JANUARY/ “If you’re not failing every FEBRUARY now and again, it’s a sure 2012 sign that you’re not trying Volume 97 anything very innovative.” Number 1 EQUITYNEWS —Woody Allen A Publication of Actors’ Equity Association • NEWS FOR THE THEATRE PROFESSIONAL • www.actorsequity.org • Periodicals Postage Paid at New York, NY and Additional Mailing Offices Two-Year Agreement AEA Will LaunchTwo New Websites Reached With Westchester to Address Members’ Needs BroadwayTheatre he rapidly changing tech- Masucci) Stephanie (Photo: nology landscape has Possible Strike show musical season includes: Timpacted everyone, ‘S Wonderful, Legally Blonde, whether it’s an individual, busi- Averted; 80 Hairspray, George M, Cinderella, ness or union. Actors’ Equity As- Jobs Preserved 25th Annual Putnam County sociation is no exception, and Spelling Bee, Can-Can, and this year the Union will launch for 2012 Fiddler on the Roof. Each two new websites designed to quity has successfully ne- production will have a minimum make it easier to manage infor- gotiated a new, two-year of five Principal, four Chorus and mation for both members and Econtract with the Westch- two Stage Management employers. ester Broadway Theatre, a 450- contracts. The Member Portal and the Equity’s New System Team: (l to r) Joe DeMichele, John Fasulo, seat dinner theatre in Elmsford, “WBT is an important source Employer Portal are two key Joan Glazer, Doug Beebe, Karen Nothmann, Dave Thorn, Tom NY.The new contract will pre- of jobs in the metro-New York components in the larger scope Kaub. (Not shown: Russell Lehrer) serve 80 jobs (Principal, Chorus City area” said Senior Business of an internal technology infra- and Stage Management) in the Representative Russell Lehrer, structure overhaul. The new sys- online, subscribe to email lists by Equity staff, and submit produc- theatre’s upcoming 2012 season. who negotiated the agreement. tem will provide more flexibility, topic, and much more. Other tion information electronically, re- Westchester Broadway “AEA was able to overcome improved integration with other advantages will include a ducing the need for duplicate Theatre has been in operation significant resistance from the technologies and the ability to fa- paperless billing option, and the data entry. Future features will in- for 38 years and is one of the few producer to come to the cilitate business process work- same online payment options clude electronic contracts, and remaining professional dinner bargaining table, but once there flow. While that may sound a little (credit cards and ACH) as the submission of working dues pay- “techie speak,” the end result will theatres in the US. WBT’s eight- (continued on page 2) current member site. Security ments to the Union. For the be a faster, safer and more intu- has been a mainstay in Equity’s member, this means a more effi- itive way to have the most up-to- system and this new portal will cient interaction with Producers. date information readily avail- continue to offer enhanced The changes in Equity’s IT Your IncomeTax able, and it will address the security. system will not stop with the members’ needs in an effective According to National IT Direc- launch of these two new portals. Our Congress, Ourselves and efficient manner. tor Doug Beebe, “Our goal is to Beebe and his IT team, along As internal improvements are provide our members with the best with other key staff members, By Sandra Karas represented. So, with another made so staff can better serve services possible. As we designed continue to work on new and im- Director, VITA Program round of encouragement, I the membership, a new and this new Member Portal, we kept proved systems to better serve suggest that you contact your improved Member Portal will be the needs of the members as the the members. The ideas are Yes,Virginia,We Congressional representatives – launched this winter. The new core driver in our plans. Our work many and with advancements Are the Congress both in the House and Senate – portal will have its own address: at Equity is first and foremost occurring quickly, Equity is keep- and let them know what’s on members.actorsequity.org.A t bears reminding ourselves about the members.” ing pace in the new technology your mind. Do you want to member can view his or her from time to time that the In addition to the Member site, playing field. change the tax structure? How? profile and update it in real time the Union will introduce a new (Editor's note: Check Equity's “they” we deride - those with I Do you want lower taxes on the as emails, phone numbers or Employer Portal, employers. website and future editions of whom we have become so income you’ve worked for (your addresses change. They will be actorsequity.org. This portal will Equity News for information exasperated, the government wages)? Continue the lower able to vote in Union elections allow employers to interact with about the launch dates.) and the people in it who are rates on your investment income seemingly not paying any (stocks, bonds)? Both? And attention to us - are US. They what do you expect in return? Is are we! It’s not as though the there something you think our Constitution didn’t already OnlineVoting:The WayTo Go LORT Pact government should support? provide us this status, it’s just Education? The Arts? Overseas hat’s green, fast Instead, you will receive an that we feel quite powerless at Extended spending? Healthcare? We and cheap? Online email directly from Elections times and not very, well, ouncil has acted on a already know we must pay tax, Voting in AEA’s Services Solutions (Equity’s W request from the three it’s just a question of how much upcoming 2012 Officer and balloting firm) on Monday, April regional LORT Commit- and for what. If you have an Council elections. Why? 16, 2012 with a link to vote C tees to extend the current opinion about any of this, let Because it’s the fastest and online. It’s fast and secure. To Agreement, due to expire on your public servants know what most convenient way to get your register for Online Voting, log on February 19, 2012 for one it is. Email your House ballot (especially for members to Members Only on Equity’s year—until February 17, 2013. Representatives at: working away from home). Plus website, www.actorsequity.org, All terms of the Agreement are www.house.gov; Email your it’s cost effective! Here’s how it and look for the green Online unchanged. This action was Senators at: www.senate.gov; works: Once you’ve registered Voting icon. The deadline for taken due to concerns about the Email the President and other for Online Voting, you will no Online Voting registration is effect on LORT theatres of the Government officials at: longer receive a paper ballot. March 22, 2012. current economic climate and www.usa.gov . For your state loss of National and State fund- and local representatives, email: ing. The request was supported www.(your state or city hyperbolic assessment of his entertainment industry. He was by Chairs of the Advisory Com- abbreviation).gov. They do read state of discomfort. And I really a competent, well trained, mittee on Chorus Affairs as well what you have to say and they couldn’t disagree with the poor talented professional whose as the Media and Stage Man- should know what you think. guy. Everything we do, from chosen career was to give to agers’ Committees. Catch 22— filling out a W-4 form to others the sheer joy of A Tax Bill and No Money choosing where and with whom experiencing his work as a Index As he carefully considered to live, seems to be reduced to performing artist. And the irony the bottom line and allowed his our tax bracket in one way or of it all did not escape him, AEA will launch two new large tax bill to fully register, one another. And for this member, it either. The art and websites ...... 1 of our members looked up at me all really did come down to entertainment he provided to

NEWS Your income tax ...... 1 and said, “My whole life has taxes as he sat vainly trying to others seemed to be lost on him come down to taxes.” While this think of ways to get out from at that moment. We laughed I AM PWD summit...... 2 comment was hardly a fair under the balance due and about it as we worked to From the President...... 3

UITY reflection of his whole life, it continue to navigate the structure a plan for repayment, National News ...... 5

Q seemed at that moment to be an unpredictable waters of his reduce penalties and get him 165 West 46th Street New York, NY 10036 Address Service Requested Second Class Postage Paid in New York, NY E accurate, if somewhat chosen profession – the (continued on page 4) Letters...... 8 2 / EQUITY news JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012

WestchesterTheatre economic difficulties and since could only be addressed through with Equity. Upon the Area Liaison 2005, has only had increases to negotiating.” recommendation of the Eastern Hotline system continued from page 1 their minimum salaries twice,” Mr. Lehrer and the Eastern Regional Board, the Council was we were able to respond to noted Mr. Lehrer. “After years of Dinner Theatre Committee apprised of all developments and WBT’s new business model and producing two-month runs of (Councillors Margot Moreland, unanimously passed a strike Call 877-AEA-1913 each musical, WBT announced growing economic concerns, chair, and Bill Bateman, vice- authorization to be used if that they were going to increase chair) steadfastly resisted the Equity has a National toll-free ultimately achieving a fair and necessary.These actions the number of shows in their threat, determined to preserve hotline system for members who equitable agreement for our brought WBT to the table, 2012 season with shorter, four- Equity jobs while offering WBT live in Area Liaison and office members.” In addition to the jobs, ultimately leading to the week runs, which boosted terms for a second season. “Both cities. The number is 877-AEA- Equity achieved a 3% salary successful conclusion. 1913 (honoring the year of Eq- production costs. Stutler initially sides deserved to know what to increase in the second year of ”Going to the NLRB and uity’s founding). Each Area proposed a one-year agreement expect moving forward,” Lehrer the agreement as well as an getting a strike authorization isn’t Liaison city has its own exten- with a severe reduction in the said. increase in required contracts; a a daily occurrence for us at sion, where members can ac- number of required Equity After WBT’s refusal to higher chorus increment; Equity,” Mr. Lehrer said, “but cess news and information in contracts along with a wage- negotiate any further, Lehrer filed protections for juveniles; and new fighting for fair working their region. freeze, threatening that this was an Unfair Labor Practice (ULP) EEO language. the only way he would remain an with the National Labor Relations conditions is. A ULP charge or a (1) Dial 877-AEA-1913 Negotiations began with the Equity theatre and imposing a Board and testified at the Board, strike are just extreme tools at (2) Dial your city extension: producer, William Stutler, in mid- deadline for Equity to accept his all the while continuing to reach our disposal to ensure Actors’ 811 Atlanta December. “Over the past proposal – but we had legitimate out to the producer to get him to voices are heard as part of a 812 Austin/San Antonio decade, WBT has experienced questions and concerns which sit down at the bargaining table meaningful negotiation.” 813 Boston 814 Buffalo/Rochester 815 Chicago 816 Cincinnati/Louisville I AM PWD Summit: Disability IS Diversity 817 Cleveland 818 Dallas/Fort Worth Reflects the True American Scene 819 Denver by Amy M.Threet, AEA, honestly say that making this that they are part of the Ameri- ber, 2011 I AM PWD Co-Chair, a 820 Detroit SAG, AFTRA, MSW summit happen was a monu- can Scene.” disability advocate and performer 821 Florida – Central mental feat! Incredibly well Keynote addresses were de- with a disability, from the Alliance his historic, I AM PWD 822 Florida – South thought out and executed over a livered by Kathleen Martinez, As- for Inclusion in the Arts gave a (Inclusion in the Arts & 823 Houston period of three years which in- sistant Secretary of Labor at the heartfelt introduction in NYC. Media of People With T volved in-person meetings, US Department of Labor’s Office She stated, “while progress has 824 Kansas City Disabilities) summit took place phone calls, video-conferencing of Disability Employment Policy, been made in other employment 825 Las Vegas on Wednesday, January 11, bi-coastally, and the tireless ef- and actor RJ Mitte (Breaking sectors, people with disabilities 826 Los Angeles 2012 with simultaneous meet- fortsofmany. Bad). Also in attendance were remain virtually invisible in the 827 Milwaukee/Madison ings at both The Skirball Cultural Robert David Hall, the performer union leaders: Eq- entertainment and news media. 828 Minneapolis/St Paul Center in Los Angeles and The I AM PWD campaign was Baruch College in New York. 829 Nashville created to say: enough. It is time Both were video-conferenced so 830 New Orleans to change the status quo. It is that each coast could experience 831 New York time to end the discrimination- the full event. This was an oppor- 832 Philadelphia loudly.” tunity for industry profession- 833 Phoenix/Tucson als— from producers, directors, Anita Hollander, Chair of the I 834 Pittsburgh casting talent and union repre- AM PWD Steering committee 835 San Diego sentatives from AEA, SAG and and National chair of AFTRA and 836 San Francisco AFTRA to meet and share ideas SAG Performers with Disabilities 837 Seattle following a campaign that began as well as an AEA member, said 838 St. Louis on October 6, 2008 with simulta- that “despite the progress we’ve 839 Washington DC/Baltimore neous conferences in Los Ange- (From l): AEA Eastern Regional Director Rick Berg, DOL Regional made, our presence still does not les, New York, and Washington Representative Robert Asaro-Angelo, SAG NY Executive Director reflect our nearly 60 million Jae Je Simmons, Assistant Secretary of Labor for Disability Americans with disabilities.” DC. Employment Policy and Keynote speaker Kathleen Martinez, I It is important to note that the AM PWD Co-Chair Christine Bruno, I AM PWD Watchdog Action Lawrence Carter Long, a tire- Tri-Union I AM PWD disability Group Chair Anita Hollander, National Council on Disability/NY less advocate and activist, who rights campaign has become an Facilitator Lawrence Carter Long, AEA President Nick Wyman, SAG Interim National Director of Affirmative Action & Diversity currently works as the Public Af- international civil and human Adam Moore. (Photo: Stephanie Masucci) fairs Specialist for the National rights movement, endorsed by Council on Disability, facilitated the AFL-CIO. Both ACTRA, the AEA/SAG/AFTRA member, ac- uity President Nick Wyman, AF- the table meetings/discussions in Alliance of Canadian Cinema, tivist and advocate, has been a TRA National President Roberta NYC, while Olivia Raynor, Direc- Television and Radio Artists, and National Board member and Reardon and SAG National tor of the National Arts and Dis- FIA, the International Federation Chair of the PWD Committee President Ken Howard. “The mis- abilities Center at UCLA, facilitat- EQUITYNEWS of Artists, also recognized the and a driving force in the cam- sion and the mandate of I AM ed in Los Angeles. Danny Wood- Editor: DICK MOORE campaign, further emphasizing paign since its inception. He can PWD is that everyone should be burn, best known as Mickey Ab- Associate Editor: HELAINE FELDMAN its global impact. be seen as one of the only “real” able to see themselves mirrored bott on Seinfeld, acted as host. Equity News Advisory Committee Having been involved with this disabled (double-leg amputee) in media,” said Mr. Wyman. “Kids After a robust round of table Christine Toy Johnson, Chair campaign from the beginning as series regulars on CBS TV’s will grow up seeing and hearing discussions, it would seem that (Eastern) the NY SAG PWD (Performers themselves in the media and Nancy Daly (Western) CSI:Crime Scene Investigation we had broken a communication Diane Dorsey (Central) with Disabilities) vice chair, and a and in media generally. He elo- know that they are not alone.” boundary, but still had lots of Nicole Flender (Eastern) member of the PR and Commu- quently stated that “kids with a There were many speakers, work ahead of us to achieve our Bruce Alan Johnson (Eastern) nications Action group, I can Stas’ Kmiec’ (Eastern) disability need to grow up to feel but Christine Bruno, Equity mem- goal of true inclusion. Kevin McMahon (Western) Liz Pazik (Central) Barbara Roberts (Western) Melissa Robinette (Eastern) rector for Crazy for You, The Pro- Buzz Roddy (Eastern) Stage Managers’ Association Honors Three ducers and Young Frankenstein. EQUITY NEWS (ISSN: 00924520) is published monthly except for com- With Lifetime Achievement Awards Mr. Drummond has served as bined issues in Jan./Feb., July/Aug., the stage manager at Chicago’s ate Broadway stage Achievement Award, which has Broadway productions for Oct.,/Nov., by Actors' Equity Tony Award-winning Goodman Association, 165 West 46th Street, manager Beverley been described as the “crowning producer-director Hal Prince, as Theatre since 1974 and also New York, NY 10036. Telephone: Randolph, along with achievement of a stage well as, among others, Curtains, L teaches stage management at (212) 869-8530. Periodicals Steven Zweigbaum and Joe manager’s career,” recognizes Passion, Kiss of the Spider postage paid at New York, NY. and Drummond, received the Stage “the finest qualities of Stage Woman and Follies in Concert at Roosevelt University. additional mailing offices. Copyright Now in its 30th year, the 2003, Actors' Equity Association. Managers’ Association’s Del Management: patience, Avery Fisher Hall. Subscription price for non-members Hughes Lifetime Achievement diplomacy organization and a Mr. Zweigbaum stage man- Stage Managers’ Association is of Actors' Equity Association: $25 Award at the SMA’s annual sense of humor.” aged the original Broadway pro- a professional association per year. Postmaster: Send address holiday celebration in New York Ms. Randolph, a 30-year ductions of Shenandoah, 42nd created by and for stage changes to Equity News, 165 West on December 12, 2011. 46th St., New York, NY 10036. Broadway veteran, died in March Street, Me and My Girl, and City managers. More than 500 The Del Hughes Lifetime 2011. She stage managed eight of Angels and was associate di- members are represented. JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012 EQUITY news / 3 From the Equity Centennial Book PRESIDENT on the Way By Jack Goldstein window on professional theatre CashCowasaurus vs. Director of Governance for thousands of potential Policy and Support theatregoers. The book compares the intensely CatchMeasaurus EA’s Centennial cele- demanding craft of the theatre in brations are on sched- we’ll share the risk/reward with reduce member salaries, AEA the words of Actors and Stage By Nick Wyman ule with the manuscript you by taking lower salaries in allows producers not to A Managers with the glamour and and design of its illustrated his- well-known theatre exchange for a back-end eliminate member jobs. Would lore that so fascinates the public tory nearing completion. website just posted participation” (which I just as you rather have 80 jobs at and examines Equity’s that (as announced by Entitled, Performance of the A wholeheartedly support now). $2,000 a week or 400 jobs at professional and moral choices the Broadway producers last Century, 100 Years of Actors’ This change in strategy has $1,000 a week? that have had a lasting impact. It Equity Association and the Rise May) my most recent enabled AEA to maintain and will also tell the story of Equity’s We all — Actors, directors, of Professional American Broadway show Catch Me If even increase our share of the role in making American theatre designers, producers, Theater, the coffee table book is You Can will go out on a touring market. As you may a worldwide phenomenon. presenters — want touring being written by well-known national tour this fall. recall, our share of the one- theatre journalist Robert Special care is being taken to shows to be duplicates of the Immediately, Facebook and my week touring market had Simonson and will be published balance text with visual Broadway show: a thrilling and e-mail inbox burst into flame. slipped to about 60% as for national release in the fall of excitement to ensure wide moving entertainment with a How come? The tour is not recently as 2003. Currently, 2012 by Applause Books. audience appeal. spectacular set, extravagant going out on a full Production almost every show playing Richard Rothschild of Print costumes, a huge orchestra The book will launch Contract or a Tier. It isn’t going engagements of one week or Matters Inc., and the President and a top-notch cast. On the coincidentally during a national out on SETA (Short longer is on an Equity contract. of the National Association of election cycle in which union- Engagement Touring Road, however, costs soar Book Packagers, has been AEA has a staff of hard- bashing may become even Agreement). It is going out because the set has to be engaged to oversee the project nosed, experienced, creative more familiar political rhetoric. If non-Equity. disassembled, transported and under the direction of the negotiators who work with (and so, Performance of the Century Most of the Facebook reassembled (sometimes once Centennial Committee’s book sometimes against) producers will serve an ambassadorial role a week) and the cast and subcommittee. While the book comments were quick to place to cajole them into making the as well, not to hostile politicians, those orchestra and crew will be available through major the blame: it’s that blasted most favorable deal possible members traveling with the book stores, Playbill Inc., one of but to average American Union, letting decent-paying for the members. Sometimes, show have to be paid per diem the primary media partners for citizens who may be curious jobs slip through their careless however, the two sides just for their housing and meals. the Centennial, has agreed to and admiring of a labor union fingers. It galls me that this can’t make the numbers work. made up of the improbable Those are the two big cost- handle on-line sales with wonderful piece of Broadway If a show is a smash hit like creatures who inhabit the stage. factors on the road: the size of discounts for Equity members. entertainment, this show that I Wicked or Jersey Boys, the If theatre is the mirror of human the touring complement and The book is targeting a broad have been so proud to be part money is there and it all works. the number of trucks. popular and educational experience, then perhaps of during its four-year (Check out my “Touring 102” audience. It will be fact-filled readers will recognize development and all-too-short column for a discussion of the Many of our Production enough to attract students and themselves in the pages of six-month Broadway run, is numbers.) The producers of Contract bargaining partners, devoted theatregoers and be Performance of the Century going out non-Equity. It galls the Tony-winning Broadway hit used to the more expansive entertaining enough to open a as well. me just as much that my fellow Billy Elliot thought, not and forgiving environment of Union members think AEA is unreasonably, that they had a Broadway, have difficulty to blame. similarly rainmaking cash cow saying “No.”: “OK, you can The Road has changed, and sent out not one but two have an ensemble of 16;” “OK, Equity Equinyms and AEA is working hard to national tours on a full you can have an orchestra of re you sometimes (or known by a character name, save Equity jobs. As I laid out Production contract with an 24;” “OK, you can have three even often) confused may speak and/or sing lines, in my “Touring 101” and Equity company of 52 and turntables.” Their non-Equity- Aby Equity shorthand— and/or perform a “specialty” “Touring 102” (available on the many trucks worth of scenery producing brethren, who are terms used regularly, but rarely and/or a dance segment alone. AEA website), touring is now a and costumes. To break even, used to operating with thinner very difficult environment in defined, or abbreviations and DANCE CAPTAIN they needed to make a ton of profit margins, have no acronyms, which look like which to make money — money. They didn’t. The two problem saying “No.”: “No, you The Dance Captain is a alphabet soup? Equity News is whether you are a Producer, a tours were consolidated, and can only have eight in the member of the company who beginning a feature of presenter, or an Actor. the four major sit-down cities ensemble:” “No, you can only maintains the artistic standards definitions or “Equinyms,” which Government funding has been were divvied up. One tour have 16 in the orchestra;” “No, we hope will be useful and help of all choreography and/or slashed or eliminated, donors closed in Canada; and the the set has to fit into four solve the problem. First up, are musical staging in the style, have pulled back and other tour, faced with trucks.” Chorus Equinyms. intent, technique and energy subscription lists have shrunk upcoming shorter level of the original production. My best friend (who is ten ACCA — so the local presenters are The Dance Captain always engagements (and inches shorter and 80 pounds The ACCA, Advisory refusing to pay the guarantees consequently many more works in tandem with the Stage lighter than I) has a running Committee on Chorus Affairs, necessary to mount and run an expensive moves), planned to Manager in conveying and gag about how he the proto- was formed as part of the Equity show, even on the close and license the tour to a maintaining the creative mammal is going to steal the merger of Actors' Equity lowest SETA category. If a non-Equity producer. Our staff intentions of the Artistic Staff. eggs of me the lumbering Association and Chorus Equity Producer needs $280K to was able to convince the SWING dinosaur and I am going to go in 1955. It is responsible for $300K per week to run his producer to reconsider the extinct. That may be the advising the Council on all A Swing is a non-performing show and only three or four decision to go non-Equity, in situation on the Road. Whether Chorus matters. member of the Chorus who is cities will guarantee more than part through a mutual careful The ACCA is charged with required to learn all Chorus or not the CashCowasaurus $230K, the Producer (who may review of the financial and protecting, preserving and “tracks”, parts, and specialties goes extinct, it no longer rules have already lost most of the human elements of the new advancing all aspects of the assigned to them. A “track” is the earth. investors’ money during the production, and thus keep it on Chorus contract and chorus defined as Chorus actor’s show Broadway run) will take the an Equity contract, albeit a The Road is different than it provisions for all of Equity’s from start to finish. It includes sure money — exceedingly SETA as opposed to full was. We need to talk and work National and Regional all vocal parts, choreography, modest but sure — of licensing Production. with not only our traditional contracts. backstage traffic patterns, and the show rather than taking the bargaining partners, but also CHORUS costume changes. A Swing can For saving the resulting 48 risk of losing yet more of the Equity jobs — more jobs than traditionally non-Equity A member of the Chorus is go into the performance at any investors’ money. the average touring show and producers and our sister any person who appears in a time during the show to cover As I explained, the Union’s jobs paying far more than the unions to help configure a road musical as part of a group or any injured or absent Chorus approach has morphed from average Equity job — the that works for all of us. We ensemble or who appears in a members. need to be alert, fast-moving, dramatic play as part of a Questions? Contact: David last century’s “If you want Union received considerable and adaptable in order to not singing or dancing group or Westphal, National Chorus professional actors, you have grief – not so much from the ensemble; in either instance, Business Representative to pay full production salaries” cast as from other members — only survive but thrive. Thanks the Chorus member’s primary (212) 869-8530 x412. (which I wholeheartedly for having “allowed” the B.E. to a flexible, determined and function is that of a member of supported then) to our current producers to reduce the actors’ creative leadership and staff, such group or ensemble. A Next issue: Understudies, stance of “If you can prove salaries. The truth is that AEA Actors’ Equity Association is member of the Chorus may be Standbys, and Increments you’re getting low guarantees, doesn’t allow producers to doing just that. 4 / EQUITY news JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012

Stephen Douglass Dies Equity Former AEA Treasurer, Councillor Foundation tephen Douglass, a which he was nominated for a Awards Councillor from 1956- Tony Award. Other Broadway 1971 and AEA Treasurer shows included Destry Rides Grants to (Photo: Hilljoy Photography) Hilljoy (Photo: S from 1966-1969 and 1971-1972, Again, 110 in the Shade and I died on December 20, 2011 Do, I Do. 101Theatres after a long battle with leukemia. Mr. Douglass retired to he Actors’ Equity Foun- Lamkey Feted on Retirement He was 90. England in 1972, but continued dation awarded 101 Mr. Douglass, who joined to work, playing Tevye in Fiddler (From l) Regional Directors Mary Lou Westerfield, Rick Berg and TTheatre Grants in 2011: Equity in 1942, began his career on the Roof at the Alhambra CRD designate Christine Provost, with retiring Central Regional 58 grants totaling $42,000 in at the Paper Mill Playhouse in Dinner Theatre in Jacksonville, Director Kathryn Lamkey (second from l) at her December 12, 2011 the Eastern Region; 27 grants Millburn, New Jersey playing in Florida at the age of 71. His last retirement party held at Province Restaurant in Chicago. The event totaling $11,000 in the Central the chorus and then in leading stage appearance was in 2003 was also attended by President Nick Wyman, Councillors, Board Region; and 16 grants totaling roles. He understudied the role in an English production of members, Executive Director Mary McColl, Assistant Executive $14,000 in the Western Region. of Billy Bigelow in Carousel in Oklahoma! Director Steven DiPaola, industry labor leaders, producers and AEA New York, played the role on the Started in 1962, the staff past and present. As Kathryn used to say, quoting her Foundation continues to grow hometown newspaper, “A good time was had by all.” Correction as a result of estate bequests and individual donations. In the story on Jeanna Belkin, Would you like to be part of the Need Help With Housing? Councillor Emerita and Special work of this lasting and Advisor to the Equity P&H tangible way to help fellow Trustees, that appeared on page Contact The Actors Fund performances and live theatre? 4 of the December 2011 issue of If so, and for further s the lack of affordable New York’s Theatre District. The Equity News, it was stated that information on making a housing keeping you from Palm View provides homes to when Ms. Belkin was appearing bequest or donation, contact Ipursuing your career? Do low income people with on Broadway in One Touch of Ve- Comptroller Joseph DeMichele you need quality skilled nursing HIV/AIDS in West Hollywood, Stephen Douglass as Tevye. nus, she was concerned that or assisted living for yourself or and the Lillian Booth Actors there was no cot backstage for at Equity, 212-869-8530, ext. a loved one? Housing Home in Englewood, New National Tour, at Lincoln Center performers who needed to lie 348. Or, you may send a sponsored by The Actors Fund Jersey provides quality assisted in 1948, in London in 1950 and down. It is true that Ms. Belkin did donation by check to: The may be the answer. The living and skilled nursing to more than 1,000 times in appear in One Touch of Venus, Actors’ Equity Foundation, c/o Schermerhorn offers those who’ve dedicated their summer stock. He appeared on but it was when she was on tour Arne Gundersen, President, occupancy in the heart of lives to performing arts. Visit Broadway in Make A Wish, The in Call Me Mister that she decid- 165 West 46th Street, New downtown Brooklyn. The www.actorsfund.org for more Golden Apple, Pajama Game, ed to take action. The result is York, NY 10036. All Dorothy Ross Friedman information, or to download an and was Joe Hardy in Damn that today there is a cot back- contributions are tax- Residence has shared units in application. Yankees with Gwen Verdon, for stage in every Equity theatre. deductible.

Your Income Tax Unemployment is not the only Medicare is covered) and you lot as independent contractors other items. In exchange for this source of under-withheld will be in a pickle next year what they do and they’ll likely two-month benefit period, continued from page 1 income we see; you may have when you owe tax. And the tell you how they pay as they go. President Obama promised to back into the land of the fully little or no federal withholding income source from which there Estimated taxes and how to fill consider constructing the functioning, taxpaying members and none at all in your state if is no withholding at all is your out your W-4 form will be Keystone (Canada to Mexico) oil of society. If you find yourself you work on a cruise ship and 1099 fee income. This is the discussed in next month’s issue. pipeline. Check your news with a tax bill and unsure what perform on the high seas. And if independent contractor income And Finally— sources for updates on these your options are, don’t be you work out of your home you receive when you model, Everything Old is… negotiations – and whether or not your taxes are going back up. discouraged. Contact a tax state, you will probably not have choreograph, direct, create (well, you know the rest) enough state tax withheld to recorded books or other voice- Alternative Minimum Tax: expert who can give you some Not that you’ve been waiting cover the obligation to that state over projects from home, write, The dreaded and much-feared choices and peace of mind. with bated breath, but there are AMT has increased exemption some extended benefits for 2011 Withholding not Sufficient? amounts: if you’re single, it’s that came from the tax relief act Over the last few years, as Sandra Karas Presents $48,450 and married, it’s that President Obama signed in happens whenever the economy $74,450. The 0% and 15% Seminars on Income Tax December, 2010. Among other takes a downturn, artists may be capital gain rates for AMT are things, he extended the Bush tax the first to lose jobs or find new also extended through 2011. Issues in Four Cities cuts that were to expire, ones even harder to obtain. This Every little bit helps those who an Diego Equity AFTRA and SAG continued the election to claim can be a blow in a profession get caught in this deduction members welcomed Foundations, Ms. Karas was state and local taxes as an where maintaining gainful snare. Secretary-Treasurer able to visit four cities to itemized deduction, along with employment is uncertain at best S Education credits : the Sandra Karas to their Area present seminars to members mortgage insurance premiums, and a struggle at worst. Add American Opportunity Credit Liaison Membership Meeting of the three unions. In refundable adoption credits, child taxable unemployment remains in effect through 2012; on November 14, 2011 where addition to San Diego, she tax credits, capital gain rates and compensation to the equation Qualified Tuition Deduction goes Ms. Karas presented a visited Los Angeles, Seattle and you add insult to injury. Our a simplified earned income through 2011; Student Loan seminar on Income Tax and Orlando. Ms. Karas was members who qualify for and credit. Other highlights for 2011 Interest continues through 2012, Deductions and Audit asked to assist with receive unemployment benefits include: as well as the exclusion for Preparation for Performing organizing Volunteer Income have no control over the federal Reduced FICA for employer provided educational Artists. Members of SAG and Tax Assistance (VITA) and state taxes to be withheld Employees: If you noticed the assistance. AFTRA were also invited to programs in Los Angeles and from each payment. They must slightly higher take-home pay For more information on these attend. Western Regional Orlando and, with the first elect to have withholding last year, it’s because employees and other tax issues, consult Director Mary Lou Westerfield addition of those two cities, and then accept the minimal have been paying lower social your own tax adviser or stop in at and Area Liaison Chair Abner VITA is now offered to AEA amount taken out. Federal security rates than employers your VITA office. Genece were also in members in four cities: New withholding is only 10% - but the (4.2%, instead of 6.2%) during The New York VITA office is attendance. With the York, Seattle, Orlando and taxpayer’s final bracket may be 2011 and that has also open Mondays, Wednesdays, generous support of theAEA, Los Angeles. higher when added to other translated into lower self- Thursdays and Fridays (no income. In New York, the state employment tax for independent Tuesdays) from 10:30 to 4 on the withholding percentage is so low and your home state as well. compose, or design.You know contractors. The President 14th floor of the New York Equity (2%) that it does not make an The result is that you end up when you receive it that it’s not proposed extending the Social building. Telephone 212-921- appreciable dent in the tax that paying one or both of them subject to withholding, but do Security tax reduction for another 2548. Check the website for will be due when filing the return when you file your returns. If you you plan for the tax that’s going 12 months. As we went to print, other VITA Programs for our and, because many states do qualify for and receive third- to be due when you file your Congress had voted to grant a members. not offer to withhold taxes at all, party disability benefits, you will returns? Probably not – at least two-month extension only.This Sandra Karas is the Director there is usually a state tax bill find that the weekly wages do not if you haven’t had much provision also included a brief of VITA, Secretary-Treasurer of waiting next April, regardless of not withhold federal or state experience with these kinds of extension of unemployment and Equity and a member of SAG where your claim originates. taxes (though FICA and earnings. Ask those who work a some Medicare benefits, among and AFTRA. JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012 EQUITY news / 5 Denver Tri-Union Meet-n-Greet Draws AEA, SAG, AFTRA members On Monday, December 12, 2011, the Equity Liaison Committee helped sponsor the first Tri-Union event in Denver. NATIONALNEWS Equity members were invited to NATIONALNEWS join other local members from SAG and AFTRA for a festive meet-n-greet at The Denver Sports Column. Attendance was free for members of the three unions and their guests. Members and EMCs dropped EMC Devin Mugavero (l) with by to chat with other members, Equity member Chaz Grundy at as well as meet with their Denver the meet-n-greet. AEA Liaison Chair, Colorado All Regions and Bess. This event is free, but connection. The two productions SAG President and Denver colleagues and members to space is limited. RSVP by are running simultaneously in AFTRA President. The event was mingle, rejoice and celebrate the Programs Planned February 20 to Los Angeles with Raisin at the intended to promote solidarity, performaning arts in Colorado. for Black History [email protected] or by Kirk from January 19 through reciprocity and enthusiasm “By connecting with each other, Month calling Pearl Brady at 212-869- February 19 and Clybourne at among the three unions. Plus, it we become more relevant,” said 8530, ext. 346. the Taper from January 11 was a whole lot of fun, according Chaz Grundy, of AEA’s Liaison Committee. “We’re working to Eastern Region Central Region through February 26. The panel to members who participated. The Equal Employment will consist of Actors from both The Tri-Union Committee become not only more visible, Spirit, A Celebration of Opportunity Committee productions as well as original consisted of Shelly Gaza, Julie but more accessible to Diversity, the annual event and presents Celebrating African- cast members of the 1959 Crane and Chaz Grundy. They employers/ producers and award presentation honoring American Actors on Broadway production of A Raisin in the worked together to organize this performers. We do better Central Region Members of on Monday evening, February Sun. The event will be held at first Tri-Union event for together than apart.” color and minority-based theatre 27 from 5-7 PM at B. Smith’s, the Kirk Douglas Theatre on companies will be held at the 320 W. 46th street. To February 19, 2012 at 3:30 PM Black Ensemble Theater on acknowledge and following the 1 PM matinee March 19, 2012. For more Phoenix/Tucson commemorate the wealth of performance of Raisin. The information, visit the Equity talent and the contributions that discussion will focus on Acting website, www.actorsequity.org Liaison Committee Supports African-American Actors and and Equal Employment or call Luther Goins, National Stage Managers are bestowing Opportunity over the past 50 “Adopt a Troop” Project; Equal Employment Opportunity on Broadway this season, the years. The panel will be Coordinator, at 312-641-0393. Helps Local Organizations Eastern Region EEO moderated by Pier Carlo Talenti, Western Region Committee is sponsoring a Literary Manager for the Center To honor the men and women 16 boxes destined for different festive cocktail party centered The Western Region EEO Theatre Group. For more in our Armed Forces serving locations in Afghanistan, each around a 20-minute live “Talk Committee, in partnership with information contact Business abroad, the Phoenix-Tucson box containing items bagged Show” with a slate of guests Center Theatre Group, is Rep Michael Van Duzer at Liaison Committee gathered together for distribution to as from among those being hosting a panel discussion [email protected] or many as 20-30 celebrated. Host is Norm Lewis, recognizing the A Raisin in the 323-978-8080. individual star of The Gershwins’ Porgy Sun and Clybourne Park servicemen and women. In addition New Jersey to the boxes being sent McCarter Theatre Makes a Difference overseas, sufficient By Cheryl Mintz Principal Councillor James non-profit agency dedicated to donations were Ludwig (Nephew Fred) and providing housing, healthcare, McCarter Theatre in received to fill Cheryl Mintz (Supervising meaningful employment and Princeton, New Jersey several boxes Stage Manager), followed its recreational opportunities to supported local social service with food, daily standing ovation to jump people with special needs. organizations by collecting Area Liaison Tony Hodges loads packages for toiletries and into a heartfelt curtain speech. (www.alliesnj.org) donations for Allies, Inc. and the “Adopt a Troop” project. stationery that Graeme Malcolm, quoting In 2009 and 2010, McCarter Trenton Area Soup Kitchen were delivered Dickens, said: “At this festive Theatre, the company of A donations for holiday care to local organizations selected Christmas Carol packages in December. This is by the Brownies, including and theatre patrons the third year in a row that the UMOM (providing services to also helped The Committee has participated in Arizona’s homeless families), Children’s Home the “Adopt a Troop” project. Maggie’s Place (a home for Society Arizona Equity Members single mothers) and Operation (www.chsofnj.org) expressed their appreciation and Santa Claus (a community-wide and HomeFront gratitude to those in military effort benefiting children’s (www.homefrontnj. service by donating much charities). org) with donations needed items such as toiletries “Once again I’m proud and totaling over and socks, as well as candy, hot pleased at the generosity of $60,000. Special chocolate, paperback books, Arizona Equity members,” said mention goes to playing cards and games. Phoenix-Tucson Liaison Tony The 2011 company of McCarter Theatre’s A Christmas Carol, with (seated Christopher Parks center) Jennifer Paulson Lee (Choreography Supervisor), Michael Unger This year, the Committee Hodges. “Working with the and McCarter (Director), Cheryl Mintz (Supervising Stage Manager), David Thompson joined forces with Girl Scout Brownie Troop was a huge plus (Adaptor) and Mara Isaacs (Producing Director). (Photo: T. Charles Erickson) Theatre’s Education Brownie Troop 2817 from the that enabled us to not only Program for Meadowlark Neighborhood of double what we sent overseas (TASK) during the holiday run season of the year, we who cultivating these outreach Phoenix where Committee last year to acknowledge in a of Charles Dickens’ A have been blessed with good programs. member Maren Maclean’s small way the absence and Christmas Carol. The fortune in our lives have the As longtime cast member daughter is a member. The sacrifice of service members, production ran from December obligation to give a little back to Danny Hallowell (Peter Brownies worked on the project but allowed us to also share 4-24, 2011 and donations those in need.” Cratchit), 13, who started out with Equity members as part of some of that generosity to meet totaled $37,642. TASK’s mission is to provide as Tiny Tim in 2003, said in the their Community Service and not needs within the local The company, led by Equity food for the hungry in Trenton, curtain speech, “Anything you only assisted in the collection of community.” Committee member members Graeme Malcolm as well as programs to improve care to give is meaningful. donations but in packing all of Charles St. Clair added, “This is (Ebenezer Scrooge), Ronica their patrons’ quality of life. Thank you for your generosity. the boxes for shipping. The a great thing, done by great Reddick (Ghost of Christmas (www.trentonsoupkitchen.org) And from the bottom of our combined collection efforts filled people. Thank you.” Present), AEA Eastern Allies, Inc. is an accredited hearts, Happy Holidays!” 6 / EQUITY news JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012

New York Chicago Red Socks Award Honors Asian-American Members Attend Teaching New York-based Asian- Artist Workshop American theatre artist. Ralph Pena and Jorge Ortoll, the The Central Regional to present their proposed lesson Artistic and Executive Directors Member Education and plans incorporating the ideas for the Ma-Yi Theatre Company Outreach Committee hosted a and principles Mr. Taylor shared nominated this year’s recipient: Teaching Artist Workshop in the first workshop. “Bruce has Actress Ching Valdes-Aran. She conducted by AEA Member been a pleasure to work with, received a plaque and a check Bruce Taylor. Mr. Taylor, who has bringing his attention to detail to for $1,000. previously worked as a all parts of the project. His The award was created to consultant, director and lecturer communication and people skills honor the memory of Lilah Kan, for national and international are excellent, and he has some whose “unique spirit lifted many arts organizations, is a very innovative ideas,” said one people.” She was the “hostess champion of arts education in AEA Member. Mr. Taylor also public education and, over his donated a copy of his book, The Participating in the Red Socks Award ceremony are (l to r): John with the mostest” to hundreds of Arts Equation: Forging a Vital FitzGibbon, founder of the Award; Jorge Ortoll, Executive artists whom she fed, housed years as an arts administrator, Director of Ma-Yi; honoree Ching Valdes-Aran; and Tisa Chang, Link Between Performing Artists and inspired over her five has created programs and Producing Director of Pan Asian Rep. and Educators decade acting career. Ms. Kan practices that have successfully (Back Stage woven artistic practices into Books, 1999) to the Ray The sixth Lilah Kan “Red opening of Shanghai Lil’s at Pan was known for giving a pair of programs designed to be used Lonergan Memorial Library at Socks Award” was presented on Asian Repertory Company. The red socks as an opening night in the classroom. Mr. Taylor the Chicago office. Chicago November 16, 2011 at the award is given annually to a gift to many actors she admired. shared these practices with Equity staff thanks the Member AEA, SAG and AFTRA Education and Outreach New York members on December 5, 2011 Committee for hosting the event and challenged the participants and Bruce Taylor for his Bayfield, Callaway Awards Presented to become viable Teaching passion, enthusiasm, and for Artists. Follow-up seminars were selflessly volunteering his time Three Members Honored by AEA Foundation held on December 9 and 19 to his fellow Equity Members. where participants reconvened The annual St. Clair Bayfield Acts (Classic Stage Company), more than she expected. She and Joseph A. Callaway Awards The Little Foxes (New York was thankful for the role and sponsored by the Actors’ Equity Theatre Workshop) and The expressed her joy in exploring Dallas/Fort Worth Foundation were presented at Boys in the Band (Transport the part. She also noted that she the Eastern Regional Group), for which he had had recently returned from DFW Actors Raise $15,000 for Membership Meeting on January received a Drama Desk Zimbabwe, which, she said, 6, 2012. nomination. needed an organization like Local Children’s Charity The Bayfield Award, honoring The Callaway Award, Equity to support its Actors. In the best performance in a honoring the best performance in closing, she thanked Equity for supporting role by an Actor in a a professional production of a “all it does for Actors in this Shakespearean play in the New classic play (one written prior to country.” York metropolitan area, went to 1920) in the New York Ms. Gurira had appeared on Nick Westrate for his metropolitan area, went to Danai Broadway in Joe Turner’s Come performance as Berowne in Gurira and Derek Smith. and Gone and Off-Broadway Shakespeare’s Love’s Labor’s was in, and was co-creator of, In Lost, part of the 2011-2012 the Continuum. Other awards Public Lab season at the Public she has received include an Theater. The award was Obie, Helen Hayes, John presented by Francois Battiste, a Gassner Outer Critics, and she DFW Actors Give Back board members and friends present a friend and classmate at The is both a Hodder Fellow and an check and framed poster to Jonathan’s Place. Shown here (l to r) Juilliard School. NEA Grant Fellow. are: Stephanie Riggs (FMPAT Executive Director, AEA member), Mr. Battiste called Mr. Mr. Smith, who received the Scott Kirham (FMPAT Executive Producer, AEA member), Doug Hood (Development & Commnications Director, Jonathan’s Westrate “the real deal,” who had award for his performance as Place), Bob Hess, Lisa Schreiner Goss (Board and AEA member), high expectations for himself as Dog in the Red Bull Theater Doug Miller (Secretary, Holidazzle producer, AEA member). well as for others, and who Production of The Witch of works “diligently at his craft.” He Edmonton, was unable to attend DFW Actors Give Back year was a tremendous praised Mr. Westrate’s the meeting since he was raised $15,000 from sales of accomplishment,” said Actors “commitment, passion and working out-of-town. Margot HOLIDAZZLE Act II, a CD Give Back President and Equity infectious sense of humor.” Harley, Producing Artistic compilation of holiday songs, Member Bob Hess. “We are Mr. Westrate said he was Director of The Acting Company, with each tract featuring a lucky to be part of such a grateful to be recognized for accepted on his behalf, reading a different solo or group generous arts community and what he always wanted to do— statement Mr. Smith sent performance. The money went we thank the individuals and act in Shakespeare and classical Third Vice-President Ira Mont expressing his thanks and deep to Jonathan’s Place, which has organizations who made it with Callaway Award recipient theatre. Danai Gurira. Photo: Joe Marzullo) gratitude to the company for been providing residential care possible.” The most outstanding Nick Westrate appeared on casting him and to the judges for and specialized services to the sales came from Flower Mound Broadway in A Moon for the Ms. Gurira was recognized for recognizing him. abused and neglected children Performing Arts Theatre, Misbegotten, and Off-Broadway her performance as Isabella in Mr. Smith’s Broadway credits of North Texas for almost 20 Theatre Three and WaterTower in, among other plays, Unnatural Shakespeare’s Measure for include: The Green Bird (Tony years. “To raise $15,000 this Theatre, he added. Measure presented by the Public nomination), The Government Inspector, Timon of Athens, New York Theater’s Shakespeare in the New York Park. Barry Edelstein, “head of Jackie: An American Life, Ring AFCU Meeting is all things Shakespeare” at the ‘Round the Moon, and several Public, made the presentation, years as Scar in The Lion King. Women to Celebrate Women March 2 citing Ms. Gurira’s strong He received Drama League and in the Arts on March 5 “emotional connection to the LA Ovation Awards for Sylvia, The Annual Meeting of The Eastern Region Equal Admission is free, but seating is story and the character,” and her the 2000 Clarence Derwent Actors Federal Credit Union will Employment Opportunity very limited. This event will “command” of the space. Mr. Award for his appearance in King be held on Friday, March 2, Committee is sponsoring a celebrate contributions by and Edelstein also noted that Ms. John, and an Obie for The Green 2012 from 3:30-5:30 PM in the special event to celebrate for women of 1913, a significant Gurira is an emerging playwright Bird. Equity Council Room on the Women’s History Month, March year in Equity’s history, as well and he was looking forward “to All honorees received a 14th Floor at 165 West 46th 2012. Women of AEA, The as the Ziegfeld Follies, which the classical works she will play $1,000 check and an engraved Street. Included on the agenda Rehearsal Club and The opened at The New Amsterdam and her canon of work which crystal plaque. are Board and Credit Committee Ziegfeld Club are uniting to in 1913, among other surprises. may become classics.” The Judges’ Panel included elections and the State of the present Union Women@Work - For more information contact Ms. Gurira was Joe Dziemianowicz, Daily News; Union report by AFCU President Inspiration in Motion at 7 PM on Eastern EEO Business “overwhelmed,” saying it was “a Adam Feldman, Time Out NY; Jeff Rodman. As always, there March 5, 2012 at the Theatre at Representative Pearl Brady at gift to get to do what you love to Harry Haun, Playbill; and David will be refreshments and more St. Peter’s Church, 53rd Street [email protected] or 212- do” and to be recognized was Rosenberg, Back Stage. than $500 in door prizes. and Lexington Avenue. 869-8530 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012 EQUITY news / 7

New York Annual Gypsy of the Year Sets Another Fundraising Record (Photos: Peter James Zielinski) Grease was the word and a 1 2 3 record-setting fundraising total of $4,895,253 was the highpoint of the 23rd Annual Gypsy of the Year competition, thanks to the tireless work of 53 participating Broadway, Off-Broadway and national touring companies during six weeks of intensive fundraising. Hosted by Seth Rudetsky of Sirius/XM Satellite Radio, with 4 5 6 special guest hosts (1) Patrick Page of Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark; and Follies’ Jan Maxwell, two afternoons of songs, original skits and dances were performed by more than 300 Equity members. The audiences on December 5 and 6, 2011 cheered as the original 1972 Broadway cast of Grease opened the show with a spirited reunion celebrating their than 50 current and past and Bernadette Peters (Follies) tours were Wicked – moment to reflect on those who show’s 40th anniversary. (2) company members appeared on presented the afternoon’s Munchkinland, $326,902; Wicked cannot be here and those whose Barry Bostwick, Carole Demas, stage, (3) including nine “Billys” fundraising and performance – Emerald City, $316,299; Mary voices still cannot be heard. Let Adrienne Barbeau, Alan Paul, who played the role on awards. Broadway’s top fundrais- Poppins, $169,709, and Jersey us take a moment to recommit to Walter Bobbie and other Broadway. er was How to Succeed… with Boys, $157,831. reaching beyond ourselves to members of the original cast Capping the afternoon and as $325,935; first runner-up was The judges recognized the ensure that all facing a multitude joined 16 current Broadway part of the final total The Book of Mormon, $315,968; company of Billy Elliot as the of challenges are embraced in gypsies in an opening number announcement, Hugh Jackman second runner-up was Wicked, best onstage presentation while times of trouble, isolation or directed and choreographed by was honored with a special $240,809; third runner-up was (5) the kids from Mary Poppins’ crisis.” Equity member Rommy Sandhu award for raising $857,740 in the Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark, presentation were runner-ups. The 23rd Annual Gypsy of the with musical direction by Ben first three weeks of his $197,285; and fourth runner-up But the afternoon shows were Year was directed by Valerie Cohn, and revisited songs from fundraising efforts during the was Follies, $186,405. Other not just about entertainment. (6) Lau-Kee Lai with Jason Trubitt as one of the most popular musicals limited run of Hugh Jackman, Desert Cities brought in the high- Judith Light (Other Desert Cities) PSM, leading a team of 10 stage in Broadway history. Back on Broadway. est Broadway Play total with led a poignant moment of silence managers. The show ended with a send- (4) Hugh Jackman, Daniel $77,712 and Rent took the top saying to the stilled audience: For a complete story and off to Broadway’s Billy Elliot, Radcliffe (How to Succeed in Off-Broadway spot with $43,300. “Today, 23 years since the first more pictures, visit which closed in January, as more Business Without Really Trying) The big winners from national Gypsy of the Year, let us take a www.broadwaycares.org.

Los Angeles New York Dancers Discuss Careers Dancers Get Career Transition For Dancers Careers in Western Medicine on is sponsoring a Career Tuesday, March 27, 2012. LinkedIn For Job Conversation on Job Search All events are from 7-9 PM at Strategies for Artists in Transition The Actors Fund office, 5757 Search on Wednesday, February 15, Wilshire Boulevard. For LinkedIn is the primary social 2012, a session on Careers in information, call 323-549-6660 or media tool for ongoing career Eastern Medicine on Tuesday, visit the website: management and for landing a March 6, 2012 and a session on www.careertransition.org. (From l) Detroit Liaison chair Dana Gamarra, Central Regional job. Find out the best practices Director designate Christine Provost, Liaison Committee member Leah Smith, Kathryn V. Lamkey, Central Regional Board and and strategies for your search Chicago Liaison Committee member Peggy Thorp, Liaison Committee from social media expert Haig member Milfordean Luster, and Central Regional VP Dev Chahinian at a Career Transition Kennedy. Drury Lane Company Helps For Dancers’ event on Monday, Detroit February 27, 2012. Season of Concern On Monday, March 12, Career Transition For Dancers During the month of Decem- pocketbooks and filled the buck- Heartfelt Farewell to Kathryn Lamkey hosts a similar event on using ber, the lobby of the Drury Lane ets and cans of the grateful com- social media tools to catch up Oakbrook Theatre was alive with pany members who volunteered The Detroit Liaison President Dev Kennedy gave on the innovations that will help the sound of…GRATITUDE. to collect for 2011’s Season of Committee hosted a small heartfelt farewell speeches. Mr. promote your new business and Smiling faces tell the story: those Concern. Stephen Radar (head reception to say a formal farewell Gamarra presented Ms. Lamkey ideas. Social media expert from grateful audiences who just of SOC) said, “It is truly the to retiring Central Regional with a plaque on behalf of the Maryam Day conducts this saw the critically acclaimed “sold largest collection total from the Director Kathryn V. Lamkey. Liaison Committee to session. out” The Sound of Music and run of one show that I know of or Equity Members and local Equity commemorate her 25 years of Both events take place from who opened their hearts and can remember.” producers were in attendance as service to the Union, and Ms. Committee Chair Dana Gamarra Lamkey’s favorite cake (with lots 5:30-7:30 PM in the Equity and Central Regional Vice- of icing) was shared by all. Council Room on the 14th Floor of the Equity Building, 165 West Chicago 46th Street. For information or reservations, call 212-764-0172 EEOC Event Focuses on Building or email careerconversations@ Minority Audiences careertransition.org. The Central Region Equal PM at the Chicago Temple Build- Office Closing Employment Opportunity Com- ing, 77 West Washington Street. mittee and Silk Road Rising are This event is free to all Equity All Equity offices will be presenting Multi-Colored Butts in Members and Membership Can- closed on Monday, Seats, a program on “attracting didates. No reservations needed. February 20, 2012 in audiences that look like Chicago For more information, call Luther observance of (a city of colors)” on Monday, Goins or Michael Cichon, 312- Presidents’ Day. February 27, 2012 from 6:30-9 641-0393, ext. 237, 238. 8 / EQUITY news JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012

balance of exchange and A Look Back @Equity Milestones explore ways to expand the 2012 Annual Election Calendar program. Tuesday, February 14, 2012 Deadline for reports of Joint Officers • Discussion of regional Nominating Committees 75 Years Ago 50 Years Ago representation and developing Tuesday, February 21, 2012 Deadline for reports of all Regional Nominating top a two-day agenda at a Committees January/February 1937 January/February 1962 National Conference which Friday, March 2, 2012 Deadline for nominations by Independent brings together executives, staff, Petition (Materials due in Regional Offices by 2 In a discussion of • Equity Magazine reports • representatives from the pm Eastern Time, 1 pm Central, 11 am Pacific) increasing Equity’s minimum that U.S. Secretary of Labor Western and Midwest Regions Wednesday, March 7, 2012 Deadline for Candidates Statements for Equity wage, the Equity Magazine Arthur Goldberg has issued “the strongest recommendation for and 14 Area Liaisons. News, Equity Website and Ballot Brochure (due reports that “of the 2,000-odd in Regional Offices by 2 pm Eastern Time, 1 pm government assistance to the contracts signed by Equity Central, 11 am Pacific) Lottery for ballot arts yet put forth by an officer of members last year [1936], a 10 Years Ago placement (National Office) Cabinet rank.” Among other total of 9% were signed for less Thursday, March 22, 2012 Deadline for registration to vote electronically things, Secretary Goldberg calls January/February 2002 than forty dollars.” Friday, April 13, 2012 Annual National Membership Meeting (all for the establishment of a The three regional Racial Regions via teleconference) Candidate A revised contract for Stock • • Federal Advisory Council on the Equality Committees agree to a speeches (in effect on and after February Arts, an action long supported reorganization and a change of Monday, April 16, 2012 Distribution of ballots (from balloting company) 15) includes a rule stating that by Equity. name to the Equal Employment Wednesday, May 23, 2012 Deadline for receipt of ballots “preceding the opening date, the • Executive Secretary Angus Opportunity Committee (EEOC). Thursday, May 24, 2012 Tabulation Day Actor, if required, shall give one Duncan reports that merger • Equity protests continue week of free rehearsals.” talks with the American Guild of over a non-Equity “national tour” tions, becoming the largest sub- The February issue of the • Musical Artists (AGMA) are of The Music Man. Protests BRIEF NOTES scribed regional theatre in the Equity Magazine includes an B N ongoing and jurisdictional have followed the show from southeast. item from President Frank disputes with the American Des Moines, where it began, to • Equity member José Fer- • The Surflight Theatre in Gillmore accepting responsibility Guild of Variety Artists (AGVA) Cleveland, Hartford, Baltimore, rer will be immortalized on a Beach Haven, NJ has emerged for the presence of guards at a continue. Orlando, Chicago and First-Class Forever Stamp in from Chapter 11 bankrupcy pro- membership meeting. This was Indianapolis. 2012, the hundredth anniver- tection and is planning a 2012 done, he said, because 25 Years Ago • In the aftermath of the sary of his birth. He is the 14th season of musical theatre. “meetings have become more September 11 terrorist attacks, luminary celebrated in the U.S. January/February 1987 • Welcome to Farmers Alley and more hectic.” At one Broadway performers, including Postal Service’s Distinguished Theatre, a new Equity Small meeting, he noted, there was “a • Equity and British Equity Equity Councillors, go on the Americans Series. Mr. Ferrer Professional Theatre in Kalama- near riot” precipitated by “an leaders meet in London for road in New York Loves died in 1992 at the age of 80. zoo, Michigan. Farmers Alley is opposition group,” and at discussions on actor exchange America: The Broadway Tour, • Florida Studio Theatre in now the only year-round full another, “there was an affair of and reciprocity. Main focus of promoting New York City and Sarasota ended its 2011 season time professional theatre in fisticuffs.” the meetings is to review the the Broadway theatre. with 11,000 Mainstage subscrip- West Michigan.

Central Region THEATRE Letters to The Editor Letters received from paid up members on subjects of concern to Equity members will be considered and Black Ensemble Theater Celebrates published as soon as possible. The Editor reserves the right to limit letters to 175 words and to select one SPOTLIGHT New Home, New Theatre, Long or two representative letters when many similar letters are received. Letters must be signed, but names will be withheld on request for those letters which may affect members’ employment. Signatures will not Awaited Cultural Center be withheld on letters antagonistic or accusatory, either implied or expressed, against other members. Opinions expressed in Letters to the Editor are not necessarily those of Actors’ Equity Association. By Luther Goins Black Ensemble was as an un- Central Region Business derstudy in their 150-seat base- SETTING THE RECORD Equity members? How about Representative, ment theatre several years ago. STRAIGHT parents or grandparents who are National EEO Coordinator Since that time Black Ensemble Dear Editor: Equity members? I’m doing a Theater has become the 300- hey are calling it “the Having read that “The profile of families who have seat jewel on North Clark Street house that Jackie built.” Broadway Flea Market was born Equity lineage. Please contact in Chicago that serves a diverse Jackie Taylor that is— in the autumn of 1987 when the me, c/o Equity News Editor T audience, in race and in age. It is founder, producer, playwright and company of A Chorus Line sold Helaine Feldman a Black Ensemble tradition at the Artistic Director. items left in the dressing rooms ([email protected]), if you would end of each show for the cast to The new Black Ensemble Cul- (From l) Dionne Warwick, on two tables set up outside their like to be included in this go to the lobby and greet audi- stage door in Shubert Alley to tural Center, an impressive, multi- Jackie Taylor and Illinois roundup of Equity legacies. Governor Pat Quinn at the ence members. As an Equity faceted, $19 million facility benefit Equity Fights AIDS,” I’d opening of the new Black member, it warms my heart to —Nicole Flender opened on November 18, 2011 like to set the record straight. Ensemble Cultural Center. see the smiling faces and hear Principal Councillor with a not-to-be missed reception In July 1987, shortly after the comments from the audi- Michael Bennett’s death from and with a new production of the Ms. Taylor is also pleased that KUDO FOR THE CHORUS ence.” AIDS, Trish Ramish and I sat in award-winning musical, The she has been able to employ Eq- Dear Editor: Founded in 1976 by Ms. Tay- our dressing room at the Shubert Jackie Wilson Story (written by uity members over the years. What a lovely article in the lor, a recipient of Equity’s Rosetta Theater lamenting our many none other than Ms. Jackie Tay- “Black Ensemble Theater is December issue about the LeNoire Award, Black Ensemble colleagues lost to AIDS. We lor). proud of the number of Equity chorus of The Scottsboro Boys Theater has grown from a small wanted to raise money to fight Illinois Governor Pat Quinn, artists that we have been able to winning the ACCA Award for community arts organization to a the disease, and we struck on pop icon Dionne Warwick and employ through the past 35 Outstanding Broadway Chorus. I nationally and internationally the idea of a garage sale or flea scores of corporate, foundation years,” she says. “Now with the was fortunate enough to be in renowned arts institution. Black market to sell show memorabilia and political representatives at- completion of our Black Ensem- the audience of the last Ensemble achieves its mission and personal items. Michael tended the VIP reception and ble Theater Cultural Center we performance of this important through productions and pro- Danek (Principal Deputy of ACL) show. The amazing facility, de- will be able to serve our artists by work and, indeed, the chorus, grams that perpetuate the history helped secure permission from signed by architect John Morris, offering a higher Equity pay under the expert direction and of the African American people The Shubert Organization to use includes interior designs by scale. It is so satisfying as an Eq- staging of Susan Stroman, while reaching out to a cross-cul- Shubert Alley free of charge. Dionne Warwick, a 299-seat Main uity actress myself since 1972 as excelled at a level of distinction tural audience and serving disen- Michael then phoned Equity to Stage theatre, a 150-seat Studio well as an Equity producer since worthy of recognition. I created franchised communities. tell Tom Viola what we were Theatre (coming soon), and 1976, to be able to continue ben- this Award in 2007, the only one planning. much needed space for Black efiting our union artists.” of its kind, to shine the long Trish and I spent the next Ensemble’s numerous arts and Carrie Louise Abernathy is weeks visiting theatres and casts overdue spotlight on the hard educational outreach program- one of the Equity artists who has On the Web: working men and women of the www.actorsequity.org asking for participation, even benefited by being part of the ming. soliciting outside vendors. Never chorus, and it is my great pride Your income tax - Jackie Taylor, who began her Black Ensemble family. “To me • underestimate the power of to know that this recognition will Sandra Karas welcome and thank you speech first and foremost Black Ensem- actors on a mission. live on in perpetuity. The chorus by stating, “If I’m dreaming, ble wraps its arms around its • I AM PWD National summit — Kathy Flynn Muenz has always been the heartbeat please don’t wake me until the members and you become a part • BC/EFA Week across the (aka Flynn McMichaels) of the Broadway musical and bills come,” reinforced Black En- of family and everyone is learn- country without them we would have semble’s mission and promised ing. People are willing to assist LOOKING FOR LEGACIES ended up with shows such as David Wheeler - Father of to continue to bring generations you. It is a teaching theatre and • Dear Editor: Guy & Doll and Cat. the Boston theatre scene of talented African-Americans to there is a constant learning envi- Do you know Equity members — Jean-Paul Richard life on the professional stage. ronment. My first experience with who have children who are also Officer Emeritus, AEA