APRIL “Success?What is it? 2011 I do not find it in the Volume 96 applause of the theatre; it Number 3 lies rather in the satisfaction of accomplishment.” EQUITYNEWS — Anna Pavlova A Publication of Actors’ Equity Association • NEWS FOR THE THEATRE PROFESSIONAL • www.actorsequity.org • Periodicals Postage Paid at New York, NY and Additional Mailing Offices

Reminder AEA’s Council Elections: Annual Membership Meeting is Get Ready toVote Friday,April 8, 2011 in All Regions EA’s 2011 Council Elec- doesn’t get caught in your spam ballot, go to The Eastern, Central and Western Regions will be tions are about to get filter. The email will come from www.actorsequity.org and find connected by telephonic hook-up for the April 8 Annual Aunderway. On Monday, actorsequityhelp the link for online voting. Enter Meeting so that members in all Regions may be able to hear April 11, 2011, ballots will be dis- @electionservicescorp.com. your unique internet log-in num- statements of candidates running for Council. Hook-ups will tributed by Election Services So- Vote Online: Even if you did ber (from your paper ballot) and begin at 2:30 p.m. (Eastern Time) lutions to all paid-up members. not pre-register for E-Voting, you your Member ID # (printed on The Eastern Regional Meeting convenes at 2 p.m. There are three ways to vote: can still vote online. the front of your membership (Eastern Time) in the Council Room on the 14th Floor of the E-Voting: If you registered for When you receive your paper card) and follow online voting in- Equity Building, 165 West 46th Street, New York, NY. E-Voting prior to March 24, you structions. The Central Regional Meeting begins at 1 p.m. (Central will not receive a paper ballot. In- Statements Paper Ballot: Paper Ballots Time) in the Member Center on the 1st Floor of the Equity stead, at approximately 11:50 from will be mailed out on April 11. Fill Building, 557 West Randolph, Chicago, IL. p.m. on April 11, you will receive Candidates out your paper ballot and return The Western Regional Meeting starts at 11 a.m. (Western an email from Election Services per the instructions provided. Time) in the Bellamy Board Room on the 5th Floor of the Solutions with instructions for for Election NOTE: All ballots must be Equity Office, 6755 Hollywood Blvd., Los Angeles, CA. voting online. to Council received by 5 p.m. (Eastern) Make sure this message (see page 5) on Friday, May 20, 2011. Your IncomeTax Let’s Not and Say We Did pharoplasty (eye lift). In fact, By Sandra Karas enjoy your Pilates, yoga, spin cosmetic proce- VITA Site Coordinator classes and general exercise dures are not regimens, but don’t include the even deductible t can’t be repeated too often gym membership as a business as medical ex- that certain expenses most expense. The few exceptions to penses, unless of us incur are simply NOT I this rule are the specialty class- they are pre- deductible on our income tax es your gym offers that can be scribed by a returns, regardless of what your considered performance relat- physician to cor- roommate or uncle or the swing ed (dance classes, martial arts, rect an acciden- on your tour had to say! We fencing and the like). Keep tal, traumatic or hear them every day and we track of those individual re- congenital de- must respond with the same ceipts as they are considered fect or disease. disappointing answers. So, on performance training. General If you feel that to what your acting coach (or toning and fitness workouts, un- surgical or other your dad’s golf buddy or your fortunately, do not qualify. And, cosmetic en- former professor) insists are tax in spite of the name, health hancements or deductions, that AREN’T: clubs do not qualify as medical procedures 1. Gym Memberships – Equity Supports Workers' expenses either, unless specifi- will help you This is a popular expense and cally prescribed by a medical earn extra mon- an equally non-deductible one Rights to Collectively Bargain practitioner to cure a medical ey in the biz, for many of our members. Stay- Actors' Equity Association supports the right of all public and private sector problem or disease. (If it makes unions to collectively bargain for wages, benefits and working conditions. understand that ing in shape and transforming you feel any better, firefighters These rights are a cornerstone of the American workforce and are fundamental you’ll be doing it yourself in those very important to the labor movement. These rights are also the foundation of Actors' Equity. and police officers aren’t al- on your own and highly employable ways Pictured above are AEA members and staff at a Wisconsin rally. lowed this deduction either.) nickel with no may be the tickets to more 2. Hair Cuts – Your hair may deduction to work, but are considered per- be one of the most important 3. Hair Coloring - Same rule is clearly associated with a cur- help you heal. sonal expenses by the IRS. So, aspects of how you present holds for color maintenance as rent job and is for use on the 6. Audition Clothing - This yourself, especially if you pass for the cuts and styles. Unless stage. Again, we find the main- is a favorite among our mem- yourself off as St. Jimmy at all you have to pay for it while tenance of an actor’s look, the bers who insist they wouldn’t be of your auditions (androgyny is you’re employed as an actor, requirements to successfully caught dead in anything they totally in these days), but main- it’s considered a personal ex- audition for on-camera work have in their closets and insist taining that look for your agent pense and not deductible. The- and stylized performances that on deducting clothing they are or while you’re auditioning and atres, studios and other venues require more than average forced to wear just to get work. interviewing for work is simply generally provide for hair care, street make-up to be neces- We feel your pain, but cannot not a business deduction. But wigs, cuts, coloring, etc., so let sary, but caution the deduction provide any relief on your 1040 your agent made you do it!!! them do the heavy lifting when of those expenses.What we – sorry! The government ap- We know and we sympathize, you’re working. recommend is that you pur- proach to this is that every but you can’t take it off your 4. Make-Up - Who still buys chase or stock your “kit” every working American conforms to taxes. There’s an exception to “theatrical make-up” these time you get a gig.This will al- a dress code of one kind or an- this (as there always seems to days? Greasepaint and nose low you to associate the make- other and is not allowed to be) for the cost of your hair putty have given way to more up, false eyelashes, and other deduct the cost of business or care only when you are work- natural and non-specialty prod- applications with a specific job, (continued on page 2) ing and that’s assuming the ucts in the theatre, but actors one that requires you to wear producer or employer does not are still required to provide their make-up under bright, artificial Index provide you with a wig or a hair own kits for theatrical jobs. stage lighting. (Note: most tele- Your income tax ...... 1 stylist (which they usually do). Generally, grooming is consid- vision and film gigs will provide And we would argue that ered a personal expense and make-up and a stylist, so Legislative Corner...... 2 make-up and hair care for your men and women in every walk there’s usually no requirement From the President...... 3

NEWS head shots would also be de- of life engage in some kind of to buy make-up for those jobs.) ductible, but that’s a one- time applications of grooming prod- 5. Cosmetic Surgery and Letters...... 3 expense as well. Maintain your ucts in their everyday lives. Dentistry - No tax savings Theatre Spotlight ...... 4 hair style, but don’t tell your ac- Congress thinks this is just an- here, my friends, just the sheer UITY countant about it unless you other personal choice and pleasure of showing your par- Candidates’ statements ...... 5 Q needed to keep it up while you makes no provision for it on the ents the new veneers, or your

165 West 46th Street New York, NY 10036 Address Service Requested Second Class Postage Paid in New York, NY National news ...... 11 E were on a gig. tax return, unless your make-up agent the rejuvenating ble- 2 / EQUITY news APRIL 2011

Your Income Tax you have some method for ex- plaining your deduction. Re- Workers’ Rights Under Continued from page 1 member, the onus is on you to support the business expense work attire – so why should you and every actor is different, so Siege; Health Care Act be any different? The rule is don’t rely on what your friends that if it can be considered are claiming – rely on your own Under Attack “street wear,” it’s not a business experience. The exception (isn’t expense. The exception to this for political activity without writ- officials are looking at ways to there always one?) to this rule Legislativet press time, state law- rule is for specialty costumes or ten authorization and would al- defund the health care act. is those items that are second makers across the na- uniforms (dance clothes and low members to cancel their There are currently five provi- or duplicate purchases (eg: you Ation were pushing shoes, clown wear, doctor or membership at any time. In Iowa sions of a law that would be buy a new laptop for travel or forward bills that will directly im- nurse uniforms, police or fire and Michigan, there are bills subject to annual appropriations simply to upgrade your capabili- pact the working lives of union uniforms, etc.). If you provide that attack and eliminate collec- review, if passed. The areas un- ties, but you keep your current members in both the private and these specialized kinds of tive bargaining rights for public der attack are: grants for state- one for personal use – the sec- public sector. It’s well document- clothing on your gig, you may sector. There are more than 100 based health insurance ex- ond computer may be 100% ed that the Governor of Wiscon- deduct them. You may also business, if you indeed use it sin pushed through changes to bills pending in nearly 25 states changes; the Prevention and deduct the cost of dance wear that way). Our Stage Managers a law that allowed him to move that could change the way Public Health Fund; construction generally, provided it is special- often have duplicate equipment a bill through that would severe- unions function and adversely and capital costs fund for ty dance clothing and not just and can deduct the “second” ly limit the rights of some public affect the lives of their members school-based health centers; the tights you bought at Macy’s. purchases as business expens- sector unions (while not attack- while the focus on corporate state grants for sex education You may also deduct the cost of es. Keep those current items ing those unions that had shown greed and the causes of the and “personal responsibility ed- cleaning and laundering your and it may make life easier support for his candidacy). In In- economic downturn are redirect- ucation;” and grants to establish own clothing if you have to when it comes to tax time. diana, there are numerous laws ed from Wall Street to middle or expand primary care residen- wear it on a job and the em- We’ll continue to monitor the that will limit the ability of private class workers. At the federal lev- cy programs in teaching health ployer does not provide a laun- trends and education in our au- (contin- sector unions to hold elections, el, some members of the House centers. dry allowance. dits and keep you posted. We collect dues and more. In Flori- have made it clear that they are Watch for regular reports and 7. 100% of Telephone hope to convince the IRS that da, there is a movement to eyeing the salaries of federal updates in Equity News and on Charges - How to apportion? more of these non-deductible move a bill through that would workers. Equity's website: www.actorse- Therein lies the rub! With a few expenses can be loosened for prohibit dues money to be used Also at press time, elected quity.org. Paleolithic exceptions, most of members of the entertainment us no longer have land lines industry. and use only one telephone for personal and business purpos- Filling out your W-4 form NY Triangle Factory Fire Remembered; es. The rule states that the sec- If you’ve ever been caught ond line may be deducted as a short and owe tax when filing Impacted Labor Movement in US business expense on tax re- your returns, you know how you he Triangle Shirtwaist 9th floor a stair- turns – period. But if you don’t wish you had more withholding Factory fire in New York way exit was have that second phone ac- last year. While you can’t do TCity on March 25, 1911 locked, and the count, you can argue that your anything about last year’s with- was one of the largest industrial elevators, working one phone account is used for holding taxes, you can change disasters in the history of the for a while, could- business and hope for the best. things this year. When you get city.The fire, which killed 146 n’t handle the You would then apportion your a gig, you fill out a W-4 form to garment workers, most of them crowds and the charges according to your busi- tell your employer whether or young, immigrant women, led weight and the ness use of the single phone. not you’re married and how to legislation requiring im- rails eventually There’s no easy way to do this many dependents you support. proved safety standards and buckled from the except to keep a representative Our advice is to complete the helped spur the growth of the heat. The Fire log of your own as to how many form with your actual informa- International Ladies’ Garment Department ar- calls you make or receive in a tion. This means that if you are Workers’ Union, which fought rived but their lad- week that are business-related not married, check single. If you for better and safer working ders only reached versus those that are personal. do not support any dependents, to the 6th floor. Do this a few times a year and write zero or one at the most. Many workers you’ll have some method Again, you should not rely on jumped to their whereby you can justify the por- your roommate or your pals in deaths trying to tion you deducted for business. line at the last EPA for advice in escape as horri- Your invoice will probably have this area, unless of course, fied crowds on a breakdown of the calls and they want to pay your tax next the street you can do the math from there. year. When in doubt, check with Firefighters try to contain the Triangle watched. Other Any specialty features, such as a tax expert before you submit Shirtwaist Factory fire. workers remained a data package are deductible if your withholding forms. trapped inside you purchased them for staying conditions for that industry. and died of burns in touch with your agent, web The VITA office is open Mon- EQUITYNEWS The Triangle factory was or asphyxiation. site, on line services, etc., so days, Wednesdays, Thursdays The fire became a rallying don’t overlook those additional and Fridays (no Tuesdays) from DICK MOORE housed on the 8th, 9th and Editor: cry for the international labor charges. 10:30 to 4 on the 14th floor of Associate Editor: HELAINE FELDMAN 10th floors of a building on the corner of Washington Place movement and many of today’s 8. 100% of Business the New York Equity building. Equity News Advisory Committee and Greene Street, one block fire safety laws were enacted in Equipment - The same rule for Telephone 212-921-2548. San- Christine Toy Johnson, Chair response to this tragedy. apportioning your phone dra Karas is Site (Eastern) east of Washington Square Special events, memorials, charges applies to equipment Coordinator/Director of VITA, Nancy Daly (Western) Park.The fire broke out on the Diane Dorsey (Central) 8th floor.Workers raced to the books and a documentary aired that you use both personally Secretary-Treasurer of Equity, a Nicole Flender (Eastern) fire escape, but it was poorly on Public Broadcasting cele- and professionally and this member of SAG and AFTRA Bruce Alan Johnson (Eastern) anchored, couldn’t hold the brated the centennial of this one’s even tougher to calculate and the embarrassed customer Kevin McMahon (Western) weight and collapsed. On the disaster. because there’s no handy in- of not one, but two, land line Liz Pazik (Central) voice to reference your busi- telephone accounts. Barbara Roberts (Western) ness use. Again, keep a repre- Buzz Roddy (Eastern) sentative log of your use EQUITY NEWS (ISSN: 00924520) is (a week’s worth of “log” kept a published monthly except for com- Have EPAs bined issues in Jan./Feb., July/Aug., 2011 Annual Election Calendar few times during the year); you can do it by observing the Oct.,/Nov., by Actors' Equity Friday, April 8, 2011 Annual National Membership Meet- Helped You? Association, 165 West 46th Street, hours you spend using the ing (All Regions via teleconference). New York, NY 10036. Telephone: equipment for business purpos- Equity News is doing a series Candidate Speeches. (212) 869-8530. Periodicals es versus the personal stuff you called “EPA Success Stories” fo- postage paid at New York, NY. and ad- Monday, April 11, 2011 Distribution of ballots (from balloting cusing on members who have ditional mailing offices. Copyright do with family and friends. company). gotten work as a result of at- 2003, Actors' Equity Association. Computers, iPads, printers, Subscription price for non-members Friday, May 20, 2011 Deadline for receipt of ballots. monitors, Droids, iPhones, etc. tending EPAs. If EPAs have of Actors' Equity Association: $25 per Saturday, May 21, 2011 Tabulation Day. are in this category. Observe helped you get jobs and you year. Postmaster: Send address would like to be interviewed for (Elections for Non-Councillor seats on the Central Regional your use habits and note them, changes to Equity News, 165 West this series, contact Helaine 46th St., New York, NY 10036. Board will begin when Council elections have concluded.) then compare the business time to the personal use and Feldman at [email protected]. APRIL 2011 EQUITY news / 3

holding the titles of Associate From the BRIEF NOTES Producer, Executive Producer, founder of the e.t.c. Company, PRESIDENT • President Barack Obama founder of the national touring presented the National Medal of company, co-founder of the Arts to Equity member Meryl Toronto branch and Producer Marching in Madison Streep at a White House cere- Emeritus. She also served on the mony on March 2, 2011. “The board of the Victory Gardens By Nick Wyman tatives of our respective unions. “We all know how tight budg- National Medal of Arts recipients Theatre, was a supporter of the The first day I spent in Madison, ets are; politics aside, perhaps n what can only be represent the many vibrant and Chicago Academy for the Arts I could not help but notice the each side needs to give a little. described as union-busting, diverse art forms thriving in and was instrumental in the de- camaraderie among everyone in However, I believe it is undemo- Wisconsin’s Governor America,” said National Endow- velopment of many Off-Loop the- I town. The energy was bustling, cratic to make decisions without Walker last month pushed ment for the Arts Chairman Roc- atres in the 1970s and ‘80s. surprisingly positive, and nearly fair negotiations and humane co Landesman, whose organiza- through legislation stripping • Chanhassen Dinner The- every shop, even chain-stores, conversation. In my mind it was tion manages the selection atres, Chanhassen, MN, held a state union workers of the right displayed a sign in support of the least I could do to show my process. “From criticism to litera- food drive for the entire month of to collective bargaining. [For my workers. There were signs all support for what Wisconsin ture, music, poetry, sculpture and March to benefit Minnesota views on this subject, see my around town with slogans such unions are going through. theatre, these honorees’ devotion FoodShare, a local community essay “Which Side Are You On?” as “It’s not about the money.” I Whether we want to face it or to shaping and sharing American service program. Every dollar giv- on our website: kept asking myself, how did not, we must stand up for our- art is unrivaled, and I join the en to the annual campaign goes www.actorsequity.org.] Among these people vote in such an ex- selves in times like these be- President and the country in directly to 300 local food shelves the Equity members protesting saluting them.” Among the other to purchase food for the hungry. this was a former castmate of tremist? cause once unions are attacked honorees was Robert Brustein, • Equity member Michelle mine, Actors’ Equity/Alan “On Wednesday February 23, in one state, it is just a matter of founder of the Yale Repertory Dyer, has launched Sur- Eisenberg Award winner Janine as a proud member of Actors’ time before our own union is Theatre and the American vivalJobsForActors.com. DiVita, who describes her Equity, I, along with cast mem- threatened. Repertory Theatre. Since November 2010, 250 re- experience: bers and stagehands from our “The audiences in Madison • Chicago is mourning the sumes have been posted and “Sometimes things line up in show, NYC and Chicago AEA were incredibly supportive and passing, on February 3, 2011, of actors can apply for part time the best way possible. I am cur- reps, Wisconsin actors and you could sense that they all Joyce Sloane, known affection- and flexible work. It’s free and rently on a National Tour, and stagehands, marched together needed a good laugh. It was a ately as the mother of The Sec- Michelle also offers tips and our schedule brought us to to show our support for our wonderful feeling to perform for ond City. She was 80. Ms. Sloan tricks on the blog. Actors can Madison, Wisconsin during the unions, for the representation of a community that needed a was associated with Second City create up to five different re- height of the protest against the worker, and for the funda- night to forget the drama in their for all but one of its 50 years, sumes, based on their skills sets. Governor Walker’s efforts to mental right to democratic com- lives, and this made my job as strip state union workers of the munication. We all crammed an actor feel very worthwhile. right to collective bargaining. into the Capitol Building to listen My time spent in Madison is an A Look Back @Equity Milestones Upon hearing the news and to speakers. Members of the experience I will never forget, knowing we were to be right in firefighters’ union, who are not and I have never been more the heart of the chaos, many ac- yet directly affected by the new proud to be a part of Actors’ Eq- 75 Years Ago the effect that “beginning January tors and stagehands in my cast bill, showed their support by uity Association—a union that 1, 1962 no members of Actors’ April 1936 decided that we wanted to take marching through the streets recognizes and protects the dig- Equity shall perform in any the- part in the protests as represen- playing their bagpipes. nity of actors. “ • Approximately 250 mem- atre where discrimination or seg- bers attend an informal meeting regation is practiced against the on April 3 to express concern actors or patrons of the theatre over possible reductions in the by reason of race, color or creed,” U.S.Postage Letters to The Editor number of actors to be employed is referred to Legal Counsel. 44 Letters received from paid up members on subjects of concern to Equity members will be considered and for the government’s Federal published as soon as possible. The Editor reserves the right to limit letters to 150 words and to select one Theatre Project. Members pres- 25 Years Ago or two representative letters when many similar letters are received. Letters must be signed, but names ent feel that Equity should do April 1986 will be withheld on request for those letters which may affect members’ employment. Signatures will not what it can to protect the jobs of • Equity endorses hearings on be withheld on letters antagonistic or accusatory, either implied or expressed, against other members. its members. Members also dis- the real estate crisis in New York, Opinions expressed in Letters to the Editor are not necessarily those of Actors’ Equity Association. cuss the possibility of Equity in- which has seen a building boom augurating a more vigorous in the City displace small arts effort to organize actors in the groups for high-rise offices and IN PRAISE OF VITA A TERRIFIC EXPERIENCE community lost a beloved field of radio broadcasting. residential buildings. Dear Editor: Dear Editor: member on March 1, 2011 • As the result of a situation • Members are urged to con- I have been coming to VITA I was thrilled to note on the when Karen Errington Fritts where the cast of a play decides tact their Senators and Repre- for 25 years as a member of front page of [the December] passed away after battling a re- among themselves that half a sentatives regarding a proposed SAG-AFTRA-AEA. At first the AEA newsletter that there were currence of breast cancer. A week’s salary would be accept- tax bill as it relates to freelance volunteers worked with calcula- openings for members-at-large vocal powerhouse with a larger able payment for the filming of a employees working under multi- tors and a #2 pencil with rubber on the Nominating Committee than life personality both on- Broadway play, Council passes a ple employers in the entertain- erasers. The office was an open for the Councillor election. One stage and off, Karen graced rule “which will govern all such ment industry. As currently area and everyone sat close to- of the many perks was the op- the stages of virtually every cases in the future and the terms proposed the bill is especially gether. Nevertheless, it was a portunity to learn more about Equity house in the Kansas are set at one week’s salary as a detrimental to performers. Mem- warm and friendly place. the workings of the Union. The City area, including Quality Hill minimum for each day” of filming. bers are asked to protest the As the years past, everything best thing of all was a specifica- Playhouse, American Heart- The actors, however, “have the elimination of itemized deduc- changed. The volunteers were tion that the prospective mem- land Theatre, New Theatre right, if they so desire, to bargain tions; the change in deductibility using computers and each year ber did not have to know a great Restaurant, Unicorn Theatre, for more.” of out of town living expenses; there were upgrades in the soft- deal about Union components to Kansas City Actors Theatre 50 Years Ago the taxing of unemployment in- ware. I thought this was the serve on the Committee. I was and Heart of America Shake- surance from the first dollar and modern age of technology. eminently qualified. speare Festival. Her last per- April 1961 elimination of tax averaging. (In Today, I walk into a brand I can’t express what a terrific formance was a stirring por- • Ralph Bellamy is elected to a October, President Reagan signs new world. Technology to the experience being on the Com- trayal of John Adams in an all- fourth three-year term as Equity the Tax Reform Act of 1986, the fullest. The office has been up- mittee has been. I have indeed female version of 1776. President. Ballots are tabulated most sweeping revision of the graded to private cubes and is learned a tremendous amount Karen leaves behind her by a Tellers’ Committee, but the Federal Tax Code in more than totally professional looking. The about the breadth of the work husband, actor David Fritts; race for Recording Secretary is 30 years. Equity and the per- volunteers now work with flat our Union does for us, about the son Jack, and a host of friends so close that a recount is ordered forming unions claim a victory as screen monitors and high-speed high qualifications of its leader- and ballots are re-tabulated by the creation of the “Performing and colleagues who will miss printers. Most importantly— ship, and about the opportuni- the American Arbitration Associa- Artist” category recognizes the her voice, her laughter and her everything is paperless. Forms ties to be a part of the process. I tion. The Tellers’ Committee rec- special needs of low-income per- vivacious personality. are now e-mailed directly to the would encourage anyone who is ommends that “in future, formers.) Contributions to her medical IRS— and you are given a disk able to serve on this, or any oth- elections of this importance be fund may be made by linking to placed in the hands of a profes- Ten Years Ago as your backup. WOW!!!! er committee, to do so. the Kansas City Actors Theatre VITA has grown over the What an exciting time to be sional accounting firm.” April 2001 website (www.kcactors.org) and • One hundred forty-six new years. I honor the change and around and to be of service. clicking on “Errington-Fritts • Equity signs its first contract members join the Association, the hard work all the VITA volun- Joann Yeoman Fund” through May 1, 2011. created exclusively for use in Las bringing membership to more teers and staff members do to Licia Watson Vegas, covering the production IN MEMORIAM than 12,000. make my life (financially speak- Kansas City Area Liaison of Men Are From Mars, Women Dear Editor: • A recommendation from the ing) better. Thank you for VITA. Are From Venus at the Flamingo The Kansas City theatre (continued on page 12) Annual Membership Meeting to Sudana Bobatoon Las Vegas Hotel and Casino. 4 / EQUITY news APRIL 2011

Eastern Region Central Region forming Arts is now the second largest Pan-Asian performing The Other What’s Nu at Mu? arts organization in the U.S. and is home not only to Theater Mu, u Performing Arts years of financial planning and Attraction but also to Mu Daiko, a Japanese in Minneapolis, using Guest Artist contracts, we Taiko drumming group. MN is not new. It were finally ready to have the in Freeport, M Mu Performing Arts presents was founded as Theater Mu conversation to join. By going Eq- four shows annually—three main- Maine in 1992. What is new is the uity, Mu can now offer actors the stage Theater Mu productions fact that the company just opportunity to start building up .L. Bean is not the only Festival becoming an Equity combining traditional Asian and finished its first year as an Equity points to join the Union at some attraction in Freeport, theatre from its inception have Western theatre forms in both theatre, operating as a Small point in their career. They don’t Maine. True, the giant re- been tremendous. Briefly, these new works and recognized L Professional Theatre and is look- have to go some place else to tailer has been there since 1912 manifest themselves through the pieces from the standard canon ing ahead to its second year on get their union card. We see this and generates over a billion dol- quality of talent, the of Asian theatre, and one main- an Equity SPT 2 contract. as another way in which we are lars in sales worldwide, but professionalism of stage stage Mu Daiko concert. Mu’s management and production “For an Asian American the- Freeport Shakespeare Festival, outreach programs office, and the ability through a atre company to go Equity in the which arrived in 2009 is making and performances Midwest is a major accomplish- higher standard to attract also bring theatre its mark, as well. Of course, L.L. ment if not a minor miracle,” says fantastic corporate sponsorship to schools, col- Bean is a big part of this. Artistic Director Rick Shiomi. and a loyal audience that comes leges, community “In August, 2008, we “Twenty years ago when Mu with higher expectations. I am organizations and approached L.L. Bean with the started, there were only a handful excitedly returning to the corporations idea of presenting free of Asian Americans interested in Freeport Shakespeare Festival throughout the up- Shakespeare on their outdoor stage acting in the Twin Cities. for its second season having per Midwest. concert stage—a venue that has Through regular main stage pro- seen all of these benefits develop Randy Reyes long featured concerts on ductions, ongoing training work- during our wonderful inaugural has been a mem- Saturday nights in the summer,” shops, and the promotion of our Arnold Filzardo, Randy Reyes, Eric “Pogi” season under the leadership of ber of Equity for 12 says Festival Artistic Director and actors for outside performance Sumangil and Sherwin Resurreccion in the Artistic Director Julie George- Mu Performing Arts production of The years and has Founder Julie George-Carlson. opportunities, Mu has developed Carlson.” Romance of Magno Rubio. (Photo: Michael worked with Mu “Once L.L. Bean agreed to the an enviable list of talent and we Myles C. Hatch, Production Daniel 2009) Performing Arts for idea, there was never a question are now regularly contacted by Stage Manager of The Tempest, the past five years. about whether we would become other companies for actor refer- fulfilling our mission to provide adds: “Having been an Equity “I am thrilled that Mu has taken rals and audition postings.” Asian American actors more pro- Stage Manager for 20 years (the its next professional step,” he Mr. Shiomi adds: “As our talent fessional opportunities. And as past ten working in Maine), I am says. “This step coincides with pool increased in size and artistic our talent pool grows and more inspired by new opportunities for the artistic growth that Mu has prowess, some of our best actors people join, we have the infra- both myself and my fellow Equity experienced within the last five began joining Equity. As more op- structure to support them in their members. Being a rural state, years. It’s great to officially have a portunities started opening up for careers.” Maine has a limited number of home at Mu, after years of spe- them in bigger houses like The Mu (pronounced MOO) is the Equity theatres, causing our cial contracts. Having an Equity Guthrie Theater and other local Korean pronunciation of the Chi- resident membership to often Asian American theatre company Equity companies, we realized nese character for the look to other states for in the Midwest is a landmark for that in order to continue using our shaman/artist/warrior who con- employment. With the addition of American theatre and I am hon- best talent, we had to be working nects the heavens and the earth Freeport Shakespeare Festival, ored to be part of it.” there is now more union work in with the Union. After three plus through the tree of life. Mu Per- Maine. Last summer I was the Production Stage Manager for Western Region other parts of the country and The Tempest and Freeport wish to return to Dallas by getting Equity members Dennis Shakespeare Festival pulled out Dallas Theatre is Movin’ Up cast in an Uptown show at the McLernon as Prospero with all the stops. As an outdoor Kalita Humphreys Theatre.” Jonathan P. Guimont as ptown Players was found- productions,” says Co-Producer Antonio in FSF’s production of theatre, they employed body Former Councillor Pam The Tempest. mics, a full orchestra, three 16- ed in 2001 to provide qual- Jeff Rane. “When we first started, Dougherty, Dallas/Fort Worth foot tall puppets, a chorus of Uity theatre to the Uptown our small black box venue al- Area Liaison, has worked at an Equity theatre. The success of children and a cast the size of and Oak Lawn communities of lowed us to operate under the Uptown Players, and says, “I’m the company depended on which you do not often see in Dallas. The first season began Dallas Umbrella Contract, which thrilled with Uptown for having setting a professional standard theatre today. For an Equity with four productions running meant we were limited in the made the move from the for every element, and that Stage Manager, this is like a kid nine performances each over a number of Equity contracts we Umbrella Agreement up to an included using professional in a candy shop. The working three-week period. Since then, could have because of the SPT contract. It means that actors. We want to be known as a environment is supportive and the season, the venue, the audi- amount of revenue we could Equity members are gaining place where actors can not only collaborative and I have found it ences and the Equity casts have bring in and because of the limi- more work and health weeks and earn a living wage and work in a very fulfilling to be part of a grown. Over the years, too, the tations of that agreement. By that’s really important to the comfortable, safe environment, process that is not only the theatre has garnered over 25 making the move to the historic community. Uptown moved into a we want to be seen as an creation of theatre, but also Kalita Humphreys larger space and almost tripled outstanding employer who values molding a new performing arts Theatre in Dallas their Equity commitment. It was a the work of professionals— organization. It is all a testament and becoming a big step for them and they’ve whether they are actors, to the great work of founding Small Professional been doing a great job. I worked designers, directors or Artistic Director Julie George- Theatre Equity at Uptown during the first season technicians. We are proud of our Carlson and Managing Director company, we now they were on a full contract and local performing arts community Bud Carlson who made it all have the ability to was really impressed with how and we are very happy to be able happen. Julie and Bud have hire more profes- much the producers and staff go to offer employment to so many everyone’s best interests at heart sional actors, ac- out of their way to make sure all creative people.” and are willing and able to work tresses and stage their actors’ needs are met.” The town is an ideal location with the actors, technicians, staff, managers to en- Equity member Wendy Welch Melissa Farmer, Mary Margaret Pyatt and AEA sure that we have for a professional theatre board and community to create members Pam Dougherty and BJ Cleveland in has also worked at Uptown company due to its position as a the best possible product.” Regrets Only at Uptown Players. (Photo: Mike selected the best Players, and says: “I have worked prime tourist destination—thanks As for the future, Ms. George- Morgan) possible cast. under several union contracts for to L.L. Bean. According to the Carlson says, “We know that it There is a tremen- Uptown Players over the past few Freeport Economic Development will take a while to add the Leon Rabin Awards from the Dal- dous amount of talent among the years, and have found the Corporation, Freeport welcomes number of contracts we’d like to las Theatre League, which cele- growing number of Equity mem- producers to demonstrate 3.5 million visitors spending over offer every year, but we are off to brate diversity and excellence of bers in the Dallas area and by of- respect for actors and $300 million annually. The first a healthy start. In addition to our live theatre in Dallas; several hun- fering them more local work op- professionalism. They are now production of the Freeport LOA for the main stage festival dred “Column” Awards honoring portunities, the community con- taking the required steps to offer Shakespeare Festival, The venue, we now have the the best theatrical productions in tinues to grow and thrive. This is the EMC program and to be Tempest, produced under an opportunity of producing a new, the Dallas-Fort Worth area; 14 very important to the continued positioned as one of the leading Equity Letter of Agreement (LOA) year-round venue for smaller Theatre Critics Forum Awards, success of Uptown Players and professional theatres in the referenced to the LORT contract, scale productions. We are excited and has been named the best the other professional theatre Dallas/Ft. Worth area. In these opened to a crowd of over 2,500 about being able to offer a few theatre company by the Dallas companies in the Dallas area. times, when funding and budgets people in four nights. Guest Artist contracts for the next Voice Readers (2006-2008) and Having our audition notices post- are being cut and the strength of Dennis McLernon, an Equity couple of seasons in the new by the Dallas Observer (2004, ed on the Equity website (hotline) unions is being threatened, member in The Tempest venue, and we expect to move 2005). has also increased our exposure Uptown Players is thriving and company says: “The advantages towards an SPT contract as that “Uptown Players has always to Equity members who used to taking a bold and noble step. I of the Freeport Shakespeare venue finds an audience.” strived to produce high quality live in Dallas, but are now living in applaud them.” APRIL 2011 EQUITY news / 5 Candidates for National Election Submit Statements

EASTERN REGION New Media and New Technology in relation to our industry. We helped get a Media Payment into the Production/LORT contracts during our last negotiations. We got our members paid for usage of their images Principal Five - Year Term in New Media. Now we’re working to move these rules across other (Vote for no more than six) contracts. I want to continue to help us navigate these ever-changing waters. By Petition British and Canadian based companies are being seen in streaming DOUGLASLELAND performances of stage plays in American movie theatres. I will help (Residence: New York, NY) create a standard by which Equity actors can be seen in these events and fairly compensated. I will use my experience to help our Members Contracts worked: LOA, CORST, LORT, Dinner Theatre, Guest Artist, Showcase secure fair work with fair pay, and search for other ways that New Media can provide opportunities that, perhaps, we haven’t even A proud Equity member for 30+ years. thought of yet. For 15 years, I have been a Volunteer I am asking for your vote. Let’s keep this ball rolling. Equity Monitor. I am at Equity and other audition venues several days a week, By Petition interacting with actors and producers, hearing the concerns of both BRIANMYERSCOOPER sides. I have become a “go to” person for their concerns. I have (CURRENTCHORUS brought many important issues to Council’s attention on their behalf. EPAs and ECCs must be respected and guaranteed especially for COUNCILLOR) our unrepresented members. (Residence: New York, NY) I will represent all regions, not just those who know me in the East. Contracts worked: Production, LORT, Off-Broadway, A longtime New Yorker, I originally came from the South!... South Mini, LOA-COST, Guest Artist, U/RTA, Special Philadelphia! Appearance, Dinner Theatre, 29-Hour Reading, Showcase Electronic sign up and the constructive use of social networks, like Facebook and Twitter is important to Equity’s future. I’m proud of the hundreds of hours I’ve dedicated to being your Fiscal responsibility is key. We need to hold the line and be practical voice on Council, and there is much more work for me to do. I’m and responsive to members needs and those theatres in current passionately committed to continuing my efforts to make a difference financially unstable times. for you. The strength of EPAs and ECCs must be respected and guaranteed Currently, I serve on Council, the Eastern Regional Board, the especially for our unrepresented members. President’s Planning, House Affairs, Centennial and Production I am a 3rd generation Union member. I know how to get the job Committees. I chair the Election Procedures Committee, overseeing done. Who better to serve you on Council than a proactive, involved, the Nominating and Officers Nominating Committees, and I’m Vice experienced, “grassroots” Equity Member? Chair of the ACCA, Off-Broadway, and Media Committees. I have brought many important issues to Council’s attention on I’ve served on five negotiating teams, chaired the recent Off- member’s behalf. Broadway negotiations, and was honored to be appointed Deputy Please Vote for me. I need all your votes. As our beloved AEA Trustee of the Pension & Health Funds. President, Nick Wyman once said: “A vote for me… is a vote for me!” Here’s just some of the work I love and want to continue: For contract and committees info contact me on Facebook @Vote • On Election Procedures, I pushed hard for election reforms to for Douglas Leland for Equity Council 2011 create transparency, and spearheaded the “Go Green” campaign which doubled eVoter registration this year, saving us thousands! By the Nominating Committee • In House Affairs, I’m pressing for better oversight in our budget JAMESLUDWIG(INCUMBENT) process. Our core mission – defending wages & benefits, creating jobs, (Residence: Newport News, VA) and protecting you – must get the priority it deserves, while reining in our deficit... without increasing working dues. Contracts worked: Production, LORT, Off-Broadway, Casino, LOA, Guest Artist, Workshop • In the Media Committee and negotiations, I helped create new media rules to protect and promote actors across all contracts. The proverb/curse reads: “May you live in • I drafted a plan to create online signups for EPAs and ECCs interesting times.” These are definitely nationwide, finally moving this project forward! interesting times for Unions in our nation. You can find much more at www.brianmyerscooper.com/election.I Now, more than ever, we must stand together humbly ask for your vote so I can keep fighting for you. as Brothers and Sisters of Organized Labor. And I have a track record that proves I can help. My first term on Council has been a productive one: I set out to help move Equity Government into the new century by creating the New Technology Committee, then helped merge that body with Film/Taping to create the Equity Media Committee, a national group that monitors 6 / EQUITY news APRIL 2011

By the Nominating Committee By the Nominating Committee JULIA BREANETTA SIMPSON GIL ROGERS (INCUMBENT) (INCUMBENT) (Residence: New York, NY) (Residence: New Rochelle, NY) Contracts worked: Production, Touring, Off Contracts worked: LORT, Business Theatre, TYA, Broadway, Stock, Stock Tour, LORT, LORT Tour, Guest Artist, Showcase, Staged Reading LOA, SPT, Transition, Codes Thank you for the privilege of representing Committees: Off Off Broadway (Chair), you for eighteen years on the Council. Housing (Vice Chair), Four Nominating Through the years I have chaired and served (Chair once), Deputy, Off Broadway on numerous committees and negotiating teams. It has been both Negotiating Team. rewarding and challenging working to strengthen not only our union but Having served on Council for 30 years, I have a pretty good idea of our industry. what the Union has been doing and many proposals for what to do in As the Chair of the Developing Theatre Committee, I am passionate the months and years ahead. As past President and current Board about improving wages and working conditions at our smaller theatres, Member of Actors Federal Credit Union my understanding of finances as we seek to develop and organize new employment for our members and budgeting can only help when Equity faces inevitable financial around the country. As a member who is successfully producing my challenges of the near future. own work, it is my goal to work with Council and staff to simplify our My current passions are: the solidifying and advancement of the Off- agreements to make it easier for other members to do the same. Off B’way codes and code companies; better contact with our company As the Co-Chair of the Equal Employment Opportunity Committee I Deputies to encourage them to be our Union’s eyes and ears all over advocate for equal protection under the law for all members in all the country; and preparation to take full advantage of Equity’s 100th contracts. I will continue to encourage Producers, Directors, Casting Birthday in 2013. We need not only to remind ourselves of the progress Directors and Agents to provide equal access in the audition process we have made, but also to get the message across to our membership and to cast minorities, seniors, women and performers with disabilities and the rest of the country that live theater has 3 major advantages for non-traditionally whenever possible. a community, 1) we encourage and raise cultural awareness, 2) we The Arts impact our nation’s economy at every level and we must share the creative experience with our audience, and 3) the presence continue to be both a vocal and visible advocate of Arts Funding in the of theatre adds a lot of dollars to the local economy! public policy arena. It is up to Actors’ Equity Association to insure that Please elect me and help me to see that these goals are achieved. live theatre not only survives but thrives as we enter our next 100 years. I am more committed than ever to achieving this goal. By the Nominating Committee Thank you for your continued support to keep us strong. NANCY SLUSSER (INCUMBENT) (Residence: New York, NY) By the Nominating Committee Contracts worked: Off-Broadway, LORT, LOA- DANIEL ROBERT SULLIVAN Referenced to LORT, Dinner Theatre, Guest Artist, (Residence: New York, NY) U/RTA, TYA, Mid-Size, Menopause Special Contracts worked: Production, LORT, Canada’s CTA, Agreement, Staged Reading, Showcase, NYMF Canada’s ITA, Dinner Theatre, SPT, Guest Artist, Festival U/RTA, TYA Weekly, TYA Per Performance, CORST, I’ve been a proud member of Actors’ Equity Showcase, LOAs for 22 years. It’s been my privilege to serve I’ve great respect for those who devote the our membership for the last 5 years as a Principal Councillor. My time to volunteer to serve the union. I’ve Committees: Off-Broadway, Off-Off Broadway, Midsize, TYA, Member served on four Equity committees since Education, LORT, Media and New Technology, Election Procedures, joining in 1999, but now am finally secure enough in my knowledge to Parenting, two Nominating & Joint Officers Committees and 7 contract serve on a higher level by running for Council for the first time. Thanks negotiating teams (3rd VC Off-Broadway). I’ve also been a VITA to the Nominating Committee for agreeing I might be a good fit. Volunteer in both Chicago and NYC. I’ve worked on both Principal and I worked a million small contracts all over the U.S. before getting a Chorus contracts, as an Understudy, a Dance Captain and I’ve served lead role in Jersey Boys, so I’ve experienced all sides of the theatre as Deputy on numerous productions. actor’s lifestyle...from scrapping for work to signing autographs at the As a member and Councillor I strive to help our members stage door! I love this union passionately, and can work passionately understand our rights and responsibilities while bridging for it. communication between producers, our Equity offices and our I believe strongly in Solidarity. (A threat of strike helped the recent members nationwide. We need to understand the contracts we work COST negotiations, and I firmly support this tactic.) today in order to strengthen these contracts for future productions. This I believe strongly in Increasing Work Weeks through whatever occurs at the show level, through committee and Council involvement, means possible. (Production work weeks are the highest in ten years and contract negotiations. We each have a voice. as a direct result of the new touring agreement; we must continue to I Love our Union. I’m dedicated to maintaining the vitality of revise it because it clearly produces work for us.) professional Theatre nationwide, keeping our Off-Broadway arena alive I believe strongly in Increasing Communication. (Equity did a lot to and securing rights for members who work in Festival venues. We also support the Spider-man cast, including cancelling shows and adding need to protect our images through any media packages that we stage managers, but did you know about it?) negotiate with producers. I believe strongly in Increasing Fiscal Reporting. (Health Fund My motto: Educate and Motivate! Let’s not complain, let’s find trustees have saved it from bankruptcy countless times, and yet we all solutions to our challenges. Please vote for me so that I can continue view the plan somewhat negatively. Why? Because we don’t see the to fight for all of us. Feel free to reach out to me via Facebook. numbers clearly. Let’s see all numbers for all union activities reported all the time, instead of once a year.) APRIL 2011 EQUITY news / 7

By the Nominating Committee By the Nominating Committee BOB KNAPP (INCUMBENT) FRANCIS JUE (Residence: New York, NY) (CURRENT PRINCIPAL Contracts worked: Special Appearance, Guest COUNCILLOR) Artist, TYA, SPT, LOA, Dinner Theatre, Mini, NYMF, (Residence: New York, NY) Showcase Contracts worked: Production, LORT, Off-Broadway, Committees: EPA (Vice-Chair), Monitor MSUA, WCLO, COST, ANTC, Dinner Theatre, (Chair), Agency (Vice-Chair), LORT, Business Theatre, TYA, BAT, SPT, Guest Artist, Developing Theatre, Off-Off B’way, Housing. Showcase Whether currently employed in a show, or standing on line, waiting Committees served: Production, LORT, New Media, Organizing, to audition, we’re all members of this Union. At a time when Unions are Strategic Alliance/Merger, President’s Planning, Membership under attack, I’m convinced our Union’s solidarity depends on both Education, Agency, National Public Policy, National Health, Pension what we achieve for working Actors and how we help Actors between and Health, 401K, Centennial, Executive Director Search, Production jobs. Negotiating, LORT Negotiating. I’ve dedicated fourteen years on Council to improving the quality of I love being an Actor. Since joining Equity in 1984, I have done both life for my fellow members. I’ve always been committed to creating Chorus and Principal work all over the country, in big theatre venues better conditions for working Actors and developing opportunities for and small, performing in both plays and musicals. As a Deputy for under-employed and under-represented Actors. many of these gigs, I learned firsthand how Equity has played an I’m proud to have spearheaded the creation of the Agent Access important role in growing the theatre industry and protecting the dignity Auditions in New York, and hope to see this service provided nationally of theatre artists. It has been an honor to serve as one of your elected in the future. Councillors since 2003. With unions and workers’ rights currently under I helped establish EPAs for all LORT Theatres. attack, Equity must increase its leverage at the negotiating table and I actively participate in the Developing Theatre Committee, helping within the industry. More jobs under contract, adapting to the impact of to improve contracts and nurture theatre growth in the Eastern Region, new media on theatre, evolving alongside economic and political and I’ve served on numerous NEAT negotiating teams. realities – all these are essential to maintain Equity’s ability to fight for On the EPA Committee, I continue to strive toward developing the its members. Equity needs to do more with less. But I am confident that rapport between producers, casting personnel, and Equity, so that our we have the capacity to grow into a more efficient, more responsive, required auditions become a more meaningful part of the casting more powerful union. Please vote, and exercise your right to a process. I’ve, also, diligently worked to insure that local audition collective voice! opportunities exist for Actors living throughout my region. I proudly serve as an Equity audition monitor, where I hear, By the Nominating Committee firsthand, the concerns of a large portion of our membership. I’ve RONALD L. BROWN always devoted myself to being responsive to those concerns and, with (Residence: New York, NY) your support, I’ll continue addressing them on Council. Contracts worked: Production (National Tour), Chorus Five - Year Term LORT, COST, CORST, SPT, Dinner Theatre, Guest Artist, U/RTA, Business Theatre, LOA, Special (Vote for no more than two) Agreement

By Petition Committees: Advisory Committee on Chorus Affairs, LORT, Developing Theatre, AL BUNDONIS Membership Education, SETA, EPA, (Residence: New York, NY) Dinner Theatre. Contracts worked: Production, Production Tiered With our country’s continuing economic struggles and recent anti- Tour, WCLO, Off-Broadway, Mini, Dinner Theater, union rhetoric, it is crucial that we stand strong in support of AEA and LORT, COST, LOA, SPT, Workshop, Guest Artist the objectives for which we strive: adequate wages, increased work Nothing embodies the meaning of UNION opportunities, safe and sanitary working and living conditions, artistic better than the chorus: a body of individuals protection, and sufficient health and pension benefits. speaking as one. I serve on several committees, regularly act as Deputy on my As a Chorus Councillor, I will work with passion and tenacity to contracts, and for several years have volunteered as an Equity protect our rights and serve all members – whether Principal, Stage auditions monitor. As a Councillor, I look to be a recognizable and Management or Chorus. approachable face of Equity, and promise to continue working for our By protecting Chorus contracts, we protect the entire membership. members towards the goal most important to us all: Getting the jobs! We need better guidelines for understudies, swings and dance I have worked both Principal and Chorus contracts. While each captains. We need protection for parts payments. We need to increase Councillor represents the entire membership, I am proud to be running the number of Chorus contracts throughout all three regions. for a Chorus seat. I strongly value the work of our Chorus performers We need increased member services that will enhance our careers and believe that, particularly in regional theatres, this area is where the and personal finances. We should expand on the success of VITA and most gains can be made regarding increasing work weeks. the Agent Access program and partner with The Actors Fund and Finally, as we approach AEA’s centennial, we should take the time AFCU to bring more classes and seminars to our members. to celebrate our rich history, and embrace the opportunities to project The members of AEA generate substantial revenue for the cities we in theatrical communities across the country, as well as on Broadway, live in. We need to do more to use that leverage to increase affordable that Equity stands for excellence and professionalism in actors and housing specifically for actors and stage managers. stage managers. Equity has over 50 separate contracts. Some of these bring little to Please exercise your right to vote. no money into members’ pockets or the union coffer, yet administering these contracts is not without cost. We need to reexamine our priorities and discover where we can create new income for our members. We need better communication between membership and Council. Members need to be able to impact the process, not just accept the results. With greater access to information, we can achieve better control over the issues that affect us personally. For Council, vote for Al Bundonis. 8 / EQUITY news APRIL 2011 Stage Manager Five - Year Term CENTRAL REGION (Vote for no more than one) Principal Five - Year Term By the Nominating Committee (Vote for no more than one) JASON A. QUINN (Residence: Yonkers, NY) By the Nominating Committee Contracts worked: Production, Production Tiered MARK DAVID KAPLAN Tour, LORT, COST, Off-Broadway, Cabaret, SPT, Mini, Transition, Workshop, NYMF, Showcase, (Residence: Chicago, IL) Staged Reading Contracts worked: Production, LORT, CAT, Dinner Theatre, RMTA, TYA, Off-Broadway, Cabaret, Having served on the three previous U/RTA, SPT, Guest Artist, Staged Reading Nominating Committees I am honored to receive the imprimatur of this year’s My fellow members - I take great pride and committee. humility in pursuing this Council position. For Nearing our centennial, Actors’ Equity has made enormous strides 14 years I have served as a Principal Board as a business, as a union and as a community, but we still have more member in the Central Region, where I’ve taken part in negotiations for ground to cover. Bonded League producers still have stakes in non- Production, Dinner Theatre, CAT, U/RTA, CORST, TYA and MSUA union ventures; we still have members on contract who earn less then contracts. My committee work includes Membership Ed, EEO and they could on unemployment. The ground we’ve gained by speaking as Codes – where much information has been provided to our members a collective has given artists an active voice in our contracts, salaries, through successful, collaborative workshops. It seems a logical and working conditions but we can do better and we must do better. progression to continue and enhance my union work through Council. My voice and perspective are unique: I’m younger than many who’ve Those who know me recognize my passion for our membership, and been serving you for years. Like most of our members I work job to job the matters that are paramount to us. and usually for scale. The respect of our employers, through proper wages and reverence I’m a consistently working stage manager; in the last year I’ve for our physical selves is at the top of the list. Ideas for improving our worked around the country in plays and musicals, up and down the national communication, as well as strengthening our relationship with pay scale from full scale Broadway to tiny readings, and I take great other Unions also remain important. pride in earning my living through Equity work. These issues have no regional or contract boundaries. Through the The service we offer is intangible—it exists only in the moment of improvement of working conditions, we provide for our families and our creation and in memory—but the service we offer is vital. As a stage futures. manager I work in the best interest and safety of our membership day Though I reside in Chicago, I have spent many years living and after day; as a committee member I work toward the betterment of our seeking work across the country. I’ve gotten to know many of you. I will union as a whole and I welcome the opportunity to continue that continue to listen and learn from your experiences. I share your service by lending my voice and experience to Council. concerns.You have my attention – and my voice. Thank you. There’s much more, I know! – I welcome your questions. [email protected] By Petition As I celebrate my 25th year in AEA, I’m both proud and excited at TOM HELMER the prospect of serving as your Councillor. And I thank you for your consideration. (Residence: Willingboro, NJ) Contracts worked: LORT, LOA, NEAT, CAT, SPT, By Petition Guest Artist, TYA DANIEL MOONEY (INCUMBENT) Principal Councillor from 2004 -2009. (Residence: Milwaukee, WI) Committees: Developing Theatre, National Contracts worked: LORT, Production, CAT, SPT, Public Policy, Area Liaison Affairs, Liaison TYA, CORST, Dinner Theater, Guest Artist, LOA Chair of Philadelphia Area Liaison Committee. I am pleased to be running for re-election Diversity can be contemplated in many ways as it concerns the for my second term serving you on Council make-up of Equity’s Council. Our National Representation Plan of from the Central Region. As Liaison I 1992 created a structured diversity of three regions. We have the represent more than just Wisconsin members. diversity of Principal, Chorus and Stage Manager Councillors, male I am voice for all of us living outside of the office cities. I am active in and female, but a lack of diversity in that there are many Caucasians AFTRA and SAG and was recently elected to the Chicago AFTRA but few Latin, Asian and African Americans. Board. Two years ago I served as Co-Chair of Equity’s LORT As proud and dedicated union members, we must always be diligent negotiation team. Next year, when that contract will be opened again I in strengthening our contracts with appropriate salary and benefits, believe that continuity is crucial. It is important that our voice be clear assuring our workplace is safe and repelling the attacks to our at that table. It is my continued promise to serve you forcefully to inalienable rights for all unions in every state to collectively bargain. achieve the goals we set at the last election. If you have questions or However, there are other aspects of this association that need our concerns contact me at [email protected]. At this time when support. I run to strengthen the diversity of voices throughout the unions are under attack it is vital that we be strong and united. Please regions outside our main office cities. vote! Let your voice be heard. SAG and AFTRA have elected representatives from Philadelphia. With over 1000 members and many AEA theatres residing within 50 miles of Philadelphia, I believe there should always be an AEA Councillor from Philadelphia and other Liaison Areas such as Boston and Minneapolis/St. Paul. Until the day our membership makes the choice to amend its Constitution to assure there will always be a significant, valued diversity of voices on Council from outside NYC, Los Angeles and Chicago, I ask for your vote to remind our membership that those voices exist and are ready to serve. APRIL 2011 EQUITY news / 9 WESTERN REGION Chorus Five - Year Term Principal Five - Year Term (Vote for no more than one) (Vote for no more than one) By the Nominating Committee

By the Nominating Committee JENNIE FORD (CURRENT PRINCIPAL LARRY CAHN (INCUMBENT) COUNCILLOR) (Residence: Los Angeles, CA) (Residence: Burbank, CA) Contracts worked:Production (Broadway, National Tour, Bus and Truck) Special Production, LORT, Off- Contracts worked: Production, LORT, SPT, Guest Broadway, Stock (Non-Resident Dramatic), Stock Artist, LOA (Indoor Musical), Business Theatre, Dinner I have lived and worked in NY, LA and have Theatre, Guest Artist, TYA, LOA, Showcase toured across the country. I have performed Thank you for the privilege of representing every function of the Chorus from understudying, to swinging, to you on the Council for 29 years. Dance Captain. I am on a number of committees, but my current We all recognize that this is becoming a very different business from passions are poured into a few particular areas. the one many of us entered. In recent years, Equity’s reaction to the Health: I believe it is a basic human right. It should not be a changes and challenges in the industry has been to bend over privilege, granted to you based on how much money you make or the backwards, doing everything we can to get our members on a stage. workweeks you obtain. Everyone should have equal access to quality Having done so, we may be faced with the unintended consequences care.Year after year, we sacrifice our salaries because of the of good intentions. uncontrollable costs of health insurance…not heath care! I am fighting These efforts may have put more of us on stages more often, but at for a sustainable, secure and just system. what price? The contract that now provides our members the third Arts funding: Our committee is looking at ways to increase jobs in most work weeks, the SPT, does not pay a living wage. Los Angeles, the arts and raise awareness to the economic impact that the arts has the self-proclaimed “Entertainment Capital of the World” has, at the on a community. time of this writing, a total of only 24 actors making decent salaries Membership Education: As the new Chair of the Western committee, under Equity contract, while perhaps hundreds take the stage for $9 a I can tell you we are dedicated to increasing our use of technology and show. Throughout the country, too many of our members are forced to live interaction. We are working to offer the members services in career choose work opportunities based not on the project, not even on the development, education about the history of AEA and how we can salary, but on the health weeks. Is this really what we want? make it better, a mentorship program, and building a sense of I believe we can do better than this. We are the best in the world at community and pride among our members. We can’t just give out an what we do. We need not sacrifice our dignity as craftspeople and Equity Card and not give a member the tools to compete as a artists in exchange for the opportunity to practice that craft. We can professional working actor. I have been honored to serve this union reverse the downward spiral not just of salaries and benefits, but of and I am passionate about helping this union grow in the future. opportunities as well. As always, I will continue to fight for that.

By Petition By Petition SCOTT WATANABE STEPHEN PAWLEY (CURRENT EASTERN CHORUS (Residence: San Francisco, CA) COUNCILLOR) Contracts worked: LORT, WCLO, TYA, BAT, MBAT, (Residence: Las Vegas, NV) BAPP, Staged Reading Contracts worked: Production, LORT, Stock, WCLO, Casino (PHANTOM), Guest Artist, LOA, ELA Missouri-Born & Bred, lived in Chicago and (Canadian Equity-Livent) San Diego before making San Francisco home in late 1991. BFA/Acting, Stephens Committees: Production, LORT, STOCK, College. Currently First Vice-Chair of the Bay ACCA, Casino, Midsize, Deputy, EPA, Monitor, EEO, Membership Area Advisory Committee. Member of Developing Theatre, WCLO, TYA Education and BAT contract committees. 2010 BAT negotiating team. Member of Contract Negotiation Teams: SAG/AFTRA. 2009–present PHANTOM–Las Vegas, 2000, ’04 & ‘08 Production, Unions and their membership are under fierce attack in all regions 2005 LORT, 2005 MSUA, Canada CTA & ELA. and areas of work. AEA wouldn’t exist today had we not been Our Association is only as strong as an individual’s active supported by many others during our formative years. I will work on participation and in the working knowledge of the contracts and Council to ensure AEA’s leadership takes an active role in defending agreements that govern our involvement in live theatre. I have the rights and jobs of AEA members and union workers in every walk participated in many successful contract negotiations in North of life. America. I have lived and worked in Los Angeles, New York, Las I was asked recently if there was one thing Actors’ Equity could do Vegas, Canada and toured cities in the US as an actor, chorus for members living outside an office city what it would be. member, opera singer and stage manager and understand the Simple. differences and issues important to diverse regions and jobs. As a We all need more work weeks! We need regional organizing support Councillor, I have had the opportunity to listen to the concerns of our to help regain work that has been lost and to encourage new membership and to address many of these issues in committee and in development. AEA should be fighting cuts in arts funding on the Council. national, state and local level. Members in Liaison Cities and smaller Participating in Membership Education, I’ve been active in communities should have their voices heard without having to shout! I promoting education seminars, welcoming new members and, with the will work on Council to bring those voices forward, to increase AEA’s EPA and EEO committees; I worked at providing employment organizing capacity and enhance our ability to reach out to the press opportunities for all Actors. and public across the country. Even in San Francisco (or Houston or I believe in promoting professionalism and conduct from both Nashville or Kansas City or …), if it’s not Equity, it’s not Professional Producers and our membership in a dedication of our industry to Theatre. making live theatre an exciting, necessary, vital and important part of our culture in a fiscally responsible manner. I will work to provide protection of the contractual gains achieved and in the promotion of dignity in our profession and continue to serve the membership in being an advocate for our mutual benefit. Thank you for your kind consideration. 10 / EQUITY news APRIL 2011 Stage Manager Five - Year Term Chair or Vice Chair on many committees. (Vote for no more than two) I am proud to have served on several Negotiating Teams either as Chair or member and consider this an area of expertise. Creating jobs for our members. That’s my #1 priority. By the Nominating Committee I am fair. I listen. I care. I work hard for you. D. CHRISTIAN BOLENDER Please let me continue to do so. (Residence: Ashland, OR) Thank you, Contracts worked: LORT, LORT modified, LOA- Vernon Willet LORT, SPT, U/RTA By Petition A struggling economy; legislation that contains ‘union busting’ language proposed PAT LOEB and debated in a number of states; theatres (Residence: Los Angeles, CA) closing in cities across the country – it’s a Contracts worked: SPT, HAT, LORT, BAT, WCLO, tough time to be a theatrical artist. What can we do? Continue to TYA, U/RTA, Special Appearance, Periodic strengthen our Union. Performance, Staged Readings Having worked in many theatres in both the Western and Central Committees: Stage Managers (Vice Chair), regions, I would like to bring my experience to the National Council. I Developing Theaters, Monitor/Auditions (Vice will work hard to help our Union not only survive, but thrive through Chair), Membership Ed, Entry to Equity, these tough times. Nominating/Joint Nominating, EEO (Vice Chair), 99 Seat. National: Tri- For the past nine years I have been one of the resident Stage Union PWD; Tri-Union IAMPWD. Subcommittee National ASM/ASM Managers at Oregon Shakespeare Festival (OSF), serving on the last responsibilities; Chair: SPT vacation rules; Webinars; Lucy Jordan two LORT rider negotiation teams. Here in Ashland, it can be easy to Award. Tri-Union Diversity Award Chair. SM Mentoring packet. practice our craft in an insulated bubble, sometimes unaware of issues I stand for those afraid to speak. I show up. I follow through. I am that may be affecting AEA as a whole. On the other hand, the 70-90 proactive. I am passionate about our union and will work to represent AEA members, working 3000+ work weeks annually, encounter a everyone, especially the underrepresented. unique set of challenges here - a complex rider modifying the LORT I have been a working AEA Stage Manager for nearly 30 years, contract, 11 shows in rep, transfers to other LORT theatres, etc. The mostly (though not exclusively) in the Western Region, touring and in bubble can work both ways, and some of these issues do not see midsize and small theaters, many of whose existences depend on national attention. Piercing that bubble and helping to establish a conduit of information compromise. I would be honored to take the next step and bring this flow is an additional reason I am running for Council. I want to be a voice to the national level. voice on the national scene for the many AEA members working at Bringing members’ issues to contract committees, heading events OSF, and help bring national issues to the attention of those same such as chairing/ producing the Tri-Union Diversity Awards, and members. exploring ideas like webinars illustrate my focus: to educate, Thank you for your consideration. encourage participation by and provide better working conditions for current and future members. By the Nominating Committee In a time of tremendous challenge and overwhelming contradictions, VERNON WILLET (INCUMBENT) it is vital that we stand up for our profession and our union, making it clear that what we do requires training, perseverance and skill, and (Residence: Los Angeles, CA) deserves fair pay. Contracts worked: Special Production, WCLO, Specific interests: Generating more and better work without LORT, HAT, SPT, Dinner Theatre, Guest Artist, TYA, compromising our gains for the sake of health and pension, branding, Periodic Performance and LOAs member participation, health benefits, exploring viable solutions, I am a working Stage Manager in the mentoring, supporting – and not losing – current jobs, working with our Western Region. I am the 2nd Vice Chair of sister unions and encouraging mutual respect. the Western Regional Board and serve as

(Placement of candidates’ names on ballot, within each category, was determined by lottery.) APRIL 2011 EQUITY news / 11

St. Louis Kevin Kline Awards Shine on Local Theatres By Kari Ely announcement, “For 13 years, St. Louis Liaison Kathleen has been at the helm Committee of the New Jewish Theatre, and in that time, she has taken it NATIONALNEWS One hundred eighteen NATIONALNEWS from an obscure, unattended productions from 39 companies theatre and refashioned it as a were evaluated for the 6th professional, culturally relevant Annual Kevin Kline Awards mainstay in the St. Louis honoring excellence in St. Louis performing arts. Kathleen’s theatre (both Equity and non) vision is to reach across the and presented by the cultural divide and build bridges Professional Theatre Awards for multicultural tolerance and Council. (For a list of all understanding.” nominees visit Last, but certainly not least, always says to me and to other www.kevinklineawards.org.) The New York Avalon Theatre raised $500 in people, ‘Stop doing what doesn’t Muny received the most donations for The Actors Fund. work.’Worrying doesn’t work. nominations for its 2010 season. Judith Light Welcomes New Members “We raised $500 during the What will serve you is to turn the Promises, Promises at Stages eight performances of The Good By Stephanie Masucci this thing. It’s too big. So I started worrying into something that received the most nominations Doctor in our 75-seat theatre in Communications to let go of control. moves you, your life and the for any individual musical, while November. The money was Associate “The real issue was that I world in a positive direction. I High at the Repertory Theatre raised through audience needed to discover why I was an promise you, by shifting your garnered the most nominations The Eastern Region appeals and 50% of Avalon’s Actor. Up to that point in time, it energy, you will make a for any straight play. Membership Education concession sales,” said Erin had only been about me, about difference in your own life, and Speaking of High, it is Committee hosted a reception in Kelley, managing director and my ego… I needed to shift the you’ll make a difference in other headed to Broadway and one of January for Equity’s newest co-founder with husband Larry context of why I was actually in people’s lives.” the producers is The Repertory members. For the more than 50 Mabrey. “We are proud to be this business.” When asked what her most Theatre of St. Louis. It opens attendees, the highlight of the able to make a difference in the When asked for insight on fulfilling experience as an actor April 19 at the Booth Theatre, evening was guest speaker lives of a stage manager, a how an Actor can find meaning was, Ms. Light explained, “The starring Kathleen Turner and Judith Light, currently starring in dancer or perhaps an actor. We in a project not considered “high thing that I am doing at the Evan Jonigkeit under the the Broadway hit, Lombardi. are touched that in these art,” Ms. Light recounted a review moment is the most fulfilling direction of Rob Ruggiero. “Welcome to this grand and economic times our theatre she received from a TV Guide because I am in the moment. So Artistic Director of The New glorious organization, it’s pretty patrons continue to be generous reporter when she was starring Lombardi is really fulfilling for me Jewish Theatre, Kathleen Sitzer, terrific,” Ms. Light began. “The and giving.” Our hats are off to as Angela Bower on Who’s The and that’s my context for it too. is this year’s recipient of Grand reason that I’m here and the all theatres that commit Boss. “He said ‘she doesn’t look From the beginning of the Center’s 2011 Visionary Award reason that I really wanted to do themselves to educating rehearsal process, all the as Outstanding Arts this is, I feel very audiences about the outreach way through to last night Professional. Quoting from the strongly about what we programs of The Actors Fund. do. What we do is not (which was our 143rd Grand Center Inc. just about acting. It’s a performance), the real personal calling.” richness of it and the belongs to the community, and A Streetcar Named Desire, She then shared her moments on stage and as long as I live, it is my privilege Sorrows and Rejoicing, Colder perspective on breaking constantly sharing the to do for it whatever I can. I want than Here (MCC), Children into the business. stage with this cast I to be thoroughly used up when I (Westport and Williamstown), “Everybody’s trajectory adore, is at the moment die, for the harder I work, the and the Pulitzer Prize winning hit is completely different. the most fulfilling. And of more I live. Wit. On television, she has The thing that I’ve done, course, doing the play Life is no “brief candle” to me. portrayed Karen Wolek on One that’s really been Wit changed my life.” It is a sort of splendid torch Life to Live, and Angela Bower helpful, is to stop trying Much to the which I have got hold of for a on Who’s The Boss? Most to control my career. I Judith Light at the Eastern Region new member disappointment of the reception. moment, and I want to make it recently she has starred as had a really good idea members in the room, burn as brightly as possible Claire Meade in Ugly Betty and of what I should be the questioning had to before handing it on to future been featured on Law & Order: down at her material.’ As I said, I doing, and what the universe end. Ms. Light read a toast and generations. Special Victims Unit. She has was a snob. I only wanted to do should be giving me, and I had a then a quote from George Ms. Light then left our newest starred in numerous television theatre and feature films. So really hard time when it wasn’t Bernard Shaw: members with these final words, movies, often taking on projects when I did the soap and sitcom, I happening. If you are like me and This is the true joy of life, the “Godspeed and Good luck. that shed light on social issues. asked myself, ‘How can I bring you had this image that you were being used up for a purpose Break legs and welcome.” Some film credits include; the training, and the personal only going to do theatre and recognized by yourself as a Judith Light is currently Save Me which premiered at dedication that I have in this feature films, you are going to be mighty one; being a force of starring on Broadway in Sundance in 2007 in which she business to this medium?’ There very unhappy when that doesn’t nature instead of a feverish, Lombardi at Circle In The starred and also produced and is no medium in our business happen. If you can be grateful for selfish little clod of ailments and Square. She made her Broadway Ira and Abby. She is a Board that you ever have to consider what you do have and what is grievances, complaining that the Debut in A Doll’s House, with Liv Member and an advocate for beneath you. When you bring given you, it is a fantastic world will not devote itself to Ullman. Other Broadway, Off- many organizations and charities your grace and your generosity business.” making you happy. Broadway and regional credits representing AIDS-related and and your intelligence to the role, Ms. Light acknowledged that I am of the opinion that my life include Hedda Gabler, Company, Human Rights issues. you have no idea who you are there was a time in her life where going to elevate or uplift, she was ready to walk away from including yourself. What matters the business. “For me, it was a theatre community has been re- is how you view it and what you Kansas City very specific moment. I was markable. Every member of the bring to it.” leaving the business and I had company of each presentation Ms. Light also shared her EARTh Project Reaps Raves gone into therapy. I don’t know has had a tremendous time opinion on the recession when whether my therapist was a Kip Niven, a member of the Inspector) features the talents of working and performing with asked how she feels it is psychic or not but he said to me, Kansas City Area Liaison Com- Kansas City’s professional the- their professional colleagues on affecting the theatre industry. ‘Don’t leave the business until mittee reports that response to atre artists. In April, Paddy this exciting theatrical material.” “During the times of the Great you see me next week, the new EARTh (Equity Actors’ Chayefsky’s Gideon will be pre- EARTh readings are present- Depression in this country, something is going to happen.’” Readers’ Theatre) project initiat- sented and Fredrick Durrenmatt’s ed in association with Kansas entertainment was always there During that week, she was ed in October, 2011 has been The Physicists follows in May. City Young Audiences, under the for people. We are in a service offered an audition for an “remarkable.”This series of one- To date, says Mr. Niven, over AEA Members’ Project Code, business, remember that’s what understudy role on One Life to night-only concert-style staged 80% of each cast has been AEA under the auspices of AEA’s you bring to this world right now, Live. “I had said I was never readings of under-produced Members or Membership Candi- Kansas City Area Liaison Com- service, a way for people to have going to do a soap opera; I also plays (Giraudoux’s The Mad- dates. “The audience response mittee. a moment away from their said I was never going to do a woman of Chaillot, Kaufman & has been extremely enthusias- For information, contact struggle, and it will be ever thus. sitcom. But I had to start Hart’s The Man Who Came to tic. And the support and re- KCALC Chair Licia Watson at My manager, Herb Hamsher listening. You can’t orchestrate Dinner, Gogol’s The Government sponse from the Kansas City [email protected] 12 / EQUITY news APRIL 2011

South Florida New York, Los Angeles years, AWP has been there to respond to increases in need, Solidarity Stressed at Tri-Union Picnic The Actors Fund Work Program: 25 Years whether it’s industry slow-downs, unexpected events such as 9/11 By Irene Adjan February weather in Florida of Keeping Our Community Working or Hurricane Katrina or the re- South Florida Area Liaison is perfect for a picnic and it was For 25 years and counting, Ronda J. Ormont, created a cent downturn in the economy. a beautiful day at Greynolds The second annual South The Actors Fund Work Program place where union members AWP is there to help all Equity Park in North Miami. Members Florida Tri-Union Picnic was (AWP) has been on the job. As could meet to explore career al- members find work that comple- of all three unions gathered to held on Presidents’ Day, the premier employment and ternatives through education and ments an acting career, or use spend a relaxing holiday February 21, 2011. The event training program for everyone in training. their creative talents in new ca- afternoon sharing sandwiches, reers. was, once again, organized by entertainment, AWP assists the Originally supported by Equity AWP “members” are: con- entertainment community—in- and the New York City Depart- tributing to the development of cluding not only those on stage ment of Aging, AWP quickly students in public schools as cer- and on camera, but also those gained support from the other tified teachers and teaching behind the scenes and below the performers’ unions, government artists; performing managerial, line—through career counseling, agencies and industry organiza- program creation and administra- job training and job development. tions like Broadway Cares/Equity tive support in financial, legal This unique workforce devel- Fights AIDS, a longstanding fun- and non-profit offices; providing opment program recognizes the der of AWP.In 1997, AWP was health care services in such di- need for alternative employment incorporated into The Actors verse occupations as nursing, to complement a career in the Fund’s full spectrum of services, massage arts therapy and health arts. Work for actors can be where it continues to evolve and administration; and managing largely short term and project- serve the needs of the entertain- their own small businesses— based and for most performing ment community at large. ranging from graphic arts and arts professionals, this means In 1998, AWP embarked on a web design services to school- seeking supplemental employ- joint venture with The Fund’s based arts programs and small ment. The good news is that ac- HIV/AIDS Initiative to form the manufacturing ventures. tors are continually developing AIDS Training and Education For an introduction to all Ac- skills and experience in their field Project (ATEP). ATEP helped Attending the Tri-Union picnic are: (l to r) Peter Haig, Steve tors Fund Work Program servic- Gladstone, Ed Limia, Irene Adjan, Kim Ostrenko, Dave Corey and that are valued in other work set- hundreds of people living with es, drop by on a Monday for “Ori- Terry Hardcastle. tings. The Fund’s AWP staff is HIV/AIDS who, thanks to ad- entation” to say Happy 25th. there to help Equity members vances in the fight against the You’ll learn about AWP group the Florida Branch of the chips, fruit, cookies and even create stable, healthy careers disease, were well enough to and individual career counseling, Screen Actors Guild. Leslie popcorn and cotton candy. The and lives. consider returning to work or to job training and education, finan- Krensky, Screen Actors Guild event was a great opportunity to participate in meaningful activi- Equity creates AWP cial assistance and job place- South Region Director and remind us that we may belong ties. Today, service for HIV/AIDS Created in 1986 by Joan Low- ment services—all free services Florida Executive Director, to different unions, but we are all Initiative clients are fully integrat- ell and the Equity Council, AWP for Equity members. Orientation headed up the organizing. union members. In light of the ed into all AWP programs. responded to a critical need for is held every Monday except for Invitations were sent out via activity in Wisconsin, I think that employment among mature and A leader in workforce legal holidays. No reservation or email to members of Equity and is a timely and important fact. aging professionals in the enter- development pre-registration required. AFTRA and members were With Florida a right-to-work tainment industry, and the need Today, too, The Actors Fund AWP offices are located at contacted by Herta Suarez, state and one that often harbors for them to remain vital and ac- Work Program is a leader in The Actors Fund, 729 Seventh AFTRA Miami Local Executive anti-union sentiment, it was tive members of the community. workforce development. In the Avenue, 11th Floor (between Director and Southeast comforting to feel the solidarity These professionals faced chal- ever-changing economy, finding 48th and 49th Streets) in New Regional Director. the afternoon provided. lenges in finding rewarding sec- employment takes fortitude and York (800-221-7303) and in Los ondary jobs in the quickly evolv- skill. AWP empowers members Angeles, at 5757 Wilshire Boule- Washington/Baltimore ing modern “technology” work- by helping them make positive vard, Suite 400 (888-825-0911). place. Ms. Lowell and AWP’s adjustments to their careers and For more information, visit AEA Makes a Difference founding Career Counselor work lives. Over the past 25 www.actorsfund.org. Through Dignity Drive By Barbara Pinolini Rana Kay and Ilona Dulaski. Burbank, CA Treasurer, Area Liaison Donation boxes were Committee strategically placed at several “Candle” Company Digs Deep for BC/EFA area theatres and supported by Through their own donations, the Equity members in the the actors and staff members at cast and crew of Bell, Book and Candle DC/Baltimore region came Arena Stage, Woolly Mammoth, at the 276-seat Colony Theatre raised together this past holiday Signature Theatre, Studio $266 for Broadway Cares/Equity Fights season for the first Annual AEA Theatre, Imagination Stage, AIDS during the holidays. Production Stage Manager Leesa A. Freed said, “We asked anyone who had money on them, from the Executive Director, to the producer, to the cast and crew, and for anything they had—dollar bills to the change in their wallets.”This is the third year the company has dug into their own pockets to help BC/EFA and Leesa said she is happy to do it. “As long as I’m stage managing a show, we will be honoring an appeal.”

Washington/Baltimore members with some Dignity Drive packages are: (l to r) David Elias, Rana Kay, Emily Townley, Ilona Dulaski and Laura Giannarelli. Letters not bad company for her first of my fondest memories took Continued from page 3 time out. Her television career place there with Christine and Liaison Committee Dignity Ford’s Theatre and Everyman included playing Hildy James on the other devoted students, Drive, an effort to supply much Theatre. Over 2,000 items Dear Editor: the soap opera, Somerset, and many of whose names became needed new and packaged totaling more than $1,800 were Christine Lavren, my dear numerous commercials and celebrated in every medium. underclothing and baby supplies donated, sorted and delivered to teacher, mentor and friend, voiceovers. Christine used to say, “I don’t to local area homeless shelters. N Street Village for Women and passed away on October 30, During the late 1970s, I had teach acting, I teach survival!” Liaison Committee Secretary the DC Coalition for the 2010 from cancer. Christine was the privilege of studying acting She taught me that and so Emily Townley shepherded the Homeless, which runs 13 area a brilliant actor, writer, director, with her at her theatre on West much more. A true original. She event, with assistance from shelters for homeless families. producer and teacher. She 46th and 8th Avenue—right is deeply missed. Committee members Barbara Next year we hope to double the debuted on Broadway in 1971 in across from Jimmy Ray’s, the John Jamiel Pinolini, Peter Boyer, Laura numbers to make a difference to Four on a Garden directed by actors’ haunt (where we’d head Associate Professor Theatre Giannarelli, David Elias, Bill those folks in our community Abe Burrows and starring Sid right after class to schmooze Wagner College, Staten Largess, Jenna Henderson, who continue to struggle. Caesar and Carol Channing— and talk about the work). Some Island, NY