MAY “I’ve been through 2011 it all, baby; Volume 96 Number 4 I’m Mother Courage.” — ElizabethTaylor EQUITYNEWS 1932-2011 A Publication of Actors’ Equity Association • NEWS FOR THE THEATRE PROFESSIONAL • www.actorsequity.org • Periodicals Postage Paid at New York, NY and Additional Mailing Offices

Vote in AEA’s 2011 A Plenary Panoply Council Election By Nick Wyman s I had threatened in a allots were distributed on Monday, April 11, 2011. Even previous column, the if you did not pre-register for E-Voting, you can still vote Aentire elected leader - Bonline. When you receive your paper ballot, click on ship of Actors’ Equity – Officers, http://www.esc-vote.com/ae2011 . Enter your unique internet Councillors, non-Councillor Cen - log-in number and your Member ID. tral Regional Board members NOTE: The deadline for receipt of ballots in the 2011 and Area Liaisons – met for two National Election is Friday, May 20, 2011. Ballots must be days in New York City in mid- received by the balloting company by 5 p.m. Eastern Time. March. And what did we accom - Ballots will be tabulated on Saturday, May 21. Election results plish? Everything and nothing. will be posted on the website on Monday, May 23 and Everything was put on the table published in the June issue of Equity News. and nothing was resolved – and Twenty-eight Area Liaisons were among those gathered in New this was by design. This Ple - York for the Plenary/National Conference. nary/National Conference was The Shakespeare not intended to be a normal it (and I took 41 pages of notes) Staff was present but limited Council meeting: I did not chair fell into eight categories: Organ - their participation to listening Center of LA Receives the meeting; there was not a se - izing/Developing Theatre; Sup - and taking notes. On the other ries of resolutions to be voted porting the non-office-city actor; end of the spectrum, the up or down. Instead, Council - Communication –with members, Liaisons (who don’t normally 2011 LeNoire Award lors, non-Councillor CRB mem - with the outside world; Use and meet face to face) not only he Shakespeare Center established in 1988, recognizes bers and Liaisons brought up Support of Liaisons; Public Pol - brought up many ideas and of Los Angeles (SCLA) outstanding artistic contributions ideas, suggestions and con - icy; Committees; Gover - suggestions in the main body of Thas received AEA’s 2011 to the universality of the human cerns arranged loosely around nance/Relationship between the meetings, they also had Rosetta LeNoire Award. The experience in American Theatre. several general headings. These Staff, Council and Membership; three separate meetings on their Award was presented in a spe - The Award is given to an ideas and suggestions, as I saw Services/Member Education. (continued on page 2) cial ceremony to SCLA Founder individual, theatre or producing and Artistic Director Ben Donen - organization with an exemplary berg during the Western Mem - record in the hiring or promotion bership Meeting in Los Angeles of ethnic minorities, female on April 8, 2011. actors and actors with disabilities Budget, JobsTop Arts Advocacy Agenda The Rosetta LeNoire Award, through multi-racial and/or non- ational Arts Advocacy there was a White House brief - Ms. Horne joined the California Day was held in Wash - ing for sponsoring organizations delegation, meeting with Sena - Nington, DC, Tuesday, of Americans for the Arts. tor Barbara Boxer and Repre - April 5, 2011 with a possible Attending for Equity were sentatives Barbara Lee and government shutdown looming Councillor Marjorie Horne, Co- Lynn Woolsey. Mr. Berg met with on Friday, April 8. National Arts Chair of the National Public Poli - New York Senator Kirsten Gilli - Advocacy Day is an annual cy Committee, and Maria Som - brand and Representatives Ny - event organized by Americans ma, Equity spokesperson, and dia Velazquez, Carolyn Maloney, for the Arts, of which Equity is a Rick Berg, Eastern Regional Di - Nita Lowey and Jerrold Nadler. sponsoring member. It is actual - rector, both national public poli - During the presentation the ly a two-day event, with the first cy staffers for Equity. The Equity delegations addressed the eco - day consisting of a meeting of representatives split up and nomic impact of the arts on At the presentation of the Rosetta LeNoire Award in Los Angeles the several hundred attendees joined three different state dele - communities large and small in are: (l to r) Western Regional Director Mary Lou Westerfield; Western Business Rep Michael Van Duzer; SCLA Board member Jennifer listening to speakers on the gations from Americans for the each of the states. Part of the Hazel; SCLA Director of Communications Regina Cabrera; SCLA state of the arts and arts fund - Arts. Ms. Somma joined the Illi - discussions addressed the tax Artistic Director Ben Donenberg; Councillor and Western EEO Chair ing nationally, and the second nois delegation, meeting with revenues generated by the arts Barbara Roberts and Executive Director Mary McColl. day consisting of meetings with Illinois Congressional Represen - and each delegation provided Congressional Representatives tatives Senator Dick Durban, information about the number of traditional casting. and their staffs on Capitol Hill. and Representatives Jan jobs generated by the arts. Upon receiving the Award, Mr. Plus, for the first time this year, Schakowsky and Danny Davis. Donenberg said: “To fulfill (continued on page 2) Shakespeare’s vision for his plays, it’s critical for our productions to hold the mirror up to the history, landscape and Alliance for Inclusion in the Arts people of Los Angeles. For us to fulfill our mission and provide full to ReceiveTony Honor for Excellence access to these plays, we must lli ance for Inclusion in which we live. We have stayed distinguishes the work of make artistic choices, particularly the Arts and its Execu - true to that mission and artists, producers and all casting choices, that reflect the Ative Director Sharon continue to work toward that theatre professionals essence of our community. It’s an Jensen will receive a 2011 Tony goal with the leadership of committed to the full inclusion amazing honor to receive this Honor for Excellence in The - Sharon and the guiding wisdom of people of color and with recognition from Equity and it’s atre. The award will be pre - of Joanna Merlin, who helped disabilities in our industry.” deeply appreciated.” sented in New York on June 11, found the organization and In 1986, The Shakespeare 2011. continues to serve on its Board. Index Center, operating as “The Board of Directors is This acknowledgement

S Shakespeare Festival/LA, grateful to the Tony Awards represents not only the work of From the President ...... 3 presented its first professional, Administration Committee for the Board and staff, but the W Theatre Spotlight ...... 4

d union-contracted festival. E

e this incredible award,” said support of theatre professionals t t s e e 6 Throughout its 25-year history,

N Yes, you can—book jobs e

u Linda Earle, Alliance President. across the country and we e 3 g r q 0 Y t a e

t SCLA has created accessible 0 N S Y through EPAs, ECCs ...... 5

s “The organization was founded thank them as well.” R 1 , o k h e r P t Y

T theatre that reflects the people, c i o in 1986 by artists whose aim “We are deeply honored by 6 s v N Y I r s National News ...... 6 4 , e a

w history and landscape of Los t l k

e was to achieve full inclusion in this prestigious recognition,” S r s C U N e s o

d Angeles and follows a casting

s Final curtain ...... 12 Y n n

i American arts and adds Ms. Jensen. “By honoring W e r o w Q d 5 d c i policy that reflects the rich e d e 6 a entertainment and thus, the Alliance, the Tony Awards Letters ...... 12 1 A S P N E (continued on page 2) accurately reflect the society in Administration Committee 2 / EQUITY news MAY 2011

Advocacy Agenda million from the FY 2010 level of Area Liaison The Chalk Project and the $167.5 million, which is signifi - continued from page 1 Hotline system cantly better than the previous Triangle Fire Memorial The White House briefing in - House-approved level of $124.4 cluded remarks by Actors Alec million and somewhat better Call 877-AEA-1913 By Joanne Borts watch. Others asked questions Baldwin and Hill Harper, both than the President’s request of about the project. Most just Equity has a National toll-free ne hundred years ago, Equity members, and Kalpen $146 million for FY 2012. Also stood quietly, wondering who hotline system for members who on March 25, 1911, Modi, an Actor who has joined these young women had been – included in this budget bill is live in Area Liaison and office New Yorkers witnessed the White House staff as Asso - O and who they might have $25.5 million in funding for the cities. The number is 877-AEA- the worst workplace disaster in ciate Director of the White become. As I headed up to the Arts in Education programs at 1913 (honoring the year of Eq - its history before 9/11. A fire House Office of Public Engage - memorial service, I saw where the U.S. Department of Educa - uity’s founding). Each Area broke out on the ment. Other speakers included tion, which had been zeroed-out Liaison city has its own exten - 8th floor of the Tri - administration staffers Rocco in a previous continuing resolu - sion, where members can ac - angle Waist Com - Landesman, the former Broad - tion, and which representatives pany, one block way producer and theatre own - cess news and information in had told us would indeed be ze - east of Washing - er, now Chairman of the Nation - their region. roed out. ton Square. Work - al Endowment for the Arts; Lau - (1) Dial 877-AEA-1913 Americans for the Arts CEO ers ran to the fire ren Dunn and John Carson from Bob Lynch noted in a press (2) Dial your city extension: escape, but it col - the White House Office of Public statement: “Americans for the 811 Atlanta lapsed. The criti - Engagement; Peter Cunning - Arts is heartened by the final 812 Austin/San Antonio cal exit on the 9th ham from the Department of Ed - FY2011 federal budget levels for 813 Boston floor was locked – ucation; Ann Stock from the the nation’s cultural agencies, 814 Buffalo/Rochester a precaution State Department’s Cultural taken by the Diplomacy Program; Mark Zuck - which reflect a more sensible 815 Chicago sweatshop own - erman from the Domestic Policy and proportionate funding cut of 816 Cincinnati/Louisville ers to prevent Council; and Sally Ericsson, As - 7.5 percent to the National En - 817 Cleveland theft. People on the street people had chalked the names sociate Director of Office of dowments for the Arts and the 818 Dallas/Fort Worth watched in horror as desperate of other victims. All over the Management and Budget. Ms. Humanities. While we firmly be - 819 Denver workers clung to the windows streets of the Lower East Side, Ericsson received tough ques - lieve that the nation would be 820 Detroit while the flames licked at their each name on the pavement tioning over the President’s pro - better served with a more robust 821 Florida – Central backs. When the fire trucks fi - told a story of loss, of senseless posal to cut the NEA’s budget to investment in nonprofit arts and 822 Florida – South nally arrived, their ladders only tragedy, of the sadness that $146 million in his Fiscal Year cultural organizations in commu - 823 Houston reached as far as the 6th floor, overwhelmed a city. The 2012 budget. nities across the country, we ac - 824 Kansas City so many made the devastating similarities to the “missing” and In the deal that was reached knowledge the constraints of the 825 Las Vegas decision to jump. One hundred “have you seen?” posters that on the Fiscal Year 2011 budget current budget. We are also 826 Los Angeles forty-six garment workers - most papered New York after 9/11 to keep the government open pleased that the Corporation for of them women, most of them were unmistakable. 827 Milwaukee/Madison through September, the NEA Public Broadcasting and the Jewish and Italian immigrants, The ceremony, held in front will be funded at $155 million . 828 Minneapolis/St Paul Smithsonian Institution did not most of them under the age of of the former Triangle factory, This represents a cut of $12.5 829 Nashville incur any cuts.” 25 - perished. was preceded by a march 830 New Orleans From the ashes of this great through Greenwich Village by 831 New York tragedy rose the Labor thousands of people, some 832 Philadelphia movement. carrying shirtwaists with sashes A Plenary Panoply in consultation with the staff, will 833 Phoenix/Tucson “Chalk” is a public art project commemorating the names of take the next year or so to sift continued from page 1 834 Pittsburgh that was the brainchild of women who died in the fire. It through these ideas in strategic 835 San Diego filmmaker Ruth Sergel. Each was chilling to see these ‘ghosts’ own. One of these was a planning sessions. We will examine all these suggestions, 836 San Francisco year on the March 25th witness the culmination of the breakfast that I hosted for them, and we are committed to 837 Seattle anniversary of the Triangle Fire, service: a fire truck ladder that myself and Central Regional fashion the best, most 838 St. Louis volunteers fan out across New reached only as high as the 6th Director Kathryn Lamkey, who is supportive, most efficient, most 839 Washington DC/Baltimore York City to inscribe - in chalk - floor. the staff for the Liaisons. This the names and ages of the As I stood with my fellow was part of an effort to ensure effective organization possible. victims in front of their former Equity members and our brother that the Council and those Staff Over the next twelve to fourteen homes. A flyer is posted near the and sister unions, I was members present understood months, we will be announcing names, detailing how the fire reminded that we also stand on the life of the actor who lives a number of initiatives and new galvanized organized labor and the shoulders of generations of outside the New York, Chicago directions – all with the aim of the fight for social justice. I was courageous women and men or Los Angeles areas. becoming a better, more introduced to this project in 2004 who risked everything they had Having cast a wide net, we effective advocate and support as a volunteer and advocate for for the future of the labor gathered in a dazzling panoply for you. We are excited, and I the Workmen’s Circle/Arbeter movement: A Better World. We of ideas. The elected leadership, hope you will be also. Ring, and this year I was given owe them a debt of gratitude that two names to inscribe: we repay each day with our time EQUITYNEWS Violet/Velye Schochet, 740 East and commitment to our Union. 5th Street – 21 years old and For more information: Editor: DICK MOORE Rose Mehl, 278 East 7th Street http://streetpictures.org/chalk New I AM PWD Associate Editor: HELAINE FELDMAN – 15 years old. or http://rememberthetriangle Equity News Advisory Committee Several people stopped to fire.org/the-names/. Video Launched Christine Toy Johnson, Chair (Eastern) quity, ACTRA, AFTRA campaign, was founded in 2008 Nancy Daly (Western) and SAG have launched by AEA, AFTRA and SAG. AC - Diane Dorsey (Central) LeNoire Award Youth is an academic enrichment Etheir new “Inclusion in the TRA (the Alliance of Canadian Nicole Flender (Eastern) program that combines hands-on Arts & Media of People with Dis - Cinema, Television and Radio Bruce Alan Johnson (Eastern) continued from page 1 artistic experience with paid job abilities” (I AM PWD) disability Artists) joined at the June 2010 Kevin McMahon (Western) training, specifically created to rights video: www.youtube.com/ Liz Pazik (Central) diversity of Los Angeles. The Executive Meeting of the Interna - provide arts education to at-risk user/ACTRANational. Barbara Roberts (Western) SCLA demonstrates that such tional Federation of Actors (FIA) youth. The Will Power to Schools Melissa Robinette (Eastern) casting is critical to its mission by “There are a multitude of sto - in Copenhagen, Denmark. FIA program provides middle and ries yet to be told from our indus - Buzz Roddy (Eastern) providing actors of color the also approved the following reso - high school teachers innovative, try’s rich and diverse back - EQUITY NEWS (ISSN: 00924520) is opportunity to perform in roles lution: “Unions affiliated with FIA published monthly except for com - proven methods that improve grounds,” said AEA President that are diverse and non- are urged to bargain to ensure bined issues in Jan./Feb., July/Aug., traditional while also providing literacy, changes the way they Nick Wyman. “People with Dis - Oct.,/Nov., by Actors' Equity that performers with disabilities the audience with an opportunity teach classical literature and abilities are the largest minority Association, 165 West 46th Street, can request reasonable accom - New York, NY 10036. Tele phone: to see themselves reflected in makes Shakespeare accessible in the United States and Cana - modations without the fear of los - (212) 869-8530. Periodicals and make meaningful to urban public school students. da, and they have an enormous ing their jobs; to free people with postage paid at New York, NY. and connections to classical texts. The Will to Lead provides contribution to make to our lives additional mailing offices. Copyright advanced leadership and job disabilities from real and virtual 2003, Actors' Equity Association. In addition to its stage and to our understanding of the Subscription price for non-members productions, The Shakespeare readiness training and The Will human condition. Through the I discrimination; and to allow peo - of Actors' Equity Association: $25 Center offers The Will Power to Work places five to ten alumni AM PWD campaign, we are ple with disabilities to compete per year. Postmaster: Send address series that provides youth into internships with SCLA’s working to lower the barriers to equally for job opportunities with - changes to Equity News, 165 West mainstage/repertory actors and out facing bias or exclusionary 46th St., New York, NY 10036. enrichment and engagement those contributions.” programs. The Will Power to technicians. I AM PWD, a global civil rights practices.” MAY 2011 EQUITY news / 3 Two EMCs Receive From the Sturtevant Awards PRESIDENT By Stephanie Masucci “I was the Mayor of Munchkin Communications Associate Land which is funny for two Love and Boundaries reasons: I was taller than ayna Dantzler and Ed - By Nick Wyman to the flawless execution of the rehearsals (tech rehearsals Dorothy (who was a junior in ward Miskie are the show and the well-being of its without the actors). They call the HS) and I am now 6’4.” couple of well-known 2011 recipients of the company. show, helping pace the show by D Edward is eager to play stage managers passed seventh annual Roger Sturte - As a father, my philosophy is precisely calling lighting cues classic roles. However, his away in the last few vant Musical Theatre Awards, A that kids need two things: love and set moves. They help favorite role so far is from a new weeks: Beverley Randolph and given to Equity Membership and boundaries. A good stage oversee the installation of a production. “Last spring I was George Martin. They were fairly Candidates (EMCs) who have manager is a like a parental show into the theatre. They cast as Ian Wallace in the first ordinary stage managers, which demonstrated outstanding abili - presence on a show: firm, even maintain the director’s vision of regional premier of Rooms: A is to say they were extraordinary ties in the field of musical the - stern when necessary, and yet the show, viewing the show Rock Musical . The original human beings. I never worked atre. The award, named for the radiating a goodwill and regularly and giving the cast production was being rewritten beloved casting director who with Beverley, who worked some bonhomie that create a pleasant notes on their performances. and restaged and we were able died in 2003, consists of a cer - 22 Broadway shows before workplace. In Equity’s They direct the understudies in to work with the writers and tificate accompanied by a succumbing to a fast-moving Rulebooks, we don’t stipulate or up to 12 hours of understudy Broadway producers on the $1,000 check. cancer while she was even enumerate a stage rehearsal a week. They train material and staging. The show Dayna Dantzler has been Production Stage Manager for manager’s duties, preferring to and put in cast replacements. itself is a truly amazing piece of interested in theatre since she The Addams Family , but George leave it to a stage manager’s They write up a report about theatre and hands down the was a child watching musical put me into the show when I discretion as to which jobs and each performance. most fulfilling role I’ve ever been theatre on videos, but it was a replaced Kevin Kline in On the duties are necessary and which Clearly stage managers do Twentieth Century . are inappropriate; but here, for far more work and work far These two came to stage those of you who are not stage longer hours than actors do. We managing via different routes: managers (and those of you acknowledge this in our Beverley was a stage manager who are will know how far from contracts by negotiating a from the get-go and George, complete this list is), is a partial higher minimum salary for them who was one of the last list of some of the things stage (though this financial gain is connections to the glory days of managers do. undercut somewhat by a stage Jack Cole, did a dozen They arrive an hour early for manager being less likely than Broadway shows as a dancer, rehearsals and performances. an actor to negotiate above dance captain and assistant They set up the rehearsal room. minimum). choreographer before becoming They tape out the set. They They deserve even more a stage manager six times for organize and set out the props. acknowledgement for the care Hal Prince. His last show as They make out the daily they take of the rest of us. We Hal’s Production Stage Manager schedule. They make coffee. can no longer tell Beverley or was Evita , which was Beverley’s They copy and distribute George how much we second Broadway job; and she changes in the script. They appreciate them; but this Edward Miskie (l) accepts a check from President Nick Wyman. went on to be Hal’s PSM on his annotate the blocking. They Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, next seven shows. What they enter the lighting cues (the fly e-mail or text or Facebook your theatre production class in given the chance to live in.” shared, in addition to Mr. Prince cues, the set cues, the favorite stage manager and school that sparked her interest When Edward received the and in common with most stage automation cues, etc.) into the thank her or him for the love and to pursue it as a career. news that he was the 2011 managers, was a commitment script. They run dry tech the boundaries. Dayna’s first “professional recipient of the Roger Sturtevant theatre audition” was during her Award, he automatically sophomore year of college at “thought I was in trouble for Western Michigan University for some reason and braced Equity’s Bonding Policy And Theatre Performance. “I myself.” auditioned for three summer stock theatres How it Works and received offers from he Equity Bond is one of contracts in a timely manner period. Seasonal theatres two of them. Funny the Union’s cornerstone takes on even greater include all Stock, LORT, Dinner enough, the theatre I did Tprovisions to protect its significance since Equity has Theatres, Letters of Agreement not get an offer from, I members. It has been in place in introduced electronic and Small Professional felt was my best Equity’s contracts for decades, employment contracts, which Theatres. audition.” and has been used on numer - may be released to producers When Equity receives more “Receiving this award ous occasions to rescue mem - via email after a bond is contracts than are protected by means that I am on the bers from defaulting producers secured. the bond, the Union demands right track,” she says. “I or theatres. Here’s how it works: The that additional bond monies be am right where I am Almost all producers are amount of the bond is immediately posted (except in supposed to be in this required to post a bond with determined by whether or not summer stock where the season journey called life. It also Equity. (There are a few you are employed by a “single is too limited and the run of the means that my work is exceptions, where producers unit” producer or a seasonal shows too short for this to be appreciated and I am one “pre-pay” salaries and benefits, theatre. administratively possible). step closer to e.g. under the Guest Artist Single Unit Productions Should the producer fail to opportunities that are still Dayna Dantzler shows off her Roger agreement.) This bond ensures increase the bond, the member Sturtevant Award certificate. Only single unit productions to come. I am so grateful that if an employer defaults in will have the option of canceling are fully protected by a bond— to Jane and Cliff Johnson his/her obligations to Equity, you the contract without any further He is “beyond honored” to be to the extent contracts have who founded this award, and the will receive the minimum salary, obligation to the employer. receiving this award. “To me this been filed with Equity. A single panel at Actors’ Equity for giving pension and health credits Therefore, filing your contract award reassures me and unit production is one that is a voice to those of us trying to guaranteed by the agreement may make the difference in validates that this is definitely individually produced (whether get our foot through the door!” (generally two weeks Equity’s ability to obtain a bond the path that I am to be on and by one or more producers) that Dayna can currently be seen contractual salary and benefits). increase that will protect your will hopefully bring new and is not part of a regular season of as Celie in the touring company However, your guarantee is contractual guarantees. exciting opportunities my way.” plays presented by a specific of The Color Purple . She has contingent upon the proper filing If you are employed at a Edward has a message for theatre. Production Contract, been performing with the touring of your contract. seasonal theatre that defaults, everyone who did not go to Cabaret, HAT, BAT, Off- company since February, 2010 If you are working under any you may receive only the portion college for musical theatre: Broadway and Mini-Contract and the show will run through Equity agreement, you must file of the contract guarantee that is "Don't feel limited by not having shows are examples of single June of this year. a signed copy of your contract available in the bond. Equity gone to college and don't let unit productions. Musical theatre has also with Equity no later than first can’t make up any difference, anyone who tells you otherwise been a part of Edward Miskie’s rehearsal. This helps the Union Seasonal Theatres but will pursue the defaulting stop you from going after your life since a very young age. At to enforce your contract, Seasonal theatres post a employer legally in an effort to goals. Work hard, stay tough the age of 9, he was cast in a assuring that your production is bond for the largest number of secure the full obligation due to and play the game.” production of The Wizard of Oz. properly bonded. Filing active contracts in a two-week the members. 4 / EQUITY news MAY 2011

Eastern Region Central Region New London Barn The Music Theatre Playhouse: An “Old” Company –Where Musicals Theatre New to AEA Make a Difference

ew London Barn Play - casting process to usicals production of Merrily We Roll house in New London, take part in what is “ are Along, says, “An Equity contract NNew Hampshire has known as Broadway Mpopular. is a commitment to respect. It They’re a great way to means the theatre respects its been around since 1933. Yes, Boot Camp. Many commitment to emerging artists,” state important ideas. Ideas that Actors’ and Stage Managers’ 1933. It is the oldest, continu - “Barnies” who have gone on to says Ms. Dunne. “By becoming could make a difference,” says time, efforts and talent. It ously operating summer stock success in the entertainment an Equity theatre, we are making the character Franklin Shepard in manifests itself in the rehearsal theatre in New Hampshire and industry got early training at the a stronger commitment to the Stephen Sondheim and George room—the company implicitly is listed in the state’s Register of professionalism of our company Furth’s musical, Merrily We Roll recognizes that ‘we’re all here to Historic Places. For its first pro - and actively training our non- Along , presented recently by The work,’ to enjoy the work and give duction, three one-act plays, Equity actors and stage Music Theatre Company in ourselves to it full-heartedly.” tickets were 50 cents; pillows a managers to become fully Highland Park, Illinois. David A. Loranca, Equity nickel. Actors came from Mount professional. We are so grateful The Music Theatre Company Production Stage Manager of Holyoke College and the com - to Equity for working with us to is now in its third season on a Merrily We Roll Along , agrees, munity. help this 79-year old landmark CAT (Chicago Area Theatre) and adds, “Working with The The theatre has survived move into the future in such an Developmental Theatre, Tier N2 Music Theatre Company on an several changes of ownership; important way.” agreement. “I deliberately chose Equity contract demonstrates changes of format from “old “I’m getting ready to go back to make The Music Theatre that even young companies in chestnuts” to musical comedy; to the Barn for my third summer,” Company an Equity company Chicago can work with AEA to changes in the theatre building says Equity member Tom Ford. when I founded it because I bring their productions under itself; fluctuations in the “Carol Dunne in a very short believe in the tenets of the contract and begin working with economy; and World War II, period of time has evolved the Union,” says Founding Artistic Union actors and stage when scores of summer stock theatre from a charming summer Director Jessica Redish. “I managers.” theatres closed, many never to stock theatre into a truly thriving believe that the structure of The company also includes a reopen. Yet, NLBP goes on. professional company. Each rehearsals and breaks required collective of Northwestern Over the years the Playhouse summer she brings together an New London Barn Playhouse by the Union breeds productivity. University graduates, Ms. has used Equity Guest Artist amazing group of young people Artistic Director Carol Dunne. My colleagues are Equity Agreements, and in 2010 Equity from top theatre training and the community of members garnered four of the programs and blends them Playhouse, including Steven Highland Park, where we nine NH Theatre Awards the together with us ‘professionals.’ Schwartz (composer of Wicked , are located, recognizes theatre received for its Theoretically, the ‘youngsters’ are among others) and Casey and values the stellar skill production of The Pirates of supposed to be learning from the Nicholaw (currently represented set of our artists who are Penzance : Best Supporting Actor ‘seasoned pros.’ But I’ve found on Broadway as Co-Director and in the Union.” in a Musical, Tom Ford; Best myself challenged and Choreographer of The Book of Ms. Redish founded Supporting Actress in a Musical, invigorated by having to keep up Mormon ). the theatre because she Debra Buckley; Best Musical with some truly wonderful young For 2011, after much loves musical theatre. “It Director, Joel Mercier; and Best actors. This summer I’ll be doing negotiation, the theatre has offers a unique synthesis Director of a Musical, Carol Pseudolous in Forum , The Man signed a four year Transitional of text, music and Dunne. in the Chair in The Drowsy Small Professional Theatre dramatic moment—and The Equity actors work with Chaperone and Sheridan (SPT) Agreement with Equity. the result is nothing short participants in the company’s Whiteside in The Man Who Artistic Director Carol Dunne is of thrilling,” she says. Her Intern Program, primarily college Came to Dinner. Do I need to largely responsible for this. “The theatre’s mission reflects students majoring in theatre, add that Carol Dunne certainly New London Barn Playhouse that love: “Through the who are selected after a careful knows how to woo a guy?” has long been known for its presentation of fully- staged productions, commissions of new (Left to r) AEA members Jarrod we’ve been working as an Equity Zimmerman, Dara Cameron and Alan Western Region works, musical company from our inception.” Schmuckler in Merrily We Roll Along experiments and an Third Rail in Third Season Why Third Rail? Mr. Yarbrough at The Music Theatre Company. interactive dialogue (Photo: Ivar Pix) answers: “Because we’d all between artist and Under Equity SPT-3 Contract moved to Portland from New community, the company calls Redish’s alma mater. She moved emonstrating ambitious 2001 and 2002. “We were in our York (even though most of the upon the talents of nationally- to New York after graduation and and rapid growth over a mid to late 30s and a little old to founders grew up in Portland), based professional musical then returned to the Chicago three-year period, and be starting a company, but we and we had an East Coast, D theatre artists to create work in area to found The Music Theatre producing nine plays employing decided to give it a shot,” says urban sensibility that we wanted Highland Park. The Music Company. Highland Park is the 28 Equity members under the Producing Artistic Director Scott to bring to our work. The name Theatre Company explores the site of the theatre because Ms. Western Region’s Umbrella Yarbrough. “Since three of the Third Rail came from the musical in the interest of Redish grew up there, attended Agreement, Third Rail Reper - four actors in the founding group electrified rail that provides the expanding the canon of musical youth theatre programs there tory Theatre in Portland, Oregon were Equity members, we knew power to run New York subway theatre.” and, “it’s a city that prioritizes the converted to operation under that we’d have to approach our cars. We liked the imagery of Alan Schmuckler, an Equity arts and is an extremely SPT-3 in its 2008-2009 season. production model and budgeting electricity, power, propulsion and member in the group’s supportive community.” Three years later, TRR is pro - with Equity salaries in mind, so danger that the name invoked ducing its 18th production and and believe, at its will have employed an additional best, the name 37 Actors and nine Stage Man - describes our work that it is possible to regularly long term commitment to agers by the end of May, 2011. very well.” provide work for Equity actors professionalism, translating into The group has moved from its The group and grow the company as well.” first rate productions for our original 99-seat house to a 220- currently has 11 Equity member Philip Cuomo community.” seat venue and is moving to a Equity actors and, says, “Working under an Equity Jacklyn Maddux adds, “As a 300-seat space in the fall. The says Mr. Yarbrough, contract guarantees we are long time Equity member in New subscriber base has kept “we take great pride working with the most York moving to Portland, I was pace—growing from 150 in the in being an Equity professional and experienced delighted to find an Equity first season to over 1,000. company. We started actors meeting our long term ensemble company doing the Clearly, Third Rail Rep remains from very little in goal of producing a local theatre highest professional work. Our on track. terms of financing, but at a consistently high level. community has come to trust us It was founded in 2003, during the quality of our Working with a company of to present work that will economically challenging times, performers mixed with artists is amazing. We get to challenge them and ourselves. by a group of actors and a the investment they know each other’s tendencies, We are an Equity company and director who had all either gone have in the success passions and foibles and are all that means professional actors to school, toured or performed of the company, has better artists for it. And as is the striving to do work of a with each other individually and Valerie Stevens (l) and Maureen Porter in allowed us to show case with Third Rail and its consistently fine quality.” had moved to Portland between TRR’s The Wonderful World of Dissocia . smaller companies Equity members, we share a MAY 2011 EQUITY news / 5 Yes, You Can — Book Jobs How I Through EPAs and ECCs Got My By Melissa Robinette Schaefer went to an EPA for the Shows ( Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Broadway company of Phantom and A Chorus Line ) through Equity Card here is a dirty rumor on of the Opera . Six months later ECCs and the national tour of the street and I’m here he got a call from the casting Some Like It Hot starring Tony to tell you that rumor is T office with a callback. Before he Curtis from an ECC. not one bit true! I have heard it, knew it he was making his Jana Cardia recently not only in New York, but all over Broadway debut with The appeared in Sweeney Todd at Julie Halston the United States! The dirty I still worked on Wall Street Phantom of the Opera . Currently the Fulton Opera House thanks By Julie Halston rumor: “People never book work for another two years (yes, I Paul’s official titles are to an ECC. She has lived in hen I came to New from an EPA (Equity Principal worked as a research manager “Marksman” and NYC for ten years and has York City from col - Audition) or ECC (Equity Chorus by day and a Vampire Lesbian “Raoul/Phantom understudy.” always had an agent, but has lege in the late Call).” I don’t know where this W at night) but by 1987 the market Erin Wegner attended the only ever booked work through 1970s, I was fortunate enough rumor came from or even how it had crashed, I got an agent and EPA for the Young Frankenstein an EPA/ECC. She stresses that to book a few commercials right got started, but I do know I do I was able to join SAG. I have tour last summer. Four callbacks it isn’t that her agent doesn’t get away for soap products. I admit not have to look far to prove it been a proud union member for for three different characters her appointments or open doors it did help that an aunt of mine wrong. all these years and I have never later, she landed “ensemble” for her, she just has better luck was in the advertising business I’m an Eastern Regional regretted leaving the financial and the cover of “Elizabeth” and through the EPA/ECCs. Jana so she was able to steer me to - Chorus Councillor who, like world for the more erratic life of “Frau Blucher.” In fact, Erin says, “I am grateful to have the ward the right casting agents many of our members, does not professional theatre. And al - states that 12 of the cast ability to create my own and advertisers. That helped me have an agent. The only way for though the corporate world gets members from Young opportunities through the good get an AFTRA card and it was me to book a job is through an on very well without me, I am Frankenstein got their jobs from old fashioned process of my first experience with being EPA or ECC. I’m currently still in contact with many of my EPA/ECCs. pounding the pavement!” part of a union and I was very working at the Riverside Theatre friends from “The Street” and Jamil Chokachi and Justin proud. (Vero Beach, FL) in Buddy, The After all; if you don’t show up some were even investors in our Holcomb recently booked the However, I knew that the card Musical that I booked from an for the audition, you won’t book theatre company. But my real new Off Broadway, two-person I wanted the most was my Equi - ECC. I even booked the Off the job! thanks goes to Equity for mak - play, Channeling Kevin Spacey ty card because I knew I wanted Broadway hit The Marvelous ing our working lives so much from the EPA. This was the first to be on the stage. I did do a few Wonderettes through an EPA (This article kicks off a new better. time Jamil has booked a job Equity-approved showcases and and get called back for series in Equity News on EPA Julie Halston, a native New from an EPA. He says, “I went to I built up some points toward Broadway often. Success Stories. Next month, Yorker, is a Founding Member of this EPA because the character getting my card. But by 1983, According to Keith Howard, we’ll report on EPAs in the Charles Busch’s theatre compa - breakdown was very thorough, nothing was really happening for Director of Auditions, in 2010 Central Region. Members have ny and has performed in several seemed exciting, and it was me and I was getting rather dis - New York City alone held 613 been submitting their stories plays by Mr. Busch: Vampire right up my alley. I had one couraged. I took a “real” job on EPA sessions and 306 ECCs. and we hope to publish them in Lesbians of Sodom ( 1984), The callback and the process was Wall Street and was seriously Equity members not only book future issues. If an EPA/ECC Lady in Question (1989), Red simple and comfortable.” thinking that I might just go for jobs, but high end jobs through has helped you get a job, send Scare on Sunset (1991) and Heather Parcells of an MBA (which is hilarious real - the system! your story to Helaine Feldman The Divine Sister (2010 and cur - Wonderland on Broadway ly!) when, lo and behold, who rently still running). Also on Equity member Paul booked her first two Broadway at [email protected].) entered my life but Charles Broadway, she’s appeared in Busch and Ken Elliott. Along Hairspray, Gypsy, The Women, with a number of people, we Twentieth Century and The Man Communications Division. The started Theatre-in-Limbo and Who Came to Dinner; Off- award recognizes an started performing down on the Broadway in Love, Loss, and BRIEF NOTES exceptional professional who is Lower East Side on Thursday What I Wore; Chasing Mamet; committed to the theatre nights and weekends. Charles’ and White Chocolate, among to attend school. She studied community and to improving play, Vampire Lesbians of • Equity member Cori others. Films include Addams theatre at Marymount Manhattan the lives of others in New York, Sodom , became a smash cult Thomas is obviously multi- Family Values, The Juror, Small College. She has been a Israel and around the world. hit and we were moved all the talented, having just received Time Crooks and A Very Seri - finalist for a Juilliard Fellowship Bad news : Baltimore way uptown to the Province - the American Theatre Critics • ous Person, and on TV she has and the National Playwrights Shakespeare Festival has town Playhouse in Greenwich Association 2011 M. Elizabeth been on Sex and the City, and Conference at the O’Neill closed its doors after 17 years. Village. We opened there in Osborn New Play Award for an a regular on The Class. She Festival, and was nominated And in Seattle, the financially June of 1985 and I am happy to emerging playwright. The has received four MAC awards for the Susan Smith embattled Intiman Theater has say that because of this show, I for her solo comedy perform - Blackburn Prize. canceled the four remaining was able to get my full Equity ances in Manhattan cabarets She recently productions of its 2011 season. membership. and clubs. received a commission from South Coast phase of recovery.” Repertory Theatre BC/EFA Donates to BC/EFA had received a and The Sloan number of communications Foundation. Japanese Red Cross following the earthquake in • Chanhassen Japan, including one from Brian Dinner Theatres roadway Cares/Equity carefully reasoned and cautious Kim, an Equity member based wrapped up its Fights AIDS has wired response that the Japanese in Minnesota, who had recently “Feed My People” B$100,000 to the Japan - Red Cross has offered to those returned from Japan, food drive to benefit ese Red Cross Society in Japan in the U.S. where he was in a Minnesota in the name of the theatre com - eager to be a touring production of FoodShare with munity. “We have witnessed with part of reaching Joseph and the nearly $18,000 horror and sadness the after - out to the hun - Amazing Technicolor Craig Daniel (l) and Mark King aid in the raised from math of the earthquake and dreds of thou - Dreamcoat and had food drive at Chanhassen Dinner Theatres. audience members, tsunami on March 11th that sands of experienced the employees and the struck the island of Honshu, Japanese most earthquake firsthand. award was presented at the community. This centering at Sendai in the north - affected by this “Despite the Humana Festival of New translated into more than east area of Japan,” wrote tragedy. With uncertainty of what American Plays at Actors 70,000 pounds of food items BC/EFA Executive Director Tom that in mind and was to come, the Theatre of Louisville. The and was a 42% increase over Viola to the President of the or - certain that the Japanese Red Japanese people always put our winning play, When January the theatre’s goal. ganization. “We have closely Cross Society has proven to un - safety first and were very Feels Like Summer , premiered • Paul Libin , executive vice monitored the well-intended derstand the needs of your own special hosts to us,” he wrote. at City Theatre in Pittsburgh. president of Jujamcyn rapid-response fundraising un - people and the best way that As a result, the Twin Cities Cori was born in New York to a Theatres, has received the dertaken by many organizations their immediate needs can most Artists had a benefit on April 25 Liberian diplomat and a Bernard B. Jacobs Excellence here in the United States to sup - efficiently be addressed, at the Ordway Center for the Brazilian mother, and lived in in Theater Award presented by port relief efforts thousands of BC/EFA is happy to contribute Performing Arts in St. Paul, with seven countries before the UJA-Federation’s miles away in Japan. We have this $100,000 to mobilize re - all proceeds going to the returning to the United States Entertainment, Media and been very impressed with the sources in this emergency American Red Cross. 6 / EQUITY news MAY 2011

New York Networking Event for Stage Managers is Set for June 10

The 5th Annual Off-Broadway informal, speed-dating format Stage Managers Networking will allow Stage Managers to Event is scheduled for Friday, learn about upcoming seasons, June 10, 2011 in the Council schedules and hiring practices Room on the 14th Floor at the and present their resumes for NATIONALNATIONALNEWSNEWS Equity office, 165 West 46th future consideration. Last year’s Street. Equity Stage Managers event resulted in many will have the opportunity to subsequent interviews and a meet-and-greet Off-Broadway number of job offers. League Producers and General General registration for all Managers from commercial participants opens on Monday, ventures and institutional not- May 23. To register, call Joanna for-profit theatre companies. The at (212) 869-8530 x 377

Western Region Members “Mix it Up” for Black History Month

By Barbara N. Roberts Chair, Western Region EEO Committee The AEA Western Region Equal Employment Opportunity Committee presented Mixin’ It Up: Shining Your Light On Black Central Regional Director Kathryn V. Lamkey flanked by EEOC History Month , an Open Mic and Co-Chairs Cheryl Lynn Bruce and E. Faye Butler. Mixer event at Catalina’s Jazz Club on Monday, February 28, Central Region 2011. The evening, hosted by Glynn Turman (from the original Raisin in the Sun ), invited AEA Diversity in the Central Region... “Mixing it up” in LA are (l to r) Barbara Roberts, Levy Lee Simon, members and a guest to step up Ivy Bethune and Sharon Ferguson. All Year Long to the mic and let it rip. A highlight of the evening was the one-on- By Luther Goins ture such as About Face, Black ic/actor Garret Morris thrilled the gized the audience with a little one interview with featured the - audience with gut-busting jokes tag team MCing at the mic with Central Region Business Ensemble, Chicago Dramatists, atrical treasure Ken Page, who Representative and National Chicago Shake - about “getting old.” Blues stirred Glynn Turman. spoke candidly up the house as Lynette Dupree Many long time and some new EEO Coordinator speare, Collabo - A report of the Eastern about the “craft” raction, Court, sang some down home blues AEA members took their turn at The Central Region Equal Em - Region Equal Opportunity of theatre and Congo Square, and guest artist Eloise Laws belt - the microphone to shine their light ployment Opportunity Committee Committee's celebration how it distin - Goodman, Illinois ed out “St. Louis Blues.” Michole on Black History with poetry, com - (EEOC) presented the sixth an - of Black History Month guishes you as Theatre Center, Briana White talked about “being edy, slices of one person shows, nual Spirit, a Celebration of Diver - will appear in the next an artist. The in - Pegasus Players, somewhere and don’t know how I stories and imitations. We had a sity on Monday, March 21, 2011 issue of Equity News. terview was Remy Bumppo, got here. But I’m glad I came.” great time Mixin’ It Up. Special at Chicago’s Smart Museum and thought-provok - Silk Road The - Levy Lee Simon’s “I Am a Black thanks to Committee members at the Court Theatre. ing, fused with wisdom, humor, atre Project, 16th Street Theatre, Man” was a history lesson of Deborah Sharpe Taylor, Kelsey Spirit, a Celebration of Diversi - heart and advice. Steppenwolf, Teatro Vista, Teatro sorts, while Karole Foreman did Scott, Harrison White, Pat Loeb, ty , honors Central Region mem - A warm and enthusiastic Luna, Urban Theatre Company, jazz duty with “My Funny Valen - Ivy Bethune, Mark Winn, Kim bers of color, minority-based and crowd turned out. Stand up com - Victory Gardens, and Writer’s tine” and Obba Babatunde ener - Estes and John Freeland Jr. focused theatres, and theatres Theatre. that make non-traditional casting In the Central Region, but out - a priority all season long. side of the office city, diversity is New York/Los Angeles EEOC Co-Chairs Cheryl Lynn seen at theatres such as Detroit Bruce and E. Faye Butler present - Repertory, Cincinnati’s Ensemble The Actors Fund Provides Free ed the 2011 Spirit Recognition Theatre Company, Milwaukee’s Award to Court Theatre’s Cree Hansberry-Sands and the newly- Medical Services for AEA Members Rankin for his educational out - formed Uprooted Theatre Com - reach work and his ongoing com - pany, Human Race in Dayton, id you know that unin - the Clinic also offers a variety of uninsured or have insurance mitment to minority-based the - Ohio, Mixed Blood and Penumbra sured Equity members free services throughout the with a high deductible, and can atre, and to Joyce Foundation in Minneapolis, St. Louis Black Dhave access to a full- year, including individual health document your work in any area Senior Program Officer Michelle Repertory, and the Unicorn The - time free health clinic located in insurance counseling, wellness of performing arts or T. Boone, for her minority-based atre in Kansas City. midtown Manhattan? And that in seminars and seasonal flu entertainment, call (212) 489- theatre mentorship, and her cam - The EEO: One Voice brand, Los Angeles The Performing shots. The Clinic works closely 1939—and add the number to paign for minority-based theatre which was adopted by the West - Artists’ Medical Clinic, staffed by with diverse organizations to your cell phone so you can have leadership training. ern, Central, and Eastern EEO doctors of the Venice Family provide free or low-cost it when you need it. Central Regional Director Committees in 2009, was high - Clinic, offers free medical serv - screenings , including the Project Hours are Monday through Kathryn V. Lamkey received a lighted and celebrated by the per - ices to low-income musicians, Renewal Scan Van that offers Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. special Spirit Recognition Award. formance of One Voice , a terrific dancers, actors and other per - free mammograms to uninsured For more information and Ms. Lamkey, for over 24 years, song by Butch Stewart. One forming artists? women. In addition, in eligibility requirements, visit has placed a high priority on Voice was performed by the Cen - Since 2003, The Actors collaboration with BWAY (Better www.actorsfund.org. racial understanding, support, tral Region AFTRA/SAG Singers Fund’s Al Hirschfeld Free Health Wellness And You), an The Performing Artists’ and the creation of opportunities (Greta Pope, Paul Zimmerman, Clinic has been providing free entertainment industry Medical Clinic in Los Angeles (nationally) for Producers and Joe Wright, Barbara Ann Martin health care to Equity members consortium, the Clinic hosts an also provides prescription members of color. and Kevin Smith). between the ages of 28 and 64 annual Health Fair. medicines and referrals to When it comes to opportuni - With the recent sad, and in the New York metro area . The The Al Hirschfeld Free Health psychiatric services at no cost. ties for members of color to audi - shocking, happenings in Madi - Clinic offers primary care and Clinic is located at The Dorothy This service is offered twice tion and work, the Central Region son, WI, we felt that having the referrals to specialists, as well Ross Friedman Residence monthly. Call The Actors Fund boasts an embarrassment of rich - AFTRA/SAG Singers open this as no-cost or low-cost referrals (formerly The Aurora), 475 West Los Angeles office for eligibility es. The Chicago theatre commu - very special Equity event would to a wide range of medical 57th Street (corner of 10th criteria and appointments: (323) nity includes many theatres that be a fitting tribute to unions and to services. Avenue). Visits are by 933-9244, ext. 32 or email highlight the diversity of our cul - union work. It was! Along with free medical care, appointment only. If you are [email protected]. MAY 2011 EQUITY news / 7

Dallas-Fort Worth South Florida Column Awards 35th Annual Carbonell Awards Honor Equity Celebrate Local Actors, Theatres

Members By Marjorie O’Neill-Butler at the Equity members in Dallas- South Florida Area Liaison Actors’ Fort Worth were joined on Committee Playhouse March 14, 2011 by three special at the South Florida theatre guests from Broadway for the Miracle professionals celebrated the 35th 2011 Column Awards. The 12th Theatre, Annual Carbonell Awards on annual awards ceremony—the and Best April 4, 2011 at the Broward only celebration of live theatre in Actress in a Center for the Performing Arts, in the Dallas-Ft. Worth area and (From l) Liaison Members Dana Gamarra and Megan Buckley, Musical Ft. Lauderdale, FL. The audience the only awards organization in Helen Hicks of the Michigan AIDS Coalition and Liaison went to Tari Committee member Peggy Thorp with a check for the money sported everything from gowns the United States to each year Nick Duckart. Kelly in raised by the Committee. and tuxes to jeans and scruffy donate proceeds to Broadway Anything beards and the atmosphere was Cares/Equity Fights AIDS— Goes at the Maltz Jupiter Detroit joyous and friendly. Special guest packed a record number of Theatre. Sharon Gless remarked on this attendees into the Carpenter Best New Work went to Michigan Theatres Raise Funds as each winner was applauded Hall Theater. This year’s event Christopher Demos-Brown for and congratulated by the raised $12,000 for BC/EFA. When the Sun Shone Brighter at For AIDS Organizations audience and other nominees. The evening’s hosts— Les Florida Stage; and Best The Detroit Liaison the best services for those who The big winner of the evening Misérables and Jesus Christ Ensemble went to 12 Angry Men Committee has presented are infected. was the production Blasted by Superstar veteran Max von at the Maltz Jupiter Theatre. checks totaling over $20,000 to Theatres that participated this Sarah Kane, Essen and Altar Boyz favorite The evening featured Michigan AIDS Coalition (MAC) year were Detroit Repertory produced by and The Little Mermaid ’s evil eel performances from each of the and AIDS Partnership Michigan Theatre, Meadowbrook Theatre, GableStage Flotsam, Tyler Maynard—were shows nominated for Best (APM) as a result of the recent Gem and Century Theatres, in Coral joined by Tony Award-winner Musical, as well as a clever Equity and Friends Fight AIDS Ringwald Theatre, Tipping Point Gables. It Donna McKechnie, who opening parody of the South (EFFA) annual fundraising Theatre, Williamston Theatre, received performed her legendary Florida theatre scene written by campaign. This year’s total was Jewish Ensemble Theatre, the Best number, “Music and the Mirror,” Maribeth Graham. There were especially gratifying because it Bonstelle and Hilberry Theatres Production to a standing ovation. also presentations of the George came despite Michigan’s shaky and University of Detroit/Mercy’s of a Play; More than 20 awards were Abbott Award to Patrice Bailey, economy. Theatre Department. Best presented to Equity members, Dean of the New World School of EFFA, chaired by Leah Smith Equity and Friends Fight Director of a including Best Actor and Actress the Arts, and the Ruth Foreman and Megan Buckley, began its AIDS was begun by Detroit area Lisa Manuli. Play, Joe in a Musical, Bob Hess for Dirty Award to the Broward Center for 2010-2011 campaign, as it has Equity members in 1991 in honor Adler; Best Rotten Scoundrels and Morgana the Performing Arts. every year for the last 20, on of World AIDS Day during the Scenic Design, Tim Connolly; Shaw for Closer to Heaven , both In addition to celebrating December 1, World AIDS Day. Thanksgiving holiday weekend. Best Sound Design, Matt Corey presented at the Uptown excellence in South Florida Speeches were given after EFFA wanted to ensure that and Best Lighting design, Jeff Players; Best Actor and Actress Theatre, the Carbonell ceremony performances by actors in funds raised in Michigan theatres Quinn. in a Play, R. Bruce Elliot in the is also designed to raise funds for theatres all over southeast would stay in Michigan. EFFA Best Director of a Musical Theatre Three production of 33 scholarships for students in the Michigan and audience has expanded over the 20 years was David Arisco, and Best Variations and Morgana Shaw tri-county area to study at members were invited to since its inception to include Musical Direction went to Eric (again!) for The Lion, the Witch accredited colleges and contribute. university and non-union Alsford, both for Miss Saigon at and the Wardrobe at the Dallas universities for careers in the The mission of Michigan AIDS theatres and now lasts longer Actors’ Playhouse. Best Children’s Theatre. Awards for visual and performing arts, and in Coalition is to prevent HIV/AIDS than just the holiday weekend. Choreography was Marcia Best Stage Manager of a Play journalism. Since the first, single in Michigan by promoting healthy Theatre professionals in Milgrom Dodge for Anything and Musical were presented to $500 scholarship was given in lifestyles, providing and investing Michigan also contributed this Goes , and Best Costume Cathy O’Neal for the Uptown 1978, dozens of students in in evidence-based, innovative season by holding a benefit party Design went to Jose M. Rivera Players’ Dirty Rotten Scoundrels Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm programs and through advocacy for EFFA, hosted by Don for La Cage Aux Folles , both at and Heidi Shen for the Water Beach counties have received and education. AIDS Partnership Calamia of Encore Michigan and the Maltz Jupiter Theatre. Tower Theatre’s production of more than $100,000. Michigan’s mission is the local actors, Naz Edwards and Barbara Bradshaw was Our Town. An After Party, sponsored by prevention of AIDS and providing Brian Thibault. named Best Actress in a Play for The Column Awards were The Theatre League of South her work in Collected Stories at conceived and produced by Florida had everyone celebrating The Mosaic Theatre in Dallas-area Equity actor John another fine year of theatre. Plantation, FL This award was Garcia. sponsored by Actors’ Equity “Donna was outstanding,” Association and presented by said Mr. Garcia. “Everyone was Arne Gunderson, AEA mesmerized by her. Add Max Foundation President and New York and Tyler’s chemistry, ad-libs Councillor Emeritus, and Eastern and stage presence and we had Regional Councillor, Margot Audition Center a truly magical evening. We are Moreland. proud to be a part of BC/EFA’s Cleaned Deborah Sherman, a new good work across Texas, AEA member, was Best In response to member including five social service Supporting Actress in a Play for comments at the January 7, agencies here in Dallas-Fort Goldie, Max and Milk at Florida 2011 Eastern Region Worth.” Stage. Gregg Weiner continued Membership Meeting, the New his winning streak with the Best York office’s Audition Center Actor in a Play Award for his work was given a thorough deep- (Photo: Doug Truelsen) Phoenix/Tucson Central Florida in Fifty Words at GableStage; and cleaning during the weekends of Will Connolly was named Best March 12 and 19. All carpeting, Meeting is Equity Members Hike for Hope Supporting Actor in a Play for his including that on the walls, was portrayal of Marchbanks in shampooed. All hard surfaces May 23 The Central Florida Liaison Committee, local AEA members, Candida at Palm Beach were cleaned, including the air friends and family participated in the AIDS Walk Orlando on April 9, Dramaworks. vents. All electrical outlets were Save the date: The 2011. The Walk benefited the Hope & Help Center of Central Best Supporting Actress in a repaired. This cleaning does not Phoenix/Tucson Membership Florida, Inc. and its mission to save lives by treating and preventing Musical went to Lisa Manuli in address all the items that need meeting is May 23, 2011 at the spread of HIV/AIDS. The Equity teams raised nearly $2,000 in the premiere production of upgrading in the Audition The Invisible Theatre, 1400 just three weeks, adding to the event’s overall total of $180,000. Motherhood, the Musical . Nick Center, noted Eastern Region North 1st Avenue, Tucson, AZ Julie Noda, the non-profit agency’s event coordinator, was Duckart received his first Director Rick Berg in his report 85719-4003. There will be a grateful the call for help was answered by the community. “We Carbonell Award, Best at the April 8 Membership Member/Producer/EMC wouldn’t be able to provide all these services without it,” she said. Supporting Actor in a Musical, for Meeting, but there are long- reception from 6-7 p.m., with AEA participants included Darby Ballard, Hakim Callender, team Dr. Radio at Florida Stage. Best range plans for further the meeting beginning at captain Jennifer Sibley Harris, Rachel Hunter, Jennifer Christa Actor in a Musical went to improvements and regular 7 p.m. Palmer, Mark Taylor, Doug Truelsen and Joe Wyatt. Herman Sebeck for Miss Saigon maintenance. 8 / EQUITY news MAY 2011

Denver rehearsal process. The Artistic and Managing Ambassador Program Expands Directors of these theatres often find, not surprisingly, Equity’s Presence in Colorado that the process is easier than they had imagined it By Shelly Gaza The Ambassador Program would be, and that the use of Chair, Denver Liaison pairs each Denver Liaison Equity talent elevates their Committee Committee member with a productions to that intangible small handful of theatres, the Several years ago, the “next level” that they had goal being to get to know the Denver Liaison Committee been striving for. theatres and their people on decided to put more of its It is important to point out a personal level. And energy into promoting the that the Ambassadors do not although we interact with a use of Equity contracts with negotiate contracts, nor do wide range of theatre the smaller up-and-coming they speak for the Union. But Daryl “Chill” Mitchell (c) with Robert McQueen and Christine Toy companies—from those that Johnson. (Photo: Bruce Alan Johnson) theatres in our area. Not only may have little interest in by simply being a supportive do many of our local using AEA contracts to those presence in what can often members rely on smaller New York that already have a long be an anxiety-inducing contracts to supplement their standing relationship with process for a young theatre, income, but we also hoped the Denver Ambassadors EEO Presents “Creative Casting: that with the Committee’s Equity and have used Equity have been able to foster encouragement and support, talent for many years—it is Spotlight On Actors With Disabilities” Equity contracts in our area these small contracts might the “curious” theatre that might otherwise not grow into larger ones in the companies that we get the On April 5, 2011, the reminded me that Broadway have been created. At a time future. Early on, we realized most excited about. That is, Eastern Region Equal is a state of mind, not just a when so many of us find it that establishing a personal those companies that are Employment Opportunity production contract.” relationship with these interested in using Equity even harder than usual to Committee presented a Sharon Jensen said, “promising” theatres was contracts, but may be make a living as a theatre staged reading of Internal “Rarely has a character with a essential to the success of intimidated by the idea of the professional, the Bleeding by Councillor and disability been written with our mission. This led to the Union, or, for whatever Ambassador Program has EEOC Co-Chair Christine Toy such honesty and dimension. development of our reason, have been shy about been a particularly rewarding Johnson, featuring film and Furthermore, because they Ambassador Program, which taking the plunge. In these experience for those of us on television star Daryl “Chill” cast a character with a now involves 26 theatres and cases, the Ambassador the Denver Liaison Mitchell and directed by disability with an actor who has not only expanded becomes an encouraging Committee. It has been a Robert McQueen. This was actually is a wheelchair Equity’s presence in the partner throughout the pro-active way for us to the culmination of a short user—something almost Colorado theatre community, process—from getting the respond to these tough workshop exploring casting never done—as well as the but has also increased the theatre in touch with the economic times and, an actor with a disability (Mr. remaining characters with use of Guest Artist and proper people at the Equity hopefully, help our members Mitchell) in a role that is actors from diverse cultural Special Appearance offices to mentoring them here in the Denver area for written as both disabled and identifications, Internal contracts in the Denver area. through auditions and the years to come. non-disabled. It was followed Bleeding had an authenticity, by a discussion about the believability, human process led by Sharon dimension, and universality Jensen, Executive Director of that I have rarely experienced Los Angeles Alliance for Inclusion in the in the theatre.” Arts. The cast also featured Ms. Johnson adds, “For Equity staff and Ann Harada, Eddie Aldrich, years, AEA has been working Helen Farmer, Jaygee towards a world where no one friends Join "We Macapugay and Ariel Estrada. is excluded based solely on Are One" Rally Christine Toy Johnson said, their race, ethnicity, gender, (Left to r) Timothy Smith “Though it is always assumed and/or presence/absence of a (staff), Maura Murphy- that a character who is written disability — towards universal Barrosse (staff), Nicolas as disabled can be played by access. I believe that being Fournier (supporter and an actor who is not disabled, I open to re-imagining various Maura's husband) and wanted to make a truly good elements of our storytelling Western Regional Director faith effort to see what would can lead to all sorts of Mary Lou Westerfield at the come out of considering the opportunities for universal "We Are One" rally for workers' opposite. The play is the story access. Working this way rights on April 2, 2011. of Benjamin Andrews, an gave us all insight into a world Olympic bound gymnast who that isn’t often discussed or becomes estranged from his explored. And to me, that’s San Diego parents after an accident the true power of theatre.” leaves him paralyzed. I Internal Bleeding was AEA Honors Dr. King at decided to make it a sort of made possible in part with "We Are One" Rally ‘memory play,’ told from Ben’s public funds from the point of view in the present, Manhattan Community Arts San Diego Liaison Committee members while also re-imagining the Fund, supported by the NYC Abner Genece and Mary Munger joined staging opportunities. This Department of Cultural Affairs members of NABET 54 and the San Diego rooted the story in his current and administered by Lower Labor Council for A Day of Solidarity reality, making it even more Manhattan Cultural Council, Candlelight Vigil on April 4, 2011 at San profound. Collaborating with and a grant from the Puffin Diego’s Civic Center Plaza. The event honored Chill’s unique perspective Foundation. the sacrifice made by Dr. Martin Luther King, impacted us all.” Jr. on April 4, 1968 and the continuing struggle Jaygee Macapugay for workers’ rights across the nation. commented, “Chill never Seattle stopped pursuing acting after his accident. He never Office Closing AEA Marches in allowed himself to become a All Equity offices will “We Are One” Rally victim. That inspires me to be closed on Monday, release any excuses, and May 30, 2011 in As part of the AFL-CIO’s national pro-union “We Are keep going. I was also observation of One” campaign, a rally was held in Seattle on April 4, shocked with how humble and Memorial Day. In 2011. Members of IATSE Local 15, which organized the excited he was to work with addition, all offices will event, were joined by Equity members including David theatre actors. He said, ‘I close early on Friday, Klein (c) and Liaison Roger Curtis as they marched from don’t care what anyone May 27. (Check with the Space Needle to the downtown Labor Temple. The thinks. We are on Broadway your local office for the marchers’ spirits were high despite a steady drizzle, and right now!’ The two days I early closing time.) many drivers honked and waved in support as the chant, worked on Internal Bleeding “We are UNION; We are ONE” rang out loud and clear. MAY 2011 EQUITY news / 9

New York Central Region CRB to Fill Seven Non-Councillor Seats Equity Members Help at BC/EFA’s As per Equity’s By-Laws, the Central Region will be filling “Broadway Bears” seven non-Councillor seats on the Central Regional Board for the 2011 election. Only members living in the Central Region More than a dozen Equity including Christopher Sieber are eligible to run and to vote for these positions. members from current and and Reeve Carney, who The following two-year terms are available: five Principal, past Broadway shows joined helped raise $5,250 by one Chorus and one Stage Manager. their teddy spinning a All candidates must meet the same eligibility requirements bear web of high as the Councillors in their category. The Nominating counterparts bids. Other Committee that was seated for the Council election will also to help presenters serve as the Nominating Committee for these CRB positions. If Broadway were Trevor you wish to be considered for any of the seats, submit your Cares/Equity Braun, candidacy according to the following schedule: Fights AIDS Kevin June 2, 2011 Deadline to reconvene Central Regional on March 6 Burrows, Nominating Committee. 2011 for The Paul June 9, 2011 Deadline for Candidate submission to Broadway Canaan, Bears XIV , Harvey the Nominating Committee. Letters of Eliza Doolittle intent due in Chicago Office by 3 p.m. the annual Evans, Lexi (CDT). auction of Fridell, the Joshy ( Rock of Ages) June 22, 2011 Deadline for all Candidate Material for theatrically Jeremy bear brought in $6,000. the Nominating Committee by 3 p.m. costumed and Gumbs, (CDT). celebrity David Former “Link Larkin” July 11, 2011 Deadline for Nominating Committee autographed Garrison, Richard Blake presented the report to the Central Regional Board. teddy bears, Veanne Hairspray “ Link” bear signed which this Cox, Annie July 18, 2011 Deadline for Independent Nomination by Matthew Morrison, the year raised Golden, Petitions and all Candidate Material original “Link” on Broadway $103,905. Link Larkin Hunter (including statements and photos) due in who’s now in the television The 2011 cast of 42 bears, Ryan Herdlicka, Anthony Chicago Office by 3 p.m. (CDT). hit, Glee. With Richard at the donated by The North Hollock and Elizabeth Welch. August 1, 2011 Deadline for mailing of ballots.* podium and Matthew’s American Bear Company, Crista Moore and George August 19, 2011 Deadline for return of ballots to Chicago signature on the bear, “Link” Inc., once again included Dvorsky performed the Office by 2:30 p.m. (CDT). characters from current and opening number parody, sold for $5,500. August 22, 2011 Tellers’ Committee picks up ballots and past Broadway shows signed written by Douglas Since 1997, the auction tabulates results. by the performers, writers, Braverman. has featured more than 500 September 12, 2011 Report of Tellers’ Committee to the directors or designers who The t op winners of the Central Regional Board and Seating of bears and raised more than made them famous. evening were Eli za Doolittle, New Board Members. $1.85 million. Serving as host was which sold for $14,000; the * In accordance with the Equity By-Laws, should there be no To see all of the 2011 Broadway, television and film Witch from Into the Woods independent nominations for these non-Councillor Central bears, visit veteran Bryan Batt, joined by commanded $6,500 after a Regional Board seats, and therefore no contest, there shall be no many fellow Equity members, friendly bidding battle, and www.broadwaycares.org. balloting. Those uncontested Members chosen by the Nominating Committee will be deemed elected and will be seated at the September 2011 meeting of the Central Regional Board.

Western Region include Enchanted April , Heartbreak House , Slavs! Actor/Teacher/Coach Lynne Soffer and Rabbit Hole. As a dialect coach, she has worked on Receives 2011 Lucy Jordan Award over 190 productions at numerous theatres, including San Francisco’s Lynn nationally recognized dialect Berkeley Rep, A.C.T., Seattle Soffer, an Actor, teacher, coach. She is acknowledged Rep, San Jose Rep, The Old dialect coach, has received by her peers as an individual Globe (San Diego), Magic the 2011 Lucy Jordan who loves acting and is Theatre, Marin Theatre Humanitarian Award, Company, Aurora Theatre honoring a member of the Equity and PCPA Theaterfest. She theatrical community who was a dialect coach for the has gone “above and beyond member goes world premiere of Moises the call of duty.” The award Kaufman’s The Laramie was presented at the April “above and Project , and coached the 28, 2011 membership dialects for Jonathan meeting in San Francisco. beyond” the Moscone and Sean Daniels’ Ms. Soffer, who resides in Nicholas Nickleby, Parts 1 the Bay Area, has made her call of duty. and 2 at Cal Shakes. As an New England name as an actress, acting instructor of acting, text and coach and teacher and willing to share that AEA, NEAT Reach Tentative Agreement enthusiasm, knowledge and speech, Ms. Soffer has experience with both taught at schools and theatre Negotiations in Boston Liaison Committee members on students and young actors companies throughout the between Equity and the New the team included Michael entering the industry. In country. England Area Theatres (NEAT) Dell’Orto (Area Liaison), Jim Correction addition to her body of work, The Lucy Jordan for a three-year agreement have Bodge, Victoria Coady, Kippy In the March 2011 Ms. Soffer is also known for Humanitarian Award is the been successfully concluded. Goldfarb, Peter Haydu, John issue of Equity News, her generosity of spirit and only recognition award given The agreement goes to the Kooi, Maureen Lane, Celeste her selfless dedication to by Equity’s Western Regional Eastern Regional Board on May McClain, Emily McMullen and there was a sketch of a those in the theatre world Board. It was established by 20, 2011 for ratification. Bob Saoud (not pictured). member getting her Equity who have been ill and in AEA’s Chief Negotiator was NEAT encompasses 11 card from “Contract the Stage Managers’ Senior Business Representative small-to-medium sized theatres Associate Karlene need. Committee in 1992 to Russell Lehrer. He was assisted within a 100-mile radius of Laemmie.” Ms. Laemmie An Equity member since commemorate the unflagging by Business Representative Boston and the contract is, in fact, a longtime 1981, she most recently spirit of former Western Melissa Colgan. The Negotiating accounts for over 2,500 Membership Associate in appeared in the San Jose Region Business Field Rep Team was chaired by Councillor workweeks per season for the New York office. Repertory production of The Lucy Jordan, who died that Julia Breanetta Simpson. Boston Equity members. Dresser. Other stage credits year. 10 / EQUITY news MAY 2011

New York Limitless Casting: Could the Best Man for the Part Be a Woman? Panel discussion examines that question, and more By Pearl Brady characters who were androgynous, gender in their works. New work is Business Representative, EEO or whose sexuality was vague. He a mystery, and she felt that it was challenged all in attendance to crucial that writers stretch In an age when men in drag are “blast through these stereotypes” themselves and their commonplace in theatre, the when it came to gender, and allow preconceptions. She said that on reverse has not been true when it the art of theatre to reconfigure numerous occasions, writers have Participants in the benefit for Lazarus House are: (l to r) comes to women playing male playwright Stephen Riviera; Equity member Cathie Choppin; EMC traditional gender roles. reexamined characters in ways that Vatican Lokey; philanthropist Mark Romig; AEA members Susan characters. Experts on the subject Joanne Zipay spoke of her they probably wouldn’t have Parker, Wendy Miklovic, John Bostic and Amy Alvarez and guest met in New York to put this situation company, Judith Shakespeare, otherwise, allowing the true Jules Vetter. (Photo: Cheri Arena) under a microscope. The event, in whose mission is to give women essence of the character to be honor of Women’s History Month, more work in the classics. All the revealed. New Orleans was sponsored by the Eastern shows her company produces are The evening ended with the Region Women’s Committee and at least 50% women, and therefore question of what performers can do Members, EMCs in Benefit took place on March 29, 2011. include many male roles cast with to show creative teams how non- Moderated by Equity Member female performers. Her goal is to traditional casting in regard to for local AIDS Organization Gael Schaefer, who has had a subvert “the stranglehold that gender really works. Ms. Houston long-time fascination with gender- gender has on us,” and she works brought up how some of the most Members of NOLA AEA partic - Stage Manager. neutral casting and has been cast ipated in the 25th Anniversary Following the reading, Mr. to cast many of her plays effective and memorable auditions in male roles in the past, the panel completely gender-blind. Rebecca she’d seen were monologues Gala for Lazarus House on April Bostic spoke of the commitment featured: Deborah Wright Houston, Patterson and Deborah Wright performed cross-gender. She felt 6, 2011 by giving a special staged that AEA has traditionally given to former Artistic Director of the Kings Houston agreed, and Ms. Houston that the performer truly “got it,” and reading of an original short play raising funds and awareness for County Shakespeare Company; said that she has never had a that the emotion and spirit of the written for the event. New Orleans AIDS research and treatment pro - Richard Schechner, co-founder of problem with gender-neutral role came through in a unique way. AEA Liaison John Bostic directed grams. the NYU/Tisch Department of casting. In fact, in one production of Mr. Schechner recommended that the reading, which starred mem - Lazarus House, also known as Performance Studies; Rebecca Romeo and Juliet , she cast a man people look at the work of Anna bers Amy Alvarez, Cathie Chop - Project Lazarus, is a residential Patterson, Artistic Director of The as the Nurse because he was the Deavere Smith, whose one-woman pin, Susan Parker, Wendy facility providing assisted living to Queen’s Company; Joanne Zipay, performer who played the shows have transcended race, Miklovic, EMC Vatican Lokey and people with AIDS who are unable Artistic Director of the Judith character’s age most authentically. gender, age, and nearly any other Jules Vetter. Cheri Arena was the to live independently. Shakespeare Company; Randy Ms. Patterson added that she label for decades. Gener, Senior Editor of American believed critics and audiences are Though modern society has Theatre Magazine ; and Terry looking first and foremost for the progressed toward gender parity, Berliner, a director who focuses on humanity of each character, not the theatre still has a long way to St. Louis new work. their gender. She hoped that go. Opening up a dialogue is the The discussion began with the creative teams would trust their first step in opening up The Bard Battles Bullying simple question of “Why?” Randy audiences; in her experience, the opportunities for all performers. Gener answered first, commenting communication.” conventional argument that This includes any sort of -blind that women playing male Cruel to be Kind audiences wouldn’t accept women casting: color-blind, gender-blind, characters have largely existed on playing men was quite false. age-blind, etc. Diverse and retains 98% of the fringe, and that for women to Shakespeare’s text, Terry Berliner regularly inclusive casting isn’t a radical gain the edge, it must be in the collaborates with new writers and concept. After all, the Scottish Play bridged with poetic realm of new work. Richard challenges perceived notions of isn’t always fully cast with Scots. songs to clarify plot, Schechner added that during the themes and Restoration period there were characters. It is a play many all-female theatre set in 1599 as companies, but that their history New Orleans Shakespeare is had been largely lost. In modern furiously writing As productions, roles that women had Liaison Committee Hosts EMC Event You Like It , his new been more likely to play, like points system. play for the Globe in Hamlet, have usually been Topics of dis - London. The cussion includ - characters in As You The cast and Stage Manager of Cruel to be ed AEA history, Like it actually include young audiences. These 50-minute Kind: (standing, l to r) Antonio Rodriguez, benefits and Michael B. Perkins, AEA member Anna Blair, several clear text-based adaptations are how to decide Khnemu Menu-ra; (front) AEA member Elana examples of bullies. commissioned from local Kepner and Jessica Shoemaker. to join the Shakespeare uses playwrights and performed by five Union, EMC these characters professional Equity actor/teaching points and how Given the prevalence of bullying during a rehearsal to enlighten one artists at schools and community they work, up - in schools and on social media of the teen apprentices, Ozwaldo, venues. This season the group also coming events sites nationwide, Shakespeare who is a terrible bully. Through Oz’s presented Shrew in a Few , based in the NOLA Festival St. Louis, an Equity journey and throughout the play, on Taming of the Shrew. area, advan - TYA/LOA theatre, has created a the young audience will see what Both Shrew in a Few and Cruel New Orleans AEA members, EMCs and guests. tages of being 50-minute adaptation of several types of bullying look and to be Kind were adapted by (Photo: Edward R. Cox) an Equity Shakespeare’s As You Like It , sound like and how they can be Christopher Limber, education member and called Cruel to be Kind , that offers diffused. They also learn some of director for Shakespeare Festival The New Orleans Liaison Eq - the Committee’s goals for the the Bard’s advice on bullying and the many reasons why bullying St. Louis, who worked closely with uity Membership Candidate community-at-large. reinforces the power of theatre to occurs. Eric Neutzel, M.D., of the St. Louis (EMC) sub-committee held its John Bostic, Area Liaison, change lives. A companion workshop to Cruel Psychoanalytic Institute when first meeting on March 22, 2011. ran the meeting with support The play is one of two to be Kind offers a springboard for creating the materials. “The range It was held at The La Nuit Come - from Committee members presented this season by activities, referencing the of characters and product has not dy Club and, as with any NOLA Meredith Long, Edward Cox, Shakespeare Festival St. Louis’ characters and situations within the changed since Shakespeare wrote meeting, there was food and Cathie Choppin and members educational tour to more than play. Students are encouraged to 400 years ago,” said Mr. Limber. “It drink for all. Donna Duplantier, J. Patrick Mc - 26,000 students throughout 125 discuss bullying in terms of the is often more comfortable for The primary purpose of the Namara and Peggy Walton- schools in the Metro St. Louis area. characters. Then, in small groups of students to process bad behavior meeting was to begin organizing Walker as well as EMC Vatican “I’ve always been intrigued by 30, they participate in the that takes place in a play than to and educating the New Orleans Lokey. Also in attendance was lo - pairing a social issue with one of workshop, Bullies and Boundaries , confront it in real life. The play community about the EMC pro - cal producer Dennis Assaf who Shakespeare’s plays,” said Rick also created by Shakespeare begins the conversation.” gram and the Union in general. has worked with the EMC pro - Dildine, executive director of Festival St. Louis. Students are The Shakespeare Festival St. Tom Miller, AEA Director of Edu - gram for several years and was Shakespeare Festival St. Louis. “In provided new ways to act more Louis’ Education Tour has received cation and Outreach, provided able to answer questions from a light of the national focus today on thoughtfully in their relationships. two Kevin Kline Awards for pamphlets as well as EMC but - producer’s viewpoint. “Battling re - bullying issues, we felt this was an In the past ten years, Outstanding Production for Young tons for the Candidates. Lynne hearsals, holidays and post-Mar - appropriate issue to introduce this Shakespeare Festival St. Louis has Audiences: Me And Richard (2008) Creighton, from the Membership di Gras activities, the turnout of year. We’re using the power of the inspired more than 185,000 and Quick-Brewed Macbeth Department in Chicago, an - some 25 people was a good theatre to build awareness, teach students with the Bard’s advice (2009), and has received a swered pre-submitted questions start,” said Mr. Bostic. empathy and support through productions adapted for nomination every year since 2005. over the phone about the EMC MAY 2011 EQUITY news / 11

Denver Actor for his work in The and members Kris Shaw and Mystery of Irma Vep. Ron Flagge. Joining Ms. Castay The VA + AEA = Three AEA members in the Best Actress category walked away with were nominations for Liz Argus, Good Times performance awards: Mame , and Dianna Duffy, Jessie Terrebonne, Best Hairspray. By Betsey Cassell Actress in a Comedy, 39 Best Actor in a Musical went Once again, members of Steps. 39 Steps also to Sean Patterson for his starred member Shad Denver’s AEA Liaison Committee performance in Hairspray. Also Willingham whose volunteered their energy, nominated for Best Actor was performance was expertise and goodwill to support, member Robert Pavlovich, Dirty guide and encourage the nominated for Best Actor Rotten Scoundrels. courageous and talented in a Comedy and featured Other members nominated participants in the 2011 National member Sean Patterson for awards were: Peggy Walton- Veterans Creative Arts Program whose performance Walker, Best Actress in a and Competition. received a nomination for (Left to r) Jeffery Roberson (Photo: Benjamin) ; Jessie Terrebonne Drama, The Piano Teacher ; Friends, family and VA (Photo: Brain Johnston) ; Leslie Castay (Photo: John Barrios) ; Sean Patterson Best Supporting Actor in a supporters gathered to view the (Photo John Barrios) . Comedy. In addition to Ms. John Neisler, Best Supporting festivities on March 12, 2011and Terrebonne, members Actor in a Drama, Afterlife ; enjoy the wide range of material New Orleans Jessica Podewell and Edward R. Cox, Best Costume presented by many returning Francine Segal were also Design, When Pigs Fly , and Kris entrants as well as newcomers to NOLA Theatre Honored nominated in the Best Actress in Shaw, Best Direction of a the competition. a Comedy category for their Drama, Touch. By Edward R. Cox and theatre in 2010. The evening This year’s AEA Committee work in Matt and Ben and The A special thank you to John Bostic, was hosted by AEA member Chair, Betsey Cassell, acted as New Century , respectively. Southern Rep, Jefferson New Orleans Liaison Bryan Batt. Mistress of Ceremonies during Member Leslie Castay was Performing Arts Society, Le Committee Among the special awards, the taping, keeping the audience named Best Actress in a Petit, Le Chat Noir, Tulane AEA member Jeffery Roberson amused in-between acts, while On March 28, at a gala event Musical for her performance in Shakespeare, Tulane Summer AEA Members Lowell Noel and at Harrah’s New Orleans Hotel & (aka Varla Jean Merman) was Grey Gardens , which also Lyric, Ricky Graham and Sue Ann Lee took charge of Casino, the Big Easy Foundation presented with the Entertainer of featured member Janet Shea Theater 13, who produced the assisting the performers. Prior to handed out its awards for best the Year Award. He also was who was nominated for Best shows for which the NOLA the taping, they were joined by performances in New Orleans nominated for Best Supporting Featured Actress in a Musical members were nominated. AEA members Chaz Grundy , Michael E. Gold and Laura Jo Trexler in a series of coaching TourCo Actors. sessions, readying the talent for Chicago Other improvements in the taping. new contract include, but are not This year marks the fourth CRB Ratifies Contract with Second City limited to: an increase in salary year that Denver AEA has of 5% in the first year of the participated in the coaching Creative Compensation Clause Recognizes Actors’ Material Agreement and a 3% increase program. Last year’s 2010 At its meeting on Monday, Chicago Equity office. to compensate the Actors for in salary for the second and competition saw 14 entrants April 4, 2011, the Central Currently The Second City has creating original material for the third years of the Agreement; a awarded one of the top three Regional Board approved a the Mainstage as well as the next revue. The rehearsal health increase of up to 10% in slots in their respective categories three-year agreement with the e.t.c. spaces in Chicago; process can take as long as 11 the second and third years of and invitation to attend the Second City Theatre. TourCo, which is made up of the weeks with the Actors the Agreement; and a long- National Finals held in La Crosse, The Second City Theatre, three national touring writing the show through term-run bonus for a show that Wisconsin. Inc. has led the industry in companies; and Theatricals, improvisation. The Creative lasts longer than 11 months The 2011 Finals will be held in improv-based sketch comedy for numerous companies that travel Compensation rule came about from the first paid public October in Fayetteville, Arkansas. over 50 years. AEA’s Second to a city and stay for an in the 2005 Second City performance. Returning participants and 2010 City Theatre Agreement has engagement of four to six negotiations and only applies to Equity thanks the Second Finalists - Willie Jaeger on been in existence since 1993. weeks. the Actors in the Mainstage and City AEA members who have dulcimer, Ron Tomocik on The Second City Agreement is The Second City Actors write e.t.c. companies. In this last worked so hard over the years accordion; 90 years young Jack used for all Second City their own shows. The Second negotiation with The Second to create wonderful original Kamin and his delightful crooning; productions, regardless of City Theatre Agreement is City Theatre, Inc., Equity was work at The Second City and multi-faceted Orlina Marquez where they are produced, and is unique in that there is a able to achieve a “Writing Theatre. Good job on the last 50 joined newbies William R. administered through the Creative Compensation Clause Usage” clause for the years and here’s to another 50! Hopper, tinkling the ivories with jazz, blues and gospel tunes; Gary Satchell and his exciting electric guitar renditions; and a young classical flamenco Northport, NY guitarist, in looking forward to possibly representing the Denver Long Islanders Help BC/EFA Area in this year’s Finals. Rounding out the categories in How do you solve a greeting the audiences and Spoken Word and Drama were problem like Maria? You ask letting them know just how Bonne Bryson, Leonard her and the rest of the cast of much their donations are Fanganello, Barry Stevens, Seth the John Engeman Theater’s appreciated.” Felicia added, Premo, and Gwendolyn Wilson. production of The Sound of “I’ve witnessed first hand the Hats off and thanks were given Music to come together with havoc wreaked by illness in to members of the Patriot Guard local audiences to raise over friends and family, and the Riders, for their offstage $35,000 for Broadway help that comes from the assistance and support and to Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. money we raise. My head is in the expert audio and video talents “Audiences gave joyfully,” said a better place when I collect. of videographer, Wayne Williams. cast member Felicia Finley, This is one of the reasons it’s VA Chairman, Donna who played Baroness such a joy to do theatre in Lonergan was pleased and St. Louis Schraeder. Rob Gallagher, New York and across the delighted with AEA’s participation who portrayed Captain Von country.” Since 2008, and help with another successful Shakespeare’s Birthday Celebrated Trapp, appealed to audiences productions at the John after each performance. “I was Engeman Theatre have raised program and looks forward to (Clockwise) Ron Himes, AEA member and director/founder of surprised to see how over $104,000 for BC/EFA with continued collaboration with the St. Louis Black Repertory Company; Rick Dildine, AEA responsive the audience was,” the company of The Sound of Denver AEA and the amazing member and director of Festival St. Louis; Jean-Paul Angieri, a St. said Rob, giving credit to the Music joining previous array of VA Talent! Louis University High School student, winner of the English entire cast. “It’s one thing to audience favorites, A Interested AEA members from Speaking Union High School Competition; and Steven Woolf, AEA get up there and give the Wonderful Life (2008), Miracle other cities should contact their member and artistic director of the Repertory Theatre of St. Louis, speech every night, but there’s on 34th Street ( 2009) and local VA to find out how they can lay a wreath at the foot of William Shakespeare’s statue in Tower so much more with everyone Oliver (2010) in making these participate in helping VA talent Grove Park in honor of the Bard’s 447th birthday. All four going out to the lobby, special appeals. enter the National Competition. participants read excerpts from their favorite Shakespeare play. 12 / EQUITY news MAY 2011

A Look Bac k @Equity Milestones U.S.Postage Letters to The Editor 44 Letters received from paid up members on subjects of concern to Equity member s will be considered and published as soon as possible. The Editor reserves the right to limit letters to 175 words and to select one Resident Dramatic Stock or two representative letters when many similar letters are received. Letters must be signed, but names 75 Years Ago (CORST) season range from will be withheld on request for those letters which may affect members’ employment. Signatures will not May 1936 $355.21 to $424.10. Minimum be withheld on letters antagonistic or accusatory, either implied or expressed, against other members. Opinions expressed in Letters to the Editor are not necessarily those of Actors’ Equity Association. • More than 700 members salary for Actors under the attend the Annual Meeting on COST (Non-Resident Stock) Production Stage Manager for 2008, he chose to retire but May 25 to cast their ballots for contract is $380.50. Per diem is IN MEMORIAM Evita , On the Twentieth kept a hand in the theatre world members of Council, vote for a $13.50. Dear Editor: Century , Company , Anna as a freelance stage manager. proposal to tighten the • Council establishes a new Equity actor and playwright Christie , Pacific Overtures , The theatre was much more qualification requirements for committee, the Actors Work Emanuel “Manny” Fried died on Candide and A little Night than a job for John, it was a senior membership and Program Committee, to address February 25, 2011, less than Music. He was also Stage mission, a creative outlet and a recommend that the Council problems faced by Actors in the one week shy of his 98th Manager and Dance Captain of way to enrich and enliven the consider establishing one 55-62 range. birthday. Successful as an actor the original Follies. As director world. He was loved by his staff minimum wage for all classes of • At a special Meeting, in New York, Manny starred in and choreographer he worked and colleagues and will be membership. Council votes (28-3) to endorse The Young Go First , directed by in many European cities. missed by all who had the privi - Members of Chorus Equity a plan to implement Elia Kazan, for the Theatre Of • George also had a lege to work and create with gather on May 29 at the establishment of a National Action, but decided to raise his wonderful career as a dancer him. organization’s 16th Annual Theatre of the United States. family in Buffalo. In Buffalo he on Broadway and in films. He David Morden, Tucson, AZ Meeting and elect members of organized many unions, to the met his wife Ethel in 1943. They the Executive Committee and 10 Years Ago point of being called “the most REMEMBERING were both members of the Jack hear a report from Executive May 2001 dangerous man in Western New CRANDALL DIEHL York.” After refusing to answer Cole Dancers and together Secretary Dorothy Bryant. Dear Editor: Results of a three-year questions before the House Un- performed in many films. On • Crandall Diehl, dancer, study on the effects on American Activities Committee Broadway, George danced in A 50 Years Ago actor, director, choreographer performers of theatrical smoke in 1954, he was eventually Funny Thing… , Donnybrook , passed away on April 5, 2011. May 1961 and fog are announced . The blacklisted. But during this time Kismet , Happy Hunting , We met when he was dance Equity’s New York office is study concludes that Actors are he penned his acclaimed plays, Carnival in Flanders , Pal Joey , • captain of My Fair Lady on located at 226 West 47th Street . at risk when exposed to The Dodo Bird , Drop Hammer Magdalena , Lady in The Dark Broadway. We were both hired Ralph Bellamy is President and “elevated or peak levels of glycol and Brothers For A’ That , which and others. to recreate the original Helen Hayes is serving on smoke and mineral oil,” and that will forever reflect his fierce George was a great human production in Mexico City—he Council. Equity also has an if exposure levels are kept below dedication to working class being with a wonderful sense of as choreographer, me in charge office in Toronto, Canada. the limits established in the rights and his 70-year humor and passion for life who of the physical production. We study, Actors should “not suffer commitment to Organized was loved and adored. What a ended up fast friends. Later, we adverse impacts to their health Labor. classy man. We will all miss 25 Years Ago were together in Buenos Aires or their vocal abilities.” Don Gervasi you. May 1986 with a new production of My Accordingly, limits are set with Dear Editor: Jon Engstrom Fair Lady. Crandall was a Weekly minimum salaries respect to the use of glycols and Jon Lipsky, who worked Dear Editor: • legend in Mexico and for Actors in the upcoming mineral oil. extensively throughout New The American theatre lost an Argentina, where he was England for the past quarter artist, a leader and the best of always given the title of century, and was Professor of friends with the passing of John “Maestro.” Although our careers Acting and Playwriting at Kingsbury on November 5, took us to different places, we Boston University’s School of 2010. always remained in touch. He Theatre, died this past March John started his career as a was a proud member of Equity 19th. As teacher, writer, director Stage Manager at The Old and a steadfast volunteer for and producer he had a Globe in the 1970s. Over the FINAL the Stephen J. Falat Holiday profound effect on area theatre years, he served as Production Basket Project. professionals. Manager at Seattle Repertory Crandall directed many Jon’s work appeared at the Theatre, Shakespeare Theatre CURTAIN Company and PCPA Theater - productions of original musicals Humana Festival of New Plays, in Israel; worked alongside Bill the American Repertory fest. He stage managed over Bradley staging the Ringling Theater in Cambridge, and 100 productions at Arizona Brothers Circus, and again “Were I to die and go to heaven other regional theatres. He was Theatre Company, ACT The - recreated My Fair Lady playwright-in-residence at the atre, Seattle Repertory Theatre, and find it populated by actors, choreography on Broadway in Merrimack Repertory Theatre Shakespeare Theatre Compa - I would not be unhappy.” productions with Rex Harrison and Associate Artistic Director ny, Virginia Stage Company, and Ian Richardson. —- Playwright Ben Hecht at the Vineyard Playhouse. In PCPA Theaterfest, Alley The - His life was dedicated to the 2007 he won an Eliot Norton atre, the Manhattan Punchline Michael Allinson Anne L. Francis William Pritz theatre and he will be missed Award for Best Direction in a and The Old Globe, among oth - Herman O. Arbeit Emanuel Fried M.J. Quinn by his many friends and small Boston-based company. ers. As stage director, he Edmund C. Balin Stephen Gardner Beverley Randolph colleagues. His plays include: The worked with companies across Anne Barclay Jay Garner Peggy Rea Greg Kayne Gordon Benson Betty Garrett Don Ross Survivor: a Cambodian the country (and beyond). In Paula J. Betlem Don Gilliland Robert Rue Odyssey ; Maggie’s Riff , an Joseph Bird Farley Granger Marc Rush adaptation of Jack Kerouac’s Domini Bythe Justin Gray Jane Russell Maggie Cassidy ; and Living In Thomas Donald Griffin Cesare Siepi Exile - a Retelling of the Iliad Bohdanetzky Jill Haworth Joyce Sloane which was revived in 2010 at Jerry J. Borg Joe Hickey Patricia Smith New York’s La Mama, and just Mark Brink Peter Hobbs Van Snowden Anne Diamond Judd Jones Walter Stane last month produced by Brownstone Aron Kincaid Helen Stenborg Boston’s Actors’ Shakespeare Willis Burks Beatrice Krebs Rodney Stenborg Theatre. He will be missed by Robert Buzzell Nick Latour Margot Stevenson all of us. Edward Cannan Len Lesser Haila Stoddard James Bodge Kurt Cerny M. William Lettich Ronald B. Stratton Greater Boston Liaison Mark Chamberlin Laverne Light Conrad Taylor Committee Kenn Chertok Marie Lillo Elizabeth Taylor Mildred Clinton Howard Lindsay II William Thunhurst Dear Editor: Melisande Congdon Frederic Major Michael Tolan I met George Martin in 1984 Nick Cosco Kenneth Mars John Toland in the LA company of 42 nd Georgia Creighton Penny P. McGuire John Ulrickson Jim V. Cyrus Ariane Orenstein Margaret Whiting Street. He was Production Sammy Del Brocco Evelyn Page Samuel J. Wilson Stage Manager; I was Dance Shirin Devrim Neva Patterson Alan Woodward Captain. It was the beginning of David Doty Wally Peterson Susannah York a friendship that continued until Sandra S. Ellis-Troy Neil Phillips Edward Zimmerman he passed away on April 6, Karen Errington Lawrence Keith Pool 2011. Mary Fogarty James T. Pritchett On Broadway he was