EQUITYACTORS’ EQUITY: STANDING UP FOR OURNEWS MEMBERS

DECEMBER 2015 / Volume 100 / Number 9 www.actorsequity.org

January Membership Equity’s New Production Contract Ratified Meetings Set Changes to Eligibility Requirements for Start off 2016 by attending an Equity Membership Meeting Health Care Help All Members The Eastern Regional Membership Meeting will convene he new Production bargaining partner will help the agreement, including on Friday, January 8, 2016, at 2 p.m. EST in the Council Room Contract has been full Equity membership. improvements that make sick on the 14th floor of the Equity building at 165 West 46th Street, ratified by a 97.04% “Because of these leave available for more New York, New York. T “yes” vote and is in effect negotiations, the trustees of the members, access to physical The agenda will include: immediately. The compensation Equity-League Health Fund therapy, stronger language • Presentation of the St. Clair Bayfield Award and the Joe A. increases of the new four-year have approved a change to the regarding schedule changes Callaway Award contract are retroactive to eligibility requirements that will and housing for tours. • Report of the Eastern Regional Director September 28, 2015. The benefit all of our members who For the first time, the • Report of the Eastern Regional Vice President contract will expire in 2019. work under contract, and this Production Contract ratification change is guaranteed for the vote was conducted exclusively • Membership discussion period in accordance with the by- In an historic move, a change to the eligibility requirements to four years of the new contract,” online, saving the union tens of laws access health insurance will said Executive Director Mary thousands of dollars to be put The Central Regional Membership Meeting will convene benefit all members for the life McColl. “Put simply: It’s easier toward member services. on Monday, January 11, 2016, at 6 p.m. CST in the Member of this current Production for our members, everywhere, to “I’m proud of the work we’ve Center (1st floor) of the Equity building at 557 West Randolph Contract. Now, a member may access health coverage. And accomplished at the bargaining Street, Chicago, Illinois. work 11 weeks under any Equity that’s fantastic.” table this year,” said McColl. “I’m The agenda will include: contract to achieve health Monetary gains within the honored to have sat alongside coverage for six months and 19 new contract increase in each Councillors, members and staff • Report of the Central Regional Director weeks to gain a full year of year of the contract. Important who worked effectively to • Report of the Central Regional Vice President health coverage. This is the first quality of life issues are also achieve gains in areas that are • Membership discussion period in accordance with the by- time a negotiation with one addressed in the new most important to our members.” laws The Western Regional Membership Meeting will convene on Monday, January 11, 2016, at 11 a.m. PST at I.A.T.S.E. Local 80 Meeting Hall (Ground Floor) at 2520 West EquityTakes a “Break” Olive Ave, Burbank, CA 91505. Free All Day Street Parking. The agenda will include: Union opens new fourth floor waiting space in • Report of the Western Regional Director Equity’s NYC headquarters • Report of the Western Regional Vice President • Membership discussion period in accordance with the by- ust in time to escape the laws brisk early morning low Jtemps in New York City, Note: The Annual Membership Meeting is Friday, April 8, Equity’s new fourth floor waiting 2016, in all regions. The regions will be connected so that all space opened on Monday, Nov. members may hear the statements of the candidates running for 9, for members waiting for election to Council. Please check the Member Portal for any auditions, audition signups and VITA appointments. No longer additional information or changes about all Membership will anyone have to brave rain, Meetings. frigid temps or hot, muggy For members with disabilities who would like to request an weather. Complete with free Wi- accommodation to participate in the Membership Meeting, Fi access, this dedicated respite please contact Governance Associate Allison Bodwell at 212- for use by members, EMCs and 869-8530 ext. 318 two weeks prior to the meeting. non-members who are auditioning, is located in the sky and help facilitate the audition beverages are welcome inside lobby of the NYC Equity building process. the room, which will Successful and is open from 6 a.m. to 5:30 The area features free Wi-Fi occasionally double as a p.m. Monday through Friday. and iPad stations, allowing meeting space for union COST The new space, which will members and guests the business. Additionally, three alleviate waiting lines outside Negotiation opportunity to visit the public digital screens will keep the building, and serve as an Equity website, peruse the members and guests informed includes Salary overflow room for the official official Equity Casting Call page about pertinent Equity news, audition center, will be staffed or pay dues online in the information and key Increases and daily by a receptionist, who will Member Portal. Also, food and announcements. a NewTier be on-hand to answer questions

ith the recent to the basic COST Agreement ASMs will receive a minimum of changes its season after Equity conclusion of the more closely rather than two days of paid pre-production. Principal Auditions have been Council of Stock W negotiate individually,” said Chief And, stage managers and ASMs held, and will be scheduling Theatres, or COST, negotiations Negotiator Beverly A. Sloan. “It will now receive tech week auditions for the new on October 7, 2015, which will also give members greater compensation of 1/6th of production, producers shall Council approved on November security in knowing basic terms contractual salary for each 17, 2015, the new four-year (continued on page 3)

Periodicals Postage Paid at New York, NY and Additional Mailing Offices as they move from one COST production. agreement will introduce a theater to another.” Minimum salaries will brand new COST tier, 2+. Tier The negotiations, which increase 2% in each of the first Index 2+ is meant to aid those spanned three days, provided two years of the agreement and

NEWS employers functioning in the Year in Review ...... 2 benefits on both sides, as Sloan 2.5% in years three and four in sphere between tiers two and noted that the union achieved all all categories. From the President ...... 3 three to get from one tier to the of its proposals in some form. Actors will be able to submit next. #EquityWorks ...... 3

UITY An additional assistant stage their own recorded audition if a “Tier 2+ will fill the substantial Annual Report ...... 7

165 West 46th Street New York, NY 10036 Address Service Requested Paid in New York, NY manager is now required for producer requests to see them Q gap between Tiers 2 and 3 and

E chorus musicals and large cast but they are unavailable for a In Memoriam ...... 16 help enable producers to adhere productions in the top two tiers. scheduled audition. If a theater 2 / EQUITY news DECEMBER 2015 Area Liaison Hotline system Call 877-AEA-1913 2015 Equity has a national toll-free hotline system for members who live in area liaison and office cities. The number is 877-AEA- 1913 (honoring the year of Equity’s founding). Each Area Liaison city has its own January/February • Equity celebrates the legalization of same-sex extension, where members can • Equity News turns marriage. Council unanimously passed resolutions in access news and information 100. First published in the past in support of marriage equality everywhere. in their region. 1915, the union’s July/August publication celebrates (1) Dial 877-AEA-1913 • Council approves the new four-year TYA contract, its own centennial with (2) Dial your city extension: which features substantial monetary gains for a full-page spread in members as well as safe and sanitary improvements. 811 Atlanta the paper celebrating • Councillors and members march in New York 812 Austin/San Antonio the numerous, colorful City’s First Annual Disability Pride Parade in honor of 813 Boston renditions of its the 25th anniversary of the signing of the Americans 814 Buffalo/Rochester history. with Disabilities Act. 815 Chicago Equity • • The union declares July 8, 2015, as Ask If It’s 816 Cincinnati/Louisville celebrates Black Equity Day to celebrate members on tour across the History Month with an 817 Cleveland country. 818 Dallas/Fort Worth exclusive panel September 819 Denver • Members across the country march in their local 820 Detroit Labor Day Parades, marching in solidarity 821 Florida – Central and showing their union pride. 822 Florida – South 823 Houston 824 Kansas City 825 Las Vegas 826 Los Angeles 827 Milwaukee/Madison 828 Minneapolis/St Paul 829 Nashville sponsored 830 New Orleans by the EEO committee. The 831 New York union’s event encouraged panelists to discuss their 832 Philadelphia careers and how Broadway has changed their lives. 833 Phoenix/Tucson March 834 Pittsburgh • Late this month, Eastern Regional Vice 835 San Diego President Melissa Robinette, Chorus Councillor 836 San Francisco Allyson Tucker, CRB non-Councillor Peggy Thorp and October/November 837 Seattle Senior Business Representative Larry Lorczak attend • The New York Equity office opens its Fourth 838 St. Louis National Arts Advocacy Day in Washington, D.C. Floor Waiting Space for members to relax in while they 839 Washington DC/Baltimore where they pushed for more arts funding, spoke about wait for auditions, audition sign-ups or VITA wireless mic issues, 401(k) funding through the arts appointments. and arts education. • The new four-year • Equity celebrated Women’s History Month with a Production Contract is special Equity News issue focusing on women who ratified by a 97.04% “yes” work in a union and for a union. vote and features an historic April change in eligibility • After requirements to access its success health insurance that will in Chicago benefit all members for the in 2014, four years of the new EQUITYNEWS Equity contract. launches • Equity’s beloved Editor: JOSH AUSTIN Ask If It’s Gypsy Robe turns 65. Equity News Advisory Committee Equity in Christine Toy Johnson, Chair (Eastern) seven Nancy Daly (Western) liaison- Diane Dorsey (Central) area AWARDS Nicole Flender (Eastern) cities. EQUITY AWARDS Bruce Alan Johnson (Eastern) The campaign remains part of ACCA – An American in Paris Kevin McMahon (Western) the union’s ongoing efforts to take back control of the Extraordinary Excellence in Diversity on Liz Pazik (Central) road and strengthen conditions for actors and stage Broadway Barbara Roberts (Western) Award – It Shoulda Been You managers on tour. Kathryn V. Lamkey Award – Melissa Robinette (Eastern) Equity/Alan Eisenberg AwardEllen Scholarship Alberdi – May ng Buzz Roddy (Eastern) Isabelle McCalla EQUITY NEWS (ISSN: 00924520) is • Kate Shindle is elected president of Actors’ Equity Rosetta LeNoire Award – published monthly except for com- and 16 others become Councillors on Equity’s Theatre Company Weston Playhouse bined issues in Jan./Feb., July/Aug., National Council. Other officers were re-elected for Oct.,/Nov., by Actors' Equity their seats. EQUITY FOUNDATION AWARDS Association, 165 West 46th Street, Clarence Derwent Award – New York, NY 10036. Telephone: June Richard Seff Phillipa Soo and Josh Grisetti (212) 869-8530. Periodicals Award – postage paid at New York, NY. and • The North Hollywood Audition Center opens! The Roger Sturtevant AwardJulie – Halston and Brad Oscar additional mailing offices. Copyright state-of-the-art center in Equity’s Western Regional St. Clair Bayfield Award – Amanda Hartley Urtea 2003, Actors' Equity Association. office opens and demonstrates another way that The Joe A. Callaway AwardAmanda – Quaid Subscription price for non-members Equity is building a strong foothold in the Western of Actors' Equity Association: $25 Paxton Whitehead Suzanne Bertish and per year. Postmaster: Send address Region for union actors and stage managers. Paul Robeson Citation Award – changes to Equity News, 165 West Arthur French 46th St., New York, NY 10036. DECEMBER 2015 EQUITY news / 3 From the PRESIDENT On Gratitude

By Kate Shindle country, where it can often have suggested to me that seem like a daily struggle all developmental contracts This time of year always just to keep the lights on. and codes without rights brings reminders of One of my favorite parts participation be eliminated community, family and of this job is the opportunity (although I would caution gratitude. I, for one, believe to sit down and collaborate against rushing into that that I have a lot to be with big thinkers. In a strategy, for a number of thankful for this year. business where we can reasons). Part of this, of In our industry, though, sometimes feel like the sun course, has to do with what’s the holiday season also rises and sets on the been going on here in New brings an increased outcome of our audition for a York (or here on Broadway) workload. Here in New York, yogurt commercial, it’s and our members’ feeling schedules are changing, fantastic to be able to have that when they help to make performances are added to large-scale conversations a show wildly successful, already demanding weeks, about the future of our they should be able to and it can seem like a major industry and possible negotiate a portion of the battle just to weave through pathways to achieving future revenue. By nature, the Times Square crowds on this is an overscale the way to half hour. collective success (not for negotiation, and thus not Despite these challenges, nothing, it also appeals to COST Negotiations hard to break through it’s a great moment to be in the part of my brain that within Equity’s purview. But it obstacles; our chief negotiator insists that there’s more to is becoming increasingly (continued from page 1) the theatre. Our business is Beverly A. Sloan and her staff, rapidly changing and life than yogurt commercials. difficult to ignore those submit photo/résumé requests Jeffrey Bateman, Kathy expanding, and new models No offense, yogurt.) And I’ve voices — coming from some and will schedule appointment Mercado and Raymond continue to emerge for been talking to some of my of our most active and auditions for a minimum of ten Morales, contributed necessary distributing live theatre longtime favorite people — prolific members — insisting actors who have submitted. — and sometimes surprising — across various platforms. I’m and also to some new faces that change be considered. “The COST producers were history, statistics, ideas and excited to explore the ways I’ve only recently learned to One of the hallmarks of a attentive and understanding of strategies, and our bargaining in which we can increase the appreciate — about theatre successful development Equity’s concerns, asking partners across the table were accessibility of our art form. in the digital era. And period is that a “project” questions and really listening to indeed our ‘partners,’ In truth, we have to do so; as expanding the models we becomes a “job.” That is our responses. Likewise, we demonstrating by their producing shows becomes use to do what we do. And what most of us are working listened and learned about the responses to our arguments more and more expensive diversity. And gender parity. toward when we sign onto complexities in running a that they value our members.” and ticket prices rise And the ways in which we these nascent shows, in theater and producing good Members of the COST accordingly, we must seek participate in the whatever preliminary form work,” said Sloan. bargaining unit consisted of out new frontiers for development of new shows. they may take. What our When it comes to safe and Todd Schmidt of Paper Mill delivering theatre, while The last of those seems members seem to be asking sanitary, the negotiating team Playhouse, assisted by Chris somehow preserving the to be pretty radioactive this right now is how to balance worked with the producers to Slavik; and Jason Loewith of fundamental treasure that is year. Like many of us, I’ve the happiness (some would create a more detailed fire Olney Theatre Center, assisted the live interaction between done dozens upon dozens of even call it gratitude) that safety procedure conditions and by Fred Paul. players and audience. I don’t readings, workshops, results when a contract emergency evacuation plan. If Equity’s negotiating team yet know how we will concerts of new work, actually comes to fruition. there are stunts within the consisted of Ruth E. Kramer, balance these competing presentations and work Because what many of the show, a stunt coordinator will be chair; Michael Dotson, 1st vice interests. But in addition to sessions. Never, though, same members are asking is engaged to teach the chair; Mark Aldrich; Linda bringing theatre to wider have I seen our members whether our colleagues are maneuvers and a fight captain Cameron; Wally Dunn; Christine demographics, and reach what feels like a equally grateful to have us in will be required every time there Toy Johnson; Matthew J. engaging the next tipping point in this the room with them, are fights staged for a Kilgore; Jeanne Lehman; and generation of audience conversation. We are exploring their creations and production, not only when the Jason A. Quinn. Equity staff members, this kind of big- hearing significant calls to working to make them better. fights are large or involve members included Senior picture thinking also has the eliminate the Lab Contract, There is no simple answer. extraordinary risk. Business Representative potential to open up new which allows producers to But I have a feeling it’s a “The COST negotiations Beverly A. Sloan, COST revenue streams and develop new shows without conversation that will were challenging, but also Business Rep Jeffrey J. opportunities for the mounting full productions, continue for a while. interesting and congenial,” said Bateman, Business Rep Kathy employers who hire us — but does not include That’s all for now. Have a Councillor Ruth E. Kramer, chair Mercado, and Raymond especially in our small cities participation in future rights. happy, safe and creative of the COST committee. “The Morales, Assistant to the Senior and towns across the In fact, plenty of members holiday season! Equity negotiating team worked Business Rep.

Broadway Transition Contract. Portland, OR - Tears of Joy event — the LG washing # EquityWorks New York, NY - After a Theatre will produce When machine — took place in Times period of financial hardship, Animals Were People under a Square. Equity was able to Theater News & Notes Fallen Angel Theatre new TYA agreement, resulting achieve a total of seven taff successfully 10-week run. Company, a nonprofit member in eight workweeks for one contracts, gaining 21 negotiated Equity Minneapolis, MN - New company committed to member. workweeks for a total of Scontracts for 12 actors Epic Theatre has joined the presenting dynamic Irish and Tokyo, JAPAN - As a result $25,386. and two stage managers for Equity family as a transitional British plays written by and of successful COST agreement TRACKING WHAT the world premiere of Hal SPT-1 for the 2015-16 season about women, is once again term negotiations, over 25 YOU’RE OWED Prince’s new stage musical adding more than 18 new producing Off-Broadway under contracts are expected for the Western Regional staff Prince of Broadway, which member workweeks. the Transition agreement. three-week Tokyo engagement recovered almost $800 in played two engagements in New York, NY - MOD New York, NY - Futurity, co- of the McCoy/Rigby missing vacation pay for two Japan and is aiming for a Theatre Company, a new produced by Ars Nova and Entertainment production of actors from Western Regional spring 2016 run on Broadway. nonprofit member company, SoHo Rep, extended its sold- Dreamgirls. LORT Theaters. Additionally, La Mirada, CA – A new comprised of artists and out run for three weeks under Due to accommodations staff recovered over $600 in MSUA Agreement with educators and dedicated to the Off-Broadway agreement made by the Business Theatre unreported health, pension and McCoy/Rigby Entertainment adapting literary classics for (moving up from the Mini & Events committee chair, dues payments, and over for its production of The Little the stage, is producing its 2015 agreement), allowing for 16 Eastern Regional staff was $1,700 in media fee payments Mermaid will utilize 21 inaugural production of A members to be paid at the able to successfully negotiate for 14 actors from a Western contracts for the duration of the Christmas Carol under the Off- higher contract salary. terms for a new product launch Regional TYA employer. 4 / EQUITY news DECEMBER 2015 Remembering Two Former Councillors

Evan Thompson Zale Kessler Evan Thompson, who Having served on over 15 passed away at the age of 83 committees, former Councillor this past February after battling Zale Kessler was a dedicated a respiratory illness, joined Equity member. Kessler joined Equity in 1956. He would go on Equity in 1959 and remained a to serve as Principal Councillor member until his death on Sept. from 1968 until 1973. Having 28, 2015. He served as worked across the country in Principal Councillor three times, regional theaters, summer his last term in 2004 and served stock houses, theater for young on the Western Regional Board audiences, cabarets and twice throughout his union Broadway, Thompson was a tenure. proud actor and member of Known as a colorful Equity. character, Kessler worked on In 2014, battling lung committees and negotiating cancer, Thompson kept acting; teams such as Entry to Equity, he took part in the Off- WCLO Negotiating Team, Broadway play A Beautiful Day Developing Theatre, LORT and in November on the Banks of Hollywood Area Theatres the Greatest of the Great Contract, among others. Lakes. Of course, he and his He was born in St. Louis but wife, Joan Shepard, continued moved to New York City in the to perform for children with the late ‘50s to appear in the Fanfare Theatre Ensemble, a Broadway musical The Nervous troupe that the couple founded Set. His Off-Broadway debut Partnering Professionals with Kids in 1971. The duo would write, came shortly after in a show perform, design and direct called O, Oysters!!!. Other St. Louis’ Variety Children’s Theatre puts on a musical adaptations of fairy tales for Broadway appearances young audiences. included roles in Gantry and with union members and kids with disabilities “My father had the purest Darling of the Day. He replaced spirit and the truest heart of Milo O’Shea as the leading man nything can happen began working with Equity theatrical experiences that it anyone I have ever known,” in Jerry Herman’s Dear World, if you let it.” This actors in 2009, allowing its would be impossible for me to said Owen Thompson, Evan’s opposite Angela Lansbury. And “ mantra is the “Variety Kids” the opportunity to recount all of them. But I can A son, in a statement. “It is utterly when the first theatrical driving force behind the musical work onstage with union tell you that, hands down, the appropriate that his final production at the Lincoln Center Mary Poppins — and those professionals. most rewarding of all have performance was given to a Theater (a play by Peter Ustinov words were perhaps never Central Regional Director been the Variety Children’s theater full of adoring children. titled The Unknown Soldier and more à propos than they were Sean F. Taylor and Business Theatre productions. Working He never lost contact with the His Wife) moved to Broadway, when Broadway’s Elizabeth Representative David Kolen with the Variety kids and their child in the deepest place of Zale joined the cast as a DeRosa sang them onstage at travelled to St. Louis to see this families brings in to sharp focus his soul.” replacement. the Touhill Performing Arts year’s performance and meet the power and beauty that Center in St. Louis, Missouri, the members who worked on music, dance, comedy and surrounded by children of all the show. Both noted the drama can have in all of our group of people and they are thrilled to watch them grow. ages, many of them with extraordinary work the Variety lives.” changing kids’ lives every day. It Kolen noted, “It is an honor to disabilities. staff has done, and continues Allison Newman, who has filled the passion tank have crafted an agreement that This particular production to do, in undertaking this returned to her hometown to inside me to the brim, and I allows Equity members to work was staged by Variety massive and important work. work on this show, said “to see only hope I can go back and be with such an incredible Children’s Theatre as part of “Over my 25 years as an the joy on those kid’s faces a part of future productions.” organization. I can’t wait for Variety the Children’s Charity of Equity member,” said member throughout this whole process, As the theater continues to more of our members to have St. Louis, an organization John Flack, who has performed is something I will take with me mount such magical and the experience of working in devoted to enriching the lives of in the last five Variety shows, “I for the rest of my life. The team successful productions, the such a unique and challenging children with disabilities. Variety have had so many wonderful at Variety is such a special staff in the Central Region is environment.”

introduced myself, handing him purchased the script. The for the whole season starting my résumé and making sure to opening line was: “Hello Alan, with Come Blow Your Horn. How I mention the choreographer and are you busy?” You’ll be there all summer. I’ll how right he thought I was for “Not bad,” he said, “but I’m have the Equity contracts with Got My the role. “That’s our opening looking for a youthful quality.” me. You didn’t take anything else show,” he said. “It says here that I was 22, and believe me, did you?” Equity Card you’ve done – [pause] – only very youthful. I read a bit more, “No, but I’m not prepared. I children’s theater. Why should I and he said he’d be in touch. I have a dog,” I said. hire you?” left in a daze. It certainly didn’t “No animals; they’re not Richard Balin “Because I’m right for the go the way I had envisioned it. allowed in the hotel.” part.” My dog and I sat around our “I’ll have to find someone to “Sing something for me.” apartment wondering how we take him. What’s the salary? I am celebrating my 53rd part of the younger brother, “Where’s the accompanist?” were going to spend the “We’re a ‘z’ house; $70 a year as an Equity member. Buddy. “I don’t have one – a waste of summer – and if we would ever week, but I take some out for At 22, auditioning for the A girl came out of the money,” he said. “You can sing eat again. The dog more than I, the hotel room. I guess I forgot summer season of ‘63, I had audition room saying that she or you can’t, you don’t need a as I knew I would be taking to call you sooner. Are you been offered the role of Emile got the job. piano. You may accompany some meals at my mother’s. coming with me tomorrow or De Becque in South Pacific at a “What did you sing?” yourself if you need to.” The phone rang: A gruff voice not?” non-Equity house. Soon after, a “Oh, I didn’t sing,” she said. I turned and hit a starting on the other end said, “Are you “Yes, I’ll be there. I have to friend who was going to be the “He said anyone who went to note on the old upright. When I ready to go? I’m driving up make some arrangements for choreographer at the then- Juilliard doesn’t have to sing for finished he said: tomorrow. Meet me at 10 a.m. at my dog and I’ll have to give up Ephrata Legion Star Playhouse, me. I didn’t have the nerve to tell “Not bad. I’ll be in touch with the Lambs and don’t be late.” my apartment, but I’ll be there. a small Equity theater in PA, got him I was in the dance you.” “Who is this? What are you Thank you.” me an audition at the old Lambs department.” “Don’t you want me to read?” talking about?” It was an incredible summer Club. The company had a big My turn. I entered a small, “Well, you must be pretty “It’s John Cameron, the and an invaluable experience: season of mostly musicals, but bare room with an elderly man good if you want to read. Go producer of the Ephrata Legion playing great roles and was opening with Come Blow sitting at a table and an old ahead.” Star Playhouse. We’re starting becoming a professional Equity Your Horn – and I wanted the upright piano against the wall. I I had gone to French’s and our season; you’re my juvenile actor. DECEMBER 2015 EQUITY news / 5

Centered On and Growing With Actors

assembled this company in heart of downtown Gainesville, In addition to its theatrical scene,” said Altmeyer 2014, focusing on the mission to Florida, occupying a classical productions, the company also For the 2015-2016 season, create an artistic home for a revival style historical building. serves as Gainesville’s only art- the Hippodrome will intersect We asked the staff at the core group of professionals, house cinema, creation and convention with Hippodrome Theatre to tell us the majority of which are provides retellings of classics tales as about the company; this is what members of Actors’ Equity. award-winning well as presenting two they had to say: Caldwell elaborated, “We educational southeastern premieres (All all know that funding programming, Girl Frankenstein and Women he Hippodrome’s history sources are dwindling at a hosts an in Jeopardy) and a world and vitality are built on rapid pace for the arts. The annual premiere (The Snow Queen its artistic achievement. T Hipp’s Acting Company playwriting written by company member The Florida-based company has creates a shortcut in the competition Charlie Mitchell). With every produced more than 100 world, rehearsal process. The and reaches performance, the artistic American and Southeastern actors know each other so out to mission is to enrich the premieres in its 43-year history. well, believe in the mission community community and world through Acclaimed playwrights, including and fully support each partners for the art of theater. Tennessee Williams, Eric other. We welcome new event At the core, the Bentley, Paula Vogel and Lee artists with open arms; the collaborations. Hippodrome’s growth and Breuer, among several others, Hippodrome takes great As a result, the success has been made have developed new works on pride in the assurance that Hipp has built a possible through their key the Hippodrome stage. there is a group of actors to strong partnership with Equity. For over four decades, the whom we can be dedicated reputation as Through this collaboration, theater has been the epicenter to artistically and providing the the Hippodrome has been of Gainesville’s arts and cultural financially.” Gainesville able to provide high-quality, district. Known as “The Hipp,” it Acting Company and community with professional theater to is a landmark attraction serving Equity member Tim an artistic audiences across North over 80,000 patrons annually, Altmeyer says, “Home is an Hippodrome actors, artists and home to Central Florida and beyond. producing eight mainstage plays important thing for me — as I administrators are dedicated to nurture collaboration and Morsey said, “I joined AEA each season. Through every think it is for so many actors, preparing a new season of individual creativity. the first chance I got. Once I production, the Hippodrome roving gypsies that we often are. storytelling to awaken ideas, “To call the Hipp a ‘theater’ decided I was going to be a strives to provide an Many of those with whom I’ve stimulate change and only tells part of the story. In professional actor, it became environment that helps its collaborated with at the Hipp are encourage dreams. my 20-year relationship with my goal to be a member of patrons understand the past, like family to me.” “The Hippodrome occupies the Hippodrome, it has ‘the union of professional accept the present and work As a director, Caldwell’s the most beautiful building in always felt like an epicenter actors and stage managers in toward positive change for the process is organic, allowing for downtown Gainesville and has of artistic thinking in the United States.’ That pretty future. director, designers and actors to long been used as a cultural Gainesville, with a visual art much says it all, doesn’t it? I The Hippodrome is centered share equal investment in the focus point for the region,” said gallery, independent cinema, know I can hold my own with on its Acting Company. Artistic production. Acting Company Equity member eclectic seasons and deep any fellow actor anywhere, Director Lauren Caldwell The theater is located in the Sara L. Morsey. roots in the Florida art and that’s a great feeling.”

more reasonable economic purposes. At this point, the 25 Years Ago 10 Years Ago A Look Back union will have the entire 13th December 1990 December 2005 and a small portion of the 14th • Equity News prints, in its • The Resident Musical floors. It’s noted that the new entirety, “A Statement of Theatre Association Contract, 75 Years Ago additional day is extending space has six modern, high Mutual Understanding,” a letter or RMTA, is extended to 2009 performance weeks — speed elevators that can climb by Council laying out the with a significant increase in December 1940 benefiting union members. 600 feet per minute. specific terms and conditions health rates, plus increases in • Equity issues a • The National Council on the to which Miss Saigon producer minimum salaries. Additionally, preliminary report on new 50 Years Ago Arts announces the first Cameron Mackintosh agreed. the Musical Stock Unit Sunday performances. After December 1965 government grants to seven The letter speaks to race, Attraction Agreement, or the Council decides to allow projects in the arts. The sum of diverse casting efforts, MSUA, is approved for five members to work Sunday • Late this month, Equity $500,000 has been designated specifically the role of Kim, years. The major goal was to performances, it appears that moves into its new home in the to help found three theater and the meetings the union maintain the Actuarial Health shows that were on the verge Eastern Region. Moving to 165 companies “of the highest and Mackintosh had Rate, which was accomplished of closing begin to extend their West 46th Street, the union professional quality” where throughout the previous few — as well as increases in runs — noting that the makes its location change, citing theater is not readily accessible. months. minimum salaries.

The Actors Fund and Career Transition Arthur French Awarded for Dancers Merge Services 2015 Paul Robeson Citation he boards of The Actors both organizations will be better name. Now known as The ctors’ Equity member me. I knew then, that this is Fund and Career positioned to help more Career Center at The Actors Arthur French was where I wanted to be. Equity’s TTransition for Dancers dancers across the country to Fund, the new name is Aawarded the 2015 Paul been good to me. I’m so happy (CTFD) announced a merger thrive during all phases of their intended to reflect the full Robeson Citation, presented by to be here among so many recently of the two nonprofit careers.” scope of activities, programs the Equity Foundation on members.” human services organizations. The Fund, which shares a and services available to Equity October 16, 2015, in New York Created in 1971, the award CTFD’s operations will be fully mission of providing programs members. City. honors individuals or integrated into The Fund’s and services to dancers and The Center is meant to “I remember how I got my organizations that best exemplify facilities in Chicago, New York the dance community, will assist those in the industry in Equity card,” French said. “During and practice the principles to and Los Angeles at the end of integrate the services of CTFD identifying and finding my first show, Raisin’ Hell to the which Robeson devoted his life: the year. into the ongoing programs of meaningful sideline Son, the director said to me, ‘You dedication to the universal “The Actors Fund also helps The Actors Fund, such as the employment or a new career have to join Equity.’ I walked brotherhood of all humankind, dancers and we pride ourselves Dancers’ Resource and The through one-on-one counseling, down every block and looked at commitment to the freedom of on responding to their unique Career Center at The Actors seminars, workshops and panel the marquees. I didn’t know what conscience and of expression, needs,” said Equity member Fund. discussions. I wanted to do with my life. But belief in the artist’s responsibility and Actors Fund Trustee Bebe Additionally, The Actors For more information, visit when he said that, ‘you have to to society, respect for the dignity Neuwirth. “In working together, Fund Work Program has a new actorsfund.org. sign a contract,’ it was clear for (continued on page 6) 6 / EQUITY news DECEMBER 2015 Equity Members Help Set New Fundraising Record at Broadway Flea Market & Grand Auction

unions and guilds and many members Stephen Wallem and The 29 editions of the other organizations within the Kirsten Wyatt co-hosted the Broadway Flea Market & Broadway community raised silent auction, which raised Grand Auction have raised a $385,915. The top five tables $75,240. grand total of $11.8 million for raising the most money were The Broadway Flea Market Broadway Cares/Equity Fights Hamilton with $22,624 (5), & Grand Auction was born in AIDS and has become a Wicked with $21,916, TDF’s annual “Pik-a-Tik” with $15,212, Creative Goods Merchandise with $13,745 and Finding Neverland with $13,434. Bryan Batt and Broadway 1 Cares’ esteemed auctioneer Lorna Kelly again Broadway fans celebrated Among the show tables entertainingly handled the 29th Annual Broadway offering one-of-a-kind hosting duties for the live Flea Market & Grand Auction memorabilia, including auction, which by bidding on raised a record and buying $295,500. The everything from 5 top-selling lot of tickets to a bevy the day left its of opening night 1986 when the company of A cherished tradition of the winning bidder performances Chorus Line sold items on two Broadway theater community saying “yeah” to an to custom-made tables outside their stage door each fall. appearance music mixes, in Shubert Alley. In 1987 a For a full story, photos and onstage in Kinky from number of other shows joined video, visit Boots, which autographed them and raised $12,000 to broadwaycares.org/fleamarket raised $13,000. musical benefit Equity Fights AIDS. 2015. VIP tickets and phrases to an exclusive meet- once-in-a- and-greet at Hand lifetime 2 to God was theatrical auctioned off by experiences. Actors’ Equity wants to better understand its membership so costume pieces, vintage the show’s Tony Award- The result: a record $756,655 that broad services can be created that benefit all members. Playbills and show posters, nominated star Steven Boyer was raised for Broadway To do that, we’d like your help. Take a moment to log on to and his ever-present, foul- the Member Portal (members.actorsequity.org) and visit mouthed sidekick Tyrone, as your profile, where you can provide information about well as backstage experiences yourself, including your cultural background/ethnicity and/or at 18 other shows, including any disability. Please note: This is strictly for internal use three opportunities at this and will not be shared with employers. season’s smash hit, Hamilton. Earlier in the day, Equity

Arthur French (continued from page 5) 3 of the individual and concern for Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. CDs and specialty items made and service to all humans of any The biggest day of the year by the cast members race or nationality. for Broadway fans brought themselves were the French has been a working actor for more than 50 years, from his early work with the Negro Ensemble Company to his most recent appearance on Broadway in The Trip to Bountiful (2013). For his extensive body of work Off-Broadway, he received an Obie Award for “Sustained Excellence” in 1997. In 2006, he received the Lucille Lortel Award for Outstanding Featured Actor in August Wilson’s Two Trains Running. He’s also appeared in 4 productions of Dividing the Estate, Ma Rainey’s Black hundreds of Equity members companies of An American in Bottom, You Can’t Take It With and thousands of other theater Paris (1), Beautiful - The Yo u , Death of a Salesman, The Paul Robeson Citation winner Arthur French along with lovers into Times Square, Carole King Musical (2), The River Niger, The Iceman Councillor Julia Breanetta Simpson. Shubert Alley and onto West Book of Mormon (3), as well Cometh and Ain’t Supposed to 44th Street this fall. They were as long-running tables from Die a Natural Death, among Harry Belafonte; Ossie Davis organization, was created in greeted by a record 74 tables Actors’ Equity (4) and the others. and Ruby Dee; James Earl 1962 to aid and assist the full of Broadway treasures and Stage Managers Association, In addition, he has worked on Jones; Athol Fugard; Lena members of the acting 68 of Broadway’s brightest both now part of the Flea the road, been on the faculty of Horne; Joseph Papp; Sidney profession and to promote the stars at the “autograph table” Market for more than 25 years. HB Studios and has volunteered Poitier; Pete Seeger; and, in theatre arts. It is separate from and photo booth. In addition, In all, 74 tables representing at senior centers. 2014, Baayork Lee. Actors’ Equity Association and more than 200 auction lots Broadway and Off-Broadway Previous recipients of the The Actors Equity receives its funding from estate were offered in live and silent shows, as well as theater Paul Robeson Citation include: Foundation, a philanthropic and bequests and individual auctions throughout the day. owners, management offices, Paul Robeson; Maya Angelou; humanitarian nonprofit donations. DECEMBER 2015 EQUITY news / 7 The 2014–2015 Theatrical Season Report An Analysis of Employment, Earnings, Membership and Finance By Steven DiPaola Assistant Executive Director for Finance and Administration

In 1995, Guy Pace, the executive at Actors’ Equity Association then responsible for creating this report, proudly stated that earnings by the members working on Equity contracts had set a new high — $188 million. Now, we can proudly observe that member earnings have once again established a new high – this time of more than $367 million – almost twice as much as that milestone achieved 20 years ago. In the recently concluded 2014-2015 season, earnings under the Production contract alone exceeded the total member earnings under all contracts in that 1994-1995 season. So, after several seasons following the global economic crisis that began in 2008, when member earnings hovered around the $330 million mark, this season they came roaring back providing a very bright spot of good news in this year’s summary of employment and earnings. Certainly, the lingering impact of the economic calamity of seven years ago still remains in certain areas. Work weeks climbed again this year, but continue to do so at a slow pace and have yet to recover all the losses suffered in the immediate aftermath of 2008. Some contracts and geographic areas are still especially the work week number weeks grew a bit. However, over Finally, there are more and all three regions negatively affected. Other areas increased only modestly, the the four-season range, these people employed in all three experienced a drop in have seen a much more robust number of average weeks distributions have remained work categories each week employment, but from there the recovery and are further worked by each member fairly consistent and they are than four seasons ago. employment stories of each removed from the difficulties of decreased fractionally. largely a function of the material As noted above, while work region diverge. In the first full the recent past. What is clear is While the number of work that is being produced. weeks overall have increased season after the downturn, the that there is no single storyline weeks over the past four The lower third of Table 1 modestly over the past four Eastern region suffered an even of continued difficulty or seasons has traveled within a displays some average weekly seasons, there have been more more precipitous fall-off in success coupled with optimism. narrow range of only about totals. This season, about 245 significant movements within employment, experiencing a 5% There are instead many smaller 13,000 work weeks, as the more members were employed the individual regions. Charts decline in work weeks over the storylines occupying the space middle part of Table 1 in an average week than four 2A, B and C give a closer view two seasons. But employment between those two opposite illustrates, there has been more seasons ago, a number that of those movements over a bottomed out in that second points. notable movement within work closely tracks the growth in the broader period of time. season, and from that period, Employment: weeks, regionally. Eastern work number of members working It’s clear that all three there has been a consistent This season’s work week weeks have increased over the throughout the season over that regions saw peak employment increase in employment, total of 294,367 (a work week is past four seasons by 4.9%, a same time period. Since the right around the 2007-2008 modest and tentative at first, but rate a bit higher than the overall overall number of members has defined as one week of work by season, when overall work very strong over the past three one member) represents the total. Central work weeks have grown over four years, despite weeks hit their highest level in seasons, so that this season highest level of employment grown at a rate of 11.4% over the growth in the weekly the history of the union: Eastern work weeks exceeded since the fall-off that occurred the past four seasons, more average, working members 314,681. The recession began the 2007-2008 level and have following the so-called Great than twice the overall rate. continue to represent just a little during the 2008-2009 season set a new high. Recession that began in 2008. Western work weeks have more than 13% of the entire It represents a small and yet shrunk a bit over the same four membership. However, hopeful step back to the level of seasons by a rate of about reflective of the regional work Chart 2A, Eastern Region Work Weeks 300,000 work weeks that had 2.6%, so that now Central and week distributions discussed 198,000 been attained prior to the Western work weeks come above, we can see that over the 196,000 recession. As work weeks have close to evenly sharing the work four seasons there are almost 194,000 remained stable over the past weeks not occurring in the 200 more members working in 192,000 four seasons, so too have the Eastern region, where more the East during an average 190,000 number of individual members than 2/3 of the employment week, and nearly 100 more 188,000 who found work in our occurs. employed members in the 186,000 jurisdiction and the average Further on down the table, Central region each week. In 184,000 number of weeks worked per we can see that Principal work the Western region, the number 182,000 member. An additional 190 weeks shrunk a bit from last of members working each week 180,000 members worked on an Equity season, as did Stage Manager declined slightly over the four contract this season, and since work weeks, while Chorus work seasons. 8 / EQUITY news DECEMBER 2015

Chart 2B, Central Region Work Weeks Chart 2C, Western Region Work Weeks

70,000 54,000 52,000 65,000 50,000 60,000 48,000 46,000 55,000 44,000 50,000 42,000 40,000 45,000

In the first season of the decline, the Central region had a small drop-off in work weeks, but suffered a far steeper fall in the second season, losing 15% of its work weeks. Employment in that region hadn’t yet hit bottom, though. After a modest recovery in the next season, work weeks fell substantially again and established a new bottom. The region’s employment was 19% off its high at that time. Since that 2011-2012 season, there has been a steady rate of growth, though, and while Central work weeks are still off their high, about half of the lost employment has been recovered and a consistent upward trajectory seems to have been established. Like the other two regions, the Western region experienced two seasons of declining employment with the downturn, and like the Central region, experienced a small recovery in the third season, only to be followed by another steep drop- off in the fourth season. By that 2011-2012 season, the Western region had experienced a 22% drop in work weeks. However, that still wasn’t the bottom and after a nice increase in the 2012-2013 season, work weeks dropped again in the subsequent two seasons. At this point, the region has had a 24% drop-off in employment since its high prior to the downturn. Clearly, there are theatre centers around the region that are still trying to make the necessary adjustments to the new economic realities brought about by the deep recession, and the stories of these cities’ struggles have been East, accounting for 35% of the jurisdiction, the LORT contract, three contracts provided more importance of the Chicago Area documented in the news over that time. All business, theatre region’s work weeks. The when combined with the than 43,000 work weeks in the Theatre (CAT) contract cannot included, has struggled. second largest source of Production contract, provided Eastern region this season. As be overestimated. With 8,070 Table 3 breaks down this employment in the Eastern more than 44% of all the work Table 3 clearly illustrates, the work weeks this season, it is season’s 294,367 work weeks region is the LORT contract, in Equity’s jurisdiction this Disney World contract has not far behind LORT, by contract type in each region. where 15% of the work weeks season. provided a stable source of accounting for 17% of the For comparison purposes, it occurred this season. So, The Production and LORT employment for Equity employment in that region and also displays the same totals for combined, 50% of the work in contracts will be examined more members over the past five has been a large and consistent the previous four seasons. the Eastern region came from closely later, but it’s valuable to seasons. Off-Broadway, while source of employment for the As is always the case, the the Production and LORT identify the other significant falling off a bit this season from past five seasons. Finally, the Production contract is the contracts. employment drivers in each last season, remained strong Small Professional Theatre largest source of employment, The LORT contract is the region. After the Production and and seems to have recovered contract is also important to the accounting for nearly 1/4 of all largest source of employment in LORT contracts, the next from the huge employment Central region with its 7,280 the work in Equity’s jurisdiction both the Central and Western largest sources of Eastern losses that occurred in that area work weeks. So, the LORT, CAT this season. Likewise, because regions, where it made up 20% employment in order are the due to real estate and economic and the Small Professional of its use on Broadway in New and 36% of the work weeks, Disney World, Small issues in New York City in the Theatre contracts were the York, the Production contract is respectively. With its 19.5% Professional Theatre and Off- early 2000s. source of more than 50% of the the largest employer in the share of all work in Equity’s Broadway contracts. These In the Central region, the employment in the Central DECEMBER 2015 EQUITY news / 9

Chart 4, Total Production Work Weeks Chart 7A, Eastern Region LORT Work Weeks

32,000 80,000 30,000

70,000 28,000

60,000 26,000 24,000 50,000 22,000 40,000 20,000 30,000

Chart 5, Production Work Weeks Chart 7B, Central Region LORT Work Weeks Point of Organization vs. Production Touring

10,000 50,000 9,500 9,000 40,000 8,500 30,000 8,000 7,500 20,000 7,000 10,000 6,500 6,000 0 5,500 5,000

P of O Touring

Chart 6, Resident Theatre (LORT) Work Weeks Chart 7C, Western Region LORT Work Weeks

62,000 22,000

60,000 21,000

58,000 20,000

56,000 19,000

54,000 18,000

52,000 17,000

50,000 16,000 48,000

region. for 16% of the work weeks in Production work weeks had weeks, for shows that normally significant, likely because of two The Small Professional the West. their own falling off after the are first produced on Broadway factors: the expense of touring, Theatre contract is once again As noted earlier, the downturn, but as the chart and then create separate and the more profound impact important in the Western region. Production contract was — and shows, it occurred about two companies to travel to various of the downturn on the cities to With its 8,101 work weeks this has continued to be — the years after the recession cities around the country. which tours commonly travel. season, it was the second largest source of employment in began, likely caused by the Chart 5 breaks down the However, it’s interesting to note largest source of employment, Equity’s jurisdiction. Chart 4 timetable for bringing a work weeks displayed in Chart that the touring component and rose by almost 8% over the illustrates employment levels on Production contract show to 4 into their point of organizing began to recover lost work previous season. Though far that contract over the past ten fruition. After establishing levels and touring components. This weeks one season prior to the behind LORT, it still accounted seasons. of around 80,000 work weeks chart shows that while both point of organization for three seasons, there was a components fell after the component, and over last steep decline over the next downturn, the fall in the touring season production touring work Chart 8, Annual Work Weeks three seasons when work component was far more weeks were up a very strong Stock by selected Contract Types 2% weeks fell by about 27%. Casino However, there has been a nice SETA TYA 1% recovery over the past two Chart 9, Total Seasonal Earnings 2% 3% (in Thousands of $) All Other seasons, and this season’s Disney World work week total is the highest 6% 26% $370,000 since the 2010-2011 season and represents an increase of $350,000 LOA more than 11% over last $330,000 7% season. $310,000 SPT Producon Production work weeks are 24% $290,000 10% made up of two components: $270,000 LORT point of organization work 19% weeks, or those for productions $250,000 that “sit” in New York (on Broadway), Chicago or Los Angeles; and touring work 10 / EQUITY news DECEMBER 2015

rebound and returned to a level just about equivalent to where they were in the 2007-2008 season. This season, they had an even bigger bounce, increasing by 8.4% to just over $367 million — the highest level ever and surpassing the previous all-time high (established in the 2008-2009 season) by more than $25 million. So, while employment is recovering slowly, member earnings seem to have come back more strongly. Table 10 shows some earnings facts over the most recent four seasons. As you can see, median earnings for a member employed in Equity’s jurisdiction this season stood at $7,548. The median is thought to be more statistically relevant Chart 11A, Eastern Region Earnings Chart 11B, Central Region Earnings than the average, which would $290,000,000 $50,000,000 be skewed higher by salaries at $45,000,000 $270,000,000 the upper levels. The $40,000,000 preponderance of member $250,000,000 $35,000,000 earnings — like work weeks — $230,000,000 $30,000,000 $25,000,000 occurs in the Eastern region, $210,000,000 $20,000,000 largely driven by the Production $190,000,000 $15,000,000 contract on Broadway; as the $10,000,000 $170,000,000 table shows the concentration $5,000,000 $150,000,000 $0 of earnings in the Eastern region has increased over the four years. The concentration of earnings in the Central region has likewise grown, while it has decreased in the Western Chart 11C, Western Region Earnings Chart 12, Total Production Earnings region. (in thousands of $) $60,000,000 Charts 11A, B and C delve deeper into regional earnings $50,000,000 $200,000 $180,000 over the past ten seasons. $40,000,000 $160,000 While the Eastern region had a $140,000 slight drop-off of less than 1% $30,000,000 $120,000 after the recession began, $100,000 $20,000,000 $80,000 those lost earnings were $10,000,000 $60,000 recovered and built upon in the $40,000 ensuing years, establishing new $0 $20,000 all-time highs in each season $0 from 2010-2011 on. This season’s increase of 8.8% is especially large and mirrors the 19%. Looking at LORT regionally increase in overall earnings. Looking now to LORT work in Charts 7A, B and C, all three region, LORT work weeks have Off-Broadway and CAT — that Over the 10-season period, weeks, they have remained at regions saw a big decline after been more inconsistent, and are especially important Eastern earnings have levels within a fairly narrow the 2008-2009 season, but it have fallen about 9% over the sources of work in individual increased by about $70 million, range over the past 10 seasons, was far less significant in the past two seasons to their lowest regions/cities. As Chart 8 or 32%. and were virtually identical this Eastern region than in the other level in the 10-season period. illustrates, however, about 75% The Central region saw a season compared to last two regions. There have been These declines in Western of all Equity employment is much larger drop in earnings season. small declines in LORT work LORT work weeks have been a concentrated in just nine than the East, equivalent to As Chart 6 illustrates, with weeks in the Eastern region significant contributor to the contracts. about 13% in the first full the exception of one outlier over the past three seasons, but decline in Western employment Earnings: season after the recession season (2009-2010, following only a cumulative decline of overall. Like work weeks, member began, but unlike the Eastern the beginning of the recession), about 4%. In the Central region, As seen earlier in Table 3, earnings fell following the region, earnings continued to work weeks under LORT have after a decline last season, there are dozens of Equity recession, but not as decline for another three been between about 57,000 LORT work weeks returned to a contracts under which the significantly. Then for four seasons before beginning to and 62,000, but they have been nearly identical level as in the 17,712 members found seasons, earnings remained rise again last season. They consistently below their earlier 2012-2013 season — which employment this season. As virtually stagnant. However, last rose once again this season by highs for the past several was its second highest total in also noted earlier, there are season, they saw a nice about 13.4% so that over the seasons. the decade. In the Western several contracts — such as

Chart 13, Touring Earnings Chart 14, LORT Earnings Full Tour vs. Teired Touring $60,000,000 $60,000,000 $50,000,000 $55,000,000 $40,000,000 $50,000,000 $30,000,000 $20,000,000 $45,000,000 $10,000,000 $0 $40,000,000

$35,000,000

Naonal Tour Tiered Tour DECEMBER 2015 EQUITY news / 11

past two seasons, Central season after the recession in Western work weeks — and regional earnings have began because the region had hopefully it will mark the Chart 16, Members with Earnings recovered about half the losses an unusually high amount of beginning of a sustained by Selected Dollar Ranges suffered after the 2008-2009 Production contract earnings upward movement for that season. that season. However, earnings region since its earnings are Unlike the Eastern and then did drop for the next four down about 30% since Central regions, earnings in the seasons. Earnings in the West establishing an all-time high in $5,000 - $1 - $5,000 $15,000 Western region did not increased by a small amount the 2007-2008 season. 38% 31% immediately drop in the first full this season — despite the drop As noted earlier, the $15,000 - $25,000 11%

$25,000 - $200,000+ $50,000 1% $50,000 - 10% $125,000 - 75,000 $100,000 - $75,000- 3% $200,000 $125,000 2% $100,000 3% 2% 12 / EQUITY news DECEMBER 2015

away the earnings leader, identical over the ten years, but accounting for almost 45% of a greater percentage of the regional total. Earnings of members now live in the Central $4.3 million under the Casino region with a smaller contract followed LORT at percentage in the West. 10.7%, and the Small Several demographic facts Professional Theatre contract are shown in Table 18. The and Letters of Agreement were distribution of male and female just behind Casino, accounting members is statistically identical for 9.4% and 9.3% of regional percentage-wise, and slightly earnings, respectively. more than 50% of females have As we’ve seen, there is often voluntarily submitted a link between work weeks and race/ethnicity data vs. just member earnings, but under 50% of males. A bit more sometimes the way those than 83% of members identify overall earnings on a contract themselves as Caucasian, with impact the individual members those identifying as African working on the contract can American making up the next vary greatly. For example, as largest group at slightly less noted the Production and LORT than 8%. By way of comparison, contracts lead all other ten years ago the same two contracts in work weeks and groups made up the largest earnings. The average earnings segments, but those self- per work week for a member identifying as Caucasian working on these contracts this accounted for almost 87% with season were $2,697 and African Americans at just over $1,001, respectively. On the 6%. other hand, the Small The ten cities with the largest Table 19, Membership 2014-15 Professional Theatre contract numbers of Equity members are by Major Cities Chart 20, New York 15,935 and the Letters of Agreement, depicted in Table 19. This list Los Angeles 7,013 Total Income: $19,429 which combined for about comprised the same ten cities Initiation Chicago 1,589 FY 2014-15 49,000 work weeks and almost ten years ago, but Washington San Francisco 968 Fees: Washington D.C./Baltimore 854 (in thousands of $) $2,700 17% of employment, have DC/Baltimore and Philadelphia Philadelphia 852 13.9% All Others: average earnings per work have exchanged positions over $222 Boston 845 week of $493 and $593, the decade. All ten cities have Orlando 591 1.1% respectively. Nevertheless, seen their populations of Equity Minneapolis/St. Paul 437 Investment Seattle 397 Income: these contracts offer important members increase except for $478 opportunities for work to a great Los Angeles, but the city with Production contract is the 2.5% Working many Equity members, not to the largest growth by far has largest source of Equity Dues: Land & mention an opportunity for been Washington DC/Baltimore $8,516 employment. Not surprising, Building health care eligibility and where the member population then, is that it is also the largest 43.8% Rent: $1,941 pension credits. has more than doubled. source of earnings. This 10.0% Further reflecting on how Finance: season’s nearly $197 million in overall earnings impact the The next few tables and earnings on the Production Basic individual members working in charts provide a brief summary contract account for more than Dues: Equity’s jurisdiction, Chart 16 $5,572 of the union’s finances during half of all member earnings. shows what percentage of the 28.7% the 2014-2015 fiscal year that Chart 12 shows Production 17,712 members who worked began in April and concluded in contract earnings over the past this season fell into nine touring components for this segment for Equity’s members March. ten seasons. In the first six earnings ranges. As you can season and the nine prior around the country. Chart 20 illustrates a seasons of the decade, the see, 69% — or more than seasons. As we have seen so Broadening the earnings breakdown of Equity’s income chart shows sustained growth. 12,000 of them – earned less many times, the downward view, Table 15 shows earnings with the largest segment by far In that seventh season two than $15,000 with 11% (1,832 impact of the recession began on each contract type in each coming from working dues – the years after the beginning of the members) earning greater than in the 2010-2011 season, when region. Not surprisingly, the 2.25% that Equity members pay recession, the downward effects $50,000. full tour earnings fell by 37% Production contract is the on their first $300,000 of gross begin to show. (You will and tiered tour earnings by largest center of earnings in the Membership: earnings when working on an probably recall that Production 28%. The next several years East with 65% of total regional Table 17 provides a snapshot Equity contract. The second work weeks also responded were difficult ones for this earnings, followed by LORT at of members in good standing largest source of income is more slowly to the recession segment of the Production 10.6%. The $14.1 million in (those current in their basic basic dues; all active members than other contract types.) contract, but full tour earnings earnings on the Disney World dues) for the most recent in good standing pay $118 per During three years, beginning have rebounded a good deal contract in Orlando is the third season and the seasons five year, accounting for this income. with the 2010-2011 season, (earnings are up 44% over the largest source of income in the and ten years ago. Over the The third largest source of Production earnings fell by past two seasons), and this East at just under 5%. The Off- decade, paid membership has income is initiation fee; new 20%. Fortunately, after season’s combined earnings on Broadway contract had increased by almost 8%, a members have a maximum of increases last season and the two Production touring earnings of $8.2 million and that remarkable achievement given two years to pay this one-time particularly this season — when elements were the highest was just under 3% of total the challenges of the decade fee of $1,100 when joining the they increased by 17.5% — since the 2009-2010 season. earnings in the region. and to unions in general. Also union. Working dues, basic earnings on this contract have Earnings under the LORT In the Central region, the notable is that in all three dues and initiation fees have now set an all-time high. contract are the second highest Production contract was the seasons more than 2,000 new been charged at the same rates Just as Production work source of income under Equity largest source of earnings this members joined the union and since 2002, which marked the weeks are made up of the point contracts and this season’s total season at 24%, but this is chose to assert their last time that Equity asked its of organization and touring of more than $57 million anomalous as there was an professionalism by equating it members to increase them elements, so are production account for more than 15% of unusual amount of activity on with membership in a labor despite having markedly earnings. overall member earnings. (The the Production contract in union. Looking at these increased services to the More than 70% of Production Production and LORT contracts Chicago with the tours of Book numbers from a regional members over that time and earnings this year derived from combined for just under 70% of of Mormon and Motown, The perspective, the table shows battling inflationary cost point of organization shows that all the earnings in Equity’s Musical. Generally, the largest that the number of paid up increases. remained in one city — this jurisdiction.) earnings driver in the Central members in the Eastern grew Charts 21, 22 and 23 show season, all were on Broadway As Chart 14 shows, LORT region is the LORT contract, but by about 9% and the number of how income from basic dues, in New York City. However, earnings have been erratic over this season it was just behind paid up members in the Central working dues and initiation fee nearly $55 million in Production the past ten seasons, and while Production at 22.5%. The CAT region grew by 23%. has changed over the past ten earnings this season derived the familiar drop occurred after contract is a perennial earnings Membership in the Western years. Looking first to basic from its two touring elements: the recession, there have been leader in the Central region, region remained relatively even dues, we see that there have full tours, and tiered tours, several other peaks and valleys. and its $4.8 million in member over the ten-year period. As for been several periods of growth which are more economically The good news is that this earnings this season accounted regional distribution, the and overall, basic dues income viable and available for certain season’s tally is the second for 12.5% of the regional total. percentage of total paid has increased by 9% over the productions. Chart 13 shows highest in the ten-year period in In the Western region, the members living in the Eastern period despite the rate of $118 earnings for the two Production this very important employment LORT contract was far and region remained virtually remaining the same, which is DECEMBER 2015 EQUITY news / 13

income. If one were to look Chart 21, Basic Dues Income back ten years, these four (in thousands of $) Chart 24, segments would have still been Total Expenses: $19,397 the top income generators, but $5,600 FY 2014-15 Land and Building Rent only Office $5,500 (in thousands of $) Expenses: $5,400 accounted for a little more than Member $3,179 Serv ices: $5,300 4% of the total at that time. This 16.4% $747 $5,200 segment of income has tripled 3.9% $5,100 over the ten years and has $5,000 provided an important source of $4,900 income from a source other $4,800 than the dues and fees paid by Inf ormation members. Further, it has helped Technology : $670 to keep operating costs in the 3.5% form of rent in those three offices down. Chart 22, Working Dues Income Chart 24 provides a Pay roll & (in thousands of $) Fringes: breakdown of expenses by $12,496 $9,000 category. As is typical for 64.4% All Others: unions, the cost of employing $2,305 $8,000 11.9% the staff that provides various $7,000 types of member services

$6,000 makes up the largest segment at about 64%. Interestingly, this Chart 25, Portfolio Market Value $5,000 portion of the budget is about (in thousands of $) $4,000 1% smaller now than it was ten years ago despite salary and $30,000 benefit cost increases over the $25,000 years. This has been achieved $20,000 through various efficiencies $15,000 Chart 23, Initiation Fee Income recognized over the decade. (in thousands of $) The growth of all expenses $10,000 have been tightly managed, but $5,000 $3,000 even with that, total expenses $0 $2,500 have increased by 40% over the past ten years while income $2,000 has increased by only 29%, $1,500 accounting for the very narrow $1,000 margin between total income have been communications members who will work under and total expenses in the past advances. Finally, funds were this contract over the next four fiscal year. also used to buy the buildings in years. As noted in this report, Finally, Chart 25 shows the Chicago and Los Angeles, there are also challenges, but value of the union’s investment which decreased costs while Actors’ Equity Association looks portfolio over the past ten enabling Equity to increase its reflection of having more has increased by 10% over the upon those as opportunities to years. A union builds a portfolio member programs in those members now than at any other past decade and once again make further gains for the so that it can negotiate from a cities. The value of these two membership as it continues its time. this has occurred despite the buildings and the land Equity secure position and to protect it work. Working dues income has fee remaining the same. This from unforeseen circumstances. owns in New York is not Special thanks are due to increased by 44% over ten increase can be the result of Consistent with other trends reflected in this portfolio. Joey Stamp, the Associate for years, once again even though several different factors, not the observed throughout this report, In this aftermath of the 2014- Finance and Administration who the rate of 2.25% has remained least of which is the nearly 8% the value of the investments fell 2015 season, there is a great compiles the enormous amount the same. This increase was growth in Equity’s membership with the recession that began in deal about which to be of data provided by IT Director caused by a growth in member over the period noted in the 2008, but those losses were optimistic. Most notable is the earnings over the period driven previous section. recovered. The value of the surge in member earnings, but Doug Beebe, Comptroller Joe primarily by successful contract The fourth largest segment portfolio stands at about 4.5% there is also the continued DeMichele and Director of negotiations by Equity. It should of income derives from the less than it did ten years ago, growth in Equity’s membership Membership John Fasulo into be noted that these earnings valuable land on which Equity’s but during the decade Equity at a time when other unions are the tables and charts that make have increased despite the fact New York building stands and made major infrastructure struggling to maintain up the foundation of this that work weeks this season from the two buildings it owns in upgrades in technology that membership numbers, and the analysis. Without these four were virtually identical to what Chicago and Los Angeles. have reduced operating costs recently concluded negotiations individuals and the many others they were ten years ago. These three sources of revenue while increasing our ability to for a new Production contract who support them, this report Finally, initiation fee income now account for 10% of overall analyze data. In addition, there that saw important gains for the would not be possible.

4 14 / EQUITY news DECEMBER 2015

of engaging new artists at GSC and bringing back alumni. Daniels hails from Geva Theatre in Rochester, New York; California Shakespeare NATIONALNATIONALNEWSNEWS Company; Dad’s Garage Theatre in Atlanta of which he was co-founder; and most recently from Actors Theatre of Louisville, where he was an associate artistic director. Daniels became particularly interested in MRT when he Photo: Don Warnock attended a performance and New England saw the investment of the audience. In his, thus far, short Welcoming Two Artistic Directors tenure at MRT, he has Photo: Pearl Brady developed the “Cohorts Club” — to the Northeast an idea he originated at Geva — By Donna Maria Sorbello, indicated that the compensation which is meant to engage Equity and New England offered in the “extra duties” riders members of the audience in the Liaison Committee in NEAT was now fairly theater process. He’s introduced member consistent across theaters. free babysitting during Bowman congratulated stage performances and has The annual New England managers for standing together established the “Patriots (From L to R): Councillor Kristine Nevins with panelists Jeff Equity meeting was held to insure that parity and urged Program,” an association of 60 Williams, Dana Ivey, Victoria Clark and Mercedes Ellington along with moderator and 3rd Vice President Ira Mont. October 26, 2015, at Central them to keep her office informed theater artists from New Square Theater in Cambridge, of any further issues. England and beyond, whom he MA. At the helm was Liaison The highlight of the meeting hopes to bring to the theater for New York City Committee Chair Michael proved to be the presence of two various projects. He has already Dell’Orto. guest speakers: the new Artistic brought artists together for Pass It On — Actors Reflect on The well-attended meeting Director of Merrimack Repertory readings of new works, with an a Life in the Theater welcomed Tom Carpenter, Theatre (MRT), Sean Daniels, eye for development. Eastern Regional Director, and Gloucester Stage Equity attendees were After auditioning for the film acknowledged how difficult, yet Assistant Executive Director, Company’s AD, Robert Walsh. especially eager to hear that version of West Side Story, rewarding an actor’s life can be. General Counsel; and Melissa Walsh is well-known in the both artistic directors intend to Mercedes Ellington got a call “You have to have a real fire in Robinette, Eastern Regional Boston theater scene as an seek out talented New England asking whether she’d want to your belly,” she said. “It can be Vice President, who spoke about actor and director, as Artistic area members. This was perform in the show Down very lonely to choose this, but the both local and national issues, Director of the Actors’ welcome news to an audience of Under. “So I went down to work is the glory when I get to do such as her participation in the Shakespeare Project, Producing local actors who, though the Australia. That’s how I got my the thing I love so much.” recent FIA (International Artistic Director of American landscape has changed in their American Equity card, and it’s “One of the most important Federation of Actors) Stage Festival and as a member favor in the past several years, been fun ever since!” things about longevity is conference. Hope Bowman, of the faculty of the Brandeis find that there are still mid and With almost 60 Broadway versatility,” Clark said. “If one Business Representative for Theater Department. Walsh is large-size New England theaters credits among them, a thing isn’t working, it’s imperative NEAT and SPT contracts in the looking forward to continuing the that opt to audition and cast out- distinguished panel of longtime to adapt and grow.” Northeast, joined her colleagues tradition of GSC’s original of-state actors in many roles. Equity members gathered for the Ellington agreed. “If nobody’s to address questions regarding mission: being “a safe harbor for New England members left the second annual Pass It On: calling you, make it yourself. local contracts. With several playwrights and new plays.” meeting feeling encouraged by Thriving Artists Reflect on a Life Somebody somewhere is going stage managers present, a Walsh stated that he intends to new possibilities in the local in the Theatre in the New York to buy.” consensus by the group continue this season’s practice theater scene. Equity office. Joining Ellington on the panel were Dana Ivey, Jeff Williams and Victoria Clark. theater dream roles. Company (Jose Llana), elegant Moderated by Ira Mont and “As national chair of the Equal Margaret from The Light in the sponsored by the National EEO Employment Opportunity Piazza (Johnson) and the Committee, the discussion Committee,” said Equity tantalizing Ulla from The covered the many aspects of a Councillor Christine Toy Johnson, Producers (Emily Hsu) were long theatrical career — from “I’m so proud showcased in getting a start and managing the Photo: Bruce Alan Johnson of the many front of a sold- rough times to developing as a ways that out house at performer as one ages. Actors’ the Leonard “Between contracts I teach,” Equity Nimoy Thalia at said Clark. “It’s my passion to Association Peter Norton share with younger people and stands up for Photo: Bruce Alan Johnson Symphony my peers. I’m several colleagues’ the inclusion Space in New secret voice teacher.” of all our York City. Williams, on the other hand, members in The actors, has a more traditional fallback. the American accompanied “I’ve had the same restaurant job The ensemble of Changing the Stats: Asian Americans on Broadway. landscape of by Ming since the ’80s,” he said. “They let storytelling Aldrich-Gan on me come and go as I work. I say New York City — and piano and I take a pay cut when I work on tonight’s Joshua Broadway.” Changing the Stats: concert of Samuels on One of the hardest times in dream roles percussion and Clark’s career was during Sister Asian Americans on Broadway not directed and Act. “No one prepared me for traditionally choreographed what menopause does to your In a rendition of “We Can Do On Broadway! Asians playing cast with by Rommy voice. It was like going a hundred It,” a hilarious number from The anybody.” Asian Sandhu and miles an hour and hitting a brick Producers, Max Bialystock During Changing the Stats: American Albert Guerzon as Tulsa singing Marc Oka as wall. People don’t talk about it. (played by Herman Sebek) Asian Americans on Broadway, “All I Need is the Girl” from actors was a Gypsy. well as Sometimes I would open my encourages Leo Bloom presented by the National Equal true celebration Johnson, set mouth and James Earl Jones’ (Raymond J. Lee) to join him in Employment Opportunity and extension out to prove voice would come out.” his rather groundbreaking Committee of Actors’ Equity and of our tenacity in achieving more that inclusion on stage is vital — When asked how to handle producing scheme. ReImagined World and more.” and with the wealth of talent the very different lifestyle acting Picture it: “A hit show with Entertainment, on Nov. 2, 2015, Iconic characters such as the featured at the performance, requires compared to the lives of Asians in it. Something new and fourteen Asian American actors exuberant Rose from Gypsy (Ann there’s no shortage of Asian friends and family, Ivey innovative — hardly ever seen. performed a few of their musical Harada), brooding Bobby from American actors. DECEMBER 2015 EQUITY news / 15

New York City and Australia, among others, once the production completed learned about Von Essen’s its run in Paris, and then once the Enjoy the “Yes” journey and the road leading up company moved into the Palace Ray Renati to An American in Paris and his and then after the opening — New Members in NYC were recent Tony nomination. While and then after the reviews. To be Photo: greeted by Broadway’s Max Von he has faced his share of “no’s,” honest, he joked, the surreal Essen during the fall New Von Essen is aware that he has feeling never quite goes away. In Member Reception had a fortunate number of “yes” fact, he still laughs in disbelief At Equity’s NYC New Member moments that he’s come this Reception on Oct. 26, 2015, Max to rejoice in far. There are even Von Essen, Tony Award nominee lately. For moments while on for An American in Paris, told the the actor, stage at the Palace union’s newest members to success that he can’t quite enjoy every moment of their has been, grasp that he is on

careers. and still is, Photo: Stephanie Masucci Broadway with a “In a business full of ‘no,’” he surreal. His Tony Award said, “you have to revel in the career has nomination to his (From L to R) Members Michael Shipley, Kelly Ground, Susan ‘yes.’ Give yourselves time to taken him credit. Monson and Alex Shafer. celebrate achievements in your across the His advice: Go career, no matter how big or how country in to as many San Francisco, California small — even paying your rent several auditions as on time deserves regional possible. Get acknowledgement. This is a tours and to regional theaters noticed. Meet people. Welcoming New Members challenging business. Celebrate as well as to Broadway Sometimes a “no” eventually to the Bay Area yourself.” productions such as Evita, Les leads to a “yes.” As an economics major at the Misérables and Jesus Christ The event agenda included On October 26, 2015, the San meeting and give members a less University of North Carolina at Superstar. Throughout the many information regarding the role of Francisco Bay Area Liaison formal environment to express Chapel Hill, Von Essen quickly incarnations of An American in Equity, the role of the Committee hosted its second their thoughts and feelings about realized that his passion wasn’t Paris leading up to the Palace professional actor, discounts annual Equity East Bay Mixer at the theater scene to their an eight-hour a day office job Theatre, he was fearful of available to members, Equity the Albatross Pub in Berkeley, representatives — a South Bay crunching numbers, so he acknowledging his good luck. auditions and an overview of CA. Organized by Safiya mixer is set tentatively for January followed his instincts to pursue During the show’s workshop Von Equity health insurance and Fredericks, the meeting hosted 25, 2016. A similar mixer for his artistic dream. Essen told himself that he could retirement benefits. 50 members, where committee Sacramento members is also in Members from across the accept his good fortune once the Visit Facebook to see photos members greeted new members the works. Liaison Chair Aaron country, with hometowns rooted workshop was completed. Then of Equity’s New Members in and were on hand to answer Wilton touted the benefits of in Kentucky, New York, London he postponed that acceptance to NYC. questions and address concerns these mixers to the Western about the San Francisco Bay Regional Board during its Area Equity scene. October meeting, suggesting it The Bay Area mixers were was a fun, easy and free way to Horizon, Passage Theatre and created to replace the previous encourage community within a InterAct Theatre Company. second general membership region. Individual honors in the acting categories were presented to members Catharine K. Slusar, Scott Greer, Ben Dibble, Liz New York City Filios, Leah Walton, Dan Hodge, Michael Philip O’Brien and EMC Inaugural candidate Campbell M. O’Hare. Member and former Broadway Philadelphia Liaison Committee Run member Johnnie Hobbs, Jr. was recognized for his distinguished Raises career as an actor, associate professor of theater at the $9,110 Equity member Johnnie Hobbs, Jr. receiving the Barrymore Lifetime Achievement Award. University of the Arts and his A team of Equity contributions to arts and culture performers, staff and with a Barrymore Lifetime theater fans joined Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Achievement Award. forces on Sunday, Philadelphia Artists’ October 25, for the Barrymore Awards Celebrate Collective (PAC) was founded inaugural Broadway Equity Members by AEA members Dan Hodge Run to benefit and Krista Apple-Hodge, Broadway In early November, the Philadelphia — including an Charlotte Northeast and Damon Cares/Equity Fights Runners Brian Walters, Sarah Cardillo, Philadelphia theater community award for the Philadelphia Bonetti. They currently work AIDS. Stefanie Frey and Susan Slotoroff gathered to celebrate the Artists’ Collective. under the Special Appearance They tackled the participate in the Broadway Run to benefit Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. excellent 2014-2015 season at This season, many mid-sized agreement. PAC was awarded five-mile Poland the Merriam Theater for the and smaller Equity companies the June and Steve Wolfson Spring Marathon annual Barrymore Awards — a were recognized with awards, Award for an Evolving Theatre Kickoff in Central Park. The 14- to BC/EFA staffer Sarah Cardillo program of Theatre including Theatre Exile, Theatre Company. person team included Equity for assistance in making the members Tarantino Smith, dream a reality. Brian Walters and Stefanie Frey, “Participating gave me a Milwaukee, Wisconsin who is also a business chance to actively send support representative for the Off- and care to those who have to Wright, the producing artistic “Our Milwaukee/Madison Broadway department of Equity. endure far worse than running in director of the Milwaukee union actors and stage managers The team raised $9,110 for the rain,” Walters said. “I’m proud Chamber Theatre, with a are lucky to have Milwaukee Broadway Cares/Equity Fights to have made a difference, 40th Anniversary Chamber Theatre as one of our AIDS, supporting the social surrounded by loving and caring

Photo: Pete Koenig proclamation from Actors’ producers,” said Koenig. “They service programs of The Actors members of our community.” Equity on Oct. 17. provided me one of my first Fund and more than 450 AIDS This was Smith’s first After 40 years “the contracts when I moved to the service organizations in all 50 experience in a run like this: “I mission of Milwaukee area. They continually push the states. am not certain if I finished last in Chamber Theatre is to envelope with exciting projects Inspiration for the run came our group but I am certain that produce intimate, high- and a commitment to hiring local from Broadway Cares volunteer our cause didn’t.” quality, professional talent. Their partnership with and actor Susan Slotoroff. She Next year, the Broadway Run theatrical works of literary Forward Theater in Madison has wanted to bring together friends will be part of the Dash to the Equity member and merit that engage and challenge been a wonderful collaboration for and colleagues in the theater Finish Line 5K on November 5. Milwaukee/Madison Liaison the audience, while employing the region and we look forward to community to combine her To get involved, contact Committee Chair Kathi Karol and nurturing principally local working with Chamber for the next passions for running and broadwayrun@ Koenig presented C. Michael theater artists.” 40 years.” helping others. Slotoroff turned broadwaycares.org. 16 / EQUITY news DECEMBER 2015

Nominations Due for the 2016 Rosetta LeNoire Award ctors’ Equity is Nomination Procedures down to ten pages by Actors’ In Memoriam accepting nominations and Guidelines Equity.) Afor the 2016 Rosetta • There are two ways to • All electronic nominations LeNoire Award. The award, nominate an individual, a (including the submission form) “Were I to die and go to heaven and find it named after the noted actor theater company and/or an should be submitted via email populated by actors, I would not be unhappy.” and producer Rosetta LeNoire, organization for the award. to RosettaLeNoire@ is given in recognition of her Nominations can be either actorsequity.org. —-Playwright Ben Hecht body of work in the theater, electronic or hard copy/paper. • All hard copy nominations Reported between 07-20-2015 and 11-17-2015 her outstanding work with • A 2016 Rosetta LeNoire (including the submission form) Equity’s Equal Employment Award Submission Form must should be mailed directly to Tyrone Aiken Marty Ingels Opportunity Committee and be completed for each nominee. Luther Goins at: Michael Ansara Kyle Jean-Baptiste also for founding the AMAS The submission form must be Rosetta LeNoire Award Harold Baldridge Peggy Johnson Repertory Theatre Company, returned with all nominee Nominations Lani Ball Ron Johnston Theodore Bikel Dean Jones an organization dedicated to supporting documentation and c/o Luther Goins H. Edgar Bodiford Charles F. Kartali maintaining an “interracial pertinent information no later Actors’ Equity Association Bill Capizzi Zale Kessler company” of actors. than Friday, February 12, 2016. 557 West Randolph Street Judy Carne Carole Ann Lewis Inherent in the award is • To obtain an electronic Chicago, IL 60661 Eddie Carroll Leslie Loeb acknowledgement that the submission form, go to Remember, the deadline for Lilyan Chauvin David London recipient has an exemplary actorsequity.org and click on the receipt for all 2016 Rosetta Al Checco Denise Lor record in both the hiring of “Rosetta LeNoire Award” link. LeNoire Award Nominations Sterling Clark Joan Mankin ethnic minorities (including • To obtain a hard copy (including the submission forms Ralph M Clift Bob McAndrew female actors, actors with submission form, contact Luther and all nomination materials) is George Coe Danny McNie disabilities and senior actors); Goins at 312-641-0393, ext. Friday, February 12, 2016. The John Connell Barbara Meek and should have a working 237, or award will be presented at Catherine E. Coulson Aurelia Mills relationship (and a history) [email protected]. Equity’s Annual Membership Yvonne Craig Martin Milner with Actors’ Equity • All nominee supporting Meeting on Friday, April 8, 2016. Paddy Croft Dick Moore Association. documentation, including the For more information, A. Donald Cross Dale Muchmore The deadline for submission form, is limited to contact Luther Goins at 312- Ron Curameng Maureen O’Hara nominations is Friday, ten pages. (Any nomination 641-0393, Ext. 237, or by email Diana Douglas Joshua Park February 12, 2016. over ten pages will be edited at [email protected]. Susan Duffy Natasha Parry Chris Eann Donald Perkins Vivien Eng Frances Peter Terrence Evans Gary Plantiff Applications Being Accepted for Roger John Flynn Anthony Ridley Fred C. Forsman Alex Rocco Sturtevant Musical Theatre Award Andrew Gerado Jack W. Schmidt he Roger Sturtevant taped audition, written Applications are available at Jay Gerber Victoria Stern Musical Theatre Award, recommendations and a actorsequity.org. Submissions Herb Goldstein Leon B. Stevens Tgiven under the completed application. A panel are accepted from Jan. 1 Sondra Gorney Wesley Stevens auspices of Actors Equity of judges, including through March 15, 2016. The Malcolm B. Grant Jeremiah K. Tatum Foundation, is available to actors/members of the Actors award was established in 2005 Rosemary Hartup Tom Toner current Equity Membership Equity Foundation and and is supported by donations Dennis Hearn Honey Waldman Candidates (EMCs) who have members of the Casting Society from friends and family of noted Ann Hegira Frederick Walters demonstrated outstanding of America, select the recipients. casting director Roger Victor R. Helou Alan Weeks abilities in the musical theater The panel strictly adheres to the Sturtevant. Edena Hines Alan Willig field. principles of non-traditional For more information, contact Brenda C. Huggins Michael F. Wolf The $1,000 award is casting and actively encourages Joan Glazer at 212-869-1242 or Bruce Hyde Wallace W. Wood presented to one male and one actors of all cultural email jglazer@ female EMC and is based on a backgrounds to apply. actorsequityfoundation.org.

Harold G. Baldridge, a first professional role. His credits ostage Letters to The Editor U.S.P 49 Letters received from paid-up members on subjects of concern to Equity members will be considered graduate of the Neighborhood as director and designer for publication in Equity News, provided that they are no greater than 175 words in length. Letters Playhouse School of the Theatre, included seminal productions of selected for publication may be edited for space requirements. Actors’ Equity Association reserves the was executive director of the The Blood Knot and The Toilet right to decline to publish letters at its sole discretion. When multiple letters on the same topic are and the Slave. Recently he submitted, the Editor may decide to select a smaller number of representative letters for publication. Playhouse 1980–2012 and then Letters must be signed and must provide preferred contact information for verification purposes, but Executive Director Emeritus. He taught Shakespeare and names may be withheld from publication in certain limited circumstances, at a member’s request. was a Meisner and Shakespeare directed at the Acting Studio. Opinions expressed in Letters to the Editor are not necessarily those of Actors’ Equity Association. acting teacher, set and lighting — Ashlie Atkinson designer, theater director. In Memoriam Stage Manager Leslie Loeb Toyota, Boeing, Nike and Graduates under his tutelage My great friend Alan Weeks (8/10/58-9/26/2015) received Hewlett-Packard. include Ashlie Atkinson, Brian suddenly passed away on Oct. her Equity card from Circle Leslie met her (future) Geraghty, Allison Janney, Dylan Office Closing 10, 2015. Alan had a Repertory Company. spouse and life partner, Vicki McDermott and Sherie Rene All Equity offices will close distinguished Broadway résumé Broadway: Chronicle of a Pardee, during the Broadway Scott. Prior to the NP, Mr. B was early on Thursday, December that went on even longer than Death Foretold, Once on This run of Redwood Curtain by AD of Theatre Calgary for six 24, 2015, and remain closed the first act of Les Miz. Island (both directed by Graciela Lanford Wilson. This play years, where he directed 30 on Friday, December 25 in Up in that heavenly sing-a- Daniele), Anything Goes (with premiered in Seattle, where productions, including Walsh, observance of Christmas. The long, my faith tells me that Cab Patti LuPone), House of Blue Pardee introduced D’art Equus, Hamlet & Rosencrantz & Chicago, Los Angeles and Calloway, obviously one of Leaves, Musical Comedy (a shepherd mix dog) to acting. Guildenstern Are Dead (played Orlando offices will close early Alan’s major influences if you Murders of 1940. Off-Broadway: D’art was instrumental in the in repertory), Threepenny Opera on Thursday, December 31 ever saw him perform, so dug Hello Again, Square One and two meeting in NYC. and Jacques Brel. and will be closed all day on Alan’s way with “There’s A Boat Baby Makes Seven. Ford Leslie was diagnosed with From 1965-72, he was AD of Friday, January 1, 2016, in Dat’s Leavin’ Soon for New York” Theater D.C.: Captains ovarian cancer and fought the Woodstock Playhouse in NY, observance of New Year’s. that he took Alan to a Chinese Courageous. bravely for three years. She died where he directed nearly 60 The New York office will be banquet on him. Alan had a In Seattle, Leslie managed at home — surrounded by family productions, including West Side closed all day on December follow-spot sized weakness for productions at the Intiman and friends thanks to Death with Story, …Marat/Sade, Cabaret, 31, 2015, and January 1, Chinese food. Theatre and Seattle Repertory Dignity in Washington State. A Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf, 2016. All offices will be closed Alan Weeks, I will always love Company while striking out on lunar eclipse immediately Six Characters… and The on Monday, January 18, 2016, me some you. her own “Go Productions” to call followed her departure. Importance of Being Earnest, for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. — Paul Villani industrial events for Microsoft, — William Joseph Barnes featuring Diane Keaton in her