissa Robinette collaborative art. An audition the area and booked two of consists of the monitor, the them. In to Committee Meetings (In the May 2011 issue of casting director, the creative Lyndsey Cole went to a t its meeting on May 17, this issue following the Plenary Equity News we introduced a team, the actor and the unions. dancers’ call for the Chicago 2011, Council accepted in March, at which the series based on EPA/ECC If we remember every time we sit-down of . She a recommendation from importance of national member success stories. This month, we A audition that we are all in this not only got the job, she also the Presidents’ Planning Com- participation figured prominently. are focusing on members from together, it makes for a better got her Equity card! Turns out mittee (PPC) to approve a policy the Central Region who have The new policy will provide system and “work” place. The three out of the four girls in the change that would allow Mem- booked work as a result of greater regional participation other thing to keep in mind is production got the job from the bers-at-large to call in to non- attending Equity Principal and input from members outside that casting people want us to Chorus Call. Councillor only committee Auditions and Equity Chorus of Office cities; strengthen do well. The better we (the meetings. Calls.) Liz Pazik, who is currently national affiliation and reduce actor) do, the better job they Current procedures permit, working at the Opera the sense of “locals;” enhance ccording to Pam can do in bringing the show with some exceptions, only Theatre in Milwaukee, in The the leadership pool by increased Spitzner, the Central together. Adding Machine, has booked Councillors, Liaisons and Region’s Member Serv- Cree Rankin, Casting entry into the committee system; A many jobs through the system. members of Liaison Committees ices Coordinator, there were Director of the Court Theatre, deepen committee work She booked the national tour of to call in to committee meetings. 168 auditions posted in the stated he found three Equity The result is that many content, and result in a uniform Scrooge, The Musical! starring Central Region in 2010, 94 of members for their current Members-at-large outside of policy. Richard Chamberlain; the long which were in the greater production of Porgy and Bess Office cities cannot participate There was extensive running hit Shear Madness; Chicago area and 51 of those from the Equity calls. Mr. fully in the committee system discussion of the costs, extra Dennis DeYoung’s Hunchback were at the Equity Audition Rankin stated he loves the and thus the Union operates responsibilities for staff and of Notre Dame and Gary Center. Out of the 3,274 Equity Equity calls for finding new with limited input from Regional confidentiality, but in the end the Trudeau’s Rap Master Ronnie, members who made appoint- faces or people he hasn’t seen members. The PPC discussed measure passed unanimously. to name a few. ments or walked into auditions in a while. Erica Daniels, the without appointments only five casting director of the Ronald Keaton, the Chair of were not seen. (This makes me Steppenwolf Theatre expressed the Auditions Committee in the think about relocating to the same opinion. Central Region, says, Chicago!) Diane Dorsey attended the “Personally, I have had great I spoke with Adam Belcuore, Northlight Theatre’s EPAs in success through our EPA ALook Back Casting Director at the Chicago for years. Last year the system here in Chicago. It has offered me nothing but good Goodman Theatre, who said Northlight Theatre’s casting Membership Meeting in New news. No, I don’t get every job, the biggest success he recently director, Lynn Baber, submitted 75 Years Ago York, the President of the Equity but I do find a way to audition at had was from a self-submission Diane for TheatreWorks in Palo June 1936 Library Theatre Board notes that for The Trinity River Plays from Alto, California and she booked places that I normally might not • The Council at its regular “300 of you have appeared in Equity member Jefferson A. the role of Alice in Auctioning access.” meeting on June 16, orders a the 15 productions of the 1960- Russell, who ended up booking the Ainsleys. (Do you have a story you national referendum on a 61 season, and approximately the job. Mr. Belcuore reminded Matthew Scott Campbell, would like to share? Contact proposed amendment to the 180 received offers of me of a few things we all forget: who moved to Joplin, MO in Helaine Feldman, Constitution requiring Junior employment as a result…” Auditions are all part of the 2009, has attended five EPAs in [email protected].) Members to play at least 50 weeks in the legitimate theatre, 25 Years Ago for which they receive pay, as headed the theatre since 1977. Haire and Jac Alder. Mr. Haire June 1986 well as two years of BRRIIEEFF NOOTTEESS has been in the professional Equity anticipates that B N • New York’s Drama Book membership in order to qualify • Shop is the recipient of a 2011 theatre for 50 years, beginning there will be almost 50 Stock • Chicago Mayor Rahm for Senior Membership. Tony Honor for Excellence in as an Equity Stage Manager. theatres operating under Emanuel has appointed the Theatre, the first time any He joined San Francisco’s contract this season. Michelle T. Boone to be 50 Years Ago book shop has received such American Conservatory • An Equity Theatre for Commissioner of the city’s an honor. The Drama Book Theatre (ACT) as Production June 1961 Young Audiences (TYA) Department of Cultural Affairs Shop was born in NYC’s Stage Manager in 1971. In company, the Empire State and Special Events. Ms. Boone • Effective June 1, minimum Theatre District in 1917 when 1985 he became ACT’s Institute for the Performing Arts, recently received one of salary for Actors in “Standard ladies from The Dramatists production manager and, in becomes the first American Equity’s Central Region’s Spirit Productions” increases to Guild company to perform in the of Diversity Awards for her $112.50 weekly, with rehearsal unfolded a Soviet Union since 1979. The minority-based theatre expense money increasing to table in the Moscow Musical Theatre for mentorship and her campaign $87.50 per week. lobby of the Children arrives in Albany on for minority-based theatre • An historic contract barring ANTA June 2 to complete the leadership training. performances by Equity Theatre exchange. • Beginning with the revival members in places of (later the of ’s performance where racial Virginia Oklahoma! this summer, Arena discrimination or segregation 10 Years Ago Theatre and Stage at the Mead Center for exists is concluded on June 6 June 2001 now the when Council unanimously American Theater in The 401(k) Fund August approves a new contract with • Washington, DC has instituted established in the new Wilson) and the 54 producers of live a new Pay Your Age savings Production Contract goes into set out some Industrial Shows. program, offering discounted effect on June 25. Producers are plays to sell. Anita Hollander (c) with her daughter, Holland • Theodore Bikel (now tickets to patrons ages 5 to 30. to contribute an amount equal to Equity Hamilton (r) and Alyce Hershenhart of The Equity President Emeritus) joins This program was developed to • Wooden Shoe AIDS Walk team. 3% of members’ weekly member the Council for the first time on reach out to younger audiences compensation, up to a Anita June 6 as an interim appointee allowing them to experience 1994, ACT’s Producing maximum salary of $5,500 per Hollander has once again to serve until the 1962 Annual theatre at that Director. An Equity member week, to members’ individual participated in AIDS Walk NY. Election.` might otherwise be cost- since 1972, Mr. Alder and his accounts. She has been in the event for • Reporting at the June 9 prohibitive. late wife, Norma Young, 25 years—on one leg—and is • Darko Tresnjak, who has founded Theatre Three in in the top 50 AIDS Walk directed productions at the Old Dallas and he remains its fundraisers. Her team, The Globe Theatre, Williamstown Artistic Director and Executive particular. where, for more than 30 years, Wooden Shoe, is also in the top Theatre Festival and at NY’s Producer. The theatre (SPT 4) Council also has awarded she offered incalculable 50 teams. She is National Co- • Theatre for a New Audience, is celebrating its 50th season. Honorary Life Memberships support to Equity members. Mr. Chair of the tri-union I AM PWD has been named Artistic Mr. Alder is one of the two to two non-members: Susan Garbin is a longtime and campaign for Inclusion in the Director at Hartford Stage. longest-running continuous Cole and Leonard Garbin. Ms. devoted VITA volunteer who, Arts & Media of People With • Playwright and director Artistic Directors in American Cole retired at the end of although not a member, loves Disabilities. Cay Yew is the new Artistic theatre. Both members are December 2010 from actors and has provided Director of Chicago’s Victory • Council has awarded Life responsible for providing jobs Settlement Housing Fund, thousands of hours to providing Gardens Theatre, replacing the Memberships in the for Equity members in general, which did the original marketing them with income tax retiring Dennis Zacek, who Association to members James and in the Western Region in plan for Plaza, and assistance. 6 / EQUITY news JUNE 2011 (Photos: Walter McBride)

JOYCE CHITTICK Anything Goes J.C. MONTGOMERY ERIC SCIOTTO Scottsboro Boys Priscilla Queen of the Desert

THE GRADY MCLEOD BOWMAN GYPSY ROBE Wonderland SHANNON LEWIS The People in the Picture 2010-2011 SEASON CONGRATULATIONS TO THE RECIPIENTS

HEATH CALVERT Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson KEVIN LIGON Sister Act

MICHAEL JAMES SCOTT The Book of Mormon

LISA GAJDA CLEVE ASBURY How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying JENNIFER FRANKEL JULIO AGUSTIN Catch Me If Women on the Verge of You Can a Nervous Breakdown JUNE 2011 EQUITY news / 7 BC/EFA Easter Bonnet Fundraiser Brings In More Than $3.7 Million ix weeks of audience ap- 3 peals, signed poster and SPlaybill sales and one-of-a- kind auctions by 52 Broadway, Off- Broadway and national touring companies pushed Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS’ (1) 25th Annual Easter Bonnet Competition fundraising total to (2) $3,706,085. 2 Since the Easter Bonnet Competi- tion began in 1987, the event has raised more than $46 million for BC/EFA. This year’s Competition ended with two star-studded, sold-out 1 shows featuring original skits and songs, eye-popping dance numbers and the true stars of the show: the extravagantly elaborate, custom- made bonnets from 17 of the partic- ipating productions. The Easter Bonnet judges in- cluded Equity’s Executive Director Mary McColl, welcomed in her first appearance at a BC/EFA event, and Equity members Nick Adams (Priscilla Queen of the Desert); Montego Glover (Memphis); Estelle 4 5 6 7 Parsons (Good People); Equity Councillor Kate Shindle (Wonder- (3) Christie Brinkley and the cast of aux Folles), Sutton Foster (Anything touring show award was presented Last Session ($24,500). land); Book of Mormon composer Chicago; (4) the families from The Goes) and (How to to – Emerald City This year’s hosts included Judith Bobby Lopez; director and choreog- Phantom of the Opera; the kids of Succeed in Business Without Really ($242,212); First Runner-up: Mary Light and Dan Lauria (Lombardi), rapher Casey Nicholaw and cos- Billy Elliot, as well as songs, skits Trying) presented this year’s Poppins ($150,472); Second Run- and tume designer Marty Pakledinaz. and humor from the Broadway awards—with the Top Fundraising ner-up: Les Misérables ($124,019) (The Addams Family), Josh Gad La Cage aux Folles took top casts of The Lion King, Mamma Award going to Wicked – Munchkin- and Third Runner-up: Billy Elliot and Andrew Rannells (The Book of honors for bonnet presentation with Mia!, (5) Priscilla Queen of the land tour with $360,021. Top Broad- ($116,384). Mormon), Jose Llana (Wonder- a tribute to the first Easter Bonnet Desert and the Off-Broadway com- way fundraising awards were The top fundraising award for a land), Renée Elise Goldsberry Competition, hosted in 1987 by the panies of (6) Avenue Q and presented to How to Succeed… Broadway play went to That Cham- (Good People), Jayne Houdyshell original production of La Cage, then Freud’s Last Session as well as ($271,916); First Runner-up: pionship Season ($163,542); First (The Importance of Being Ernest) playing the Palace Theatre. The Ad- special performances from R. Evo- Wicked ($165,979)’ Second Run- Runner-up was Lombardi and Maxwell Caulfield (Cactus dams Family was Runner-up. lution Latina and Dancers Respond- ner-up: Billy Elliot ($151,363); Third ($86,099). Top Off-Broadway Flower). Highlights included a hilarious ing to AIDS. Runner-up: The Phantom of the fundraiser was Avenue Q ($44,072) For a full story and more photos, appearance by ; (7) Fierstein (La Cage Opera ($149,194). The top national and First Runner-up was Freud’s visit www.broadwaycares.org.

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THE NARRATIVE PROJECT A Multimedia Personal History of Actors’ Equity at 100

We’re creating a personal and lasting multimedia Visit and ‘like’ the AEA Centennial page at history of AEA through the eyes of Equity Members www.facebook.com/AEA100 to share your stories, across the country, as an integral part of the 2012 - 2013 images and videos or go to www.actorsequity.org Centennial celebration. for more details.

Please share your personal stories as an AEA Member, behind-the-scenes photos, personal images and videos, as well as personal memorabilia to include in the project.

The Ghost or “Equity” Light ensures the theater will never go dark and AEA History lives on. Photo: Lucinda Surber 8 / EQUITY news JUNE 2011

NATIONALNATIONALNEWSNEWS

Washington/Baltimore 27th Annual Awards Presented Stephen Day and Susie Roelosfz. at Warner Theatre (Photo: Brian Miller) By Gregory Gorton chorus of “That’s Why the Lady’s director. Denver on a Stamp.” Mr. Tune leapt onto the stage Washington’s patriarch of When Ms. Hayes appeared at to accept the tribute and New Cherry Creek Theatre theatre royalty, The Kennedy the first awards program she engaged the audience with a Center, led all others with 24 quipped, “Now I’m not only an brief, but exciting few minutes of Provides More AEA Contracts nominations and took home four actress, I’m an award too.” tap and spontaneous dance. The Helen Hayes Awards for its Non- By Lara Maerz, Denver Actors/Stage Managers in Appropriately so, the stamp that 6’6 Mr. Tune, holding his award at Resident productions of Liaison Committee future productions. Though bears her likeness is a “forever” waist level remarked, “This looks Thurgood, and they are not yet financially stamp. short!” He began his acceptance Member . able to commit to do so in all The Charles MacArthur Award speech by singing a few bars of In a year where we lost The Shakespeare Theater, future productions, it is for Outstanding New Play or “S’Wonderful.” Ever gracious and some Denver area Equity with 18 nods in Resident Theatre definitely something they plan Musical was awarded to The humble, Mr. Tune went on to say, theatres, the Liaison categories, lived up to its status to continue to pursue. Says Shakespeare Theater Company’s “It is such an honor to receive Committee is proud to have as one of the front runners, producer Pat Payne, “It has production of The Liar by David this, and to be in the company of assisted Cherry Creek garnering eight of the coveted been great having the chance Ives. such theatre greats as James Theatre in adding three awards for its Resident to work with some of Denver’s Earl Jones, Derek Special Appearance contracts Productions of and The finest. We hope that CCT will Jacobi, Robert Prosky, for its inaugural production, Liar. have continued success that Emory Battis, Stephen Side By Side By Sondheim. It was an evening of will allow us to continue to Sondheim, and many The production showcases celebration, reflection, humor, develop a relationship with others.” the versatile talent of local and the usual surprises, as the AEA and give members a A frequent theme Equity favorites Stephen Day 27th annual Helen Hayes Awards chance to work some more in running throughout the and Susie Roelosfz and were presented on April 25, 2011 this beautiful city we call evening’s festivities Stage Manager Lara Maerz at Washington’s historically home.” proved to be an alongside non-Equity actors ornate Warner Theatre. Cherry Creek Theatre has appreciation for the Zachary Shannon and Angela The evening began on a plans to produce two or three Washington theatre Mendez. Said Denver Post lighthearted note as Mary shows per season in the community and its theatre critic John Moore, Zimmerman, receiving the first of future, and the Liaison audience. “That this fledgling theatre the awards for Shakespeare Committee will work with Hollis Resnik, company would take on such Theater’s production of them to help aid in including Outstanding Supporting a brazen challenge out of the Candide—Outstanding Direction Equity Actors/Stage Actress in a Resident gate says everything about its of a Resident Musical, remarked, Managers in as many Musical for Candide said, creative ambitions and “ I am in total shock. I came here productions as possible. We “This is a fabulous already deep resources.” to lose.” are thrilled to welcome theatre community; Cherry Creek Theatre is Geoff Packard, accepting his . Cherry Creek Theatre to the warm, sincere and I performing in the back award for Outstanding Lead Denver theatre community, would love to come showroom of Denver’s Shaver Actor in a Resident Musical for The son of Mr. MacArthur and and look forward to a long back.” Ramsey Rug Gallery, and is Candide, found himself in the Ms. Hayes, James MacArthur, and prosperous relationship. Adventure Theater’s hoping to use Equity second of the evening’s ties. “I’m has traditionally been its Outstanding Production, Theater a twin so I’ve been tied all my presenter. He truly loved coming for Young Audiences award for If life.” Mr. Packard shared this to these awards named after his You Give a Pig a Pancake award with Nicholas Rodriguez, mother to honor his fellow actors inspired producer/director New York, Los Angeles for his performance in the Arena and present the award named Michael Bobbit to enthuse, Stage production of Oklahoma! after his father. Sadly, James “Thanks to the D.C. community Fund Sets Seminars Accepting the award for MacArthur passed away October 28, 2010. In his honor, an award for supporting children’s theatre Outstanding Lead Actress in a In New York, The Actors The Fund offices. This is open now bears his name: the James here. And I want to say a special Resident Play for In Darfur at Fund will conduct a seminar on to current Actors Work MacArthur Award for Outstanding thank you to my mentor Jerry Theater J, Erica Rose said, “ This the basics of investing on Program members. Supporting Actor in a Resident Whiddon.” was a remarkable play to be in, Tuesday, June 21, 2011 from 5- Reservations required. Play. The award was presented Victor Shargai, Chairman of but not exactly a date night 7 p.m. in the 10th Floor Information: (212) 354-5480, by James MacArthur’s wife, H.B. the Board of Directors for the play...except maybe for some Boardroom at its offices, 729 ext. 255 or MacArthur who noted, “My dear Helen Hayes Awards said it all: who might be kinky.” Seventh Avenue. Do you know [email protected]. husband is still here in spirit. “Theatre is not a consequence, The evening also served as an IRA from a 401(k), a money In Los Angeles, The Fund James was well known as an but rather a necessity, so that we the launching point of yet another market account from a mutual is sponsoring a four-week outstanding supporting actor.” know what it is like to be human.” honor for the great Helen Hayes. fund? This seminar will provide workshop on Managing Cash The Helen Hayes tribute, For a list of all the recipients of The Postal Service the answers. For information Flow for Artists. Sessions will sponsored by Jaylee Mead, was this year’s awards, go to the unveiled a commemorative and to RSVP, call (212) 221- be held from 2:30-4 p.m. on presented to the amazing Tommy Equity website at stamp honoring and 7300, ext. 184 or email Thursdays, July 21 to August Tune. In a career beginning www.actorsequity.org and click career of the remarkable “First [email protected]. 11 at The Fund office, Suite in1964, Mr. Tune has been onto the Wash/Balt link. Lady of the American Stage.” A two part time 400 at 5757 Wilshire Blvd. For honored with nine Gregory Gorton is the Each audience member was management workshop will be information call Tracey Downs, and seven Drama Desk Awards Washington/Baltimore offered a first day cover of the held on Tuesday June 14 and (323) 330-2423 or visit for his lifetime work as dancer, correspondent for Equity News new stamp. The tribute became a 21, 2011 from 5-7 p.m. also at [email protected]. highly entertaining parody by the choreographer, actor and JUNE 2011 EQUITY news / 9

San Francisco Equity Co-Sponsors Theatre Critics Awards

Once again, Equity was a In the under 99 seat (A Marvelous Party, Center proud co-sponsor of the San category, Equity members Rep), Supporting Francisco Bay Area Theatre Aldo Billingslea (…and Jesus Performance, Female; Ryan Critics Circle Awards Moonwalks the Mississippi, Drummond (), presented on April 4, 2011 to The Cutting Ball Theater) and Principal Performance, Male honor achievements during Dawn Scott (Intimate Apparel, and Velina Brown (Posibilidad, 2010 by local actors and Alter Theater) received or Death of the Worker, San theatres. Representing both Performance Awards. Francisco Mime Troupe) print and electronic media, 28 In theatres having between Principal Performance, members of the SFBATCC 100 and 300 seats, Aurora Female. saw over 400 productions from Theatre Company and Center In theatres with over 300 San Jose to Santa Rosa and Repertory Company received seats, Berkeley Rep, San Francisco to Concord. multiple awards. Magic TheatreWorks, San Jose Participants at the Asian American Female Playwrights Short Play Festival. (Photo: Lia Chang Equity, which represents over Theatre, Marin Theatre Repertory Theatre and 1,000 Actors and Stage Company, SF Playhouse and American Conservatory Managers in the Bay Area, San Francisco Mime Troupe Theatre all received multiple New York shares with the Critics Circle a also were recognized. Aurora awards. Equity members Geoff goal to support professional Theatre Company’s Trouble in Hoyle (Lemony Snicket’s The Asian American Female Playwrights Equity theatres in order to Mind received the Ensemble Composer is Dead, Berkeley improve the livelihood of the Award; Equity’s Rhonnie Rep), Margo Hall (Marcus, or Celebrated in Short Play Festival members who work there. Washington was cited for The Secret of Sweet (The Nearly 200 people attended were Victor Lirio, Peter Kim and The Critics Circle separates Supporting Performance, Brother/Sister Plays, Part 3), the Asian Heritage Month event Ernest Abuba. the awards into three Male; Tim Kniffin for Best ACT), Bill Irwin (Scapin, ACT), on May 12 and 13, 2011 co-pro- Half of the playwrights pre- categories: theatres with 99 Principal Performance, Male Jannie Jones and Jessica duced by the Eastern Equal Em- sented had had their work pro- seats or less, 100-300 seats and Margo Hall, Principal Wortham (Black Pearl Sings!, ployment Opportunity Committee duced at theatres around the and over 300 seats. This way, Performance, Female. On the San Jose Rep), and and Leviathan Lab, a creative globe, from to the theatre companies of similar musical side, Equity’s Klea Constantine Germanacos (The studio founded to support the . The plays’ diverse sizes compete and receive Blackhurst (Everything the Light in the Piazza, work of Asian American perform- topics included the recent earth- recognition. An award is also Traffic Will Allow, TheatreWorks) all received ing artists and run by many Equi- quake in Japan, online dating, presented for an outstanding Moon) garnered an award for awards. ty members. The Asian American dysfunctional Filipino families, touring show. This year, West Solo Performance; Noel For a complete list of the Female Playwrights’ Short Play ’s women, the Side Story, produced by Anthony (She Loves Me, awards, visit the Equity Festival featured 12 short plays Japanese internment camps and SHN’s Best of Broadway, Center Repertory Company) website: www.actorsequity.org. and monologues written by the Tiger Mom. received the nod from among was named for Supporting members of Leviathan’s Asian Recent statistics show that five nominations. Performance, Male; Molly Bell American Women Writers’ Work- only 17% of the plays produced shop. on America’s stages each sea- Among the playwrights show- son and 12.9% of major New cased were Equity members York productions are written by New York Leanne Cabrera, Elaina Erika women. In addition, not one Davis, Siho Ellsmore, Nancy Asian American female play- New Member Reception Features Eng, EEO Co-Chair Christine wright has ever had a play pro- Toy Johnson and Eileen Rivera, duced on Broadway. This event Guest speaker at the New production, followed by a initial motivation was just along with Nora Chau, Dorim was produced to foster the spir- Member Reception in New York potential SAG strike. With a survival; I needed a job so I Lee, Marisa Marquez, May it of hope that someday these City on May 9, 2011 was Tony wife and two sons and an could take care of my family.” Nazareno, Kristine M. Reyes and statistics might change, and to Award ® recipient Gregory affordable mortgage, moving During the Q & A, Mr. Jbara Susan Soon He Stanton. create a platform to showcase Jbara. the family back to New York told the AEA newbies to “keep Equity Actors who performed the talents of this under-repre- Mr. Jbara garnered a Tony, was not an option. He throwing things at the wall” and in the readings included Char- sented group. Outer Critics Circle and Drama supported audition for lotte D’Amboise, Jennifer Leviathan’s producing team Desk Award for Best/ the need everything. Be Prescott, Valerie Wright, Siho was represented by Ariel Estra- Outstanding Featured Actor for for a strong savvy and Ellsmore, Nancy Eng, Angela da, EEOC member and his work in Billy Elliot. He also SAG sincere. For “Billy Lin, James Chen, Helen Farmer, Founder of Leviathan Lab; Nel- originated the roles of “Andre contract, Flynn” in Zack Griffiths, Leanne Cabrera, son T. Eusebio III, Leviathan’s Thibault” in the Broadway but needed Chicago, most Cindy Cheung, Loresa Lanceta, Resident Director, and play- musical, Dirty Rotten to work. men dressed in Lisa Villamaria, John Christopher wright Ji Hyn Lee. They worked Scoundrels, for which he “The suits at the Jones, Jo Jo Gonzalez, Jaygee with Christine Toy Johnson and received a Drama Desk solution - callback, he wore Macapugay, Eileen Rivera and Eastern EEO Business Repre- nomination, and “Squash find a job a tuxedo and Sandi Carroll. Equity directors sentative Pearl Brady. Bernstein” in Victor/Victoria. in NYC. booked the role. Other Broadway and Off- Although it Gumption and Broadway credits include meant talent make you Philadelphia 10 p.m. to midnight at Coco’s Chicago, !, spending memorable; that Restaurant, 112 South 8th Privates on Parade and Forever time away extra degree of Get-Together Set Street (between Chestnut and Plaid. He attended the from my Gregory Jbara (Photo: Bill Kiefer) commitment pays Sansom Streets and around The Philadelphia Liaison and family, in off in the end. the corner from the Walnut Committee is hosting a post Juilliard, where he earned his case of a strike I wouldn’t have Regarding long term survival, Street Theatre). There will be show get-together for Equity BFA in acting. to worry about feeding them.” don’t assume someone else complimentary appetizers, a members and Membership Mr. Jbara began by A short time later his agent will do the work for you. Even if cash bar, fun and friends. Candidates on Tuesday acknowledging Equity’s newest called about Billy Elliot. Even you have representation, RSVP: Julie Czarnecki, evening, June 14, 2011 from members. “I’m so impressed by though he was not on the list agents need to be reminded [email protected]. you. Being a native Michigander, of people the production team that you’re alive and I only had the courage to come wanted to see, his agent was relationships with casting to NYC on my own because I eventually able to get him an directors are vital. The most New York had been accepted into a audition. In the three month gratified Actors are the one’s structured training program. So interim, Greg did everything he who are completely involved. The Lambs Not Lost to all of you who came here could to bring himself closer to Have an accurate profile on all The Lambs ®, America’s first restaurant located in the building because you so passionately the character. He gained 25 the internet casting sites. And professional theatrical club, the club erected on West 44th want to make it happen, I salute pounds and on the audition always stay in touch. established in 1874, is alive and Street. The Lambs, Inc. is a you.” day, shaved off all his hair. He (For more on the New thriving at 3 West 51st Street in private club for professionals of Mr. Jbara relocated from booked the job and said of the Member Reception and Manhattan, where it has resided the entertainment industry and NYC to LA in the late 1990s. show, “Billy Elliot has truly Gregory Jbara visit the Equity for 35 years. The Lambs has proud of its 137-year history. His career in LA was going been the most professionally website www.actorsequity.org never gone out of business, sold (The Lambs ® is a registered well until a prolonged Writers’ and personally gratifying job I and the Membership/New or licensed its name, nor is it trademark of the Lambs, Inc.) Guild strike stopped ever had. And interestingly, my Member link.) connected in any way to the 10 / EQUITY news JUNE 2011

New York Broadway debut in the 1986 for his performances in A revival of The Front Page and Small Fire at Playwrights Four Receive Equity Awards was nominated for the 1991 Horizons and Tigers Be Still, for part of Roundabout’s Outstanding Featured Actress Underground series. Other The Equity Foundation has Vow in 2009 after appearing in a Play for her performance New York appearances presented its annual Clarence in several showcase in the Off-Broadway include ’ Derwent Award (to most productions. promising performers on the received metropolitan a Drama Desk scene) and Award for his Richard Seff performance Award on Broadway (honoring in the revival veteran of Neil character Simon’s actors in a Brighton Deirdre O’Connell. supporting Beach Broadway Memoirs. Deirdre O’Connell and or Off- Other credits have received Broadway include the the Seff Award. Ms. production). original O’Connell was cited for her The Broadway performance in ’s In Santino Fontana (r) and David Furr in The Importance of Being Earnest. Derwent cast of Billy The Wake at the Public (Photo: Joan Marcus, 2010) has gone to Elliot, Sunday Theatre. She made her Tracee production, Circle Mirror Transformation, Chimo Tracee Chimo. Love and Roundabout’s The of (Bachelor - Anger. She is the Burning Boy; Blasted at ette) and in the Park the recipient Soho Rep, for which he Santino Fontana (The With George of two Drama- received a Drama Desk Importance of Being at the Logue nomination; Stuff Happens at Earnest). Roundabout, Awards and a the Public and Before appearing in the original Los Angeles Homebody/Kabul at BAM. He Bachelorette, part of Second revival cast of Drama Critics has three Obies and a Drama Stage Theatre Uptown’s The Circle Award Desk Award. series, Ms. Chimo was seen Fantasticks for her The Judges’ panel for both Off-Broadway in Circle Mirror and regional theatre work awards was Joe Dziemianowicz, Daily News; Transformation, which performances in Los Angeles. Adam Feldman, Time Out NY; received both Drama Desk at the Guthrie Reed Harry Haun, and and Obie special ensemble and Old Globe (L to r) Reed Birney, and Natasha Lyonne in Birney was David Rosenberg, Back awards. She made her theatres, Tigers Be Still. (Photo: Joan Marcus, 2010) recognized Stage. Broadway debut in Irena’s among others.

New York African American female playwright to have a play Staged Reading of Childress Play Commemorates Black History Month produced on Broadway in 1959 with A Raisin in the Equity partnered with the of 110 in the Shade, and my play from a subtle portrayal of American female playwright to Sun.) Roundabout Theatre dear friend, Charles racism from the perspective of be produced on Broadway had As stated in the program Company to celebrate Black Randolph-Wright, our most an African-American woman Trouble in Mind been done as notes: “Childress certainly History Month with a special recent recipient of the Paul to a “heart-warming little originally intended. She was, went on to a successful career one-night-only staged reading Robeson Award,” said Ms. regardless of this setback, but of Alice Childress’ 1955 play, Johnson. “It was a truly it is hard to believe that this Trouble in Mind, on February spectacular celebration of a Readings of “Trouble stunning play has not graced 28, 2011 at the American great playwright in both black in Mind” Will Benefit a Broadway stage until Airlines Theatre. The history and theatre history.” tonight. To some extent, production was directed by Ms. Simpson said, “The African-American Theatre Childress was just so ahead Charles Randolph-Wright, staged reading of Alice African-American abolition of slavery in the of her time that the theatrical 2010 recipient of Equity’s Paul Childress’ Trouble in Mind is theatres across the U.S. in 1865. (The word is world didn’t quite know what Robeson Award, and featured one of the most exciting and country, including Equity’s a portmanteau of “June” to do with her work. Trouble in a stellar cast of Equity important events ever Billie Holiday Theatre and “nineteenth,” and the Mind pre-dates the height of members (Bill Irwin, La produced by the EEOC in (Brooklyn, NY), day is recognized as a the civil rights and feminist Chanze, Malachy McCourt, celebration of Black History Crossroads Theatre (New holiday in 37 states.) movements, yet it speaks Tim McGeever, Erich Month. The content of Ms. Brunswick, NJ) and Congo “This national day of knowingly to these issues. It McMillan-McCall, Alano Miller, Childress’ play is as relevant Square Theatre (Chicago, celebration honors the also depicted the hypocrisy of , Don today as it was in 1955 when IL), will engage in a late great playwright’s the supposedly progressive Stephenson and Leslie first presented at the national day of celebration seminal work. It also members of the New York Uggams, and one non- Greenwich Mews Theatre in of African-American seeks to highlight the theatre community who lacked member, Justine Lupe- New York. We are proud to be theatre on June 20, 2011 African-American theatre an understanding of their own Schomp (a student at associated with this Broadway by producing benefit companies that are prejudice, but this unflattering Juilliard). The Stage Manager first and hope it will ultimately staged readings of Alice struggling for their very portrait obviously bothered the was AEA member Amber lead to a full scale Broadway Childress’ Trouble in Mind. existence,” said Mr. members of this real Dickerson. production.” The event, the brainchild McMillan-McCall. “It is community who could have The evening was Trouble in Mind premiered of Equity member Erich imperative that our helped bring the play to life.” introduced by Christine Toy Off-Broadway in 1955 to McMillan-McCall, also community spark renewed The original concept of a Johnson and Julia Breanetta enthusiastic reviews from both recognizes Juneteenth, interest in the art, the reading of Trouble in Mind for Simpson, co-chairs of the critics and audiences. As a known as Freedom Day or artists and the a celebration of Black History Eastern Equal Employment result, it was optioned for Emancipation Day, organizations which Month came from AEA Opportunity Committee. Broadway and announced to commemorating the nurture them.” member Erich McMillan- “We were extremely proud open in the spring of 1957 McCall, who is hoping to to collaborate with two of under a new title, So Early organize readings of the play Equity’s big award winners: Monday Morning. After two story.” She was not willing to however, the first African in African-American theatres the Roundabout, winner of our years of rewrites, however, do this, and the production American female to win the throughout the country, under ‘Extraordinary Excellence in Ms. Childress realized that the was cancelled. Obie for its Off-Broadway the auspices of Diversity on Broadway Award’ producers would not be Alice Childress would have production. (Lorraine PROJECT1VOICE. for their stunning production satisfied until she turned her been the first African Hansberry became the first JUNE 2011 EQUITY news / 11

San Francisco Los Angeles Great Turnout for is Guest Speaker at New Member Reception

Stage Manager Mixer Tony Award ® recipient recovery. He concluded with Fund’s mission as a Roger Bart was the Guest an excerpt from a letter nationwide human services By Les Reinhardt at first since you only had five Speaker at the New Member written by the late Equity organization helping all Stage Manager, Member of minutes to talk to each Reception in Los Angeles on member Robert Prosky: professionals in performing BAAC theatre company but, on the April 6, 2011. “It has been said that an arts and entertainment with a other hand, it was a fabulous Forty-eight Stage Mr. Bart’s Broadway credits Actor must have the hide of a broad spectrum of programs, opportunity to meet Managers (AEA and non- include You’re a Good including comprehensive representatives from many AEA) came from as far as Man, Charlie Brown social services, health local Bay Area theatres. If it Sacramento to attend the (Tony and Drama Desk care services, first-ever San Francisco Bay was offered, I would go Awards); The employment, training Area Stage Managers’ again.” Producers, (Tony and and housing. The Actors Networking Event held in When asked about her Drama Desk Federal Credit Union is Fred’s Columbia Room in experience, Ms. Johnson nominations); Young a non-profit organization ACT’s Geary Theatre on said, “I strengthened old Frankenstein, chartered in 1962 for the March 28, 2011. Heath contacts, though I haven’t got originating the role of benefit of Actors’ Equity Belden, AEA Stage Manager much out of the new contacts Dr. Frederick members. The Credit and Chair of the Bay Area yet. I thought the event was Frankenstein; Triumph Union, unlike Advisory Committee (BAAC) very well managed and of Love and the Lincoln commercial financial Stage Managers’ handled.” Center production of institutions, cares about Subcommittee, spearheaded As Stage Managers arrived The Frogs. Recently, at and serves only one the organization of the event. for their scheduled hour, they the Pantages Theatre group—the He contacted local AEA SMs received a contact sheet for in Hollywood, he entertainment and got the word out on the the 12 theatre reprised his role in community. AEA website and in Equity representatives they would be . Equity staffers Ivan Rivas and Doug Dixon News. AEA SMs, including meeting. Each theatre Film credits include The Stepford Wives, explained various Stephanie Schliemann and representative had his/her Jaimie L. Johnson, jumped at , contracts, Equity own idea about what the five Roger Bart the chance to be part of the American Gangster and required auditions and minutes would entail. Some event. The response was so the singing voice of the LA pre-sign felt it was their time to talk rhinoceros, the courage and great that Mr. Belden had to Young Hercules in Hercules. privilege, and Membership about their company, others audacity of a lion, and most create a waiting list, and Television credits include The Department frequently asked let the SMs talk about importantly, the fragile turnout was amazing. Event, CSI: Miami, 30 Rock, questions. Agency themselves, while others vulnerability of an egg. It also Twelve theatres from San Desperate Housewives and Representative Michael Van made it a pretty equal give- has been said, and I’m not Rafael to San Jose and all Law & Order. Duzer went over the and-take. The diversity of sure by whom, that the points in-between were Mr. Bart told about his commission schedule and theatres and individuals in moment of not knowing is the represented by Production career and the challenges answered questions about the room brought a constant moment that has the greatest Managers, Resident Stage Actors go through on a daily what it means to be an Equity buzz of chatter that lent an potential for creativity. The Managers and Executive basis. He also spoke about professional and private lives Franchised Agent. aura of excitement to the Directors. Each theatre had that exhilarating day when he of most Actors are filled to As Western Councillor whole event. its own table, and SMs moved received the Tony Award ® for the brim with moments of not Clarinda Ross put it: “ If you As an AEA SM, working from table to table in order You’re a Good Man, Charlie knowing. Actors are survivors have an Equity card in your primarily in the South Bay for when the timekeeper rang a Brown. A lasting memory was and will continue to strive pocket you can be an Actor, bell. With just five minutes at the last few years, I thought during the time of the terrorist because they have the need be active, go out and really each table, it was an this was a great chance to attack in New York City on to celebrate, in performance, do it. The New Member exhilarating experience. Said interact with a broader set of 9/11. He was performing in that sacred communion Reception provides our Ms. Schliemann: “I thought it companies. I can’t wait for the the Broadway run of The between Actor and audience.” newest members with a good was great! A bit overwhelming next one! Producers and took great Other speakers included foundation of information and, pride in the fact that after the Tina Hookum of The Actors hopefully, the courage and attack, the Broadway Fund and Gabriel Olmos of support to embark on a community came together, the Actors Federal Credit challenging but rewarding with Equity leading the Union. Tina spoke of The career.”

everywhere, funding for arts donations. people that actors have a programs in the schools has Councillor Margot union and the importance of been drastically cut. Moreland said, “I felt it was that to us, and ultimately to Proceeds from the Race for very important to be a part of them, we must do so. I realize the Arts will be used to offer this event since it directly a union is as strong as its special project grants for arts affects our Palm Beach members, and I have to do programs in Palm Beach County youth and their my part in making that County schools. My contact at interest in the struggles to happen.” Lisa Manuli added, the event, Annette Johnson, find funding for the arts “I was so happy to participate was thrilled when I let her programs, something our in the Walk. It’s such a great know that a group from the state of Florida feels is not cause, and I love to take Union would be participating important.” When asked why advantage of any chance that in the walk. We thought this she chose to participate in I can get to support what we was a perfect community this event, Elizabeth Dimon do. I’m supporting the arts service event in which to replied, “I felt after seeing and supporting a union that South Florida members racing for the arts are (l to r) Lisa Manuli, participate. It raised money how much unions were taking I’m very proud to be a part of. Margot Moreland, Ed Limia, Elizabeth Dimon and Irene Adjan. for an important cause, and a beating in the north, it was Can’t go wrong with that!” South Florida we got to show the support time for me to take a more Getting theatre-folk to and presence of Actors’ active role in my union and show up at 7:00 a.m. is no Equity to arts students and with the people that populate easy task, and I’m extremely Members Race for the Arts their parents and teachers. it. As actors, we see each grateful to Margot, Beth, Lisa We proudly donned our other frequently, but coming and Ed Limia for choosing to By Irene Adjan on Saturday, May 7, 2011. Actors’ Equity shirts and hats together to show support as a participate in this important South Florida Equity The 5K Race took place at and walked with a sign clearly union, as a whole, in cause. Thank you, too, to Liaison John Prince Park in Lake identifying Actors’ Equity solidarity, is important so that those who sent in pledges. It Worth. We chose, however, to Equity members in South Association. In addition to we are seen by others was a beautiful morning and casually stroll the 3.1 miles. Florida participated in the those of us who walked, outside of our close knit it felt good to give back to our As is the case most 10th Annual Race for the Arts members also pledged group. Anytime we can show local community! 12 / EQUITY news JUNE 2011

Los Angeles Scene Around Member Ed Committee Hosts Series of Vocal Seminars New York By Jennie Ford voice functioning, he works with Councillor; Chair, Western singers physically and by Softball Season Membership Education utilizing visualization. He Committee discussed the air space behind Opens Up in the soft palette (gaggy spot in The Western Region the back of your mouth where Central Park Membership Education the uvula hangs down) and the Committee hosted a series of The Broadway Show nasal passage and focuses on three vocal teaching seminars in League kicked off its 57th making the most of your air April. The guest teachers were season in Central Park on Rachael Lawrence, Dan while you sing. He also spoke May 12, 2011. Opening Callaway and husband and wife about jaw tension and keeping day ceremonies were team, Tom Griep and Evelyn the tongue loose so it does not hosted by Actors Fund Halus. retract back into your throat. If President Brian Stokes Touted as “vocal coach to the both are loose it is impossible to Mitchell and included stars,” Rachael’s approach is tighten up your throat. performers from Broadway that singing should be as easy As a musical director and shows collectively throwing as speaking and she believes frequent audition accompanist, out the first pitch and Aaron Tveit (Catch Me if You Can) singing the National Anthem. Others at the every actor should take voice Tom spoke about the audition event were Edie Falco (House of Blue Leaves), Billy Crudup (Arcadia), Tom Wopat (Catch Me if You lessons even if they don’t process and what works best in Can), Chad Kimball (Memphis), Gregory Jbara (Billy Elliot), Darren Ritchie (Wonderland), Barry Pearl consider themselves a singer. (Baby It’s You), Dominic Scaglione Jr. (Jersey Boys), Ryan Jesse (Jersey Boys), Mitch Jarvis (Rock of the audition room. As a pianist She strives to achieve the most Ages) and Will Swenson (Priscilla, Queen of the Desert). for auditions, he prefers music natural sound from clients, At press time, Equity’s team was 2-0. taped or printed onto card stock encouraging everyone that if Another softball note: There will be a charity softball game on June 27 at Yankee Stadium featuring because music placed within they can speak, they can sing. Broadway stars and Yankee oldtimers to benefit the Boomer Esiason Foundation Fighting Cystic plastic sheaths is often, due to She spoke about how many Fibrosis and The Actors Fund. glare, difficult to read. Be individuals work way too hard prepared to review all pertinent Los Angeles and that if something is difficult, markings and to sing a little you probably aren’t doing it from the beginning so that the correctly. She said directors, accompanist can get the tempo. Equity Joins Actors Fund Team musical directors, casting If your music is not well marked directors need to hear a brief, in Revlon Run/Walk for Women you are putting your audition at efficient snippet of a song that is risk. If you can’t read music, he Women and men in the entertainment industry, just long enough for them to suggests getting together with including Team Equity, joined forces on Saturday, May 7, experience you and hear your someone who does so that they 2011 as part of The Actors Fund Team at the 18th voice. But she reminded can help you make precise cuts Annual Revlon Run/Walk for Women. attendees that they don’t literally in the music and show you how In addition to funding the fight against women’s count bars of music. Rachael’s to clearly translate them cancers, participation also supported The Fund’s Phyllis advice: Sing only the best Newman Women’s Health Initiative, created to address section of your song and don’t accurately to the page. Evelyn is the myriad of concerns women face when dealing with a fixate on the exact number of a classically trained vocalist with serious medical condition. bars. extensive teaching and The Fund dedicated this year’s event in memory of One of the most sought-after coaching experience. She spoke , a beloved friend, colleague and teachers in LA, Dan is at length about being loose and supporter. Equity member Joan Van Ark, a member of classically trained and has a keeping your larynx down to get Team Equity, said: “I ran in celebration of Lynn—an hands-on approach. He is the most out of your voice actor’s actor. With every step and every heartbeat, I immediately able to identify without tension. They both thanked her for her greatness and inspiration. God what problem a singer has and talked about the purpose of a Bless you, Lynn.” how to fix it. His philosophy is song, what makes it interesting Joining Ms. Van Ark were AEA staffers Richard that singing should consist of both to listen to and watch, Ostlund, Maura Murphy-Barrosse, Jacy Crawford and three things: breath, space and emphasizing that purpose can his friend David Oates. Mr. Ostlund was the highest Joan Van Ark with Equity staffer Richard how easy it feels. To get the best be more important than great Ostlund. fundraiser, accounting for $1,000 of Team Equity’s total sound and the mechanics of the vocal ability. of $1,160.

U.S.Postage Letters to The Editor and other films. Dear Editor: Marc and his wife 44 Letters received from paid up members on subjects of concern to Equity members will be considered and In The Time of Your Susan, “Mom and Dad” of published as soon as possible. The Editor reserves the right to limit letters to 150 words and to select one The New England or two representative letters when many similar letters are received. Letters must be signed, but names Life, he shared the stage theatre community has the Worcester Foothills will be withheld on request for those letters which may affect members’ employment. Signatures will not with his wife Nancy Jeris, lost a friend and staunch family, created a be withheld on letters antagonistic or accusatory, either implied or expressed, against other members. wonderful environment Opinions expressed in Letters to the Editor are not necessarily those of Actors’ Equity Association. a wonderful actress and supporter of Equity. Marc great all-around broad. I P. Smith, founder and first for all working IN MEMORIAM Theatre; Victory Gardens Dear Editor: was 25 at the time. John Producing Artistic Director professionals — encouraging and Dear Editor: to the late, great National I was saddened by the and Nancy were nurturing of the Worcester Foothills nurturing talent and The Second City and Jewish Theatre. Joyce passing of John Craw- figures, who helped me Theatre Company in providing us with the entire Chicago theatre loved theatre. She loved ford. In 1972 I was privi- and several other young Worcester MA., passed opportunities to try new community lost a mentor, a artists. She gave her time leged to appear in a pro- actors survive the joyous away on March 23. Over things and grow as colleague, an icon and a to anyone who asked for it. duction of The Time of complications of road life. the last decade, Marc also theatre artists. He was second mother when She lent couches to sleep Your Life, starring Henry We played the Kennedy wrote and spoke on the fair, kind, generous and Joyce Sloane passed on and clothes from her Fonda, Struther Martin, Center, Locust Street reconciliation he knew understood the away earlier this year. closet. She arranged more Gloria Graham, Victor Theater in Philadelphia, had to occur between importance of Actors’ There are literally marriages than a Yenta French, Lou Gilbert, Ron- Studebaker in Chicago Germans, Poles and Jews Equity as a partner in thousands of individuals and loved your children ny Thompson, Richard X. and the Huntington Hart- over the events of the last creating a professional working in our industry way more that she ever Slatter and John Craw- ford in Los Angeles. European war. working environment that that can say definitively loved you. And she’d say ford. John was a Renais- Besides being a terrific He completed pieces on that Joyce Sloane gave so proudly. sance Man. A talented actor, John Crawford was Polish resistance fighter would be reflected in the them their start. I’m one of We miss Joyce dearly, musician and writer, he a kind and robust mentor. Jan Karski (who brought high caliber of work those people. Her reach but her legacy continues wrote the screenplay for His generosity toward my news of the Holocaust to presented on the extended far beyond the the minute the house lights The Ballad of Cable unformed life, helped me the Allies), and German Foothills stage. He will be historic Wells Street walls dim on every stage in the Hogue, starring Jason to become a more bal- underground anti-Nazi missed. of Second City—from city she loved most of all. Robards Jr. and ap- anced and enthusiastic opposition leaders Michael G. Dell’Orto Chicago Shakespeare Kelly Leonard peared as an actor in The professional. Helmuth and Freya von Greater Boston Area Theatre to the Annoyance The Second City Americanization of Emily Lewis J. Stadlen Moltke. Liaison