JULY/ “I am always doing AUGUST that which I can not do, 2011 Volume 96 in order that I may Number 6 learn how to do it.” EQUITYNEWS — Pablo Picasso 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

New CAT Contract Features Production Contract Negotiations Underway roduction Contract the contract in the last eight compensation and specific work Increases in Salaries, Health negotiations began in years. The material gathered rules and protections. In he new three-year per foot. Additionally, the trigger Plate July. The contract, from the respondents became addition, we are proposing that Chicago Area Theatres for the assistance of a qualified set to expire September 25, the basis for a thorough a Labor-Management T(CAT) contract instructor or therapist on an 2011 covers Broadway and examination of the contract, committee be formed so that we approved by the Central inclined surface was lowered much of the road, and is one of leading to discussions that can have real conversations Regional Board on July 11, from ½ inch to ¼ inch per foot. the highest income earners for examined the rules from every throughout the life of the 2011 features increases in Improvements were also Equity members. angle. The purpose behind the contract about our workplace salaries each year in all Tiers, achieved in the area of The Negotiating Team is co- initial work was to create a wide- concerns. Our goal is to achieve increases in health each year in branding. The Equity logo will chaired by First Vice President reaching list of items for a contract that reflects the now appear in all programs and consideration. After careful numerous contributions our most Tiers and significant Paige Price and Third Vice the Equity logo and bio will consideration, a comprehensive members make to the success increases in other areas as President Ira Mont and includes appear on the Producers’ list of negotiable items was of Broadway and road well. members who have worked websites whenever possible. created and is now the productions.” The increase in weekly under the Production Contract. “We’re very pleased with the foundation of Equity’s strategy in Bargaining sessions are minimum salaries in all Tiers is The chief negotiator will be results of what was a very these negotiations. scheduled throughout August 3% each year; overtime rates Executive Director Mary McColl, cordial negotiation,” says “We have adopted a strategy and September. For information also increase by 3% each year assisted by Senior Business Central Regional Director of focus and discipline as our about the schedule and how you in all Tiers; in commercial Rep Kimberly Rimbold, Kathryn V. Lamkey, who was guideposts for the Production can attend a session as an productions, the increment for Regional Directors Rick Berg, the Union’s Chief Negotiator. Contract negotiation.” said observer, go to the Members Term Contracts and Six-Month Kathryn V. Lamkey and Mary “Our primary goal was to Executive Director Mary McColl. Only section of Equity’s website, Chorus Riders increases from Lou Westerfield and staff from achieve significant pay “This strategic direction will www.actorsequity.org . Periodic no less than $50 to no less all three regions. increases and we did just that. allow the Equity team to updates on the progress of the than $100 per week; in Preparations for the The team did a great job.” concentrate on strengthening talks will also be posted on the commercial musicals, the negotiation began in late 2010. Central Regional Vice crucial elements in the contract site. SETA tours are not part of Dance Captain increment goes A survey was sent to those President Dev Kennedy chaired that matter most to our the Production Contract and up from 10 % to 15%; there is members working on the the Negotiating Team, which members, such as will be negotiated in the fall. an increase in travel contract, or who had worked on also included Malcolm Ewen, reimbursement to/from David Girolmo, Richard station/airport from $30 to $50; Shavzin, Dina DiConstanzo, the meal allowance rises from many accomplishments to her Larry Neumann, Ross Lehman, $8 to $10 and there is an Central Regional Director credit that have helped shape and Doug MacKechnie, and for increase in payment for Equity as it is today. She was the staff, Senior Business Rep costume calls prior to the start KathrynV. Lamkey to Retire instrumental in the establishment Christine A. Provost and of rehearsals from $10 to $20 fter 25 years of dedi - I am certain the new Central Business Reps Ann Gordon, of Tier N in the Chicago Area per hour. cated service, Assistant Luther Goins, Ryan Hastings Regional Director will be equally Theatre contract that has been a There have been and Cynthia Hanks. There was AExecutive Director/Cen - inspired to work tirelessly on true developmental process and achievements in safe and consultation with Madeleine tral Regional Director Kathryn V. behalf of the entire membership brought over a dozen theatres sanitary provisions, as well. Fallon and Executive Director Lamkey will retire from Equity’s as Equity enters into its second onto the contract. She holds the One significant improvement is Mary McColl and assistance staff on December 29, 2011. century in 2013.” distinction of being the first that the incline playing surface from Contract Associate When asked to reflect on her Indeed, Ms. Lamkey has (the rake) is limited to ½ inch Business Rep outside New York Jessica Mitolo. career at Equity, Ms. Lamkey to be the Chief Negotiator for a said, “They say that time passes national contract, the MSUA. quickly when you are having fun. This paved the way for greater Council Approves New I must have had a lot of fun participation by staff from all because 25 years have come Regions. Three-YearTYA Pact and gone in the blink of an eye. Central Regional Vice new three-year Theatre on June 28, 2011. The agree - Over those years, I have had the President Dev Kennedy credits for Young Audiences ment was reached with the re- privilege of working for and with Ms. Lamkey as an important A(TYA) contract was ap - constituted group of 18 the dedicated membership and contributor to Equity and the proved by Council at its meeting employers under the banner of staff of Equity. Through the region. In 2009-2010 Ms. Producers’ League of Theatre years, they inspired me to tilt at Lamkey was very involved in all for Young Audiences (PLOTYA). many a windmill. I may have won aspects of the purchase and Negotiating sessions were held only some of the battles, but I Kathryn V. Lamkey. renovation of the Equity Building in New York from May 16 always lived to fight another day. in Chicago, establishing a sound through May 18. investment and permanent “We achieved many presence in the Windy City. She improvements in the contract has created a strong relationship despite the general economic Meetings Set for with Equity’s many bargaining climate at this time and the 2011-2012 Season partners in the Central Region challenges facing these that has resulted in continued companies given continuing The following dates have been set for Equity membership growth for the theatre scene. Mr. cuts in education funding,” said meetings in 2011-2012: Kennedy said of his long-time Western Senior Business Eastern Region colleague, “Kathy has been a Representative and Equity’s Friday, October 14, 2011 – 2 p.m. huge factor in the operation of Chief Negotiator, Joe Garber. Friday, January 6, 2012 – 2 p.m. this region. Her long tenure with Improvements include Central Region increases in both weekly and Monday, October 10, 2011 –Time TBA (continued on page 2) per performance salaries of 1% Monday, January 9, 2012 – Time TBA in the first year, 2% the second Index

S Western Region year and 3% in the third, as well Monday, October 10, 2011 – Time TBA Production Contract negotiations W as increases in per performance underway ...... 1 d Monday, January 9, 2012 – Time TBA E e t t s rehearsal salary and increases e e 6 Kathryn V. Lamkey to retire ...... 1 N e u

e All Regions 3 g r q 0 Y t in driving the company vehicle a e t 0 N S Y s R The Annual Membership Meeting is Friday, April 13, 2012 at Information technology system 1 , o k h e rates and overtime rates; r P t Y T c being updated ...... 2 i o 6

s 2 p.m. Eastern Time, 1 p.m. Central Time and 11 a.m. Western v N Y I r s 4 , increases in weekly health rates; e a w t l k e

S From the President ...... 3 r

s Time. The Regions will be connected by telephonic hook-up in C U N e s o free housing plus a $30 per d s Y n n i W e order that members in all Regions may hear the statements of

r National News ...... 6 o w Q d 5 d c i diem for touring companies and e d e 6 a candidates running for election. 1 A S P N E (continued on page 3) Letters ...... 12 2 / EQUITY news JULY/AUGUST 2011

many fractured solutions Area Liaison Equity Rebuilds Core Membership developed over the years. The Hotline system new system will help consolidate Contracts Information System these solutions and offer a Call 877-AEA-1913 single, comprehensive backbone System Redesign Will Streamline Numerous for all of our business processes. Equity has a National toll-free Internal Operations, Improve Services EN: What impact will this hotline system for members who have on overall member live in Area Liaison and office or almost two years, Eq - EN: What is the scope and and their work. services for the Union ? What cities. The number is 877-AEA- uity has been building a size of the project? EN: What process did you improvements will be most 1913 (honoring the year of Eq - Fvast, new enhancement DB: A good information go through to determine what apparent? uity’s founding). Each Area to its information technology in - system reflects the work of its kind of system Equity needs ? DB: The more efficiently our Liaison city has its own exten - frastructure that will radically organization. This project is the DB: Companies often make staff performs, the better the sion, where members can ac - streamline internal operations first phase of enhancing our core the mistake of focusing membership is served. That cess news and information in for the 49,000 member Associa - Membership and Contract exclusively on the technology efficiency may be realized their region. tion. The new, state-of-the-art Administration systems. These itself and forget the most through improved system will be launched this fall (1) Dial 877-AEA-1913 systems track and manage our important part: the people who communication between staff and will vastly improve the way 49,000+ members, their status use the system. That was our and members, workflows to (2) Dial your city extension: various Equity departments in - with the Union and their starting point. Working with our guide the staff through our many 811 Atlanta teract with each other and the Business Systems Analyst, business processes, and membership at large. “...we are building 812 Austin/San Antonio Karen Nothmann, I conducted streamlining those processes Equity News checked in with 813 Boston a more modern, extensive internal interviews with through a more intelligent National Director of Information 814 Buffalo/Rochester efficient solution to staff in every office to gather technology platform. By bringing Technology, Doug Beebe, to see 815 Chicago help us manage our feedback and ideas. We also the system in-house, we also how this massive project is going 816 Cincinnati/Louisville members and sifted through hundreds of hope to reduce the large price and to learn more about the new tag of hosting through a provider. 817 Cleveland their work.” emails we’ve gathered over the system. On a more visible level, we 818 Dallas/Fort Worth years from members, especially EQUITY NEWS: What is will be taking credit cards over 819 Denver employment in the Theatre. It is a regarding our Members Only your role in this project? the phone or in person, offering 820 Detroit major overhaul, moving to a web web portal services. Some of the DOUG BEEBE: As the paperless billing and Equity 821 Florida – Central browser interface from a key technology questions National IT Director at Equity for News, new online Member and 822 Florida – South involved determining what almost 14 years, I was the logical mainframe-type system. We Employer Portals, and self- 823 Houston platform we would use, whether person to initiate and oversee have also migrated our managed email subscriptions. 824 Kansas City we would host the system in- this project. I inherited the accounting system to a new EN: You mentioned that this house or through a provider, and 825 Las Vegas system we are replacing, so I platform that will communicate is Phase I. What’s coming up whether we would hire outside 826 Los Angeles have long observed its with the core system. in the future ? developers to assist in the design 827 Milwaukee/Madison functionality and the eventual EN: What necessitated DB: An information system is and implementation. 828 Minneapolis/St Paul need for an upgrade. This is a these changes ? constantly changing. It must 829 Nashville journey in information gathering DB: The rapid change in After writing an in-depth RFP adapt to the goals of the 830 New Orleans and analysis, political juggling, technology has impacted almost (Request for Proposal), and Association, our members’ 831 New York brainstorming, breaking, fixing, all aspects of our daily lives. The completing an extensive needs, and the world at large. 832 Philadelphia and testing. A lot of hard work same is true of Equity. When I selection process, we decided to But change is difficult for most 833 Phoenix/Tucson and a little bit of luck. became the IT Director in the adopt a Microsoft Dynamics organizations, and resources late 90s, we were introducing 834 Pittsburgh It was important to me that CRM platform, to bring the limited. So this phase is focusing email and a public website as system in-house, and to partner 835 San Diego this not be an exclusive IT on our core business processes. “new” technology. Although we’ve with Broadpoint Technologies for 836 San Francisco project, so an internal design Future enhancements include: a expanded many services over development. Broadpoint has 837 Seattle team was formed – composed of re-design of CastingCall, our job a creative and talented mix of the years, the core membership extensive experience with other 838 St. Louis search engine; expansion of our technology, membership, and database has reached the end of unions, including the AFL-CIO, National Council and Board 839 Washington DC/Baltimore contract administration staff — to its life cycle. The new system will and has proven to be a terrific management system, and the help lead the project. In addition offer more flexibility, rapid asset. expansion of both our Member to my own team of IT development, improved EN: How many departments and Employer web portals. This professionals, I am very lucky to integration with other does this affect? includes online payment and have Karen Nothmann, Joe technologies, and the ability to DB: This project is all about report submission by employers, DeMichele, John Fasulo, Tom facilitate communication and managing our members and electronic contracts, and more. Kaub, Dave Thorn, Russell business process workflow. I their employment, so the system Our work is never done, but I Lehrer, and Joan Glazer by my guess that’s a lot of technical talk will affect our entire staff. couldn’t be more proud to serve side. If you bump into any of to say that we are building a Because the current our Membership by helping them at Equity – thank them for more modern, efficient solution Membership and Contracts Equity use technology in an EQUITYNEWS their tireless work. to help us manage our members system had limited flexibility, effective, efficient way. Editor: DICK MOORE Associate Editor: HELAINE FELDMAN Kathryn V. Lamkey her creativity and thoughtfulness, the creation of the Midsize theatre, negotiated for the Equity News Advisory Committee she has been influential in the Contract. She has also served teachers’ union and coached Christine Toy Johnson, Chair continued from page 1 growth and prosperity of theatres on the negotiating teams for the girls’ basketball. She is a (Eastern) throughout the Central Region Production, LORT, COST, TYA graduate of Eastern Illinois Nancy Daly (Western) Equity has provided the and she has been a tireless and SETA agreements. Ms. University and Columbia College Diane Dorsey (Central) membership with leadership, Nicole Flender (Eastern) wisdom and heart. Kathy loves champion on behalf of our Lamkey also supervised a staff Chicago. Bruce Alan Johnson (Eastern) this Union and its members and members.” of 20 business reps, contract Ms. Lamkey has long planned Kevin McMahon (Western) A member of Equity since associates and support staff. for her retirement and is excited Liz Pazik (Central) has devoted her working life to it Barbara Roberts (Western) in a way many of us cannot 1972, Ms. Lamkey joined the Prior to joining Equity’s staff, by prospects the next phase of Melissa Robinette (Eastern) imagine. It’s the kind of quiet staff as a Business Rep in 1986. Ms. Lamkey was a stage her life holds. “I am going to visit Buzz Roddy (Eastern) dedication that can all too easily She was promoted in 1991 to manager for theatrical and dance family and friends and stay that EQUITY NEWS (ISSN: 00924520) is slip away unnoticed. I will miss Senior Business Rep. In 1996, productions. She was the extra day or two, not worrying published monthly except for com - Equity tapped her to be the General Manager for Mordine about getting back to the office. I bined issues in Jan./Feb., July/Aug., her terribly, the staff will, the Central Regional Director where and Company, the resident think I’ll get back to my younger Oct.,/Nov., by Actors' Equity community will, and so will the Association, 165 West 46th Street, members.” she oversaw contracts professional modern dance self and volunteer on political New York, NY 10036. Tele phone: Executive Director Mary administration, contract company at the Dance Center of campaigns. And I’m considering (212) 869-8530. Periodicals negotiation and related matters Columbia College in Chicago. joining a Senior Women’s postage paid at New York, NY. and McColl echoed Mr. Kennedy’s in 16 states in the middle of the She has also directed and Basketball team in Evanston. additional mailing offices. Copyright sentiments: “Kathryn has been 2003, Actors' Equity Association. an important part of the country. She has served as the designed lights for educational, There’s a lot I want to do, Subscription price for non-members leadership of Equity and we are chief negotiator for such community and professional including celebrating Equity’s of Actors' Equity Association: $25 grateful for all she has contracts as the MSUA, CAT, theatre. Her early career found 100th Anniversary with all of the per year. Postmaster: Send address Children’s Theatre Company, her at Elmwood Park High wonderful Equity members and changes to Equity News, 165 West accomplished on behalf of 46th St., New York, NY 10036. Equity’s membership. Through Second City, several special School where for 14 years she staff.” agreements and spearheaded taught social studies, directed JULY/AUGUST 2011 EQUITY news / 3

Three-Year TYA Pact Equity’s negotiating team From the included Scott McGowan, Chair; continued from page 1 Julia Breanetta Simpson, 1st PRESIDENT free housing and a $25 kitchen Vice Chair; Madeleine Fallon, set up fee at resident theatres; 2nd Vice Chair; Vernon Willet, increases in Stage Manager Kaaron Briscoe, Barbara Happy 100th Birthday pre-production days in some Callander, Nancy Slusser, Linda By Nick Wyman right?) talking about such things as a circumstances and reduction of Carol Young, Roger Preston My thought is that the touring exhibition of Equity the number of three perform- Smith, Peggy Thorpe, Stephen kay, what do you want Centennial should focus on two history, walking tour podcasts of ance days permitted in a week. Pawley and Steven Alan Black for your birthday? Oh, things: Education/ theatre districts, master classes In addition, there is an (Alternate). Mr. Garber was c’mon, it’s not every O Communication and across the country, and expanded Media rule to replace assisted by staffers Kathy day you turn 100. Yes, Actors’ Celebration. We need to let folks televised roundtable discussions the current televising and Mercado, Bradley Bartolo, Equity turns 100 on May 26, who are not in the business — of the Actor’s craft. recording provisions for weekly Patrick Lee, Lawrence Lorczak, 2013; and although you were as well as those in the business We will also Celebrate. We non-profit seasonal companies Joe Erdey, Keith Sklar, Pearl shamefully irresponsible about (especially our fellow members) hope to kick off our Centennial who will pay a Media fee of Brady, David Westphal, showing up during AEA’s first — know who we are, who we’ve year with something splashy, 1.5% in the first year and 2% in Alessandra Williams-Bellotti and few decades, you’ve been much been and what we’ve done. AEA perhaps a live outdoor event the second and third years Zalina Hoosein. Tim Jennings, better in recent years, so I’d like has done great things for Actors staged in Times Square. We’re based on the actor Tier 1 weekly producer of Seattle Children’s your opinion on how we should and Stage Managers over the discussing the possibility of a minimum for the expanded Theatre, was chief negotiator for mark our Centennial. years: rehearsal pay, bonding, gala to be televised nationally Media terms. PLOTYA . AEA’s Council, in keeping with their universal response to sick pay, pensions, etc., etc. around the actual Centennial any issue, has formed a AEA has also taken a number of date in 2013. We particularly committee, cleverly named the laudatory stands on social want to celebrate in the local Centennial Committee, which issues such as the Blacklist, Equity communities around the Marriage Equality, has been working on this for segregation, marriage equality country; and I am eager for over a year already – but I’d like and AIDS. We need to spread suggestions as to Health Care, Taxes Top your input. (Remember that that word. To that end, in events/festivals we can focus on point from my last column about addition to our website, we have and partner with. In the Public Policy Agenda the running theme in these a Facebook page meantime, get started on those columns? “Participation and (www.facebook.com/AEA100 ); aerobic exercises: it’s not going he start of summer saw introduced into the Senate and communication?” No? You have we have commissioned a to be easy to blow out 100 activity surrounding mar - referred to the Committee on been reading these things, coffee-table book; and we’re candles. Triage equality and health Finance, while a similar bill (A. care reform in California and 7860) was put forth in the State New York. Assembly and referred to the New York State made history Committee on Health. Yes, You Can—Book Jobs Through in June with the passage of its On another front, a coalition Marriage Equality bill on the eve came together rapidly over last EPAs and ECCs of Gay Pride Weekend in month to push for improvements Manhattan. In the six weeks to the Qualified Performing By Melissa Robinette Scarlet Pimpernel . Recently she least 1,000 by now.” leading up to the vote, Equity Artist federal tax provision, auditioned for Menopause, The I spoke with Steven Glaudini, (In the May issue of Equity had a small but visible part. known as QPA. The QPA Musical and that led to almost a freelance director and Artistic News we introduced a series Equity was represented by became part of the tax code in full year of employment all over Director of Musical Theatre West. based on EPA/ECC success Eastern Regional Vice President 1986 as a result of our VITA the country. He said, “For the Musical Theatre stories. In the June issue, we Kate Shindle at a New York City Program’s initiative. It permits Councillor Kevin McMahon West EPAs and ECCs I have the included stories from the Central press conference and in the last qualified performing artists to “dragged” fellow Councillor Doug entire artistic staff in attendance Region. This month, we are week of debate about the bill, deduct ordinary and necessary Carfrae to the EPA for Phantom at every audition because that is focusing on members from the Ms. Shindle wrote an op-ed that business expenses “above the Las Vegas and Doug booked the very important to me as an Western Region who have appeared in the Huffington Post. line” to arrive at adjusted gross job! (Thank you, peer pressure!) Artistic Director.” I asked if he had booked work as a result of Californians kept a close income (AGI). Equity, AFTRA, One of the best stories I came any insight to help actors with attending Equity Principal watch on the New York and SAG have engaged a across—-In 1969, Councillor auditions. He enthusiastically Auditions and Equity Chorus proceedings because Prop 8, lobbying firm to push for long John Herzog auditioned in Los replied, “People book jobs that Calls.) which eliminates the rights of overdue adjustments to the Angeles for this new musical that they didn’t audition for through utside Business and same sex couples to marry, is QPA. NY Senator Charles was sweeping the nation called EPAs and ECCs. You never know. Audition Representative moving slowly through the Schumer is poised to place the Hair . He got the job, his Equity The audition is your time. Do for the Western Region, District 9 Federal Court, where it bill for consideration by the O card and he remembers fondly, what you do. Show Me! We want Ivan Rivas, reports that in 2010 was ruled unconstitutional. Prop Senate Finance Committee. the West had 318 Equity Princi - the dance captain was Kay Cole. you to succeed.” 8 is in the Court of Appeals This bill would raise the current pal Auditions (EPAs) and 115 Eq - He says, “I’ve never kept count (Do you have a story you waiting for a ruling from the AGI ceiling to qualify for use of uity Chorus Calls (ECCs). Of but I believe I’ve gotten about half would like to share? Contact California State Supreme Court, the QPA and would index that those auditions Los Angeles had of my jobs from open calls in my Helaine Feldman, which will be announced in cap to inflation going forward. 87 EPAs and 53 ECCs while Las life and I must have been on at [email protected]) September. Furthermore, the bill would Vegas had 2 EPAs and 13 ECCs. California’s AB 52, the make the QPA available to The Los Angeles numbers do not companion bill to SB 810 (the married taxpayers filing jointly include Orange County. state’s single payer bill) was Does Equity Have Your whose combined adjusted gross Two summers ago Ian Gould voted on in July and passed out income is under twice that of a attended a combined EPA for the Correct Address? of the Senate Health Committee single filer. This number too Great Lakes Theatre Festival and If you are out of touch, you Membership Department by a 5-3 vote. AB 52, which would increase automatically the Idaho Shakespeare Festival. could be out of luck. If Equity reports that over a recent six would regulate and require with inflation. Americans for the With only one call back he does not have your current month period, 1,545 copies of approval of health care Arts, an arts advocacy group booked the entire season for both contact information, including Equity News were returned for insurance rate increases, now with over 300,000 members, festivals. That was nine months of mailing address, telephone bad addresses. This may not moves on to the Senate both organizations and work! In fact, one of the number and email address, the seem like so many when you Appropriations Committee. In individuals, also has agreed to productions was able to remount Union cannot give it out to consider the total number of June, a rally was held in San endorse this bill. itself for the Lake Tahoe agents or producers who may copies sent, but when you take Francisco outside the The AFL-CIO We Are One Shakespeare Festival this want to find you. You will also into account the cost of printing convention center where Campaign will culminate in summer. not be able to receive important each issue and the cost of executives of insurance Labor Day Parades throughout Sandy Rosenberg has had announcements and other postage, the numbers add up. companies were gathered for the country. If anyone plans to much success with Equity information from the Union, To update your contact their annual meeting. The rally participate in their local parade Auditions and she has two stand including dues notices, which information, you can call the was coordinated by Labor and would like instructions for out stories. She auditioned in Los could lead to a loss of Membership Department in New United (of which Equity is a creating signage or would like to Angeles in the mid-1990s for the membership. Each month, York (212-869-8530); visit your member) and several other receive some promotional items, out-of-town try out for Jekyll and hundreds of issues of Equity nearest Equity office or click on organizations and was a big please contact Stephanie Hyde and booked it. From that News are returned because the Members Only section of success. In New York, a single Masucci at job she booked the original they have been sent to an Equity’s website payer bill (S. 5425) was [email protected]. Broadway company of The incorrect address. The (www.actorsequity.org). 4 / EQUITY news JULY/AUGUST 2011 Four Honored By Equity A Texas-Sized Accomplishment n press opening to hire AEA VITA Volunteer Awarded night of Pippin , members, and Jac Othe final show began the regional Honorary Life Membership before Theatre Three movement to hire begins its record-breaking North Texas- eteran Volunteer Income “has devoted between 35-40 50th anniversary season, based Tax Assistance (VITA) hours a week during tax season Area Liaison Pam professional program volunteer and one full day a week during the V Dougherty and members of actors. “His loyalty Leonard Garbin has been other eight months of the year, the Dallas Fort Worth and commitment awarded an Honorary Life Mem - providing free tax assistance to Liaison Committee to hiring AEA bership in Equity for 15 years of our members. As all of our surprised Jac Alder with a members is one of extraordinary service to Equity volunteers must do, he must train, giant version of his AEA Life the reasons so members. The presentation was study and take examinations each Membership card, which many theatre made at the June 7, 2011 Eastern year to qualify in Basic, Council recently awarded. artists are able to Regional Board meeting. Intermediate and Advanced tax Jac and his late wife build professional Reading from a statement preparation. He goes beyond that, Norma Young founded careers in North prepared by Equity Treasurer and however, by staying Theatre Three in 1962. He Texas,” said Ms. current with the ins has been at the helm of the Dougherty. and outs of our theatre ever since. He is After the industry, what is and one of the two longest presentation, Mr. isn’t deductible and continuously running Artistic Alder spoke briefly how our members are Directors in American to the packed faring in audit theatre, and has been a (Top, l to r) Chamblee Ferguson, Bradley Campbell, house, and left the examinations. In Gregory Lush; (middle) Sharon Garrison, Sally paid-up Equity member stage amidst an addition, he is one of Soldo, Jac Alder, Linda Coleman, Natalie King; since 1972. Theatre Three (bottom) Pam Dougherty, Max Swarner, Connie emotional only a few who was one of the first in Texas Coit Kitchens. standing ovation. attends IRS update compliance reviews and he alone maintains the Honorary Life Membership examination and Leonard Garbin with Equity Treasurer and volunteer certification Bestowed on Susan Cole VITA Coordinator Sandra Karas. records for our program each year.” It n honor of her dedica - once again tion to affordable ensured that VITA Coordinator Sandra Karas, was also noted that housing for actors, actors in the city Eastern Regional Vice President Mr. Garbin comes in early and I the Council has awarded would have a safe Kate Shindle noted that Mr. stays late if necessary to make an Honorary Life Mem - and affordable Garbin was “a non-union VITA sure everyone receives help. bership to Susan Cole, place to live.” volunteer whose service to our A standing ovation followed the who for more than 30 “Susan Cole is membership rivals any of our presentation and Mr. Garbin, now years worked at Settle - one of the most own.” For the last 15 years, he an Equity member, took a bow. ment Housing Fund, incredible people which drafted the original I have ever met,” marketing plan for New says Marisa York’s Manhattan Plaza. Redanty. “I think Western Regional Direc - of her as a ACT’s James Haire Receives tor Mary Lou Westerfield mentor. Though presented the honor at Susan is an Life Membership Settlement Housing expert in the Fund’s annual fundraiser attended Membership in Equity. world of on June 1, 2011. Marisa the In a handwritten note I affordable “ Redanty, past president retirement received the week housing, what I I of the Manhattan Plaza celebration for Jim after his retirement, Susan Cole flanked by Marisa Redanty (l) and admire most Tenants Association, Western Regional Director Mary Lou on Saturday, June 4 he wrote, ‘I can’t really shared the occasion. Westerfield. about her is her in ACT’s Old Scene express adequately “Of all of Susan natural ability to Shop,” says Western how deeply touched I Cole’s efforts to achieve Manhattan Plaza was being connect with Regional Director was and how much affordable housing, perhaps sold in 2004, Susan was our others on a human level. She Mary Lou the great honor of the most significant to Equity ‘go to’ person for information understands the needs of Westerfield. “The becoming a Life was her contribution to the and anything we needed others. Whether she’s talking event was low key Member of Actors’ creation of Manhattan Plaza, during our negotiations with to a developer or a resident, with guests from all James Haire. Equity means to me. a housing project in New York the new owners,” said Ms. Susan is the same person. It’s corners of the To be noticed by my City which is the home of Westerfield. “With the success a quality that can’t be learned. theatre world, including ACT peers is so wonderful. Thank you, hundreds of members. When of those negotiations, Susan I am honored to know her.” Board members and staff, many thank you. I’m still overwhelmed.’ Jim’s ‘mentees.’ Everyone had Quite the gentleman.” stories to tell about Jim and James Haire has been in the considering his 40 years at ACT, professional theatre for 50 years Trustee on the SAG-Producers member Joan Jeffri , has found how could it be otherwise? The and was at San Francisco’s Amer - brief notes Pension and Health Board. that while performers ages 62 love in the room was palpable. Jim ican Conservatory Theatre (ACT) • The Human Race Theatre and older tend to have low was surprised and visibly moved since 1971. He retired as the the - • Joseph Ruskin , who has Company of Dayton, Ohio is incomes and face age when I presented his Life atre’s Producing Director in 2011. served on the Equity Council celebrating its 25th Anniversary. discrimination, they rank high in continuously since 1979, has The company presented its first life satisfaction and self-esteem. received the Screen Actors production, Count Dracula , Of those interviewed, 86% in Guild’s Ralph Morgan Award for under the leadership of Kevin NYC and 92% in LA would distinguished service to the Moore, the company’s first and choose to be an artist again. Donald Grody Dies Guild’s Hollywood membership. still only Executive Director. The study, titled Still Kicking , Mr. Ruskin was first elected to Count Dracula featured Scott was the result of interviews Equity Executive Director 1973-1980 SAG’s Hollywood Board in 1976 Stoney and Michael Kenwood conducted with 219 performing and served multiple terms for Lippert, who remain Resident artists in New York and 51 in At press time, Equity Executive Director from 1973- more than 20 years. He has Artists with the company. Los Angeles, and was received news of the passing of 1980. Further details will served four times as 1st Vice • A survey by the Research supplemented by data provided Donald Grody, an Equity appear in the September 2011 President and twice as 3rd Vice Center for Arts and Culture at by Equity and the other member since 1952, who issue of Equity News. President and also serves as a Teachers College at Columbia performers’ unions. served as the Union’s University, directed by Equity JULY/AUGUST 2011 EQUITY news / 5

Central Region show, all summer long. “Working in summer theatre back and what an important I also get immense stretches you as an actor,” he place it holds in their lives. Many The Barn is satisfaction from adds. “Especially as a resident, patrons have been coming to witnessing the growth you typically are cast in five to the Barn for longer than I’ve Back; Still a of our Equity seven shows a summer playing been alive.” Family Affair Membership a multitude of different Robert Newman’s Candidates as they characters. In 2007, my age relationship with the Barn began he Barn Theatre in Au - learn from our resident range went from 28 to 80. I literally grew up in the business, 30 years ago, in the summer of gusta, Michigan is one Equity members and to signing played a son in one show and a from his walk-on debut in 1966’s 1981 when I drove from LA to of the nation’s oldest Eq - them to their first contract,” he father in the next. This summer I T Oliver! , to his work as a the small town of Augusta, uity resident summer stock the - continues. “Because we have an have already grown a big stagehand, spotlight operator, Michigan to work as an atres. It was founded in 1946 by Equity theatre, they are able to shaggy beard and shaved it off apprentice and earn the right to Jack Ragotzy, an Obie award- stage manager, actor, director, learn and develop their craft for the next two shows. I’ll become a member of Equity. winning director, and his wife, assistant producer, and now from our Equity performers, and probably have to grow it back Last year, when Brendan called Equity member Betty Ebert Producer/Director. He said that gain invaluable training and and add some gray before the and told me they would not be Ragotzy. With $875 in their having to announce the closing experience necessary to season is finished. I wouldn’t opening the Barn, it was pockets, the Ragotzys opened “broke our hearts.” And he is becoming working Equity have it any other way.” devastating. I simply could not the theatre as the Village Play - delighted to be back. “My performers.” Roy and his wife, Emily May believe that this historic theatre ers in Richland, Michigan. Three family’s theatre is a huge source Equity member Roy Brown is Smith, played opposite each would be closing its doors years later the company moved other this summer in into its current home, an aban - forever.” He was “thrilled” when Chicago. “Meeting my doned dairy barn located be - he heard that the theatre would husband Roy Brown tween Kalamazoo and Battle be reopening and he was asked here is just one of the Creek. Jack and Betty nurtured to play Don Quixote in the first many special the theatre through the years, musical of the season, Man of moments the Barn seeing it become a Michigan en - La Mancha. “I arrived on a holds in my heart,” she tertainment destination, How - beautiful day in mid-June and says. “I earned points ever, despite its illustrious past, the theatre was once again at the Barn Theatre in 2009 the theatre fell victim to alive. There were young, from 2002 to 2004, the economy and declining rev - talented, energetic apprentices when I earned my enues, and was forced to cancel everywhere and a full slate of Equity card and I am its 2010 season. Equity performers leading them now in my third year The good news is that it has of pride for me for many also happy to be back. “This both on-stage and off as they as a resident Equity member. reopened for the 2011 season reasons,” he says, “but the theatre has been a large part of worked to earn the right to join It’s wonderful to be part of an utilizing an Equity LOA-CORST biggest is that we continue to my life for more than a decade this great Union and begin their Equity house with such an contract. The theatre is now present quality productions— so you can imagine how happy I own professional careers. The amazing history and to be a part under the leadership of Equity and, frankly, we wouldn’t want to am that it’s back in business,” he Barn is a fully functional Equity of the community here in member Brendan Ragotzy, son do theatre not being an Equity says. “I started my internship professional theatre that brings Augusta, my ‘home away from of the original producers, and house. The quality is, simply put, here in 1998 and received my quality productions to the people home.’ It’s particularly special to his wife, Equity member much higher employing Equity Equity card here in 2003. I met of southern Michigan. It hear from the patrons how Penelope Alex. No stranger to actors. We are proud to employ my wife here and we now return deserves to be fought for.” happy they are that the Barn is Barn operations, Brendan at least 11 Equity members per as a couple.

renew your personal interest in Eisenberg Scholarship the fate of your fellow Goes to Michigan Grad ALook Back performers and union members and help us prevent this grave By Stephanie Masucci when she was eight years old injustice.” Communications Associate and decided to make this her 75 Years Ago association with the New York career when she was 16. She Shakespeare Festival and esiree Oakley, Univer - 10 Years Ago learned about the Eisenberg July/August 1936 under the auspices of the NYC sity of Michigan Class July/August 2001 Award when Mr. Eisenberg Equity reports that more Department of Parks performs of 2011, has been • D visited the University to talk than 50 summer stock Nicollo and Nicollette at the • Equity supports the named the recipient of the about AEA. companies are in operation in Wollman Rink in Central Park. rehabilitation of the long-vacant AEA/Alan Eisenberg Award This is the first attempt in New Biltmore Theatre in New York Scholarship. She is the fifth early July and, according to the York City to present free, and the subsequent tenancy of graduating student to receive Equity newsletter, “it is believed professional theatre to children. the Manhattan Theatre Club. the award, which was created in that at the peak of the season Employment for Equity (The theatre finally opens in honor of former AEA Executive there may be 75 in the eastern • members through USO tours 2003 and in 2008 is renamed Director Alan Eisenberg, an area, from Delaware to Maine, in honor of Broadway publicist alumnus of the school. The alone.” continues, as a unit bearing the Samuel J. Friedman.) award, in the amount of $5,000, • The International Union of title “Broadway, USA-1961” Equity mounts a boycott of is given to a graduating senior in Persons Connected with the leaves for the Mediterranean • the University’s Musical Theatre Stage, an organization to which on July 24 to begin a European an upcoming national tour of a Program. Equity belongs, is dissolved. tour. non-union production of The “Receiving this award is one This is an early coalition of Music Man . The 40+ week tour of the biggest blessings in my actors’ organizations from all 25 Years Ago began rehearsals in New York life. After knowing my summer over the world (similar to July/August 1986 in August. plans, I wanted to move to New today’s International Federation Equity strongly protests a York City right away, but made of Actors) formed to discuss • Answers to Musical Quiz Desiree Oakley. tax bill detrimental to freelance plans to do otherwise since I mutual problems. 1. B. The soldier’s helmet is employees working under couldn’t afford it. This award is • An editorial in the August bothering him. multiple employers in the allowing me to move Ms. Oakley explained that her issue of the Equity magazine 2. E. The Champions entertainment industry. The immediately—and to live here time as a musical theatre major calls for government subsidy danced their way through proposed bill includes for the first few months without at the University of Michigan for the theatre and the “Summer in Fairview elimination of itemized the stresses that lack of funds changed her life. “This award is establishing of a National Falls.” deductions, change in can bring. Because of Mr. the absolute best ‘first step’ into Theatre with, “possibly, a seat 3. C. Thomas Jefferson deductibility of out-of-town kept the weather records Eisenberg, I can freely focus on the real world. I am so thankful. in the Cabinet for a Secretary living expenses, taxing of for Congress. my passion, without the worry of And so far, it’s more than I could of Fine Arts.” finding a temporary job or have ever dreamed of.” Ms. unemployment insurance from 4. A. Berlin’s “Heat Wave” scrounging for money. I am Oakley can be seen this 50 Years Ago the first dollar and elimination (As Thousands Cheer ) undeniably grateful,” she summer performing “Ariel” in of tax averaging. In a joint letter came up from Martinique. exclaimed. The Little Mermaid at Music July/August 1961 to President Ronald Reagan, 5. D. “All My Trials” gave Ms. Oakley performed in her Theatre of Wichita (August 5-7 • The Equity Library Theatre the leaders of the theatrical Heyward lyrical cues for first musical theatre production and 10-14). (ELT) Children’s Theatre in unions write: “We urge you to “Summertime.” 6 / EQUITY news JULY/AUGUST 2011

NATIONALNATIONALNEWSNEWS

Boston AEA members Neal Moeller as Brick and Sheila McCarthy as Big Momma in Irish Classical Theatre’s Cat on a Hot Tin Roof . (Photo: Spring in Boston: Gene Witkowski) Theatre in Bloom Buffalo-Rochester By Donna Sorbello Boston Liaison Committee Equity Actors Shine at Annual Artie Awards Three annual spring events signified the thriving theatre By Don Gervasi, Area Macbeth (which also won for scene in Boston: The Liaison Outstanding Production of a Independent Reviewers of New Play). The 25th Annual The 21st Annual Artvoice England Awards (the IRNES), Putnam County Spelling Bee Theatre Awards honoring local The Boston Theatre Marathon, (MusicalFare Theatre) got the productions from the 2010- and the Elliot Norton Awards. Artie for Outstanding 2011 theatre season were On April 25th, the IRNE Production of a Musical and held at the Town Ballroom in committee, comprising more than was directed by Equity Buffalo, NY on June 6, 2011. 14 local theatre reviewers member and Buffalo native Members volunteering at the Food Bank are (standing, l to r) The “Arties” were started in dedicated to covering every Greg Stuhr (who played Vice- Alexandra Matthew, Tuii Eva Rebane, Laura Benitez (EMC), Ray 1991 by Anthony Chase, production that is mounted in the Renati (BAAC); (front) Dyan McBride, Michael Patrick Gaffney Principal Panch on Broadway). Theatre Editor of Artvoice , a New England area, hosted the (BAAC), Les Reinhardt (BAAC). Two members received the free weekly newspaper awards at the Boston Center for Katherine Cornell Award for dedicated to the arts in the Arts. Forty-eight––yes, count San Francisco Visiting Artists: Kate Konigisor, Western New York. All ‘em–– 48 awards were who played the title role in proceeds from the evening distributed; many going to local Members Volunteer at Shakespeare in Delaware (along with proceeds from AEA actors including Tommy Park’s all-female Macbeth ; and area theatres’ sale of red Derrah, Karen MacDonald, Will Community Food Bank Sally Struthers for appearing ribbons) go to Benedict Lyman and Anne Gottlieb, all Bay Area Equity members oranges. as Mayor Matilda Hyde in All House, which provides non- Boston favorites. Spiro Veloudos, and Membership Candidates The Alameda County Shook Up! at Artpark. discriminatory residential Artistic Director of Lyric Stage, volunteered on Monday, June Community Food Bank has Other AEA members housing opportunities and was honored with a Best Director 13, 2011 at the Alameda County been in business since 1985. It nominated for Arties were supportive services for Award. Huntington Theatre came Food Bank. Les Reinhardt, is the hub of a vast collection Ellen Horst (Mrs. Higgins in My persons living with AIDS. As away with twelve awards Michael Patrick Gaffney, and distribution network Fair Lady , MusicalFare always, the evening was honoring artistic efforts for All My Alexandra Matthew, Ray Renati, providing food for 275 non-profit Theatre), Saul Elkin (Direction, emceed by Mr. Chase, Lisa Sons , Ruined , and Vengeance is Dyan McBride, Laura Benitez agencies in Alameda County. In Lebensraum , Jewish the Lords , while American (EMC) and Eva Rebane spent 2010, the Food Bank distributed Ludwig, Doug Weyand and Repertory Theatre) and Repertory Theatre garnered six the afternoon working the 20.1 million pounds of food— AEA Member Norm Sham, Richard Lambert (Outstanding awards for its production of The conveyer belt and bagging 52% of it fresh fruits and with music direction by New Play, Fillmore , New Blue Flower . The IRNES began approximately 4,000 pounds of vegetables. Michael Hake. Phoenix Theatre ). in 1999, originated by Beverly Equity members had quite a Under the musical direction Creasey (writer for Journal presence at the Arties this of Michael Hake, the 2011 Newspapers) and Larry Stark year. Member Christian Artie Awards Memorial Choir (Theatre Mirror). Walcott founded this theatre for members of the Boston Theatre Brandjes received the award (Kerry Kate Abel, Chris Kelly, On May 22nd, the Boston Boston University’s Masters Critics Association. This year, for Outstanding Actor in a Kevin Kennedy and Katy Theatre Marathon, a day of 50 Program in Playwriting. again, Equity co-sponsored the Musical playing Henry Higgins Miner) sang “Infinite Joy” by ten-minute plays by local On May 25th, at Emerson awards and several local AEA in MusicalFare Theatre’s William Finn, in honor of playwrights held at Huntington’s College’s magnificently restored members were honored production of My Fair Lady , longtime Equity member Calderwood Theatre, delighted Orpheum Theatre, the Elliot including actors Johnny Lee while member Barbara Link Emanuel “Manny” Fried who and surprised audiences with its Norton Awards (lovingly called Davenport, Stacy Fischer, John LaRou took home Outstanding passed away in February, just comic and dramatic range. The the “Norties”), were last but not Kuntz (actor and playwright). A Actress in a Play for her a week shy of his 98th prior day “warm ups” offered least in this annual spring Special Citation was given to portrayal of Katherine Cornell birthday (three months older readings of four longer plays by triumvirate. The Norton Awards Wheelock Theatre in its 30th in Kavinoky Theatre’s The than Equity!). Manny was a New England writers. Through a were started in honor of Elliot year, and the Norton Sustained Grand Manner. (Twenty years respected union organizer, Theatre Authority agreement, Norton, the Boston critic who Excellence Award went to Scott ago she also won the very first political activist, writer, many AEA actors performed this reviewed more than 6,000 Edmiston, local director and Artie in the same category.) teacher, mentor and actor who spring in the Marathon’s 13th productions for Boston university professor, for his Usually nominated for devoted his life to fighting for season, with all proceeds going newspapers, as well as for continued skill and artistry in musicals, member Sheila working class rights—and his to the Theatre Community Boston’s WGBH, from 1958 to directing a plethora of diverse McCarthy was awarded the Equity dues were paid in full! Benevolent Fund. Boston his retirement in l982. Elliot productions, all with Artie for Outstanding Over 500 people attended Playwrights’ Theatre Artistic Norton passed away in 2003 at inventiveness, and attention to Supporting Actress in a Play this year’s Artie Awards, with Director, Kate Snodgrass, began the age of 100. Mr. Norton was, his work with actors. Along with for playing Big Momma in Irish almost $12,000 raised for this smorgasbord of drama and himself, a multi- award winner for the Boston theatre community, Classical Theatre’s Cat on a Benedict House. Over the the event has been magically his boundless work in theatre. the Norties were also attended Hot Tin Roof . years the Artvoice Theatre coordinated from its onset by The Norton Award originated as by AEA Executive Director, Mary AEA member Eileen Dugan Awards (and the connected Marc Olivere, production the Norton Medal and has since McColl, and AEA Senior received Outstanding Direction sale of red ribbons) has raised coordinator of Boston Playwrights grown to over a dozen annual Business Representative, of a Play for Shakespeare in over $200,000 for AIDS- Theatre. Nobel Laureate Derek awards, selected by the 12 Russell Lehrer. Delaware Park’s all-female related causes. JULY/AUGUST 2011 EQUITY news / 7

New York New York striking about Merchant is that Dan Sullivan (Director) Broadway Bares’ “Masterpiece” “Merchant of Venice” Receives understood that this play, which is set in such an anti-Semitic Brings $1 Million to BC/EFA Diversity on Broadway Award world, only makes sense if you understand that this is a play 1 by Tony Award-winner Jerry Mayoral Proclamation Sets June 7 about dividing people into Mitchell, Masterpiece was different races, dividing people conceived and directed by as Diversity on Broadway Day into different classes, in order to Equity members Josh Rhodes extol the primacy of money and and Lee Wilkins, leading a team he Public Theater’s ac - our city and our country.” In the primacy of the market. And of 13 choreographers. Since its claimed production of addition, “I [Mayor Michael when you measure everything by first performance in a small New TThe Merchant of Venice Bloomberg] applaud this year’s the primacy of the market, then it York City club in 1992, where received AEA’s Extraordinary honoree for exemplifying the divides everybody . It divides eight dancers raised $8,000, 21 Excellence in Diversity on Broad - spirit of this award and for its races, it divides ethnicities, it editions of Broadway Bares way Award for the 2010-2011 invaluable contributions to our season. The Award, presented divides religions, and it divides have raised more than $8.6 cultural preeminence.” by the Eastern Region Equal classes. It divides families. It million for BC/EFA. Next, Mr. Eustis came to the Employment Opportunity Com - divides men and women, man Masterpiece opened with the podium to accept the Award: mittee, honors and encourages and wife. And that understanding original number “Going, Going, “The Public Theater has those who actively promote the of the heart of The Merchant of Gone” sung by (1) Tony Award- gotten a lot of honors lately, but goals of diversity, inclusion and Venice was what made it such a winner Beth Leavel, who then there are very few that I can equal opportunity for those who scintillating and brilliant introduced accept as un-ambivalently and Whoever said art 2 work in the theatre. Public The - production. BC/EFA’s own whole-heartedly as I can accept museums are boring ater Artistic Director Oskar Eu - “And finally, it’s an incredible “David,” (2) Tony this award. was not at the Roseland stis accepted the award for the honor to get an award from this Award-winner “There are three things I want Ballroom on June 19, production at the Equity offices Union – from Actors’ Equity – David Hyde Pierce. to mention. The first, as you’ve 2011 for the on June 7, 2011. when at this moment (and let’s The works of 12 already referred to, is the history presentation of The presentation coincided not pull any punches), the idea of master artists were of The Public Theater. The Public Broadway Bares XXI: with a Mayoral Proclamation, unionism in the US has been depicted in various was founded on the idea that Masterpiece. Nearly presented by NYC Media and under attack for 30 years. The states of undress, America is an inclusive, 6,000 ticket buyers Entertainment Commissioner Right has done everything vaudeville and democratic nation and that its packed the house, Katherine Oliver, designating possible to equate the idea of raising $1,103,072 for dance. For the theatre is only as great as it is June 7 as Diversity on Broadway collective bargaining and Broadway Cares/Equity grand finale, (3) inclusive. And if it isn’t about Day. organized labor with thugs, with Fights AIDS. Tony Award- everybody, it doesn’t deserve to Eastern EEO Co-Chairs gangster-ism, with somehow nominee Patina be there. From Whistler to extorting an inappropriate profit Miller from Christine Toy Johnson and Julia “The theatre is the most Warhol, the production out of their inappropriate profit. Broadway’s Sister Breanetta Simpson welcomed democratic of art forms. What featured 192 New York “We know this isn’t true, and Act brought down VIPs and guests saying “We Joe [Papp] started in the parks dancers in 14 numbers we know it isn’t true as an the house with the want to thank Commissioner and has continued in the parks, as some of history’s economic truth. The fact that entire cast for a representation Oliver, Mr. Eustis, Mr. Eustis’ downtown on Astor Place and actors have organized to bargain of George Seurat’s “A Sunday family, and members of the cast Broadway, is an ideal of what collectively has made all of our Afternoon on the Island of La for being here today, not only so theatre can be - a place where lives better. I cannot imagine Grande Jatte.” Guests included that we can acknowledge your society can imagine itself and what I would do without the ten- Judith Light, Rory O’Malley, Jim stunning production — a imagine itself as a Community minute Equity break! My life Parsons, Roger Rees, continuation of the commitment and a Unity. It has been the would not be possible without the Christopher Sieber and a rare The Public Theater has always greatest privilege of my life to sit 12-hour turnaround – I promise appearance, in the flesh and off had to bringing diversity to New in the seat that Joe Papp and you. These are not things that the page, from New York Post York City theatre – but also so JoAnne Akalaitis and George C. producers would have given up columnist Michael Riedel. Hats that we can celebrate, together, Wolfe sat in and continue that without a struggle. And I can say and much more off to the scores the important and joyous impact tradition at The Public Theater. that as a producer. of Equity dancers who that inclusion has on each one of “I also think it’s fantastic to be “It’s important that Labor is participated in the event, with a us, every day.” able to accept this on behalf of 3 powerful. It’s important that special salute to Equity Stage Commissioner Oliver read the the company of The Merchant of Labor argues for things. But it’s Managers Richard Hester and proclamation, which says, in Venice . I just got off the phone most famous paintings came to also important that I’m getting Jennifer Rogers. part, that “AEA has provided with Mr. Pacino a few minutes life in ways whimsical, sensual this award from a labor union, unparalleled resources and and erotic. Executive produced ago who thanked all of you and from a group of people who are support to our dynamic theatre kept saying ‘wow,’ ‘wow,’ over and theoretically just bonding community for nearly a century” over again. together for economic and commends “everyone “The production was amazing advantage. It points to something associated with Equity and the and it was amazing in a way that, much deeper, not only about Buffalo/Rochester Extraordinary Excellence in of course, was inclusive and Actors’ Equity, but about the Diversity on Broadway Awards diverse (as all of The Public’s union movement as a whole: that Annual Meeting Is September 19 for their commitment to ensuring productions are). But one of the unions are not simply about that Broadway is as diverse as things that was particularly economic advantage. That The Buffalo/Rochester AEA eligibility and willingness to unions are about understanding Annual Meeting will be held serve, either in person at the that we are all at our best when from 7-9 p.m. on Monday, meeting or in writing. For more we see ourselves as part of a September 19, 2011 at information about serving on group. We are all at our best Empire State College, Room the Committee or to submit when we see ourselves as part 308 in the Apple Tree agenda items, contact Liaison of a community that is larger Business Park, 2875 Union Committee Chair Don Gervasi than just our single selves, that’s Road, Cheektowaga, NY. ([email protected] or larger than just our families, Don’t forget to bring your AEA (716) 901-6086). that’s larger than our individual card. The Buffalo/Rochester shows or individual theatres. Members will meet Liaison Committee would like “Being part of something Business Representative Tripp to hear from all AEA members larger than ourselves is the Chamberlain, discuss the in the area. If you would like to promise of Unionism; the Buffalo/Rochester Special receive emails about promise of Democracy; and the Appearance Agreement due to upcoming meetings, events, promise of America. I am very expire in August, and select casting notices or information grateful that you’ve given this members to serve two-year about serving on a award to The Public Theater.” terms on the Liaison subcommittee, contact Don The presentation ended with Committee. All members who Gervasi a standing ovation. wish to serve on the Liaison ([email protected] ) or Committee must acknowledge check on Facebook. 8 / EQUITY news JULY/AUGUST 2011

TUTS and Nicole Young. Local Equity membership Labor Day: 2011 presented Roger with a crystal award, engraved with the New York CIO Picnic for food, fun and Actors’ Equity logo and his Equity t-shirts. For more years of service. He was also New York City’s Labor Day information on when and honored by Local 51 with a Parade will kick off at 10 a.m. where to meet, contact gold Local card making him an on Saturday, September 10, Parade Committee Chair Don honorary member of the 2011. Equity members will Gervasi at Houston Local. There were assemble at 9:30 a.m. on [email protected]. readings of two Roger-themed West 44 th Street between poems, written by conductor Fifth and Madison Avenues. Kansas City Robert Linder and Equity There are free t-shirts or caps Kansas City has planned News puzzle creator Jim for all participants. Join a weekend full of Labor Day Equity members and friends celebrate a special occasion with Bernhard. Finally, Roger working families and your Roger Allan Raby (c). events. On Friday, September spoke of his years of Equity fellow Actors and Stage 2 from 7-9 p.m. at KCMO, work both as a performer and Managers in the annual 2018 Baltimore, there is the Houston/Galveston a Stage Manager and of how march up Fifth Avenue. Mid-America Arts Alliance’s grateful he is to still be a Information: (212) 869-8530, first Live! in the Crossroads AEA Stage Manager Celebrates working member of Actors’ x 330. Cel-LABOR-ation , an 50 Years of Union Membership Equity Association. Philadelphia ongoing multi-media (In the Theatre Under the presentation highlighted by a There will be a parade on By Rebecca Skupin the Stars, celebrated the 50th Stars’ 2011-2012 season, stage reading of organized Monday, September 5, 2011 Stage Manager, former anniversary of Roger Allan Roger will be Production labor-related materials from along Columbus Boulevard member of Stage Manager for Urban theatrical literature, Raby joining Actors’ Equity starting near Washington Houston/Galveston Cowboy , Guys and Dolls , screenplays and journalism. Association. The evening was Avenue and continuing to the Liaison Committee Irving Berlin’s White This is presented in hosted by four of Roger’s Great Plaza located at Penn’s Christmas and Annie. association with EARTh On Monday, June 20, 2011, Assistant Stage Managers, Landing along the Delaware Additionally, he will be (Equity Actors’ Readers’ Houston-Galveston Area both past and present—Terry River. Equity, AFTRA and directing The Best Little Theatre) and members of Equity members, along with Cranshaw, Debs Ramser, SAG members will gather at Whorehouse in Texas , his other performer unions. (The members of IATSE Local 51 Lynda Radisi and Rebecca the Sheet Metal Workers’ second mounting of the show EARTh performances are Local 19 Union Hall, and the staff of Theatre Under Skupin—in conjunction with for TUTS.) under the Members Project Columbus Boulevard and Code.) Washington Avenue, On Saturday, September between 9 a.m. and 10 a.m. 3, beginning at 6:10 p.m. at before the Parade kick-off at Kaufman Stadium members 10. From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. the New York Sutton Foster, Adam Godley, are invited to take advantage Philadelphia Council, AFL- Joel Gray and John McMartin of significant savings on ticket CIO and the Tri-State Parade Shubert Alley Welcomes Two-Legged (Anything Goes ); Nikki M. prices for the 3 rd Annual Committee will co-sponsor a James, Andrew Rannells and Labor Union night at “The K” Stars and Their Four-Legged Friends family celebration with Rory O’Malley ( The Book of to watch the Kansas City refreshments, crafts, music Mormon ); Reeve Carney, Royals take on their divisional and activities for the kids at 1 and Mary Tyler Moore were on Jennifer Damiano, (4) Michael rivals, the Cleveland Indians , the Great Plaza, Penn’s hand to host the event, joined by Mulheren, Isabel Keating and at Kaufman Stadium. Landing. If interested in over 40 of Broadway’s favorite Patrick Page ( Spider-Man: Turn On Monday, September 5 participating, email: stars to help dozens of off the Dark ); Victoria Clark and at 11 a.m. at Union Station, phlliaisoncommittee@yahoo. homeless dogs and cats find Patina Miller ( Sister Act ); Bobby KCMO, members of AEA join com. “forever homes” and emphasize Cannavale, Elizabeth fellow performer union the importance of spaying and Rodriguez and Yul Vazquez Buffalo/Rochester members marching in the neutering. (The Motherf**ker with the Hat ); Members are invited to annual Labor Day Parade. John Benjamin ride the AEA-IATSE Labor Following the parade, at 1 Hickey ( The Day Parade float on Monday, p.m., there is the Labor Day Normal Heart ) and September 5. The parade Community Picnic on the many others. begins at the Buffalo Irish front lawn at Liberty Memorial Equity members Center on Abbott Road near Park featuring live music, served as “celebrity Stevenson Street and clowns, inflatables and dog walkers,” continues into Cazenovia refreshments. BYOP(icnic presenting a slew Park. Afterwards, friends and basket). Information: of lovable pups and family are invited to the AFL- [email protected]. armfuls of friendly Thousands of animal lovers kittens and cats descended on Shubert Alley on from 27 shelters July 9, 2011 for Broadway Barks 2 and rescue 13 , the Broadway community’s organizations in the New York “I’m so happy that the annual pet adopt-a-thon. New York City area. Broadway community embraces Founders Bernadette Peters Since 1998, over 1,100 Join Performers for the Cure to Broadway Barks and so grateful 3 formerly homeless dogs and Help Fight Breast Cancer to our friends at Broadway Cares/Equity Fights 4 Equity member Anne underserved women in the AIDS for joining me Fizzard will be leading the tri-state New York in producing the team, Performers for the metropolitan area and will event each year,” Cure, in the Komen New York support the national search (1) Bernadette City Race for the Cure in for a cure. said. “It’s a sweet Central Park on Sunday, To register to be part of day for all of us, September 18, 2011. This is the team, or to make a working to make the 17th consecutive year contribution, you may do so New York City a that a team of female and online at www.komennyc.or g. more humane male performers, Equity, Click into “Race for the place for animals. AFTRA, SAG and family and Cure,” then “Join a Team” and So many find friends, will run or walk in the follow the prompts. The wonderful homes, Race. The money raised registration fee is $40. many of them with folks working cats, puppies and kittens have through the Race funds vital Deadline for all online team right here on Broadway.” been adopted after making education, screening and registrations is Tuesday, Taking the stage (2) with their Broadway debuts at treatment programs for September 6 at Noon. mutts of every variety were (3) Broadway Barks. JULY/AUGUST 2011 EQUITY news / 9

New York callback, but being free gets you a job. “Be Free and Imperfect” • When you are asked a question, you are not on the — Barbara Deutsch, Career Coach witness stand, take a moment and find your breath. By Tom Miller understanding that a particular • The person who is free will Director of Outreach & reaction or behavior is often have a great time. Career Development not grounded in fact, but based • Know your obstacles – your in fear and low self esteem. (From l) AEA staffer Ivan Rivas with Member Ed Committee On Wednesday June 22, Achilles heel. Can you “intervene and know members Susyn Duris and Cameron Oro at LA’s Tony Party. 2011 Equity hosted a Career As a benefit of you will be good no matter Development Workshop membership, Actors’ Equity what?” The question “Tell me a Los Angeles featuring Barbara Deutsch, presents free educational little about yourself?” is often Career Coach and Mentor. The Workshops and Seminars for heard as a judgment and NYC Had Times Square; LA Had Rocco’s Workshop provided tools to interpreted as “What haven’t Members and Membership help navigate through industry By Maggie McCollester 15% off on food and $5 specialty you done?” We sometimes Candidates. The event was challenges. Barbara spoke in 2nd Vice Chair cocktails, including the “TonyTini,” forget that people may like us sponsored by the Eastern depth about authenticity as a Region Membership Western Membership the “Mormon Mojito” and the castable attribute. She asked and not care about our resumé. Education Committee, Chair Education Committee “Lombardi Lemon Drop.” Every “Can you find the courage to member even went home with a Tips: Mark Aldrich. The 2nd Annual Tony Viewing be free, imperfect and weird; Tony or AEA-related raffle prize. then whether you get the job or (For more on Barbara Party, sponsored by AEA’s Don’t Be Casual in Western Outside Business not, know you represented your Thoughts or Actions Deutsch visit the Equity Western Membership Education Rep, Ivan Rivas, emceed the true self and not a website www.actorsequity.org Committee, rocked Rocco’s Tavern • Ask for what you want – be festive evening and announced all demonstration of what you Education & Outreach link - in Studio City on Sunday, June 12, brave. the winners, while Western Office think they wanted?” She Member Workshop & 2011. LA Equity members and • If you are not embarrassed by Manager Maura Murphy-Barrosse discussed how we unduly raise Seminar) their friends, over 100 in total, what you don’t know or have captured all the fun in photos. And the stakes of an audition, The products and services cheered on our fellow members as – you can ask for anything. when the Tonys were done, the making negative assumptions noted herein are provided as the 65th Annual Tony Awards was when we walk in and find the • Things happen through party continued on with karaoke an informational service to broadcast on 13 large-screen TVs. person we don’t want to be enthusiasm. hosted by fellow member Eddie AEA members and Equity The Committee provided light there is there – with their arm • Stay connected whether you Driscoll. Membership Candidates. This appetizers, and everyone enjoyed around the casting director. are working or not. information is not intended to Barbara recommends noting • Don’t sell yourself short. when situational behavior leads serve as an endorsement by to a negative presumption – Free Yourself the Association nor is any this awareness will aid in • Perfect may get you a warranty or guarantee implied. San Francisco Bay Area Committee Offers First Aid Training Course New York The Bay Area Advisory cost of $60 (due August 12). Committee (BAAC) is offering a Payment may be made by cash, Stage Managers First Aid Training Course from check or via PayPal. Information American CPR from 3-7 p.m. on on payment will be sent when Network With September 5, 2011 at the you register. RSVP at TheatreWorks Rehearsal Hall, [email protected] . If Theatres, 1390 Willow Road in Menlo Park. you require assistance with Producers There will be two classes: OSHA transportation, you may email Standard First Aid & Emergency BASM Network and carpools will The 5th Annual Off- Care and Adult, Child & Infant be arranged. Deadline for Broadway Stage Managers’ C.A.R.E. CPR. The training is enrollment and payment is Networking Event took place open to all AEA members at a August 12. on June 10, 2011 in Equity’s Council Room. The five-hour Attending the Philadelphia Social are (l to r) Patreshettarlini event, co-sponsored by the Adams, Pat Sabato, Margie Price and Cheryl Mintz. Eastern Regional Stage Managers’ Committee and Philadelphia the League of Off-Broadway Theatres and Producers, Another Year, Another Successful provided the opportunity for Equity Social Event 45 Equity Stage Managers to meet-and-greet 16 members of the League. Utilizing an By Julie Czarnecki Wilma’s My Wonderful Day and they were thrilled to meet and informal, speed-dating For the second year in a row, mingle with local artists. The format, Equity members the Philadelphia Liaison homemade desserts were so were given five minutes with Committee hosted a successful Remembering Gwen Verdon are (l to r) Paul Phillips, Tony popular that Scott Greer, who had Stevens, John Sefakis, Marge Champion, Donna McKechnie, each League participant to social at Coco’s Restaurant & Bar. been playing the Flea in The Flea Harvey Evans, Lee Roy Reams and Rachelle Rak. learn about upcoming I had the pleasure of organizing and the Professor at the Arden, seasons, schedules and the June 14, 2011 event which was seen leaving with several New York according to Mr. Sefakis, “all hiring practices, and to attracted more than 40 AEA pieces of Jewish apple cake. Gwen—all the time.” present their resumes for members and Equity Membership The atmosphere was warm Gwen Verdon Speakers included Gwen’s future consideration. Off- Candidates from the Walnut and light-hearted. Attendees were friend and stage manager, Paul Broadway League Street Theatre, the Wilma Theater, eager to relax after performing in Remembered by Phillips, who flew up from participants included People’s Light & Theatre or stage managing their shows or Florida for the event and came representatives from Atlantic Company, the Arden Theatre, the Dancers Over 40 just happy to have a night out with with Gwen’s daughter, Nicole Theater Company, McCarter Theatre and Interact Gwen Verdon was honored fellow Union members enjoying Fosse. Other speakers were Briarpatch Productions, DR Theatre, among many other area with a video tribute by Dancers hot appetizers, drink specials and Marge Champion (who met Theatrical Management, La companies. Over 40 at St. Luke’s Theatre on home-baked treats that Pat Gwen when she was seven; Vie Productions, Manhattan Bruce Graham, recently May 23, 2011. “The audience Sabato and I gladly provided. Marge, eleven), Donna Theatre Club, New York returned from Chicago where his was filled with a gaggle of Thanks to fellow Committee McKechnie, the late Tony Theatre Workshop, play The Outgoing Tide was gypsies from over 60 years of members Pat Adams, Lori Stevens and Rachelle Rak. It Playwrights Horizons, having a successful run, was Broadway’s best, starting from Aghazarian, Tom Helmer, Paul 1947,” said DO40 President was a wonderful evening with Second Stage Theatre, glued to the Phillies game as he Nolan, Dan Olmstead and Pat John Sefakis. There were some stories of the legacy and life of Signature Theater, Snug nibbled on chocolate chip cookies. Sabato, photographer Cherie Tay rare clips, some interviews, Gwen Verdon, as told by the Harbor Productions and the Stage Manager Pat Adams and Equity for helping make the some not-so-new-videos and people who were there—mostly Public Theater. brought along the cast of the evening a great success. friends from all over. It was, members of DO40. 10 / EQUITY news JULY/AUGUST 2011

South Florida “The best advertising is always word-of-mouth. It’s one Florida Stage: 1987-2011 - A Lost Garden thing for us to encourage potential members to join, but when a friend says how great By Suzanne Clement theatre, and took up residence the credit union is, credibility Jones there as Pope Theatre goes way up,” says Nick Curzio, Company. The name change On June 6, 2011 at 10 a.m. Director of Member Services. was in homage to Lois Pope, all of the Florida Stage staff “And by sharing the wealth with whose donation to the theatre gathered in the lobby of the BC/EFA, an outstanding made the new Rinker organization, it’s a great way for space Playhouse at us to support the Broadway possible. In the Kravis Community that’s kept us 1997, the Center. We growing for nearly 49 years,” he company had just (L to r) Credit Union Chairwoman Denise Nolin, BC/EFA Director of adds. changed its closed a Communication and Development Danny Whitman, BC/EFA Members are reminded that name for the Executive Director Tom Viola and AFCU Board Secretary (and world credit union eligibility extends to final time—to Equity Councillor) Gil Rogers show the check presented to premiere of BC/EFA by AFCU. their entire family, including but Florida Stage. Carter Lewis’ not limited to spouses and While the The Cha Cha New York significant others, children, names of a Carmel siblings, and parents changed, the Spider the (Certificate of Relationship mission of the Credit Union’s “Refer-a-Friend” night before, forms are available at theatre did not: and 12 days Contributes $10,425 to BC/EFA actorsfcu.com or with Member Florida Stage later, we In the six years since its program is simple: When a Services). New members must was committed would be launching, Actors Federal credit union member spreads meet credit union eligibility. to bringing opening our Credit Union’s “Refer-a-Friend” the word about ActorsFCU and “Refer-a-Friend” forms are engaging, summer Suzanne Clement Jones. program has donated more a friend or family member joins available on the credit union’s innovative and production of than $10,425 to Broadway as a result, $25 is donated to website, actorsfcu.com , and entertaining Ella. Cares/Equity Fights AIDS—and BC/EFA and $25 is deposited from the Member Services new and developing plays and In retrospect, one of the contributed the same amount into the member’s Share staff. musicals to the South Florida most unusual aspects of that into members’ accounts. The Account. community and youngsters meeting was that it started on attending student matinees. In time. By 10:05 a.m. we knew addition, the theatre continued that Florida Stage would be its ongoing programs for young Ginger Rogers Story. filing Chapter 7 bankruptcy, people: The Young Playwrights Florida Stage was the and was closing its doors Festival began in 2000, the largest theatre in the nation forever. Young Voices Monologue dedicated to the production of You will not find the answers Festival in 2003, the Gen Z new and developing work. That here as to why Florida Stage Global Stage Initiative in 2007, statement bears repeating: the ceased operations just shy of and the Young Playwrights largest theatre in the nation its 25th Anniversary season. Mentor Lab in 2008. dedicated to the production of The reporters, columnists and Florida Stage, over the new and developing work. To bloggers from South Florida, course of its tenure since 1985, reflect that mission, the 1st the nation, as well as the worked with 62 directors, Stage Festival was established Florida Stage website, have musical directors and in 2007. The event gathered looked at the course of events choreographers, many doing playwrights from across the The Actors Fund’s Dan Kitowski flanked by (l to r) Luisa Amaral- quite closely. (Do an internet multiple productions. One country, giving them the Smith, Susan Shofner and Janel Badrina. (Photo: Trish Avery, SAG) search of “Florida Stage hundred and twenty-two chance to work on their new closing” and you’ll find more scenic, lighting, sound and plays with talented directors, than enough information.) But Houston/Galveston costume designers plied their dramaturges and actors in a if you would like to know why crafts here, and again, many true spirit of collaboration. the end of a company in Palm New Friendships Forged at Tri-Union returned for subsequent Many of the plays that started Beach County is such a loss to productions. Four hundred and their development in the 1st Health Care Workshop the South Florida region and to twenty-three Equity Actors from Stage Festival went on to have the theatrical community across the country and from full productions on the By Luisa Amaral-Smith Additionally, Mr. Kitowski was nationwide, you’re encouraged South Florida played here. company’s mainstage. Area Liaison, happy to answer questions to keep reading. Were I to add the Actors Actors, directors, designers Houston/Galveston posed throughout his Florida Stage’s roots presentation. He also prepared engaged in the theatre’s and playwrights had found an Local Equity, AFTRA and actually go back to 1985 when a table filled with helpful numerous play readings and artistic home here at Florida SAG members were invited to Louis Tyrrell, armed with a resource materials and made the 1st Stage Play Festival, the Stage. They say it was a participate in an Actors Fund small sound system and his contact information number would likely swell to special place where they found Workshop titled Every Artist minimal sets and costumes all available. over 500. The most prolific their work to be respected, Insured: Understanding Health packed into a white van, Positive comments, praise actress, Elizabeth Dimon, cherished and supported. As a Care and Health Care Reform founded The Learning Stage, a and expressions of gratitude for would need four hands to count Stage Manager here for over on May 14, 2011 . The workshop small theatrical troupe, which an excellent presentation filled her productions with the 20 years, I would often be was presented by Dan Kitowski, toured throughout Palm Beach the air at the conclusion of the company at 16; Dan Leonard asked about this unusual Director of Health Services for County, bringing new theatre workshop. And not surprisingly, would need a few more collaborative atmosphere. The the Western Region. pieces directly to students. In the spirit of union and solidarity appendages as he performed answer was easy. It came from The Houston/Galveston 1987, the company, now known was clearly evident as new here 29 times. Both are South the top. The respect, care, love Liaison Committee arranged for as Theatre Club of the Palm friendships were forged at this Florida-based Equity Actors. and support that Lou Tyrrell the free workshop to take place Beaches, began producing gathering which, as far as Florida Stage produced over and Nancy Barnett had for the at Main Street Theater, a local work for mainstage anyone could recall, was the 150 plays and musicals. Forty- creation of new work in the beloved and popular Small audiences—originally on the first tri-union event hosted in two of these were world theatre permeated the entire Professional Theatre. The 2nd stage of the Duncan Houston. We have resolved to premieres; 17 were regional administrative and production intimate space was the perfect Theatre at Palm Beach continue our collaborative premieres. Playwrights who staff. They, in turn, nourished setting to listen to the College. The first production efforts with the local SAG and premiered their work here all the artists who directed, informative presentation by Mr. was On the Verge , starring a AFTRA branches to keep our include Lee Blessing, William designed, wrote and performed Kitowski. young actress named Nancy members connected. The fact Mastrosimone, Deborah Zoe at Florida Stage, and it showed The topics covered included Barnett, who would go on to that we are all union members Laufer, Steven Dietz and in the work. finding health insurance options, become the Managing Director bonds us in a very special and Pulitzer Prize winner Nilo Cruz. South Florida has lost a getting health care when you of the organization. In 1991, unique way. The Actors Fund Musicals that had their first wonderful company, and all are uninsured, government the company renovated what Workshop was an exciting way productions here include artists in the theatre have lost a subsidized programs, and how was a German delicatessen in to launch our tri-union Beguiled Again, Cagney! and garden where new work was the new health care reform law Manalapan into a 250-seat relationship. Backwards in High Heels – The grown. affects us now and in the future. JULY/AUGUST 2011 EQUITY news / 11

New York Off-Broadway production). She said her friend had “the quality to Derwent, Seff Awards Presented at make everyone fall in love with her,” along with “charisma, charm Eastern Regional Board meeting and humor.” Aaron Tveit was a surprise “blown away” by the honor—and Ms. O’Connor, in turn, said guest at the presentation of the the check. “Rent!” she enthused. she was lucky to have lasted and 2011 Clarence Derwent and Santino Fontana’s Derwent survived in this business, but still Richard Seff Awards at the Award was presented by casting Eastern Regional Board meeting director Jay Binder, who said, on June 14, 2011 and agreed to “There’s nothing this actor act as co-host of the event with cannot do. He’s got intelligence, Councillor Emeritus and Equity wit, humor and is an actor of Jeanette Hartunian at the Teleprompter workshop. Foundation President Arne tremendous skill.” (Photo courtesy of SAG member Larry Degala) Gundersen. Currently starring on Mr. Fontana, recipient for his Broadway in Catch Me If You performance in The Importance Philadelphia Can, Mr. Tveit received a of Being Earnest, was happy to Derwent Award in 2009 for his be welcomed and recognized by Clarence Derwent Award Teleprompter Workshop Draws performance in Next to Normal , the theatre community. He noted recipients Santino Fontana and that his career had come Tracee Chimo. (Photo: John Quilty) Tri-Union Participation full circle—from his Over the past six months, opportunity to sit in front of a Broadway debut with the had much to learn. AEA, AFTRA and SAG have teleprompter to read from scripts Roundabout ( Sunday in Director Evan Cabnet coordinated a number of seminars provided by the TV affiliate the Park with George ) to presented Reed Birney with his and workshops for the NBC10. The instructor was the production of Earnest , Seff Award for his performances Philadelphia membership of the veteran producer, station manager also produced by the in A Small Fire at Playwrights three unions, including sessions and general manager Paul Gluck. Roundabout. Horizons and Tigers Be Still , part entitled “Taxes and the Working Many thanks to SAG North Marin Ireland, a fellow of Roundabout’s Underground series. He called Mr. Birney Actor” and “Presentational Skills.” Region Executive Frank Traynor Richard Seff is flanked by Deirdre cast member of In the On June 20, 2011, 50 for coordinating the event and to O'Connell and Reed Birney. Wake at the Public “humble” and “thorough,” saying AEA/AFTRA/SAG members, Paul Gluck and Patrick Gordon of (Photo: John Quilty) Theatre, presented he “sets the bar so high” and along with ten Temple University the Department of Deirdre O’Connor’s “strives always to be better.” but was unable to accept it since students, attended a workshop on Communications and Theatre at Richard Seff Award (for best Mr. Birney thanked everyone he was in Seattle with Catch Me . Teleprompter Skills. Temple University. performance by a veteran for “letting me be the guy I came So he dropped by at this year’s Attendees listened to a The Philadelphia AEA Liaison character actor in a Broadway or to New York to be.” ceremony to officially claim his presentation concerning the Committee will be continuing its prize. development and use of the coordinated efforts with AFTRA For this year’s presentation, teleprompter from the early days and SAG. Look for more Positioning Rehearsal) from 4-10 all four recipients were in Kansas City of TV up to the modern uses and workshops in the future as well as p.m. on Sunday, November 13. attendance and Mr. Gundersen applications that are now participation in the 2011 Labor Then on Monday, November 14, took the opportunity to Veterans Sought available. Many had the Day Parade. we’ll have a Tech/Dress starting at acknowledge the contribution of Attention all Kansas City-area 3 p.m., followed by a brief dinner Anne Fortuno, Assistant to the Equity members and Membership break before the 7 p.m. Half Hour, Equity President, in coordinating Candidates: If you have ever and the 7:30 curtain. All rehearsals the event. served in the United States and the performance will be in the First came the Derwent military—any branch, active duty, Theatre/Auditorium of the Music & Awards for most promising reserve, or National Guard— Arts Building on the campus of St. newcomer on the New York EARTh (Equity Actors’ Readers’ Teresa’s Academy, 5601 metropolitan scene. Nisi Sturgis Theatre) wants to know if you Wyandotte (between 55th & 57th, presented the award to Tracee would be interested in being a part between Wornall and Brookside Chimo, honored for her of an upcoming script-in-hand, Boulevard). The reading will be performance in Bachelorette , concert style stage reading of presented, in association with part of Second Stage Theatre Thomas Heggen and Joshua Kansas City Young Audiences, Uptown’s series. Ms. Sturgis said Logan’s Mr. Roberts —honoring under the jurisdiction of the AEA she and Ms. Chimo had met ten veterans of all service branches Members’ Project Code and with years ago at the American and experiences. We are the overview of Equity’s Kansas College Theatre Festival as Scott Emanuel and Ed Reggi as Grand Marshals of the St.Louis committed to casting as many City Area Liaison Committee. Pride Parade. competitors for the Irene Ryan (Photo: Scott Lokitz) AEA members and EMCs as If you’d like to help EARTh Award and became friends. She possible —who are also service honor those who have given so called Ms. Chimo an “incredible St. Louis veterans—for the reading. much for us—by joining in this conduit for connection” and a The reading, scheduled just celebration of Veterans’ Day— “master of the moment,” with an Members Work for Charities after Veterans’ Day will require a contact Kip Niven: “incredible ability to open herself two-day commitment. We’ll By Kari Eli On June 11, Equity member [email protected] or to any character.” rehearse (Table Work and Anna Blair led Blair’s 816.289.3859 (cell). Stages St. Louis opened its Ms. Chimo said she was Buddies/Actors’ Equity Association 25th season with A Chorus Line in the Susan G. Komen Race for and a check for $25,000 to the the Cure. Anna, a breast cancer Red Cross to benefit the Missouri New York survivor and member of the Tornado and Flood Relief Fund. Liaison Committee, has worked The cast presented the check to AEA Members Attend Q&A With Eileen Fulton tirelessly through the years in Red Cross Executive Director organizing the St. Louis Equity Leon Janney Board Room, Ms. Cindy Erickson at the June 29, participation in this important Fulton spoke on topics ranging 2011 performance. Donations national event. Whether walking or from auditioning for theatre and were accepted after each “sleeping in” for the Cure, film to the art of perseverance and performance by members of the members are grateful for her maintaining career longevity. The company and by the box office extraordinary efforts. event was moderated by AEA staff. In addition, a car wash was Equity Liaison Committee member and past President of held and hosted by the cast at the member Ed Reggi led this year’s WAM Coalition, leslie Shreve. Robert G. Reim Theatre. A big St. Louis PrideFest Parade as the Conversations is an ongoing thank you goes out to the Festival’s 2022 Grand Marshall. A Q&A with Eileen Fulton draws a crowd. event of the Screen Actors Guild company for their time and efforts, Ed, a long time gay and lesbian Foundation where high-profile as well as to the Stages rights advocate, is renowned in A Q&A Conversation with AEA Women in the Arts & Media actors share career and industry audiences who, once again, the city for his outstanding work member Eileen Fulton on June 16, Coalition (WAM), drew members experiences with audiences of demonstrated their overwhelming on behalf of many deserving 2011, sponsored by the Screen of Equity, AFTRA and SAG. union members. generosity. causes. Actors Guild Foundation and Speaking to a full house in SAG’s 12 / EQUITY news JULY/AUGUST 2011 Musical Quiz U.S.Postage Letters to The Editor 44 Letters received from paid up members on subjects of concern to Equity member s will be considered and Summertime is often “Too that the members of the published as soon as possible. The Editor reserves the right to limit letters to 150 words and to select one Darn Hot,” but there’s something Continental Congress argued or two representative letters when many similar letters are received. Letters must be signed, but names about warm weather that makes over the flies and the stifling will be withheld on request for those letters which may affect members’ employment. Signatures will not for good musicals. See what heat in foul Philly. Which be withheld on letters antagonistic or accusatory, either implied or expressed, against other members. you know about these tunes and Founding Father actually did Opinions expressed in Letters to the Editor are not necessarily those of Actors’ Equity Association. shows taken from The Musical keep the Congress’ weather Quiz Book by Laura Frankos, records, a fact author Peter published by Applause Theatre Stone worked into the libretto [of two years ago, it was difficult to including anyone with a AN APOLOGY & Cinema Books and reprinted 1776 ]? imagine that it could pass now. connection to the Dear Equity: with permission. A. John Adams This letter is being sent to But Actors’ Equity knew that performances in New York or B. Ben Franklin you to clear up an issue I have it could. Two years ago, Equity on the road who may have 1. Every character in the park C. Thomas Jefferson recently settled with Actors’ Council unanimously voted up relevant materials. Please scene painted by Georges D. Richard Henry Lee Equity, the professional Actors’ a resolution in support of reach Pins and Needles Seurat ( Sunday in the Park with E. Stephen Hopkins Union. In our recent production marriage equality, with many Documentary by email – George ) complains about the 4. Where did Irving Berlin’s of Inherit the Wind , co- Councillors speaking [email protected] ; by heat. What, in particular, is “Heat Wave” originate? produced with Subversive beautifully about equality and phone – (516) 492-5116; or by vexing the soldier? A. Martinique Theatre Company, my fairness. Equity has taken regular mail - P.O. Box 630, A. he’s not in the shade B. Haiti company, The New Phoenix moral policy positions before— Woodmere, NY 11598 B. his helmet C. Cuba Theatre on the Park, presented on segregation, on the Leslie Berman C. that monkey D. Puerto Rico blacklist, on equal employment myself and 22 other actors for GOOD NEWS D. he’s not in proportion E. Jamaica a limited run. I worked in the opportunity. It was an honor for E. his companion’s a bore 5. You may think the livin’ is Dear Editor: production without an Equity me to cast my vote in honor of 2. Marge and Gower easy, but this question isn’t. It’s good news that Leonard contract. My belief was that I my relationship with my partner Champion, in a 1950s dance What black spiritual did Dubose Garbin, who works in Equity’s did not need to write myself a of over 20 years. revue, once performed a Heyward adapt for the lyrics of VITA office, has been awarded contract because the building Thank you, Equity, for being number celebrating summer in “Summertime” in Porgy and Honorary Life Membership in we performed in was owned on the side of the angels. what scenic spot? Bess ? our Union. Mr. Garbin, a “good- outright by myself and the Francis Jue A. Paris A. “Go Down, Moses” deed-doer,” serves our artistic B. Tahiti B. “Lonesome Road” company as of December FOR MARRIAGE community most significantly C. Santa Monica C. “Deep River” 2010. EQUALITY by the model of his character: a D. Cucamonga D. “All My Trials” In the past, it was presumed Dear Editor: gentleman of exemplary grace. E. Fairview Falls E. “Motherless Child” that if I were to produce a play, On May 1, 2009 my partner Kathleen McKiernan 3. All true Broadway buffs know Answers on page 5 I wouldn’t need a contract of 13 years Scott Emanuel and IN MEMORIAM because producers in Buffalo I decided to get legally married Dear Editor: could work for their own in the state of Iowa. Living in company without one. This, as When I read the letter in undergoing chemotherapy. On between—from designing and the Midwest, we felt making the his fourth round, weakened by building the sets, sewing the it was later explained to me, Equity News, “Remembering four hour drive to Iowa would the disease and treatment, he costumes, to directing and was not the case. A member of Crandall Diehl,” I was shaken, mean something more than had a devastating fall causing casting the actors. His ability to Actors’ Equity must always weeping. flying to Massachusetts, severe head injury followed by inspire and spread his love and obtain an Equity contract to When we were very young, Connecticut or Vermont. We organ failure. enthusiasm for theatre was perform on any stage. Crandall and I toured the USA both realized that returning Despite cancer and the amazing. We all got swept up in After a meeting held in New with Claire Tree Major home to St. Louis, our marriage effects of chemo, Scott his creative vision, got involved York on May 20, 2011, it was Children’s Theatre. Crandall license would not be remained optimistic about his and excited by his projects and agreed that I would write this warmed up with me every recognized by the state of recovery and continued to work had our own love of the theatre morning and learned a bit of letter to you and to the Equity Missouri due to a state on his fall season. The company renewed through him. We will Hanya Holm’s technique since I News, outlining the situation as constitutional amendment will tentatively proceed with his miss him. had been in her Concert a benefit to other union passed in 2004. However, that plans to produce a show in Connie Day Company. When the tour members that may be confused didn’t stop us, nor did it stop October, 2011. ended, I introduced him to about their obligations to the the other 16 couples that also I met Scott doing Gypsy in Hanya and later, he became union. joined us on that historic day. 1972. He was my dear friend her assistant on My Fair Lady. Chicago I am sorry for any and all Marriage equality is and has and a wonderful “Uncle Scott” From there, he was a major confusion on my part to the always been about social and to my little boy, now 15. With a success, doing My Fair Lady Non-Councillors union and all others affected. I economic justice. And even BFA from Webster College and for Hanya all over the world. know that my membership in though states may not officially an MFA from Brooklyn College, Fill Seven Seats on Years later, we met and started the Union is important to me, recognize our Iowa Civil Scott was a Renaissance man, our friendship all over again. I and from this point on, an Marriage license, hundreds of producing, directing, acting, CRB would go into NYC every running a catering company Equity contract will be obtained unions, businesses, The following non-Councillors spring, see theatre and and developing an NYC Parks for any and all future associations and corporations have been elected to two-year connect with him. It was Department theatre program productions, be it within my do recognize our legal terms on the Central Regional wonderful to talk about years for kids. I celebrate his life as company, or as a guest on any relationship. This is what will Board: Principals: E. Faye Butler gone by and people we knew he would have wished. other stage. change public opinion over (incumbent), Diane Dorsey and loved. So it was my great Sharon Talbot, New York Thank you for giving me an time, sharing and living our (incumbent), Karl Hamilton, grief to see “Remembering Dear Editor: opportunity to apologize for my stories about love, openly and Jesse Merz (incumbent), Crandall Diehl.” And I’m thrilled The last week of April saw mistake. equally. Michael Weber (incumbent); that we had those times the passing of fellow actor and Richard Lambert Ed Reggi Chorus: Richard Strimer together. director, Scott Robinson. New Phoenix Theatre, Proud Equity member (incumbent), and Stage Keep dancing up there in Scott’s love for music and Buffalo, NY since 2003 Manager: Kathi Karol Koenig the sky, Crandall Diehl, and theatre was a moving force for HUGE STEP FORWARD Member of the (incumbent). They will be seated choreograph and sing and be him throughout his career. After Dear Editor: St. Louis Liaison Committee at the CRB meeting scheduled your very happy elegant self. I’ll his major work as an actor, he On June 24, 2011, the NY became Executive Producer of for September 12, 2011. INFORMATION, PLEASE always remember you. State Senate took an historic the Lake Area Performing Arts Dear Editor: Ellen Albertini Dow Guild in Lake Ozark, MO. In vote in support of marriage For a documentary film IN MEMORIAM 2007, he founded the Out of Office Closing equality. With no residency about the making of the 1937- Dear Editor: the Box Theatre Company in requirements, any couple, gay 1940 ILGWU play Pins and All Equity offices will I am deeply saddened to New York where older classics or straight, will be able to get Needles , the producers Leslie be closed on Monday, announce that Scott Robinson, were reworked to a fresh new legally married in New York Berman and Barbara Toennies September 5, 2011 in founder and artistic director of concept and older actors get State, beginning in late July. would like to hear from anyone observance of Labor Day. Out of the Box Theatre the chance to play the roles I watched live coverage of with recordings or In addition, all offices will Company, died on Sunday, they always wanted to do. the vote on TV, crying like a photographs, programs, close early on Friday, April 24, 2011. Scott was Scott never lost his passion baby. This is a huge step reminiscences, information, September 2. (Check with diagnosed last autumn with for theatre. He adored the towards full citizenship for gays your local office for the opinions and commentary, cancer and was in St. Louis creativity involved in launching and lesbians. With a similar bill early closing time.) and/or leads to others, a show and every aspect in failing by 14 votes in NY just with friends and family while