AUTUMN 2017 www.equity.org.uk

The fight for a creative voice in How to deal with difficult casting questions Report from our annual conference

Manifesto for Casting EMMANUEL KOJO EXPLAINS HOW TO CHANGE THE CASTING PROCESS First Act Insurance is delighted to introduce Contents

News 04 Equity Distribution 05 ITC agreement 24 06 Universal Credit Update Success stories 08 10 VAF celebrations 12 Fair Pay for creatives A range of insurances that complement the established Equity cover: Cover star 20> 24 14 The Manifesto for Casting

• Employers’/Public Liability (when employing others and distinct from the Equity members PLI cover). Features • Sets, scenery, props and costumes. 20 Casting Questions • Portable, technical equipment and instruments. 24 Conference report • Hired in equipment cover. • Buildings and contents. Plus 08 Meet the membership Business interruption. • Letters 30 14> Key features include 31 In memorium 32 Branch update • Competitive online quote and buy cover provided by HISCOX. • Annual or short period cover available.

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Christine Payne Ethical agreement General Secretary with the ITC EQUITY HAS SECURED AN IMPROVED AGREEMENT with the Independent Theatre Thank you to all of those who take part in the Council (ITC) for performers and stage democratic nature of this union, together we managers. This will apply to those working for can make lasting change happen in our industry ITC Ethical Managers in independent theatre. The new basic rate of pay is £458 per week, Blockbuster Wonder up from £447.50 in 2016/17. All additional THANK YOU TO ALL WHO STOOD issues surrounding casting and to arrive Woman is one of the payments, touring allowances and creative team in the recent Committee elections. at “simple, good practice guidelines for many productions that fees have increased by the same percentage. Members getting involved in the union’s all sectors”. This has resulted in our are made on an Equity Equity allowed no reduction of terms during democracy and making their voices Manifesto for Casting (see page 14). contract and whose the negotiations. Equity members will continue heard is vital for the future of Equity. I am very proud of the ambition and distribution will now be to benefit from decent holiday, overtime, hours of Congratulations to those who were commitment of the Casting Working handled by the Equity work, touring and sickness provisions. successful and commiserations to those Party in creating this document. team (pictured below) In a move welcomed by Equity’s Stage who did not make it on to a Committee It is a practical Manifesto that the Management section, a new cap on overtime this time. was established to tackle the problem of Members of the Committees do unmanageable Stage Management hours. Under tremendous work by providing expertise NEW EQUITY DISTRIBUTION the new agreement, the aggregating of overtime from their working life to help Equity’s is now capped at 57 hours per week. organisers frame the pressing issues we The Equity/ITC agreement sets the industry need to put to employers. I hope that you SCHEME WILL PAY YOU MORE standard for terms and conditions in funding Committees are a major part of how applications, and Equity is calling on Arts the democracy of Equity works, as is our will agree that EQUITY IS TAKING BACK DISTRIBUTION PREVIOUSLY DONE BY BECS Council-funded companies to respect industry Annual Representative Conference. The standards. Conference speaker this year was a great creative workers You can download the new ITC rate card at friend of Equity, Michael Cashman. He THE DISTRIBUTION OF MONIES that the Provide Equity members with an online account www.equity.org.uk/itc-rates-2017-2018 gave a passionate speech in favour of the need a voice in British Equity Collecting Society (BECS) has management tool within the new Equity website European Union and, whatever your completed for Equity in the past will be launching at the end of 2017 For more information contact Emmanuel de views are on Brexit, I hope you will agree, any Brexit deal” returning to the union and members will shortly Performers will also notice a change Lange at [email protected] as Michael does, that creative workers start receiving any contractual monies from in the status of payments received for the need a voice in any Brexit deal. Equity directly. retransmission of their work on European cable I was part of the Equity team that, Equity is committed to providing a networks. Because these monies are derived alongside our sisters unions the Writers’ industry is taking seriously. It has been distribution service that ensures that performers from your contract of employment, they will now Committees Guild of Great Britain and the Musicians’ supported by Spotlight, the Casting receive maximum benefit from the exploitation of normally be paid to the agent who secured that Union, visited Parliament to lobby MPs Directors Guild, the Personal Managers’ their performances. The new scheme will: contract for you – and it is likely that your agent to start work and Peers to support Equity’s campaign Association and the Co-operative Reduce commission rates on BBC, ITV and will take commission from these monies if to have representation of the creative Personal Management Association. It Channel 4 cable monies from 8% agreed under your agency contract. This THE UNION’S NEW COMMITTEE workforce in Brexit negotiations. is about our determination to change to 0% for Equity members. change to the status of cable monies would members have been announced. I want to thank the Equity members the casting landscape so we get to see From 18% to 6% for non- have happened whether Equity or BECS A total of 9% of Equity’s membership voted in that invited their MPs to this event and the more equal and diverse casts that members (inclusive of VAT) were making distributions. However, the 0% the committee elections. A full list of results can assure them that we will continue to fight we all want. Pay interest to performers commission is only possible as a result of the be found on an insert in this magazine or online for their voice to be heard on this issue. On the other side of casting process where monies are not distributed union taking back this work. Contact Equity’s at: www.equity.org.uk/committee-2017-results Michael’s speech was one of the is the monitoring of those on stage, for more than six months new distribution team: [email protected] Every two years, the Equity performers and highlights of the Conference. He was screen, in audio, online and on demand. creative practitioners are invited stand for also a recipient of Equity’s highest award, I’ve been unhappy with the level of detail industrial, specialist, national and equalities Honorary Life Membership, alongside we have received from Arts Council committees. These include the Screen and New Rosamund Shelley, Chair of the England in recent years. Media Committee, the Stage Committee, and International Committee for Artists’ It really has not enabled us to get a Fighting for a creative voice in Brexit the Variety, Circus & Entertainers Committee. Freedom and Equity Councillor Rhubarb coherent picture of how diverse our Polls then open, and the membership is the Clown, however the main Conference theatres are. The broadcasters’ MPs AND PEERS from across the political spectrum have pledged to support Equity’s campaign to have representation of the creative workforce in Brexit negotiations. asked to vote for the candidates to represent business is for members to set the agenda monitoring efforts are concentrated in On 5 July, Equity, the Musicians’ Union and the Writers’ Guild of Great Britain organised their interests. and upcoming priorities for Equity. Project Diamond and they are due to a drop-in lobby for MPs and Peers in support of each union’s Brexit campaigns. The new committees will begin meeting this See page 24 for the Conference report. release their figures on 23 August. Equity asked parliamentarians to sign a joint letter to Karen Bradley, the Secretary of month. Both re-elected and newly elected Motions put by members can have I hope this will provide the detail State for Culture, Media and Sport, calling for a seat at the table for creative workers members will work together to build on past a major impact on the industry, as the we need. We support these organisations alongside employers being consulted on Brexit. More than 70 MPs and Peers came to the successes, and develop new initiatives to 2015 Conference motion by the West and in the principle of monitoring casts, event, including Jess Phillips (pictured) and just under 50 signed Equity’s proposal. best serve their electorate, and further South West general branch but we need the results to be meaningful strengthen the union’s ability to fight for the shows. They requested the union set up so that we can ensure all voices can

Phil Hartley, Rex Features Phil Hartley, rights of its membership. a Casting Working Party to examine the be heard.

AUTUMN 2017 / 05 FRONT OF HOUSE

In brief... UNIVERSAL CREDIT UPDATE THE DEPARTMENT FOR WORKS & PENSIONS’ ROLL-OUT OF UNIVERSAL CREDIT AnnualTolpuddle Conference march CONTINUES ACROSS THE UK, REPLACING MANY MEANS-TESTED BENEFITS EquityThe union’s marched 2015 at Annual the Tolpuddle Martyrs’Representative Festival Conference on 16 July. will be Membersin London gathered on 17 and under 18 May. banners The to GAINFULLY SELF-EMPLOYED www.equity.org.uk/members-area/member- takedeadline part for in amotions procession is noon that on CLAIMANTS OF Universal Credit (UC) are resources/tax-and-welfare/universal-credit honoured12 March and the forsacrifice amendments of six 19th treated as earning £1,047.50 per month We will be providing more information about centurynoon on farmers17 April. and The celebrated 2016 ARC the (known as the minimum income floor, or MIF) Universal Credit in due course and we continue tradewill take union place movement. in Bristol onEquity 21, 22 regardless of what they are actually earning. to lobby the government for changes, including membersand 23 May. also performed at the In comparison, employed (PAYE) claimants the abolition of the MIF for entertainers. festival, including several who told are assessed on what they actually earn (if However, it is important that members the frequently unheard story of the anything) on a monthly basis. contact their MPs also. We have provided a BBCTolpuddle deal Women. If you are not deemed to be gainfully template letter for you to use that is included in The union has reached an self-employed, you will be required to look for the briefing. interim agreement with the BBC and undertake any work, including employment In the interim, if you are self-employed and BAPAMMinimum fees forboard main artists are work. currently receiving a ‘legacy benefit’ such as Equity’sup by 2.5% Council and supporting considered artists the Previously, the law on self-employed welfare income-related JSA, Tax Credits or Housing union’sand walk-ons representation fees have onalso the been Board benefit assessments required an accurate Benefit, and your claim stops for whatever ofincreased the British by 1%. Association The agreement of assessment of the claimant’s actual earnings at reason, it is essential that you contact the Tax Performingalso includes Arts a pre-purchase Medicine (BAPAM) of the time of claim, and that their circumstances and Welfare Rights helpline for advice before andcertain voted rights. to appoint The deal Assistant is effective should be taken into account. making a claim for Universal Credit. Generalfrom 1 October Secretary 2014. Matt hood for the Equity has produced a briefing for self- Call the Tax and Welfare Rights helpline on remainder of the Council’s term. employed UC claimants - please go online 0207 670 0223 (Monday to Thursday) or email Thanks were expressed to Councillor and visit the Equity website at: [email protected] ExhibitXander Black, B who show has represented theEquity union strongly for the opposes past three years. censorship and is extremely concerned that this show We’re proud of you BBCwas forced distribution to close. The union’s Equityconsistent and position the BBC is have that negotiated it a EQUITY MEMBERS HAVE taken part in a number newsupports Distribution artistic freedom Agreement to cover of Pride events across the UK. On 27 May, paymentsof expression. distributed by Equity on Birmingham Variety branch (pictured) were in the behalf of the BBC. This includes thick of the celebrations at Birmingham Pride. services such as iPlayer and 4Extra. More than 40 members marched as part of London Pride on 8 July and on 26 August, Equity will march MorePobol than y£2million Cwm is distributedaward to in the Manchester Pride parade. artistsWelsh eachsoap yearopera on Pobol behalf y Cwm of the BBC. has received a special Bafta honouring the show’s 40th TUCanniversary. Congress The award was 2017 presentedEquity will at send an event a delegation at Roath to bring Locktwo motions Studios toin theCardiff Trade Bay. Union HannahCongress Raybould, (TUC) annual director congress of this BaftaSeptember. Cymru, These presented include the asking the accoladeTUC to support to actor unionGareth organising Lewis, in whothe live accepted entertainment it on behalf sector of the cast(including and crew. assisting lobbying for licensing law framework change), and to lobby for fair treatment for EU USnationals network and Irish workers in a post-BrexitEquity’s West UK. Coast network in the US is having an event to connect with fellow members living or Specialworking in Los Attention Angeles or nearby. list TheIt will Special take place Attention on 5 November, list was withdrawn7.30pm – 10.30pm from the and the theunion’s venue websiteis Timmy and Nolan’s magazine bar on in Riversidelate 2016. ADrive, new CAlook 91602. list, with direct links to County Court judgments, will appear online in the coming months.

06 / AUTUMN 2017 www.equity.org.uk SUMMER 2017 MEET THE MEMBERSHIP

ELEKTRAFYING

Guy Woolf is an actor and a drag queen called Elektra Cute. Here, he discusses modern variety, the Spice Girls and what he feels is the greatest challenge facing the arts

How did you first enter the world of drag? It’s terrifying Some friends of mine at uni started the group. We Q were very close and they knew I was a singer. At that the lack of time I knew nothing about drag. The guy who started the group, which is called Denim, said it was the most complete type of representation performance because you craft your character and then they stay with you forever. It’s like being in the longest soap. It’s not like in the arts - it doing a four-week run, it’s something that stays with you and I thought that was really exciting. When I perform I love just shouldn’t being something completely different. I find that more exciting than a boring, naturalistic performance. follow those rules” Don’t get me wrong, it’s exhausting and it takes “Modern variety has three hours getting ready pretty much for become a bit more anything, but I haven’t really looked back. politically engaged, certainly from the angle How would you How did you go about creating the look we come at it” define modern variety? and character of Elektra Cute? Q It’s become a bit more politically Q The first few years were sort of terrible. It engaged, certainly from the angle we come at it. was like: put on lipstick and some eyeliner and Hey I think that’s largely true when you look at some of presto! You’re a drag queen – please! It was so basic, and the great variety acts around such as Scottee, La Gateux we’ve all improved. I’ve always had a kind of rock voice and they Chocolat, Dicky Bow and Victoria Sin. They are so politically infused. wanted a sort of punk rock chick. That was how the idea started for Elektra, and then it developed - she kind of became a sort of Why do you consider a lack of socioeconomic political warrior, a political activist who’s actually quite monied, diversity the greatest challenge facing the arts? quite privileged. She’s the treasurer of a Marxist society, but she Q The result of a lack of socioeconomic diversity is more holds the meetings in her dad’s basement swimming pool in homogenised programming, which I find dull because it is Knightsbridge. We just thought it was quite fun to critique that privileged people programming work starring privileged people sort of really well-meaning, liberal sort of indulgence. She likes for privileged people to watch. It doesn’t accurately reflect how to pose as someone who’s really together when actually she’s just diverse and cosmopolitan the UK is, particularly London. I’ve figuring everything out. So her look as a result is confused, it’s a lived in the capital my whole life and everywhere you go there bit of this and a bit of that. is great diversity and that should be reflected properly in art. It’s terrifying the lack of representation there is in the arts and What do you think is the future of drag? it just shouldn’t follow those rules. I think venues, casting I’d like to see it become normalised more, I think directors, directors, etc, need to take more responsibility for Q RuPaul has helped a lot with that. I hope we’re the that, to confront it. I think every level of the industry from future of drag! We want to be like the Spice Girls, we want it to drama school, to agents, to producers – every single aspect of it be really pop and really mainstream to the extent that it’s more should be more encouraging towards people from lower

Interview: Laura Gilbert accessible and that it inspires other young artists to do it. socioeconomic backgrounds.

08 / AUTUMN 2017 www.equity.org.uk AUTUMN 2017 / 09 SUCCESS STORIES

Veteran artistes and new variety performers Equity and SDUK gathered together at the London unite for directors Palladium to celebrate the EQUITY HAS PARTNERED WITH STAGE DIRECTORS Variety Artistes’ UK (SDUK) to form a working party that will help ensure Federation and directors get the best possible agreements. Equity Representatives from both organisations will come together to identify proposals for a compelling, evidence- based claim for revision of current contracts that the union will take forward to negotiations both with the Society of London Theatre and UK Theatre. An open meeting for directors was held on 27 June. Equity President Malcolm Sinclair and SDUK executive director Thomas Hescott spoke to those gathered about the partnership, followed by directors Lisa Blair and Jeremy Herrin (of the union and the trade organisation, respectively). Lisa Blair stated “combining forces means Equity secures new stage that we can collectively strengthen our claims”. Thomas Hescott suggested to all present that “we want good, management roles at the robust contracts because we want a diverse industry,” explaining how securing fair agreements will help the National Theatre next generation of practitioners. Directors then discussed their industrial concerns. As UNION HELPS CREATE JOBS FOR NEW STAGE MANAGERS director Zoe Waterman stated, for many it was “rare to be AND FOR THOSE WITH CARING RESPONSIBILITIES in a room full of directors”, and the creative professionals relished the opportunity to work with their peers. Both organisations are excited to colloborate. Stephen CELEBRATING 50 Members rate EQUITY HAS SUCCESSFULLY NEGOTIATED with the National Spence, Equity’s Deputy for the General Secretary, said: Theatre (NT) to create four new assistant stage management roles. “The invaluable work of SDUK and the wealth of union’s support These jobs are designed to specifically appeal to those new to the experience of its members will inform Equity’s claim to YEARS OF VARIETY industry, and to those who are looking for a flexible working structure – SOLT and UK Theatre, making sure that we can improve More than 70% of members who get in including parents and those with caring responsibilities. terms and conditions for everyone.” JIMMY CRICKET HOSTS EVENT MARKING THE DATE THAT THE touch with Equity are “very satisfied” with Two of these positions are full-time fixed-term contracts for a full two Thomas Hescott agreed, stating “I’ve always believed VARIETY ARTISTES’ FEDERATION JOINED FORCES WITH EQUITY the union’s response to enquiries, year period; not on a show-by show basis. The others are permanent, that the best theatre comes from strong collaboration, according to a recent membership survey. part-time roles, where ASMs will work for six months and then have the and that’s no different when it comes to negotiation.” Equity regularly runs surveys to better rest of the year off. This will allow professionals to pursue further career ON 16 MAY, THE UNION instance, got up and spoke at a Charing understand the membership and how it development opportunities, or undertake caring responsibilities. CELEBRATED THE 50TH anniversary Cross Hotel VAF meeting more than 50 views the union. More than 4,200 people The union is confident that the job structure can be successful – and of the Variety Artistes’ Federation (the years ago, to support the “amalgamation volunteered to give feedback, representing the part time roles in particular can be held up as an example of good, VAF) becoming part of Equity by hosting motion” to become part of Equity. around 10% of Equity members. workable practice. This may be particularly helpful for members wanting an afternoon event at the London Performers were reunited with peers Contract conditions, benefits/tax and reduced hours at the start or end of their career. Palladium. and the family of Joe O’Gorman (the equal opportunities were the three main Both Equity and the NT believe that, if advertised in the right way, Variety performers gathered together original VAF chair) attended, to commemorate reasons performers and creatives reached these roles will help promote a more diverse stage management at the venue’s Val Parnell Bar to recognise their grandfather’s union work. out to the union. workforce. The regular income and stability of full-time work should draw the two unions’ momentous 1967 The event was full of fond memories of The survey shows the three issues in applicants from non-traditional backgrounds, which would be unable decision to join forces, recognising that, the past, but all present recognised that which members are most concerned to pursue gig-based employment. It will also help develop careers, as the when it came to ensuring entertainers’ variety performers continue to face about are low pay/no pay productions, successful candidates will gain skills working with a leading organisation rights, they were indeed stronger difficulties, and understood the necessity Brexit and equalities and diversity, and that and crucially have the NT credit on their CV. The flexibility of the part-time together. The celebration, considered of a strong trade union to protect current they believe Equity was particularly good at roles will give an opportunity to those with caring commitments. the showpiece of Equity’s Year of Variety, and future entertainers. As Jimmy Cricket insurance, legal support and campaigning. The NT also wishes to promote inclusivity by advertising in a more was hosted by comedian Jimmy Cricket, explained: “Just as in 1906, when the Members were also asked about innovative way, so more people hear of these job opportunities – in who entertained guests with jokes Variety Artistes’ Federation was formed to communications, with 83% stating they particular, they wish to reach out to BAME applicants. and juggling. protect performers from unscrupulous wanted a regular Equity email newsletter. Paul Fleming, the organiser responsible for the NT, said: “This deal The afternoon was filled with theatre owners and managers, in 2017 The union will act on this and start is significant. We’ve seen permanent stage management positions conversations, as members of the current there are people out there ready to exploit delivering these early next year. Finally, decline all over the country and the precariousness of our members Variety, Circus and Entertainers’ members of our profession for their own 85% believed the Equity magazine remains increase accordingly. We must always be fighting for the best terms for The open meeting was an opportunity for directors to Committee met with veteran artistes – ends. Isn’t it comforting and reassuring to a useful communication tool despite the the freelancers who make up such a large part of the SM workforce, but discuss the pressing issues in their sector including those who witnessed the know that when we reach out Equity will popularity of social media. showing permanent positions can be done in more innovative ways is

Phil Hartley, Rex Features Phil Hartley, original 1960s unification. Ron Bone, for be there to help?” a key part of having the diverse workforce we all want to see.”

10 / AUTUMN 2017 www.equity.org.uk www.equity.org.uk AUTUMN 2017 / 11 SUCCESS STORIES

EQUITY DESIGNS NEW MEMBERSHIP SCHEME TO HELP GRADUATES LAUNCH Develop THEIR CAREERS your UNION CREATES A REDUCED PRICE • Entertainment MEMBERSHIP TO HELP PERFORMERS industry specialists passion! AND PRACTITIONERS AT THE START OF THEIR PROFESSIONAL LIVES • New client discount Apply now for: for Equity members • MA/MFA Actor and Performer Training • MA/MFA Ensemble Theatre • Free initial chat • MA/MFA Theatre for Young Audiences • MPhil/PhD Research Degree Programme • Postgraduate Certificate in Learning and Teaching in HE: Theatre and Performing Arts (PGCLTHE)

#TaxMadeSimple IN THE COMING MONTHS, Equity member’s graduation date. Anyone who will launch its Graduate Membership: a has completed a higher education 01905 706050 scheme designed to support performers performing arts course since 30 June [email protected] and creative practitioners as they navigate 2015 is eligible, provided they have not bruford.ac.uk Rose Bruford College MA Ensemble Theatre with www.theataccounts.co.uk Rose Bruford College MA Ensemble Theatre with the difficult transition from student to already upgraded to full membership. This Rose Bruford College, Burnt Oak Lane, Sidcup, DA15 9DF Bral SchoolSchool of of Acting. Acting. Photo: Photo: [email protected] [email protected] established professional. scheme will be available to those who Graduate Membership provides studied both at accredited and non- everything a full membership offers – accredited institutions. “We are extremely including legal services, insurance pleased that we are able to offer recent The Evelyn Norris Trust benefits, contract advice, consultation graduates this new membership scheme,” A NEW EDITION OF THE CLASSIC Was established in 1968 to and inclusion in the event of industrial said Matt Hood, Equity’s Assistant General provide financial support GUIDE TO CAREERS IN ACTING action. Plus, the ability to vote in Equity Secretary. “We hope to see many early- for members of the elections and to stand for Committees career performers, stage managers, theatrical and concert and Council – but with a 50% directors and designers benefit from the ‘Robert Cohen is a teacher and writer about theatre with subscription fee discount. This reduced support Equity can offer them.” For more, professions who are in great insight and sensitivity. Any student of performance rate lasts for up to two years after a contact: [email protected] need of rest, recovery or would benefit deeply by reading and listening to him.’ a recuperative holiday. – Sir Patrick Stewart

Equity at If you’ve recently suffered King’s Head: Fair pay for all an illness, or needed medical Glastonbury treatment and think a short KING’S HEAD THEATRE’S director Adam Following the outreach success of convalescent break OUT Spreadbury-Maher (pictured) worked with Equity previous years, Equity once again would aid recovery, or if you’ve NOW! to establish a competitive rate of pay for all creative attended Glastonbury to speak to been suffering from ill health professionals, including directors, designers members and other performers about and need to ‘recharge your and choreographers. their work, their professional concerns, batteries’ then you should Equity’s Professionally Made Professionally Paid and what the union could do to tackle apply for funding. campaign built on previous success it has had for these issues. actors and stage managers by extending protections Equity hosted a daily surgery in For information on to creatives. Emmanuel de Lange, the union’s Low Pay the Theatre & Circus Green Room how to apply you can either contact No Pay organiser, said: “The King’s Head has been canteen, and roamed the grounds, [email protected]. leading the way on ethical Fringe pay for years, so it’s reaching out to a range of artists ring us on 0207 831 1926 fitting that they have signed up to a creative team agreement. including singers, comedians, dancers, or visit our website | PB £22.99 9781137605863 The Fringe agreement is a stepping stone to full Equity contracts.” acrobats, actors, jugglers, stilt-walkers www.equitycharitabletrust.org.uk Main house productions at the King’s Head will now guarantee pay of at least £1,375 for and cabaret performers. where you can follow the link to the Find out more at palgravehighered.com directors and £825 for set designers. Dan Ayling, Equity’s creative team councillor, said: “It’s The union’s representatives recruited Evelyn Norris Trust and download great news that paying actors a fair wage for Fringe work is becoming accepted practice, but new members and helped allay the an application. creative team members such as directors and designers need to be included too and I concerns of existing ones. welcome the King’s Head leading the way with this deal.” The union also supported the www.equitycharitabletrust.org.uk venue’s new diversity policies, which include making half of production roles non-male.

www.equity.org.uk AUTUMN 2017 12 / AUTUMN 2017 / 13 MANIFESTO

Actor and Equity Councillor Emmanuel Kojo spoke to casting directors at the campaign’s launch Manifesto for CASTING Equity’s new campaign seeks to revolutionise the casting process – making it clearer, fairer, less stressful and more inclusive for everyone

Photography Phil Hartley

quity has launched the Manifesto for “The same goes for older actors, women actors, East Casting: a radical campaign that aims Asian actors, gay actors, deaf and disabled actors, actors to change the way industry from and living in the UK’s nations and regions, actors professionals approach the audition who are parents, actors who are signed to small agencies, process. The document, which covers or represent themselves. the entire audition process from job “The casting process can be full of pressure, time- advertisements to recalls, lays out consuming and stressful but I know that everyone in this good practice principles that will making casting clearer, room wants the best outcome from it.” Efairer, less stressful and more inclusive for everyone. The Speaking on the campaign’s importance, Equity’s manifesto seeks to help the industry as a whole, and General Secretary Christine Payne stated: “Our industries “widen the net and open up opportunities for all parties: will only thrive by attracting and retaining professional performers, casting directors, agents and engagers”. talent, regardless of background or circumstances, to meet The manifesto asks casting directors to, amongst other the ever-growing demands for audio and audio-visual things, commit to inclusive casting, limit the number of creative content on stage, on screen, online and on recalls, consider local talent, be mindful of performers’ demand. This manifesto will be used by the union to seek caring responsibilities and tell actors when they have not the changes that will ensure the continued success of our gotten a role. creative industries.” Equity Ethnic Minorities Councillor and actor The manifesto was formally announced on the 22 June, Emmanuel Kojo underscored the importance of this at a gathering of industry professionals at the Ivy. Equity document, with an address delivered at the manifesto’s members, agents and casting professionals including launch, where he said: “I am a black actor, but my identity representatives from Spotlight, the Personal Managers’ shouldn’t be relevant to the expectation of what I can do. Association (PMA), Casting Directors’ Guild (CDA), the That judgement should instead be based on my ability as Co-operative Personal Management Association (CPMA), a skilled, professional person to deliver what the team the BBC, the National Theatre, the Royal Shakespeare wants and their idea of what they want their piece to be. Company, PACT, ITV and Channel 4 S4C, arrived to learn >

14 / AUTUMN 2017 www.equity.org.uk / 15 MANIFESTO

Clockwise from top left: Artistic Director of Graeae Jenny Sealey, BBC Casting Director John Cannon., actor Martina Laird, actor Rebecca Root, Head of Casting at the Royal Shakespeare Company Hannah Miller, MP Tracy Brabin, Chair of Equity Liverpool and District General Branch Stephanie Greer, and Head of Casting and contracts at ITV Studios Clare Cooper-Marshall

Opposite page: The speakers at the launch event were Equity President Malcolm Sinclair, Tracy Brabin, Clare Cooper-Marshall, Equity Councillor Emmanuel Kojo and Equity General Secretary Christine Payne There is no way you can get a role if you cannot even get into the audition room”

about the campaign and understand the issues which “But access into this industry is proving more and more inspired it. difficult. I – and I’m not alone in thinking this – I don’t Christine Payne opened the event, and President think I would have had the career I was lucky to have if I Malcolm Sinclair explained each policy of the manifesto. He was starting out today.” was followed by Clare Cooper-Marshall, head of casting and The document, which responded to the passionate contracts at ITV Studios, who endorsed the campaign, and demands of the union’s members, has gained support from who described it as being “for the future benefit of Equity actors including , Maxine Peake, Patrick members, theatrical producers, programme makers and Stewart, David Morrissey, Vicky McClure, Julie indeed all stake holders in our industry. It represents the Hesmondhalgh and Rebecca Root. beginning of a positive dialogue about making us fairer, also applauded the manifesto. She said: “I more representative and, ultimately, more creative.” stand with Equity: we need there to be opportunities for MP, actor and writer Tracy Brabin celebrated the performers living all over Britain. Any production should manifesto as both a politician and a performer. She said: make a concerted effort to audition local performers. “Britain’s creative industries are the envy of the whole Talent is not concentrated in the UK: it’s not confined to a world. The industry drives exports and inward investment single city. Excellent actors are to be found in all the and is a symbol of the type of country we are and the type regions.” of country we want to be. Outward-facing, brave, Mat Fraser, who was the first disabled actor to ever be imaginative and extraordinarily creative. Risk-taking in cast as Richard III, said: “There’s no way you can get a role bringing entertainment to people around the world. if you can’t even get into the audition room. Deaf and >

16 / AUTUMN 2017 www.equity.org.uk AUTUMN 2017 / 17

MANIFESTO Equity already has agreements with MANIFESTO engagers that cover the casting process. This manifesto is our vision of how casting FOR CASTING can be made better for everyone:

CASTING PREPARATION Cost Job advertisements Reasonable consideration should be given to the Where roles are advertised, the casting breakdown cost to performers when attending auditions should be presented in the most inclusive way possible Caring responsibilites Inclusive casting The caring responsibilities of performers should be A diverse range of performers should be auditioned recognised and, wherever practicable, accommodated for every production, including voice-only performances. Greater consideration should be AT THE AUDITION given to specific characteristics for any given role Self-taping Local talent Performers should be given clear direction on what Consideration should be given to professional talent is required and a realistic time frame. There should from where the production is made also be a timely acknowledgment of its receipt

Access Time keeping The building where auditions are held should be Every attempt should be made by all concerned to accessible and reasonable adjustments (a legal keep to the agreed audition time Top right: Polly Kemp and Deirdre Mullins of ERA requirement) should be made to the audition 50:50. Bottom right: Equity President Malcolm process to ensure all performers can participate Data protection Sinclair presents the Manifesto Information provided on the head sheet or the artist Contract declaration form or equivalent must be treated in It should be clear what kind of contract is being accordance with data protection law offered Appropriate questions In line with the law and with specific exceptions, BEFORE THE AUDITION performers should not be asked for personal Submissions information, verbally or in writing, as part of Submissions made should be relevant to the role the audition. This includes actual age, ethnicity, and performers’ information should be up-to-date disability, pregnancy, marital/civil partnership status or sexual orientation Access A question requesting the access requirements of Filming auditions performers should be included in every invitation to If an audition is to be filmed, the film (or self-tape) audition should not be used or distributed for any other purpose without the consent of the performer Casting of disabled and ethnically diverse Nudity/simulated sex No sex act should be requested at any audition AFTER THE AUDITION actors need not be a political statement” A performer should not be requested to undress in whole or in part unless a mutually agreed observer Outcome is present Performers/Agents should be informed when they have not got a role at the earliest opportunity Disabled actors have to fight so hard to make it in this the UK have voiced in the past three years, which led to Professionalism industry, and it’s ridiculous that they should be expected the establishment of a Casting Working Party. Equity members have a responsibility to turn up Pencilling to struggle just to be seen. Equity’s demand for accessible This led to the union establishing a positive and open on time, be prepared and give the earliest possible A pencil is not a firm booking. All parties should be spaces is essential to make sure everyone can take part in relationship with the CDG, the PMA, the CPMA and notice of cancellation clear about the number of performers pencilled and our industry.” Spotlight, and in turn to a commitment between All involved in the casting process have a the time frame for a decision to be made. A pencil Equity Councillor Tanya Moodie added: “A all organisations to improve the casting responsibility to ensure performers are given the can be withdrawn by performers or agents without vibrant industry is one where every player has process. The campaign has been opportunity to prepare and give of their best repercussions. Notice of withdrawal of a pencil by the opportunity to manifest their fullest gratefully received by performers and any party should be given as soon as possible creative potential. I’ve witnessed diverse casting industry professionals alike, and casting Preparation time blossom over the years. There’s still work to do. directors have pledged to support it. Castings should be planned, where possible, with Recalls Casting of disabled and ethnically diverse actors a realistic time frame to allow casting directors All those who are essential to casting decisions needn’t be a political statement, but rather You can find a copy of the manifesto to and agents enough time to enable performers to should work with performers to minimise the something that happens as a matter of course.” share over your social media networks at prepare properly number of recalls The manifesto responds to the concerns www.equity.org.uk/manifesto-for-casting members from committees and branches across

18 / AUTUMN 2017 www.equity.org.uk www.equity.org.uk AUTUMN 2017 / 19 CASTING QUESTIONS QUESTION TIME Actress Kelly Burke explains why members have requested help with Let us insist that we are auditioned the many intrusive questions that can happen during a casting in accordance with the law, like any other professional applying for a job”

ncluded with this magazine, you will find But this is why it matters: When we answer these kinds of a credi card-sized leaflet called Play Fair questions, we are saying that it is acceptable to be asked. And Casting Questions. we are saying it is acceptable to not be hired because of our I The idea for it grew out of the Women’s answers. We are saying that it is acceptable for a colleague Committee’s awareness that being asked your (as I overheard recently) to be asked: “What kind of age in an audition is damaging for our female members. mixed-race are you?”. We are saying it is acceptable to be You are at the audition because you are believable for the rejected for a job on the grounds that we are 41 instead of 39, part — but as soon as you are asked your age (on paper that we might be considering pregnancy, that we are or in the room), what you say can lose you the job. managing mental health issues. Age is not the only issue, of course, and not only women We are saying it is fair to ask our most vulnerable are affected. When we are asked to share personal details, members to make themselves more vulnerable. We must take we can all find ourselves in danger of losing a job. This can responsibility for what we want our industry to look like. be because we are percieved to be too old, or from the wrong Let us insist that we are auditioned in accordance with racial background, or not straight, or have too many caring the law, like any other professionals applying for any other responsibilities at home. We are forced to compromise our job. Let us insist on a basic level of privacy and respect, and privacy and put ourselves in tiny, very literal, casting boxes. refuse to accept intrusive questions as ‘business as usual’. These kinds of questions are not only difficult — they could Let us do it for the longevity and creative diversity of our be illegal. Equality law states that employers “must not ask” for own careers — and let us do it to support our fellow certain personal information (called “protected characteristics”) performers who are pushing against barriers even greater in an interview. This means that in an audition you should than our own. Let us do it now. never be asked, with a few exceptions*, about your: Age, disability or health, sexual orientation, marital status/ *Employers only need to ask for this kind of personal civil partnership, ethnicity, gender, religion or pregnancy information before an offer is made if they are intrinsic The Casting Questions card is a quick reference for what to a job, e.g. need to have a particular characteristic for we do not have to speak about in an audition, and gives us a authenticity in a dramatic performance, need to be 25+ if few strategies for responding: Where forms ask for date of selling alcohol or 75+ to secure insurance for a hazardous birth, health details, etc, leave them blank. Take pictures of activity, or asking about disability if a task that is central to them and forward them to [email protected] the job cannot be done with reasonable adjustments. Other If you are asked in the room, say “My playing range is…” circumstances where this questioning would be allowed also or “I usually play…” instead of giving out personal details. include equality monitoring (which should be kept completely (Or try something cheeky like, “How old is the character?”) separate from anyone involved in the audition) and to make Again, report it to Equity. reasonable adjustments for the application/audition process. Our colleagues on the casting side of the industry have all seen the Play Fair card. Many of them have been aware of this for years and are working hard to support us – witness all the goodwill and collaboration across the industry for the THE PLAY FAIR CASTING Manifesto for Casting. If we were going to choose a moment QUESTIONS CARD is to change the culture of our profession for the better, that designed to fit in your wallet, moment is now. But nothing will change unless we commit so you can carry it with you to to doing it together – all of us. auditions and know your rights. It is difficult. None of us want to cause trouble in the You can download a digital copy audition. And I’ve heard people say, “Oh, I just fill in the of the card from our website at: form. It doesn’t really matter to me.” www.equity.org.uk/casting- questions Learn more about our Play Fair campaign at: www.equity.org.uk/ play-fair

20 / AUTUMN 2017 www.equity.org.uk AUTUMN 2017 / 21 Member offers

Equity membership entitles you to a wide variety of discounts, from photos to the Phoenix club; see below for a selection. Go online for a full list: www.equity.org.uk/discounts

alexander technique michael barnes hairdressing rac breakdown cover Individual lessons at Gilbert Street, Nr Bond St, Equity members get 40% off all cutting and We’ve teamed up with the RAC to bring you a London. 30% discount to members. Twenty-six colouring on your first visit to the salon and then potential 50% off RAC Rescue cover, this is years of teaching performers; supporting you will receive 20% off all services whenever off the base, standard cover. With your improved poise and confidence, preventing you visit after that. Michael Barnes is located at discount, Roadside cover starts at just £29 a backache and vocal strain. For info phone Kate 224 Shaftesbury Avenue, London, 020 7836 7152. year. And, depending on which level of cover Kelly 0845 3479389 www.alexandertec.net you choose, you could save as much as photography £99.25. Join at rac.co.uk/join/benefits or assist taxation services HCK Photography is offering Equity call0800 096 6836 quoting EBS001 Assistance with the preparation and members headshots/publicity shots for £95, submission of self-assessment tax returns for a saving of £155. . For more information rex restaurants Equity members who are required by HM contact Kit at: 020 7112 8499. Chris Corbin and Jeremy King are keen Revenue & Customs to submit a return. Equity www.hckphotography.co.uk/equityoffer supporters of the theatre and they have arranged members receive an exclusive 20% discount Scotland-based photographer Aly Wight is for all members to receive 10% off any bill at off the normal fixed fee of £250. A further offering a 10% discount off headshots and their London restaurants. These are: 10% discount is available to members for location shots to members, see www.alywight.com The Wolseley, The Delaunay, The Counter at The referrals. We also offer self-employed Delaunay, Brasserie Zédel and Colbert. accounts preparation and tax advisory and See the Rex Restaurant website: planning services. For further details please Special offer www.rexra.com. for details of the different contact Nasir Majeed on 07775 691009, eateries. The offer is for an Equity member and email [email protected] up to five guests (i.e. six people in total). You need to show a valid Equity card as proof when you cinema tickets arrive at the restaurant. Discounted tickets when showing Equity card: Queens FilmTheatre Belfast, Pictureville stage newspaper Bradford, Watershed Bristol, Cinema 3 Equity members can have 10% off an annual Canterbury, Chichester Cinema at New Park, subscription. This is available on both print Robert Burns Centre Film Theatre Dumfries, and digital editions. Go to the website: Edinburgh Filmhouse, Hull Screen, Adam Smith http://subscriptions.thestage.co.uk and select Listen to the magazine smollensky s bar and grill Theatre Kirkcaldy, Showroom Sheffield, NFT. ’ the version you require. Remember to include Smollensky’s Bar and Grill on the Strand the code EQUI in the Promotional Code box. dance studios are offering Equity card holders 25% £60 off Pineapple Studios Annual discount on food. They also have drinks travel lodge Membership. Equity members get £60 off offers (these are subject to availability so Travelodge offer 5% discount on bookings annual membership to Pineapple Dance always ask and show your Equity card through their Business Account Service. Studios in Covent Garden, London (usually before ordering). 105 Strand, London, To register set up an account, go to costs £160). Additional benefits of WC2R 0AA www.smollenskys.com www.travelodge.co.uk Click on the Login/ membership include 25% off all full-price Sign up button on the top right of the menu. clothing at the Pineapple store opposite the Choose Business and then follow the Sign studio in Covent Garden. Members can visit the phoenix artist club Up steps quoting Equity as the Business name. studios at any time for classes or to meet Equity members get 50% off annual friends and colleagues. Two passport size membership, at this private members’ club q-park photographs are required. Claim in person with and licensed bar for professionals in the Equity and Q-Park have teamed up to your Equity card at Pineapple Dance Studios, 7 entertainment industry and their guests, open provide Equity members with discounted Langley Street, London WC2H 9JA. Tel 020 Mon-Sat 10.30am-2.30am (last entry 1am). parking in London and other major cities. . 7836 4004. www.pineapple.uk.com Hot food served in the brasserie until 9.30pm. The rates represent a 15% discount across Sunday open 12 noon – 1.30 am. the day with a special flat rate of £6.00 for hair removal Entertaining entertainers since the eighties, London parking from 6pm to 2am. To take Pulsar-permanent hair removal and skin this “jewel in the ground”. Annual membership advantage of the Equity discount you need If you, or a fellow member, has difficulty in reading printed material the treatments. Pigmentation, spots, photo- is £200 reduced to £100 on presentation of to pre-book your parking. Follow this link to Equity magazine is also available as an audio file on CD or data stick. rejuvenation and more. IPL-intense pulsed light your paid-up Equity card. Join online or phone do this: www.equity.org.uk/parking therapy. More advanced than laser: never shave the club during the day. Located beneath the again. For men and women – all skin and hair Phoenix Theatre, 1 Phoenix Street, Charing To receive it, contact the RNIB via: please note: Equity does not endorse types. 10-20% discount for Equity members. Cross Road, London WC2H 8BU. Tel: 020 the third-party services provided in these Donna Gordon, [email protected] Minimum fee applies to house visits. 7836 1077, www.phoenixartistclub.com membership offers. They are made available 01733 375106 Contact Dr Succar on 020 8848 8288 on the request of the vendors. or www.natura.org.uk

22 / AUTUMN 2017 www.equity.org.uk AUTUMN 2017 / 23 CONFERENCE REPORT We must be heard

Above: London Area AGM representative Nichola Dame Hartwell. Left: Equity General Secretary Christine Payne and Equity President Malcolm Sinclair. Opposite page: guest speaker Michael Cashman and Stage Committee Michael Cashman gives a passionate speech about Equity’s role defending creative workers representative Jackie Clune in any Brexit deal as members gather to challenge the industry at the union’s annual conference

Photography Phil Adams

quity’s Annual Representative Conference in May Council England. She said: “The Arts Council have twice failed in Branch, then spoke from packed in a huge amount into two days with their monitoring to show with any certainty, with any clarity, with the podium about putting delegates debating a wide range of issues including any transparency, what we are seeing on our stages.” social and economic mobility socio-economic bias, smoking on stage, self-taping, The main business of the conference then began with actor alongside the union’s ongoing equality theme park workers, London rehearsals and much Jackie Clune taking to the stage to discuss caring responsibilities. and diversity priorities. “Socioeconomic bias is affecting our Emore. The union’s President Malcolm Sinclair opened the “Childcare provision is becoming much more commonplace in members every day,” she said. “Young actors in Liverpool are conference celebrating how effective Equity is when the other industries so why not ours? We are supposed to be struggling to afford to train.” This was passed unanimously as union’s staff and members work together. He cited the more humane, more invested in equality, more was the request from Dan Edge on behalf of the Deaf and recent guide to audio work, the partnership with forward-looking and more inclusive,” she said. The Disabled Members Committee for greater support following SDUK and the Manifesto for Casting as reasons why motion from the Stage Committee to support government cuts to schemes such as Access to Work and the Equity is winning the argument that “being a Parents in Performing Arts’ feasibility study of a disability living allowance. He said: “What we are asking for, is member of a trade union is an important and good crèche to help artists working in central London while we are fighting on so many fronts, please give us the thing to do”. and examine a similar set-up for the nations and support so we can fight with you.” Equity’s General Secretary Christine Payne regions was passed unanimously. A regular item on the conference agenda is the guest speaker followed Malcolm to the podium and set out the The subsequent motion on dealing with and this year it was Equity member Michael Cashman. He gave a positive news of a union that continues to grow its intrusive questions in castings put by the Brighton passionate speech about Brexit and the need for the creative membership and makes great and Sussex General Branch was passed and the industries to have a voice in the discussions about leaving the EU. industrial agreements - despite ‘Casting Questions’ leaflet has been He said: “Equity must be included in all – I stress – all the turbulent political climate. produced and is included in this issue discussions with the DCMS, and the Department for Exiting the She then focused on the “hugely of the magazine (see page 20). EU to ensure that we maintain the best for the cultural industries disappointing” record of diversity Stephanie Greer, from the on funding, ability of talent, intellectual property, employment and equality monitoring by Arts Liverpool and District General rights – I do not want this country to become an off-shore

24 / AUTUMN 2017 www.equity.org.uk AUTUMN 2017 / 25 CONFERENCE REPORT

We must talk about the kind of Britain we should be, a Britain that has at its core the principles of fairness and equality”

sweatshop of the rest of Europe - and cultural motion was put forward by the Variety, Circus diversity. We must be invited to join the Creative and Entertainers Committee to designate 2018 Industries Council. Colleagues, our voice must as the ‘Year of Circus’ because it will be the 250th be heard. If necessary, in concert with others but year since the establishment of the first circus. if not – alone. We must be heard both in Rhubarb The Clown proposed the motion and government, and in the public debate, and said: “Circus performers are not being as well amongst politicians and peers of all parties…we served as they could be by this union.” The Honorary Life Membership was award to must talk about the kind of Britain we should be, conference heard further debates around many Rosamund Shelley, Chair of the ICAF (top right), and could be. A Britain that for me, has at its issues such as career awareness for non- Equity Councillor Rhubarb the Clown and roots and core, the principles of fairness, performers and unregulated variety agents. It Michael Cashman (right). Above: Equity Councillor equality, decency, justice and humanity.” also held fringe events such as help for students Stephen McGuire. Opposite page: London Area The year 2017 was designated by a previous to deal with bullying and passed a motion for AGM representative Ayvianna Snow Conference to be the ‘Year of Variety’ and it has Equity to appoint staff resources to assist in this been a great success. At this year’s conference a area. Next year’s Conference will be in London.

Screen and New Media Committee urged Council, on behalf of the Online Branch Devon and Cornwall General Branch Members vote to change industry Council to work to raise awareness of EU Committee, called upon Equity to investigate asked Council to look into ensuring the EQUITY’S 2017 CONFERENCE CARRIED 41 MOTIONS AND HERE IS THE COMPLETE LIST nationals’ contribution to the UK acting industry. training in the use of IT so that the reach of protection of performers regarding possible the online branch can be extended. future computer-generated performances Northern Ireland AGM asked Council to following their death. The Stage Committee called upon training workshops for Deaf & Disabled members. Artistes’ Federation to the Equity website. campaign for Northern Ireland to continue to Council requested that from 1 January Council to support a scheme looking into have an all-Ireland agreement and a 2018, subscription rates will increase by Screen and New Media Committee called establishing a crèche for artists working in Women’s Committee asked ACE to fund Directors and Designers Committee ring-fenced NI and ROI EU investment for 2.4% rounded to the nearest whole pound. on Council not to consider accepting any central London, and any comparable individual theatre companies according to called on Council to ensure all members film and television production. contractual agreement with BBC Studios initiatives across the UK. their performance on diversity. receive equal and increased protection and Kent General Branch asked the union that does not recognise the new commercial to ensure that this is discussed with London Area AGM called upon Council to to facilitate accredited online training realities in which it is operating. Northern Ireland Branch asked Equity to Stage Committee called on Council to appropriate bodies such as ACE. find better mechanisms to inform our available to members. ensure all main theatre, film and TV lobby for an even gender split on the boards members about serial bullies. Northern Ireland Committee called on agreements include a caring provision. of arts organisations that employ Equity South West English Area Annual General Thames Variety Branch urged the Council Equity to campaign for BBC Northern Ireland members. Meeting urged Council to ensure that all East of Scotland Branch asked Council to to consider that the quorum for a committee to be given a larger slice of the licence fee Brighton and Sussex General Branch organisations in receipt of public funding request Spotlight to reduce student fees. meeting should be five members. collected in Northern Ireland. called upon the union to create a pocket-size Variety, Circus and Entertainers agree to pay industry standard rates. card listing questions members can legally Committee asked Council to recognise 2018 North and North East London Branch West of England Variety Branch asked Yorkshire Ridings General Branch asked refuse to answer (in an audition). as ‘The Year of the Circus’. Stage Management Committee asked called upon Council to consider setting up a Council to consider altering the guidelines to Council to establish a UK-wide National and Council to investigate running a campaign new Arts Policy and Campaign Working Party allow members attending meetings remotely Regional Production and Casting campaign. Liverpool and District General Branch North East Variety Branch urged the union on Creative & Production Careers Awareness that would announce the central tenets of its to count towards the quorum. urged Council to put social and economic to identify new agencies and to encourage in association with other FEU unions. policy and to ask for support for the process Audio Committee urged Council to explore mobility on Equity’s national agenda. them to use recognised contracts. of achieving its aims. West and South West London General what guidance can be given to members about Young Members Committee urged Branch recommended to Council that professional rates of pay for audio work. Minority Ethnic Members Committee Manchester and District Variety Branch Council to investigate the viability of a Dance Committee urged Council to monies should be set aside to fund a . asked Equity to develop policy and strategy called on the union to work with industry nationwide unionisation drive within the investigate the cost and other implications of member of staff with the responsibility for Scotland Annual General Meeting called that will enable the union to challenge and bodies and other trade unions to look at how theme park and attraction sector. offering a dancers’ insurance package and to anti-bullying and mental health issues. on Council to look into the costs for funding improve casting decisions consistently. more effective regulation can benefit all. make recommendations for improvements training workshops on self-taping. North Lancashire and Cumbria General in existing dancers’ insurances. Welsh National Committee called on Deaf and Disabled Committee called Variety, Circus and Entertainers Branch called upon Council to monitor the Council to publish a digital label worded North West General London Branch upon Council to provide necessary Committee urged Equity to consider trend in regional theatres casting and South East English Area AGM asked ‘Proud to be a member of Equity’ or similar. asked the union to offer more self-taping resources to create a stronger focus on the supporting the creation of a Variety, Circus rehearsing solely in London. Council and staff to contact all dance support to members. needs of Deaf & Disabled members. and Entertainers Committee Working Party. schools with vocational courses to East Anglia Variety Branch requested that Dorset General Branch asked the encourage them to invite Equity to enrol as Council ensures all General and Variety Midlands English Area Annual General Northern English Area AGM urged Equity Humberside Variety Branch asked the union to support Associate European many dance students as possible. branches include a standing ‘Walk-On and Meeting urged Council to consider promoting to set up a pilot scheme offering professional union to add the history of the Variety Citizenship. Supporting Artists’ item on their agendas. the Equity/London Film School Agreement.

26 / AUTUMN 2017 www.equity.org.uk AUTUMN 2017 / 27 IN APPRECIATION oyTheal Theatrical Bruce Bennett Fund

RODNEY BENNETT REMEMBERS HIS BROTHER The helps people from ALL areas of WHO CARVED A CAREER IN THEATRE WHILE RTF Rthe entertainment industry – not just actors London SERVING AS AN EQUITY COUNCILLOR and singers – but dancers, stage Brighton management, directors, front of house ruce John Lewis Bennett was born on 16 October, 1935 and backstage staff. at University College Hospital, St Pancras, within the leading sound of Bow Bells, so he was, technically at least, If you have worked professionally for a showbusiness a Cockney. accountants BWhile at Abingdon School as a boarder during the war he reasonable period of time and are - The Stage showed his first artistic tendencies, writing a play for the school experiencing financial hardship due to theatrical society that, when performed, he could not see because sickness or injury, we may be able to help. it was after his bed time. Over 50 years of excellence Bruce attended St Paul’s School from 1948-53. He played in the school production of that play at the tender Contact us on 020 7836 3322 Breckman & Company age of 16. He knew at 14 that he wanted to be an actor. All applications for help are treated in Chartered Certified Accountants, . Bruce was very proud of his amateur work after leaving school, the strictest confidence Registered Auditors particularly with The Stephonians, attached to St Stephen’s Church, Enfield. I remember one production of Othello, directed 11 Garrick Street, London WC2E 9AR 49 South Molton Street, London. 95 Ditchling Road, Brighton. by Bruce, in which he, of course, gave himself the plum part of Email: [email protected] W1K 5LH BN1 4ST the villain. At the end Iago was slashed across the chest with a Tel: 020 7499 2292 Tel: 01273 929 350 scimitar, which Bruce clutched and scraped with a fist-full, not of www.trtf.com fake blood, but of pink toothpaste. Reg Charity No. 222080 www.breckmanandcompany.co.uk National Service was spent with the Royal Signals at Catterick where he ran the Cary Theatre, directing and playing in many productions. Bruce attended RADA from 1956 to 1958 under the Phoenix and the Carpet in 1976-77, as a ‘fence’ in an episode of The

then Principal, John Fernald. Bill. As one of Rose’s fighting boyfriends at a christening in an 134 x 92 flyer.indd 1 12/09/2012 11:50 Bruce performed with many repertory companies. Before episode of Keeping Up Appearances and as a pub quizmaster in an T HE Notice from Equity going to RADA he worked at the Spa, Bridlington, the Palace, episode of The Inspector Lynley Mysteries: quote: “What do you ROYAL VARIETY CHARITY call a group of chimpanzees?” F O R M E R L Y THE ENTERTAINMENT ARTISTE S ' BENEVOLENT FUND I now come to Bruce’s service with the actors’ union, Equity. He CELEBRATING OVER 100 YEARS OF CARE FOR MEMBERS OF THE ENTERTAINMENT PROFESSION served on the main Council from 1978 to 1980 and again from Royal Variety Charity, Brinsworth House, 72 Staines Road, Twickenham, Middx. TW2 5AL MIGHT THE UNION BE HOLDING 1984 to 1994 and also on the London Committee. 020 8898 8164 / www.royalvarietycharity.org / www.royalvarietyperformance.org MONIES FOR YOU FROM THE 1990s? I’m glad he bowed out It was during this time that Bruce again showed his principled nature. With Marius Goring, another friend, and others, Bruce gracefully with the curtain was involved in what he, and they, considered a battle for the We are delighted to have reached an amicable resolution of the soul of the union. He was part of a group who believed that the longstanding problem of how to use the monies received by the slowly coming down” union existed to represent and fight for the rights and privileges of its members against those who wished to pursue a left-wing union around 1995 and, known as the “Unknown Funds.” political agenda. The Royal Variety Charity assists those who’ve worked professionally in Brighton and Butlin’s, Filey. Many others after RADA include six Roger Moore once said that success in the acting profession was the entertainment industry and are in need of help. The charity strives to support all those, both young and old, who’ve worked on the stage, in An important part of the resolution is that Equity undertakes to meet years with Dickie Burnett and Peggy Paige’s “Penguin Players” at 10% looks (and he would know!), 10% talent and 80% luck. Bruce the wings, in front of a camera, or behind it, as well as all those who have the de la Warr Pavilion, Bexhill, where he directed several plays. certainly had the looks. One of his girlfriends once told me that as spent their lives working in the numerous support industries dedicated the claim of any members or non-members who believe and can to entertainment. While we lived in Manchester in the mid-1970s we saw Bruce a young man Bruce was beautiful, although I think that’s going a produce evidence to show that the Union received residual at the Wilmslow Theatre on tour with Rupert Davies in Home at bit far! He certainly had the talent. Moira and I would watch other The Royal Variety Charity owns and manages its own residential and Seven. In the West End from 1987 to 1989, Bruce played Surly actors and say to each other, “Bruce could do that just as well.” We nursing care home for entertainers, Brinsworth House in Twickenham, payments due to them in respect of their performance in and also offers a nationwide grant scheme to assist those living in their Man with and Margaret Tyzack in ’s can think of one or two who closely resembled him. Perhaps Bruce own homes wherever they reside in the UK. The Royal Variety Charity not independent TV productions retransmitted before about 1998 and Lettice and Lovage at the Globe. Bruce also worked with Alan didn’t have the luck of the likes of Roger Moore, but he had other only offers support to those who have found themselves struggling as a Rickman in 1991 in Tango at the End of Winter at the Piccadilly. things that are far more precious. He had long-term friends and result of ill health, financial hardship or old age, but also to the dependants that those residuals were not passed on to them. of all those who have served the entertainment industries. Bruce’s other West End ‘performance’ (I use the word advisedly) colleagues in the profession and outside who liked and respected was as understudy to in Harold Pinter’s The him and he had a family who loved him, and I know which is To request a brochure or to arrange a visit to Brinsworth House, or Therefore, if you or your agent Homecoming, also in 1991, at the Comedy Theatre. Bruce said, most important. simply to be added to our Admissions waiting-list, please contact Sheila through gritted teeth, “Warren was too fit. He never fell ill.” One of his oldest friends, Edmund Pegge, contemporary from St Powell on 020 8898 8164 ext 207 · [email protected] wish to make a claim you should contact the I remember him playing the part of the father in An Inspector Paul’s and actor, with whom Bruce performed at school in The General Secretary of Equity on Calls by JB Priestley and also in Ben Travers’ farce Rookery Nook, Gondoliers, among other shows, now living in Australia, summed The Royal Variety Charity are the organisers and beneficiaries of the annual Royal Variety Performance... now viewed by over 152 million both probably on tour. it up for me. He wrote, “I’m glad he bowed out gracefully with the television viewers worldwide. 0207 379 6000

Bruce also had several TV credits – as Reception Clerk in The curtain slowly coming down.” Patron HM The Queen · Life-President Laurie Mansfield · Chairman Giles Cooper · Est 1908 · Reg Charity No. 206451

28 / AUTUMN 2017 www.equity.org.uk AUTUMN 2017 / 29 THE PRESIDENT WRITES Letters... shook their heads and said, ‘Yes, it would be lovely, but this is not the way the world works’... so the work is only just beginning. wish to share or items that they could donate time that might uncover any details of her Thanks to Les O’Neill We are trying to change the zeitgeist, so we to our archive. If you can help email: career on the stage. Or indeed if you could We wish to pay tribute to Les O’Neill, a long must keep pushing. Get in touch [email protected] point me onwards to someone else who standing member within Equity, who was for Then SDUK (Stage Directors UK) and David Longford might be able to help. Please contact: many years the secretary of the Merseyside ourselves organised a campaigning Have you got something to say about Creative Learning Manager [email protected] Variety Branch. Les was born in Liverpool on meeting to launch a new stage directors’ your experience of Equity or the Val Brown 8 January 1950, was passionate about his claim. About 45 directors in one room contents of the magazine? family, Everton Football Club, the City of focusing on the issues that mattered most We want to hear from you. Memories of Minnie? Liverpool, his friends and all things to them in order to steer the Working I am a local historian living in Brighton and Celebrate Marilyn Finlay connected with Equity. Party in the right direction. Please email or write to the editor via the Hove and I am looking at the life of Miss I am writing to invite members to an event to He joined Equity in 1980 and was elected Great speeches from Lisa Blair, Tom contact information below: Minnie Turner, 1866-1948. celebrate the life of Marilyn Finlay, who died branch secretary in February 1982. He Hescott and Jeremy Herrin, and Stephen She lived in Brighton for many years, last November. She and I met on the remained the elected secretary of the Spence marshalled the various The Editor operating and living in a guest house: she Women’s Committee and became friends as Merseyside Branch until his death. His contributions from the floor into a set of Guild House was active in the suffragette movement and well as colleagues. involvement and contribution to the branch priorities. Very successful and positive. Upper St Martin’s Lane was imprisoned in Holloway once. She was Marilyn was chair for a number of years and its members is too great to chronicle, It’s true that SDUK was in some sense set London WC2H 9EG unmarried. In particular, I am looking for and spoke on behalf of Equity at WTUC as but all who knew him remember his love of IT HAS BEEN A BUSY FEW WEEKS. up to compensate for Equity’s inability Tel: 020 7379 6000 information about her early life, about which well as at branches and AGMs and ARCs. life, his love of the union, his knowledge of Happiest event was being part of the over the years to secure good deals for Fax: 020 7379 7001 little is known. She was always considered in her Equity in general and his interest in all of the Equity contingent at this directors. There was much mutual Email: [email protected] It would seem from a couple of arguments and spoke with passion and an members. Les’s legacy will live on in year. Beautiful hot day, great turn out, suspicion at the start, that has gone and Web: www.equity.org.uk newspaper clippings that as a young woman authority that was based on experience. As a Merseyside and the branch members send fantastic mood, which were all enough to the meeting augurs well for a great she was an actor – she seems to have been friend she was always ready to listen and Les a ‘Tremendous thanks’ and a sad, make us enjoy ourselves in spite of the fact collaboration. But again, we must keep a member of the ‘Theatrical Ladies Guild’ offer the best advice and I shall miss ‘Goodnight and God Bless Big Guy’. that we, along with the other trade unions, pushing; 45 turned up but 80 promised Theatre Royal thoughts in 1898 and also the ‘Actors Association’ receiving her funny birthday cards. Les was also a member of the Variety were towards the back of the march... on to be there, and if this claim is to succeed, in 1905. Acting led to writing short stories and Advisory Committee (VAC) and his the other hand the YouTube float was we all have to push! The Theatre Royal Nottingham, which in Hitherto, the theatrical side of her life has plays and the event will focus on readings contribution was invaluable. The Variety nearby, which was a hoot. We also saw Tracy Brabin in one of the 2015 celebrated its 150th anniversary, not been researched and I wonder whether from her plays. Please join in celebrating her Branch secretaries remember him with great As we marched down through the West Committee Rooms in Parliament for a continues to bring the finest touring work today any Equity members would be able to life and work on Saturday 25 November at fondness for his ready grin, irrepressible to the East Midlands. Following on from shed some light on the theatrical career of 7pm in Studio 1, Jackson’s Lane, 269A good humour - and his Scouse wit. our special anniversary we have been this quite remarkable lady? I would be quite Archway Rd, London N6 5AA. Merseyside Variety Branch and working hard in partnership with the happy to pay or make a contribution for any Susan McGoun Variety Advisory Committee University of Nottingham to develop our As we marched down through the heritage work and to begin to create a proper archive, both physical and digital, West End, the cry went out, for the venue. Earlier this year we announced that we In memoriam ‘Hooray... here are the actors!’” had been successful with a bid to the Heritage Lottery Fund and are now With regret it is recorded that since the publication of the last edition of Equity working with a large team of volunteers. magazine we have learned of the deaths of the following members: End, the cry went out, ‘Hooray... Here are meeting of Labour’s Acting Up enquiry, A two-year programme of heritage training, the actors!’ Which wasn’t true actually, as a which is examining the issue of class in our oral history interviews, archive cataloguing Micky Baker, Parv Bancil, Roy Barraclough, Geoffrey Bayldon, Scott, Margaret Lindsay, Lydia Lisle, Adrian Lloyd-James, lot of us weren’t. Our dance committee in business, particularly the difficulty of and public events are now in place. I am Ann Beach, Richard Beale, Sam Beazley, Bernard Bennett, Bruce Duncan MacLean, Knight Mantell, Tina Marian, Barry Martin, particular were dazzling. working class kids to get in and succeed. therefore very keen to hear from your Bennett, Derek Bentham, Michael Bogdanov, Yvonne Bonnamy, Brian Matthew, Peter Messaline, Manny Michael, Sir Roger Two other big events. Following on A whole of range of diversity issues readers if they have stories and memories Powers Boothe, John Brecknock, Kenneth Bryans, John Moore, Christopher Morahan, Chris Murray, John, Murray Scott, from last issue’s column, we had the were discussed, and a lot of good ground about the Theatre Royal Nottingham they Camburn, Brian Cant, Duggie Chapman, Claire Chate, Cheko Jean Newlove, John Noakes, Jennifer Oscard, Anita Pallenberg, launch of our Manifesto for Casting at that was covered. And one contribution took hotbed of trade union activity, the Ivy me totally by surprise: one of the The Clown, Ginger Chilton, Geoff Cotton, Andy Cunningham, Belinda Parham, Sophie E Partridge, Willie Payne, John Peacock, Club; well chosen, as a packed house employers’ organisations was represented Clem Curtis, Dafydd Dafis, Andrew Dallmeyer, Tony Davis, David Ruth Pearson, Tim Pigott-Smith, Helen Pringle, Norma Procter, showed up, many of whom wouldn’t be on the panel that morning, and their Dean, Wayne Denver, Arthur Dilkes, Jill Donohue, Norma Joe Robinson, Maxine Robinson, John Rodgers, Mark Rowan, seen dead at a trade union event, and those spokesperson said that one of the main Dunbar, Kenneth Earle, John Ian Faulding, Caspar Fawden, Peter Sallis, Jacki Santiano, Sean Scanlan, Daphne Sherman, are the people we particularly need to hear contributors to this bias against those from Phyllis Ferguson, John Forgeham, Donald Francke, Rosemary Michael Simpson, Gordon P Sterne, Sandy Strang, Melvin the Manifesto’s message. less privileged backgrounds was, of course, Frankau, Jane Freeman, Vin Garbutt, Mike Goodenough, Tony Sullivan, Polly Taylor, Connie Tilton, Stanley Timbrell, Margaret The Head of Casting at ITV spoke in low pay! Gouveia, Eric Green, Lynette Gridley, Marion Grimaldi, Stefan Towner, Trisha Brown Company, Bernard Turgeon, Gilbert favour of it. Tracy Brabin, the new MP for How right this person was, and they Batley and Spen and one of our members, may be assured that in our future Gryff, Paul Gyton, Lawrie Hart, Marion Haywood, Tom Hibbert, Vernon, Alan Vicars, Moray Watson, Jena Wayne, Michael spoke too, and Emmanuel Kojo from the negotiations with organisations such Ronald Hines, Ginger Folorunso Johnson, Nick Kelly, David Wearing, Tony Webb (A J Webb), Mavis Wesley, Patrick Council. The head of BBC casting was as they represent, that statement will Kemp, Michael Lambert, Muriel Daphne Lawford, Carol Lee Westwood, Heathcote Williams slightly miffed that she hadn’t been asked be quoted upfront, hopefully to our to speak in support, but she wants to come mutual benefit! In some cases it may be possible that another member may have used the same or a similar name subsequent to the passing of the above members in to talk to us about how to help. All very Onward. positive. There were those who quietly Malcolm Sinclair

30 / AUTUMN 2017 www.equity.org.uk AUTUMN 2017 / 31 Equity branches are your local meeting place to discuss the industry, share insights and influence the direction of the union. BRANCH UPDATE Find your local branch at www.equity.org.uk/branches

8AU Contact: Shelli Dawn, 01685 812779 central england general Avenue Theatre, Central Avenue, Date of next meeting: TBC Contact: David Sittingbourne ME10 4 DN south yorkshire variety Edgar, [email protected] Contact: Marie Kelly, 07703 207878, Next meeting: TBC Contact: [email protected] [email protected] devon & cornwall general Next meeting: 10 September, 2pm. The northern ireland branch thames variety branch Acorn, Penzance TR18 4BU Contact: Nigel Date of next meeting: TBC Contact: Date of next meeting: 11 Sept, 7pm. The Blue Howells, [email protected] Vicky Blades, [email protected] Posts, 81 Newman Street W1T 3E Contact: Nick Putz, 020 8808 3802, [email protected] dorset general north lancashire Next meeting: 21st September & cumbria general west of england variety Contact: [email protected] Next meeting: TBC Contact: Peter Date of meeting: 11 Sept, 7.45pm. Inn on Rylands, [email protected] the Green, 2 Filton Road, Horfield, Bristol east of scotland general BS7 0PA Contact Mary Lane, 07900 Date of next meeting: TBC Contact: ne of england general 848003 [email protected] Catriona Joss, [email protected] Date of next meeting: TBC Contact: Steve general McGuire, [email protected] brighton & sussex general Date of next meeting: 2 Sept, 11am. Date of next meeting: First Saturday of the Trinity Methodist Church, Chelmsford CM1 2XB north & east london general month,10.30am. Friends Meeting House, Ship St, Contact: [email protected] Next meeting: Second Saturday of the Brighton Contact: Chris Webb, 07973 465154 month (excl. Aug),10:30am. The Park Theatre, Blackpool lights gtr manchester & region Finsbury Park Contact: Karen Singer, nel. bristol & west general Next meeting: TBC Contact: [email protected] Date of next meeting: 19 Sept, 7.30pm. [email protected] BLACKPOOL VARIETY BRANCH does their seaside town proud SPACE, 6 West Street, Bristol BS2 0BH Contact: [email protected] home counties west general north wales general Date of next meeting: TBC, usually Next Meeting: 28 Sept. Mold Contact: cardiff & s wales general 7:30pm at South Hill Park Arts Centre RG12 7PA [email protected] Date of next meeting: First Thursday of Contact: [email protected] The Blackpool Variety Branch reflects manager. Some members, such as the being planned for next year. month (excl. Aug), 7pm. The Sherman Theatre, north west london general the proud entertainment heritage of its newly appointed Secretary Denis Cardiff CF24 4YE Contact: Louisa, stbbrown_ kent general Date of next meeting: Branch picnic 6 seaside town. Ashkam (who is about to celebrate his [email protected] Date of next meeting: 2 Sept, 11am. The Aug, 2pm. The band stand in Golders Hill blackpool variety It is a friendly branch with a diverse 50th year in the industry) bring decades Park, near Golders Green Contact: Elise membership, made up of theatre, of experience to every meeting. Date of next meeting: First Tuesday Harris, [email protected] cabaret and circus artists, musicians, This October, the branch will put on of the month, 1pm. Blackpool Cricket Club, Stanley Park FY3 9EQ isle of man band leaders, actors, magicians, their annual show, hosted by their own general oxfordshire general children’s entertainers, a ringmaster, Des Day, at the Preston Little Theatre, Contact: Denis Askham, Date of next meeting: 21 Sept, 7.30pm. Friends [email protected] Date of next DJs, specialist acts and a stage and future performances are currently meeting: 8 August, Meeting House, 42 St Giles, Oxford OX1 3LW 6pm. The Archibald Contact: [email protected] Knox Inn Meeting birmingham variety 8SF Contact: Clive Bumstead, 07815 north east variety Room, Onchan south & se london general Date of next meeting: 26 July, 7.30pm. 951798, [email protected] Date of meeting: Contact: Last Tuesday Contact: colyn@ Next meeting: Summer Social Picnic on The Austin Sports and Social Club, 30 Tessall of the Month (excl. Dec). The Alberta Social colyn.co.uk Saturday 19 Aug, 12pm. Tanner Street Park, Lane, Longbridge, Birmingham B31 2SF humberside variety branch Club, Railway Street, Jarrow, Tyne & Wear Bermondsey Contact: Paul Valentine, Contact: Alec Powell, [email protected] Date of next meeting: 4 Sept, 7.30pm. Contact: Steve McGuire, 0120 723 8258, [email protected] Henry Vernone Court, Pier Street, [email protected] coventry & leicester variety Hull HU1 1UZ Contact: Christie Clifford, west & sw london general Date of next meeting: 18 Sep, 8pm. The [email protected] n&w yorkshire variety Next meeting: 26 July, 7.00pm. Seven Dials Ivor Preece Centre, Rugby Road, Coventry Date of next meeting: Every third Monday, Club, 42 Earlham St, Covent Garden WC2H 9LA. CV3 2AY Contact: Sheila Payne, manchester & district variety 7.30pm. George IV Pub, Birkenshaw Contact: [email protected] [email protected] Date of next meeting: 15 Aug, 7.30pm. BD11 2AH Contact: Valerie Jean Mann, Monroe’s Hotel, Manchester M1 1PE [email protected], 0113 285 3848 Isle of Man with a plan liverpool & district general east anglia variety Contact: Yvonne Joseph, Next meeting: Summer Social 26 July, 7pm. Next meeting: 14 Aug, 8-10pm. The Canary [email protected] scottish variety Constellations, Greenland Contact: Sheila Club, Norwich NR11RT Contact: Peachy Mead, Date of next meeting: TBC Contact: The Isle of Man General Branch may be on campaigning for casting Jones, [email protected] [email protected] merseyside variety Linda Rifkind, [email protected] Equity’s smallest branch, but it works opportunities for local actors. Date of next meeting: Second Monday of hard to support the union’s members The welcoming branch invites both yorkshire ridings general east midlands variety each month, 7pm. Adelphi Hotel, Ranelagh St, south wales variety who live, and work, on the island. local and visiting members to attend Next meeting: 7 Aug, 2pm. Location TBC Date of next meeting: First Tuesday of the Liverpool, Merseyside L3 5UL Contact: Date of next meeting: First Tuesday of As the Isle of Man is a large their regular meetings in the Archibald Contact: Ben Addis, 07775 726868, month (excl August). The Headstocks NG6 Chris Dale (Chair), 07703 301621 month, 7.30pm. Tyn-y-Twr Tavern, Baglan SA12 production base, the branch focusses Knox in Ochan. [email protected]

32 / AUTUMN 2017 www.equity.org.uk AUTUMN 2017 CONTACT EQUITY Supporting the children of actors from birth to graduation SUBSCRIPTION ENQUIRIES 020 7670 0207 ADVICE AND RIGHTS HELPLINE 020 7670 0223 The Actors’ Children’s Trust (ACT) has been helping actor families for over 120 years LIVE PERFORMANCE HELP DESK BULLYING REPORTING LINE and is in the fortunate position of being able to increase its grants. We fund actor- 020 7670 0237 020 7670 0268 parents and their children, where acting has been the main part of your professional RECORDED MEDIA HELP DESK EQUITY DISTRIBUTION TEAM career. Some families receive a one-off payment, others are with us for some years. 020 7670 0228 [email protected] An actress with a toddler and a baby was diagnosed with a rare, life- HEAD OFFICE: Guild house, Upper St Martin’s Lane, London WC2H 9EG threatening lung cancer despite having never been a smoker. ACT immediately Tel: 020 7379 6000 Fax: 020 7379 7001 Email: [email protected] Web: www.equity.org.uk funded full-time childcare, domestic support, and specialist emotional support EQUITY OFFICERS: Malcolm Sinclair: President Ian Barritt: Vice President for the toddler son. After several years, the actress went in to remission, Maureen Beattie: Vice President Bryn Evans: Honorary Treasurer however her lungs and vocal chords were severely damaged. The actress retrained with additional skills and took new work, knowing that ACT was TRUSTEES: Ian McKellen, , , Johnny Worthy, there. Her children also developed complex health problems and we have been Roy Hudd, Timothy West pleased to support them right through to adulthood. ACT’s funding included household bills, childcare, clothing, holidays, specialist therapies and tutoring. EQUITY STAFF SOUTH EAST OFFICE Telephone: To call a member of Equity’s head office dial 020 7379 6000 and Will Holmes South East Organiser We also helped secure benefits and retraining grants. at the prompt press the asterix and dial the three figure extension in brackets Equity, Upper St Martin’s Lane, WC2H 9EG after the relevant name below. TEL: 020 7670 0229 EMAIL: [email protected] Email: To email a member of Equity’s head office type the initial and surname in lower case with no spaces followed by @equity.org.uk SCOTLAND AND NORTHERN IRELAND OFFICE Two married actors with a son and a daughter were homeless after months Lorne Boswell Scotland and Northern Ireland of financial crisis. ACT was able to help them secure new housing and to fund GENERAL SECRETARY’S DEPT (fax 020 7379 6074) Adam Adnyana Organisers Equity, 114 Union Street, Glasgow G1 3QQ Christine Payne General Secretary (155) TEL: 0141 248 2472 EMAIL: [email protected] removals, furniture and clothing for the children, and essential living costs. Louise McMullan Department head, Policy Development Officer [email protected] The children have developed remarkable creative talents and ACT has been & Assistant to General Secretary (160) proud to sponsor them. Both actor-parents are now back in work and ACT Duncan Smith Head of Finance (130) NORTH WEST OFFICE: Jamie Briers North West Organiser Hamida Ali Equalities & Diversity Organiser (173) Express Networks, 1 George Leigh Street, Manchester M4 5DL support will simply be student maintenance grants for the children. TEL: 0161 244 5995 EMAIL: [email protected] Stephen Spence Deputy for the General Secretary, Industrial and Organising (133) NORTH EAST OFFICE: Max Beckmann North East Organiser Express Networks, 1 George Leigh Street, Manchester M4 5DL An actor adopted a boy with physical disabilities and autism. When the local LIVE PERFORMANCE (fax 020 7670 0265) TEL: 0161 244 5995 EMAIL: [email protected] authority’s support dwindled ACT was able to fund assessments and therapies Hilary Hadley Department head, Opera & Dance Organiser (136) Mike Day Variety Organiser (135) WALES AND SOUTH WEST OFFICE quickly, and enable activities including rock climbing and drumming. We also helped Virginia Wilde West End Organiser (139) Simon Curtis Wales & South West Organiser with dietery supplements, a sailing trip, and advice on education support and the Paul Fleming London Area Theatre Organiser (138) Equity, Transport House, 1 Cathedral Road, Cardiff CF11 9SD Emmanuel de Lange Independent theatre/Low Pay No Pay Organiser (137) TEL: 029 2039 7971 EMAIL: [email protected] [email protected] Education, Health & Care Plan. ACT will be in the wings for this family until their son is 26. His progress has been outstanding thanks to his remarkable parents. RECORDED MEDIA (fax 020 7836 5313) MIDLANDS OFFICE: Ian Bayes Midlands Organiser John Barclay  Department head & PACT TV Organiser (146) Equity, Upper St Martin’s Lane, WC2H 9EG Claire Hood TV Organiser (152) TEL: 020 7670 0232 EMAIL: [email protected] Laura Messenger Films & Contract Enforcement Organiser (149) ACT can help with the following: Cathy Sweet BBC & Radio Organiser (153) EQUITY MAGAZINE EDITORIAL Tim Gale TV Commercials Organiser (145) Phil Pemberton TEL: 020 7670 0211 EMAIL: [email protected] CHILDCARE top-up grants can help actor-parents attend auditions, take jobs and hopefully stay in the profession. COMMUNICATIONS & MEMBERS SUPPORT (fax 020 7240 6341) EQUITY MAGAZINE PRINTING Matt Hood Assistant General Secretary (168) Jeremy Littlestone at TUInk TEL: 07810 825970 EMAIL: [email protected] SCHOOL COSTS activities including music, sport, drama and dance lessons; Phil Pemberton Head of Communications, Department head (111) uniform and kit, transport, lunches and trips. Louise Grainger Marketing and Training Officer (114) EQUITY MAGAZINE ADVERTISING: Lisa Ottway, Sales Manager, Ottway Alan Lean Tax and Welfare Rights Officer (157) Media Solutions TEL: 07958 046 147 EMAIL: [email protected] CRISIS almost every actor-parent faces times of crisis. ACT is here for you and Emma Cotton Tax & Welfare Rights Organiser (151) aims to give quick, useful, confidential support. Martin Kenny Legal Claims Referral Officer (125) Publication of an advertisement does not imply any form of recommendation. Organisations offering financial services or insurance are regulated by the SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL OR MEDICAL NEEDS ACT aims not to duplicate Financial Conduct Authority and problems with such services should be taken up with the appropriate body. Equity cannot accept any liability for the quality of state provision but can fund urgent assessments and help families achieve goods or services offered in advertisements. appropriate provision through an Education, Health and Care Plan.

STUDENT GRANTS including university, college and apprenticeship grants at 18+. SPECIAL ATTENTION LIST The For Your Special Attention list is currently undergoing a review. For ongoing checks and information relating to the list Can we help your family? please call 020 7670 0200 or email [email protected]. Please do get in touch [email protected] | 020 7636 7868 | actorschildren.org | @actorschildren 34 / AUTUMN 2017 break a leg?

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