JUNE “Theatregoing 2010 Volume 95 is a communal act; Number 5 moviegoing a solitary one.” EQUITYNEWS — Robert Brustein 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 Nick Wyman Elected President
EASTERN REGION Stage Manager –Five-year term 18 Council Principal – Five-year term Ruth E. Kramer 3,913 Seats Filled Dana Ivey 5,181 Greg Hirsch 2,745 ick Wyman has been Maureen Moore 4,217 Not elected: Jason A. Quinn, elected President of Judy Rice 3,759 Timothy R. Semon Equity for a two-year Wally Dunn 3,602 N CENTRAL REGION term. Other candidates for the Scott Evans 3,522 office were: Christine Toy Kristine Nevins 3,324 Chorus – Five-year term Johnson, incumbent Principal Craig A. Meyer 3,163 Ariane Dolan 5,001 Councillor and Brian Myers Joe Zaloom 3,141 Stage Manager – Five-year Cooper, incumbent Chorus Not elected: Tom Helmer, Jackie Taylor (c) is flanked by Cheryl Lynn Bruce and Luther term Councillor plus a write-in. The Ronald L. Brown, Bernard J. Goins. Malcolm D. Ewen 4,990 new President as well as Marsh, Jim Fouratt elected Councillors begin to Principal – Four-year term WESTERN REGION serve immediately. Nicole Flender 5,339 Principal – Five-year term LeNoire Award Presented There were 6,522 total valid Cynthia Marty 4,039 ballots cast, of which 1,868 Principal – Three-year term Tom Moriarty 3,656 to Chicago’s JackieTaylor were cast electronically. Results, Jonathan Brody 5,403 John Herzog 3,630 By Luther Goins recognition. Ms. Taylor, who tabulated by election.com on Chorus – Five-year term National EEO Coordinator knew and worked with Ms. May 21, 2010 are as follows: Bill Bateman 5,326 Not elected: Bostin Christopher LeNoire, is also a playwright ackie Taylor, the Founder and an Equity Actor. She has and Executive Director of J penned (and produced) more Trustee for the Pension and Chicago’s Black Ensemble than 100 plays. Wyman Outlines Goals Health Trust Funds. In addition, Theater, has received Equity’s The Black Ensemble’s he has worked on nearly all of 2010 Rosetta LeNoire Award. ick Wyman stepped areas of the country.” He mission remains to cross the contracts negotiated by the The award was presented on into his new post continued, “I will dedicate myself cultural barriers and help Union, and has served as the May 3, 2010 by Central Region saying, “I am honored, to improving the lives and eradicate ignorance and racism. N Deputy for all of the productions Equal Employment Opportunity delighted and humbled to be working conditions of our It does this through productions in which he appeared. His Committee Co-Chair Cheryl elected President of Actors’ members, and to that service, I and programs that perpetuate dedicated service to Equity Lynn Bruce at a reception at the Equity Association.” Mr. Wyman offer my experience, reputation the history of the African includes serving on four Equity office attended by staff, fills the position vacated by and leadership.” American people while reaching Production Contract negotiation Central Regional Board Mark Zimmerman in December, Mr. Wyman brings to the post out to a diverse audience and committees, as well as the members, the EEO Committee, 2009 and held on an interim of President more than 20 serving disenfranchised National Public Policy, House Black Ensemble staff and board, basis by First Vice President years’ experience as a National communities. Affairs, Strategic Alliance and and friends and family. Paige Price. His term of office Councillor and eight years as a The Rosetta LeNoire Award, Merger and the 2010 Executive Ms. Taylor’s cultural will be through the conclusion of established in 1988, recognizes Director Search committees. contributions to the city of elections in 2012. outstanding artistic contributions An Equity member since Chicago, and to the country, are In outlining his goals, Mr. to the universality of the human 1974, Nick has worked under a vast, numerous and diverse. Wyman said, “An ancient curse experience in American Theatre. variety of contracts, including There is a street on the North says, ‘May you live in interesting The Award is given to an Production (Broadway, National Side of Chicago that has been times,’ and these are indeed individual, theatre or producing Tour and bus and truck), Special named in her honor by the City interesting times. My priority will organization with an exemplary Production, LORT, Off in recognition of her be to improve communication, record in the hiring or promotion Broadway, ANTC, WCLO, and contributions to the arts. The both by clarifying and focusing of ethnic minorities, female Staged Reading. He created the Black Ensemble Theater, which the message and mission of actors and actors with role of “Monsieur Firmin” in the is celebrating 30 years, has Actors’ Equity and by soliciting disabilities through multi-racial original Broadway company of grown into a million-dollar and listening to the concerns and/or non-traditional casting. organization with national and ideas of members in all Nick Wyman. Photo: newhartphoto.com (continued on page 7)
Equity Members Respond to Community Projects
n all-star cast gathered based on the book by Kerry February 2010. The cast included respond when news of an explo - for a one-night only per - Kennedy to help raise funds for Marcia Gay Harden, Elias sion in an underground West Vir - Aformance of a play by the relief efforts of Habitat for Koteas, Alfred Molina, Julianne ginia mine made headlines in Ariel Dorfman, Speak Truth to Humanity in Chile, where an 8.8 Moore, Viggo Mortenesen, Aidan April 2010. Both the Broadway Power: Voices Beyond the Dark , earthquake caused devastation in Quinn, Gloria Reuben, Paul and touring company of the musi - Sorvino, Meryl cal, set in a mining town, raised Streep, Stan - money to support the American ley Tucci and Red Cross relief efforts to help Debra Winger. the families of the victims and the Held in May, community. the event was For the third year in a row, an presented by (continued on page 4) Mr. Dorfman, Ms. Kennedy, Index
S the Robert F. Kennedy Cen - Nick Wyman elected President .... 1 W d e
t ter for Justice E t s Wyman outlines goals ...... 1 e e 6 e u e 3 and Human N g r q 0 Y t a e t 0
N NYS COBRA payments delayed ... 2 S s R
1 Rights and , Y o k h e r P t Y c i T o 6
s The Public v N Y Letters ...... 2 r s 4 I , e a w t l k e S r
s Theater. C U N e s o
d Postcards from the Regions ...... 3 s Y n n i W e The casts r o w d Q 5 d c i e d e 6 a of Billy Elliot Gypsy Robes: 2009-2010 ...... 5 1 A N S P E The cast of Speak Truth to Power: Voices Beyond the Dark . (Photo: Anita/Steve Shevett) were quick to 2 / EQUITY news JUNE 2010 New York State
U.S.Postage Letters to The Editor 44 Letters received from paid up members on subjects of concern to Equity member s will be considered and COBRA Payments Delayed; published as soon as possible. The Editor reserves the right to limit letters to 150 words and to select one or two representative letters when many similar letters are received. Letters must be signed, but names Participants Must Pay in Full will be withheld on request for those letters which may affect members’ employment. Signatures will not ffective June 2010, New the Fund can no longer provide be withheld on letters antagonistic or accusatory, either implied or expressed, against other members. York State COBRA coverage and then wait for NY Opinions expressed in Letters to the Editor are not necessarily those of Actors’ Equity Association. Epremiums that are State to pay the COBRA ANNIVERSARY planned, and I would encourage ple contribution of $1 when expected to be covered by the subsidy. CELEBRATION any past company members or matched by their fellow audience State subsidy program will The Fund deeply regrets the need to be paid in full by difficulties this change in policy Dear Editor: audience members to join us. It members would add up to thou - Equity Health Plan will impose on many The Peninsula Players Theatre will be a night to rekindle acquain - sands. participants no later than the participants, and if you do not in Fish Creek, Wisconsin will be tances and share memories of Our Santa Claus, actor Ken end of each month (e.g., June have the resources to pay for celebrating its 75th Anniversary shows and fellow company mem - Cavett, made an irresistible curtain 30 for June premiums). As the additional premium, you are this year. Over the decades Penin - bers. speech, and we sold copies of sula Players has provided actors Ticket information is available at Carols for a Cure , which featured soon as the Fund receives urged to contact The Actors and technicians the opportunity to the theatre’s website, the John Engeman cast of Little payment of the June premium Fund for assistance, hone their skills and pass along www.peninsulaplayers.com . For - Shop of Horrors. subsidy from New York State, it www.actorsfund.org. You can their craft to company interns and mer Players may also email mem - We had 11 children in the cast, will credit that payment to the contact the Fund Office for an apprentices. ories to all of whom participated enthusias - participant’s account as he or accounting of what will be due Artistic Director Greg Vinkler, [email protected] or tically. It was wonderful to see she prefers, either as a for the month of June 2010 in currently performing on Broadway visit Peninsula Players on Face them learn that the Broadway payment, or a credit to future the event you are not certain of Book. as Doc in West Side Story is one community gives back. payments. In subsequent the amount you will be I hope to meet many alumni on of many alumni scattered through - Mary Jo McConnell months, the Fund will continue responsible to pay. this special night and to join you in out the entertainment industry as Fundraising Coordinator to collect the premiums that If you have any questions, the beer garden to toast this lovely actors, designers, stage man - would have been covered by the please feel free to contact (continued on page
c 25c 44 POSTCARD S s
New York Austin/San Antonio Women Over 40 Celebrated Theatres Set Seasons By Bill McMillin Area Liaison The Austin/San Antonio area is settling into the stan - dard hot and humid weather with some theatres making early 2010-2011 season Michele Lee (center row, second from l) with Equity members announcements. and staff. Zachary Scott Theatre Center, an SPT Category 4 Los Angeles theatre with three stages and plans to build a fourth, Michele Lee Addresses New Members announced its 2010/2011 Michele Lee was the special Equity contract. And what she Performing “Good Girls Only” are (l to r) Rise Clemmer, Diane season. They will produce Findlay, Terry Baughan, Melinda Tanner and Kathy Conry. guest at the Los Angeles New learned from the experience is (Photo: Sue Coflin) Rent , The Break-Up Member Orientation meeting on that she had a special gift. She Notebook , Fiction , Hairspray , April 7, 2010, sharing her story told the new members that they The Book of Grace , August: of how she joined the Union. must all have learned that they, On March 1, 2010, readings from the Osage County , The Ms. Lee spoke about her first too, have a special gift because Women’s History Month was collaborative works of Edna Santaland Diaries and audition, in 1960, at the Ivar for whatever reason and by launched into action with an Ferber and George S. Rockin’ Christmas Party. Theatre, located five blocks whatever means, each one had event sponsored by the New Kaufman, including Stage Mary Moody Northen away from the current location earned their Equity card and will York Coalition of Door. In addition, there was Theatre at St. Edward’s of the Los Angeles Equity office forever be part of the theatre Professional Women in the the vocal quartet, Women of University, an URTA Level 1 (and four blocks away from her community. Arts and Media (NYCWAM) a Certain Age, and a sneak theatre, will present The star on Hollywood’s Walk of The meeting was attended by along with AFTRA and SAG. peak at the new musical by Imaginary Invalid , Who’s Fame). She was 17 and went to members, Councillors, staff and It boasted many Equity Gretchen Cryer and Nancy Afraid of Virginia Woolf , the audition after being warned representatives from The Actors members both on stage and Ford, I’m Still Getting My Act Eurydice , On the Verge (all by her father that she needed to Fund and Actors Federal Credit behind-the-scenes, all Together And Taking It On student production) and prepare herself for rejection if Union. showing they’ve come a long The Road. Carousel. They will be she intended to pursue an Business Representative way, baby, and refuse to be Anne Kaufman shared holding general Equity acting career. With nerves of Ivan Rivas provided the new sidelined by age. anecdotes from her father, auditions this summer. steel, Michele took to the Ivar members with information about VintAGE: Celebrating George S. Kaufman, about Austin Playhouse, Austin Theatre stage, belted out the the privileges and Women Artists Over 40 was the casting of the original Shakespeare and TEX-ARTS, Frank Sinatra standard, “You responsibilities of Equity co-produced by Equity’s Stage Door , which was three SPT theatres, have not Make Me Feel So Young,” and membership and a Q & A Denise Pence, working based on the women’s yet made season was hired on the spot under an session followed. closely with Avis Boone and residence and NYCWAM’s announcements, but are others on the Coalition new affiliate member, The expected to do so soon. Board, including leslie Rehearsal Club. Equity However, Austin Playhouse Shreve, who served as MC, members and Club alumnae will kick off its season with Gale Shaw Patron, Shellen performed both a scene from The 39 Steps on September Lubin and Holli Harms. A Stage Door and the original 10. Check the Equity website, networking after-party was song written for the women Austin/San Antonio Liaison organized by Marlene of the Club, Good Girls Only, section, and these theatres’ Hodgdon, one of Equity’s which has lyrics by Charlie links for season representatives to the Leipart and music by John announcements. Coalition. Kroner, and was directed On May 13, 2010, The The show featured and choreographed by Austin Critics Table Awards Mercedes Ellington Equity member Kathy Conry. announced nominations for choreographing a rousing The evening was an the 2009-2010 season in opening number to Shania exciting start to a national Austin. The Awards cover Among those remembering Michael Bennett are (l to r) Bob Twain’s Man! I Feel Like A month-long celebration of both Equity and non-Equity Avian, Larry Fuller, Kelly Bishop, Margo Sappington, Joy Serio Woman!, after which Anita the achievements of women. theatres. Of the 14 categories Dunbar, Baayork Lee, Karin Baker, Alice Playten, Rita O’Connor, Gillette, Betsy von Said Denise Pence, “It’s Dorothy Frank Danner, Steve Boockvor, Carolyn Kirsch and and 109 nominations, the Harvey Evans. (Not pictured: Nancy Dalton.) Furstenberg and other great to know we can still do SPTs received 20 Equity members took part in it—when given the chance.” nominations, 19 for the URTA New York theatres and eight nominations for two Member Project Code productions, for Dancers Remember Michael Bennett Phoenix/Tucson a total of 47 nominations Dancers Over 40 sponsored Joy Serio Dunbar, Carolyn (43%) for Equity productions. two panels on the life and times Kirsch and Rita O’Connor. Spring Meeting Set Among the acting of director/choreographer People flew in from London, Los nominations, three Equity Michael Bennett on May 17, Angeles and Las Vegas (and The Spring General presentation of the 2010 Membership Candidates 2010 at St. Luke’s Theatre. probably a few other places) to Meeting of the Theatre Service Award to received nominations—one Panelists included Bob Avian, join in the reunion/get- Phoenix/Tucson membership Judy Rollings at 7 p.m. and for a Member Project Code Kelly Bishop, Larry Fuller, together/lovefest. will be held on Monday, June the meeting will begin at 7:30 production, one for an URTA Baayork Lee, Alice Playten and As always, a tape of the 21, 2010 at the Little Theatre p.m. All members are invited production and one in an Margo Sappington along with event will be donated to the at Phoenix Theatre, 101 E. for wine and cheese, to hear SPT show. For a list of all moderator, Harvey Evans. DO40 Jerome Robbins Dance McDowell (NE corner of the latest Equity news, to nominees, visit members and friends also in Collection at Lincoln Center Central & McDowell) in share in the presentation of www.austinchronicle.com/ attendance included: Karin Library for the Performing Arts. Baker, Steve Boockvor, Nancy Phoenix. There will be a the Award and to network with gyrobase/issue/story? (continued on page 6) reception at 6:30 p.m., fellow members. =oik%3A1028144. Dalton, Dottie Frank Danner, 4 / EQUITY news JUNE 2010
COMMUNITY PROJECTS and individuals Continued from page 1 who were affected by the flood. The Equity team participated in the cast, in fact, vol - AIDS Walk New York event in unteered to raise May 2010. The team, organized money for the by staffer Chris Williams, raised flood relief $2,000. The event marked the efforts after each 25th anniversary of AIDS Walk performance. New York, which has raised more Running out of than $110 million for HIV pro - (L to r) Dylan Bauer, Ana Gomez-Reggeti, Javier Ignacio, Hope Fiefer, Team GO-Equity: (l to r) Ned Schmidtke, Greg posters to sign grams and services in the tri- Joshua Phillip Huff, Gerold Schroeder, Jermaine Miles, Matt Martin, North, Doug Dixon, Joshua M. Bott and Richard John Fasulo; (front) Sarah Wilson, Nicholas J. Cacciola. Ostlund. after the first per - state area. The Equity Team formance, Max included Mr. Williams, members John Fasulo. in women. endured, while the higher Merchandising donated posters Joshua Phillip Huff, Nicholas Team GO Equity (The Guys The drive into Nashville for ground to the right remained and as actors came off the Cacciola, Ben Engle, Javier Igna - Of Equity) participated in the 5K the touring company of A Cho - untouched. The cast didn't hesi - stage they joined an assembly cio and his mom Ana Gomez- Entertainment Industry Founda - rus Line was an extraordinary tate to say yes to a request from line to sign more posters. In Reggett, Hope Feifer, Sarah Wil - tion Revlon Walk/Run at the Los study in contrasts. To the left, the management of the Ten - seven performances, the cast of son, EMC Jermaine Miles and Angeles Coliseum on May 8, rescue efforts were in full swing nessee Performing Arts Center A Chorus Line raised $47,892 friends Gerald Schroeder, Matt 2010. The Guys raised over because of the devastating to help raise money at their first from the generous audiences in Martin, Dylan Baker and staffer $3,000 to help eradicate cancers floods a portion of the city performance for those families Nashville! Annual Easter Bonnet Competition Doris Eaton Travis Dies at Raises Over $3.2 Million for BC/EFA 106 Years Young Last Ziegfeld Girl, what no one anticipated was the love affair that would blossom BC/EFA Favorite between BC/EFA and Follies n the spring of 1998, fans and legend Doris Eaton Travis, who friends of Broadway became a special friend and ICares/Equity Fights AIDS’ Easter Bonnet favorite. Doris died Annual Easter Bonnet on May 4, 2010 at the age of Competition were delighted with 106, just two weeks after her the appearance of five of the 12th Easter Bonnet appearance. original Ziegfeld Follies girls on For more on the life and times the stage of the New Amsterdam of Doris Eaton Travis, go to Theatre—where they had www.broadwaycares.org—“A ifty-nine Broadway, Off South Pacific. Night Music ) joined Bebe appeared 70 years earlier. But, Celebration of Doris Eaton Travis. Broadway and National The National Tour Bonnet pre - Neuwirth and Nathan Lane (The FTouring companies came sentation, “Broadway Cares Love Addams Family ) to present the together at Broadway’s Minskoff Affair,” created by Melissa Mahon awards for top fundraising compa - Theatre on April 26 and 27, 2010 and Sean McKnight, saluted the nies and outstanding bonnet pre - SPT Agreement Extended to raise $3,265,700 for Broadway fundraising done on the road this sentations: The Lion King/ fourth ouncil has voted to extend Council and to facilitate the antici - Cares/Equity Fights AIDS at the season. runner-up with $114,684; In The Equity’s Small Profession - pated September completion of 24th Annual Easter Bonnet Catherine Zeta-Jones ( A Little Heights/ third runner-up, al Theatre Contract the “rewrite” process. Competition. $117,660; Billy Elliot/ second run - C 1 (SPTC) through September 26, The SPTC is a promulgated ner-up, $134,682; The Phantom Shows Go Gaga for BC/EFA 2010 with a 3% increase in mini - Agreement. The three Regional of the Opera/ first runner-up, The opening number, “Gaga mum salaries and an increase in Committees have been meeting $153,444. The top Broadway For Broadway!” included 50 per - the health rate. Council’s action together to examine the rulebook Fundraising Award went to formers, choreography by Shea followed a recommendation from and propose changes. To date Wicked for raising $208,880. Sullivan and associate Pamela the three Regional Developing there have been three meetings Of the 59 shows participating, Remler, direction by Nick Demos, Theatre Committees and was and, according to Central Region - 19 touring companies accounted music and lyrics by Ben Cohn and taken in order to accommodate al Director Kathryn V. Lamkey, “the for $1,386,374 of the day’s total. Bill Russell and a special appear - the necessary process of finalizing process is proving to be time con - Awards were presented to the ance by BC/EFA’s most cherished changes to be brought to the suming though fruitful.” National Tours of Mary Poppins / veteran, the late Doris Eaton third runner-up, $128,553; Wicked Travis. – San Francisco /second runner- Among the presentations: “the 2 up, $131,815; Jersey Boys /first with a whole new interior after notorious and dangerous Cag - runner-up, $142,434. The top Tour BBrriieeff NNootteess major renovations, has been elles” from the revival of La Cage renamed the Stephen Fundraising Award went to • Two New York City police Aux Folles stood tall in glamorous Sondheim Theatre , honoring the Wicked – Emerald City for its precincts received Tony Awards drag; bonnets from the large casts legendary composer and lyricist. $239,815. for their work in the city’s Theatre of The Phantom of the Opera and • James J. Claffey, Jr. has The Grand Prize for Fundrais - District following the potential car Memphis were joined by solo per - been re-elected for a third term ing went to the Wicked – bomb in Times Square. formers Leslie Jordan ( My Trip as president of Local One , Inter - 3 Munchkinland Tour which raised • Keith Halpern is the new Down the Pink Carpet ) and Jim national Association of Theatrical $251,332. All told, the four compa - Director of Labor Relations for Brochu ( Zero Hour ). Highlights Stage Employees (IATSE). Local nies of Wicked —Broadway, San The Broadway League. also included a “spicy” bonnet from One represents stagehands. Francisco and two National • Chanhassen Dinner Mamma Mia!, and (1) Corbin Bleu, • Broadway’s economic Tours—broke every previous Theatres has officially been sold. star of In The Heights in two pre - record over the last 24 years by impact on New York City was The new managing partners of sentations, Heights Cool Musical raising $831,906. close to $10 billion in the 2008-09 the 41-year old theatre include and a special presentation by R. A special award was given to season according to a report Michael Brindisi, Chanhassen Evolution Latina. The company of the top fundraising Broadway play, released by The Broadway Resident Artistic Director; Tamara Wicked paid tribute to the Broad - Next Fall , for raising $49,946 and League. In addition, theatre sup - Kangas Erickson, Choreographer way Green Alliance and BC/EFA’s to the top Off Broadway produc - ported 84,400 jobs and generat - and Steven L. Peters, Owner and affiliate, Dancers Responding to tion, Avenue Q , with $22,328. ed $477.7 million in New York President of VenuWorks. Said AIDS, brought down the house The award for Outstanding City taxes. 4 Brindisi, an Equity member: with tap. A special Moment of Bonnet (3) went to the cast of • St. Clement’s Episcopal “We’re looking forward to our Silence was introduced by the cast Fela! , while the award for Best Church, 423 West 46th Street in future. Our goals are the same as of Million Dollar Quartet. Bonnet Presentation went to the Manhattan, holds its 13th annual our predecessors, to be The company of Billy Elliot company of Memphis, whose A Celebration of Their Lives profitable, to maintain the quality remembered the victims of the leading lady, (4) Montego Glover, service at 7 p.m. on Sunday, June experience, to improve upon it, April 5 mining disaster in West delivered a stirring rendition of the 20, 2010. This is a brief ecumeni - and to have fun. The best days of Virginia, while the cast of Next Easter Bonnet anthem, “Help is cal service of song and medita - Chanhassen Dinner Theatres are Fall honored the show’s produc - on the Way.” tion remembering and celebrating before us.” er, Sir Elton John. Broadway kids For a full story and additional the lives of those in the theatre • Broadway’s Henry Miller’s (2) were represented in presen - photographs, go to community who have died during Theatre, which recently reopened tations from The Lion King and www.broadwaycares.org . the past year. Admission is free. Photos: Peter James Zielinski 5 / EQUITY news JUNE 2010
Annual Easter Bonnet
Competition (continued from page 1)
Photos: Walter McBride/Retna
Doris Eaton Travis. 6 / EQUITY news JUNE 2010
Postcards Continued from page 3 San Francisco/Bay Area Record Crowd Attends Membership Meeting South Florida alternate seats were open. Equity Talent Shines at Phoebe Moyer, Stephen Pawley, Danielle Levin and Deborah Del Carbonell Awards Mastro were elected to serve from By Marjorie O’Neill-Butler where he won the lighting award 2010-2013 and Ray Renati and South Florida Equity Liai - for the production, Macon City. Ric Prindle were elected as son Committee Member After receiving numerous alternates. nominations over the years, The Chair reported on From the new Executive Barbara Bradshaw received the deceased members, upcoming Producer/Director Amy London, Best Actress Award for her events, subcommittee recruitment to the recipient of the Best performance in Why Torture is and the date for the Fall General Lighting Award, Equity members Wrong and the People Who Love Membership Meeting—October lit up the Amaturo Theatre on Them at the Mosaic Theatre. 25, and thanked outgoing BAAC April 12, 2010 for the Another multiple members Anna Bullard and Katja presentation of nomination Rivera for their service. Both will the 34th actress, Elena continue to serve on BAAC Annual The crowd at the San Francisco/Bay Area Membership Meeting. Maria Garcia, subcommittees. Carbonell also broke her Bethany Umbach provided Awards. Susan Lucci members with a list of current For the By Kelly Ground, The entire day’s events, luck by receiving contract theatres in the Bay Area second year in BAAC Chair including BAAC’s meeting earlier the Best plus Bay Area Project Policy a row, Equity in the day, were made possible Supporting A record turnout of 68 AEA productions which members can sponsored an through the generosity of the Actress award members was in attendance at attend without cost, pending seat award Aurora Theatre, which donated for City the Spring 2010 San availability. Ms. Westerfield category—this the use of its lobby, theatre and Theatre’s Francisco/Bay Area Membership reported on the National elections year, Best new conference room. Summer Shorts. Meeting at the Aurora Theatre in and how regional members can Actress in a The Education and Outreach Gregg Berkeley on April 26, 2010. participate in the Union. Play. subcommittee also hosted a food Weiner Members were joined by Western Members were reminded of Presenting the drive benefiting the Marin continued his Regional Director Mary Lou the annual Bay Area Theatre Equity award Community Food Bank, with winning streak Westerfield and Bay Area Critics Circle Award on May 3 were Gwen Hollander: Best Support- members bringing canned food ing Actress in a Musical. this year with Business Rep Bethany Umbach. which AEA has sponsored for the Councillor and pantry items. Over three the Best This continued the trend in the second year. Emeritus Arne boxes of items were collected. Supporting Bay Area of stronger participation There was extended Gundersen and Councillor At the top of the meeting, Actor award for Farragut North at and increased attendance and discussion on the lack of work Valerie Toth-Grant. Also present present and outgoing members of GableStage. doubled the number from three and how members can be pro- at the event were Councillor the BAAC were introduced: Bert In the Musical categories, years ago when the Bay Area active about educating producers Marjorie Horne and members of van Aalsburg, 1st Vice Chair; Best Actress went to Holly Advisory Committee (BAAC) and city officials about supporting the South Florida Area Liaison Steven Pawley, 2nd Vice Chair; Shunkey for Vices: A Love Story ; began to focus on increasing more AEA theatre, thus creating Committee. Heath Belden, Secretary; Brian Best Supporting Actress was member participation. new workweeks. AEA and Liaison Committee Herndon, Michael Patrick Gaffney, Gwen Hollander for Les The meeting and pre-meeting Enthusiasm ran high for the member Amy London was Aaron Wilton, Jessica Powell, Miserables ; Best Actor went to reception were hosted by the many projects supported by recently appointed to head the Phoebe Moyer, Katja Rivera, Brad Oscar for Barnum and Best BAAC, with a buffet donated by Equity through the BAAC and Carbonell Awards organization Anna Bullard, Rod Gnapp, Joan Supporting Actor to Gary member volunteers of the Event special praise was extended for as Executive Producer/Director. Mankin (Alternate) and AEA and Marachek, Les Miserables. Best and Hospitality subcommittee: the work of the BAAC, which has A long time member of AEA, BAAC Member Emeritus Milt Production of a Musical was Les Susan Reamy, Wanda kept Equity members who reside Amy is a Renaissance woman Commons. Miserables at Actors’ Playhouse. McCaddon, Deborah Black, in the San Francisco/Bay Area who acts, directs, stage The annual BAAC elections Best New Work went to the Jessica Powell, Phoebe Moyer connected with each other and manages and served a long term topped the agenda. Four three- creators of Cagney at Florida and chairs Michael Patrick the theatre community at large. on the Liaison Committee, all year seats plus two one-year Stage, and Best Ensemble Gaffney and Katja Rivera. while raising three children, Production was Farragut North. including one rather new one. GableStage’s production of She gave the production a Speed the Plow won Best hometown feel, all the while Production of a Play and Best New York the “joyful celebration Shirley keeping it professional. Also Director for Joseph Adler. would want,” and afterwards adding to the show with songs GableStage was also the Memorial Set for Shirley Rich the celebration will continue. If from last year’s productions were recipient of the Bill von Maurer you would like to share your AEA members, including Everett A celebration of the life of Beginning at 12 Noon, there Award for Theatrical Excellence. experience with the audience, Bradley, from Vices at The casting director Shirley Rich will be time for people who The evening culminated with contact Shirley’s daughter, Caldwell Theatre, David Michael who died on December 28, have not seen one another in an after party sponsored by the Lisa Krohn directly via email Felty, Les Miserables at Actors’ 2009, will be held on Thursday, years to re-connect and share Theatre League of South at [email protected]. Playhouse, Robert Creighton, June 24, 2010 in Theatre A at a hug and glass of wine. From Florida. Cagney at Florida Stage and 59 East 59th Theatres. 12:30 to 1:30, all are invited to Nathaniel Braga, Barnum at the Maltz Jupiter Theatre. John Manzelli, an AEA actor, director and fight choreographer received the award for Best New York Lighting Design. John is the Co- Broadway Show League Opens Founder of The Naked Stage Credit Union Donates $10,000 to New York BC/EFA Kicking Off 2010 Season Actors Federal Credit Union, the Denise Nolin, who presented the New Members to official sponsor of the Broadway check to Broadway Cares’ Frank Meet June 21 Show League, presented a check Conway. for $10,000 to Broadway The festivities began with the Save the date: There will be Cares/Equity Fights AIDS at the Tony Award-nominated cast of an Eastern Region New opening ceremony of the League’s Million Dollar Quartet singing the BSL supporters and friends. Members Reception on Monday, 56th season on May 13, 2010. National Anthem. Throwing out the June 21, 2010 at 4 p.m. in the “As a Credit Union volunteer for ceremonial first pitch in Central Council Room on the 14th Floor more than 25 years, a Board Park’s Heckscher Softball Field (Billy Elliot ), Laura Osnes ( South guest, World Series Champion and of the Equity Building, 165 West member, and a working New York were Constantine Maroulis ( Rock Pacific ), Mandy Gonzalez and former New York Yankee, Jeff 46th Street. For more Actor, I couldn’t be more proud of of Ages ), Corbin Bleu ( In The Katie Rose Clarke ( Wicked ), Brian Nelson. information, visit the Equity our ability to give back to our Heights ), Terrence Mann ( The D’Arcy James ( Time Stands Still ), For information on ActorsFCU website: www.actorsequity.org. community,” said Chairwoman Addams Family ), Gregory Jbara Diana DeGarmo ( Hair ) and special visit actorsfcu.com. JUNE 2010 EQUITY news / 7 New York Western Region Derwent, New Equity Seff Awards Theatre Opens in Presented Orange County Recipients of both Equity’s 3-D Theatricals is a new Clarence Derwent Award and its Equity theatre that has taken Richard Seff Award were up residency at the Orange selected on May 6, 2010. County Performing Arts The Derwent Award for most Malcoln Gets and Seff Award recipient Helen Pavilion in Santa Ana. promising female and male per - Stenborg in Vigil . Established in October, 2009, it formers on the New York metro - Denzel Washington with Seff Award recipient is the brainchild of T.J. Dawson politan scene, went to Nina Stephen McKinley Henderson in Fences . and his two siblings, Gretchen Arianda for her performance in (Photo: Joan Marcus) and Daniel (the 3 Ds). Looking the two-hander, Venus in Fur , for a way to provide quality presented by the Classic Stage theatre, outreach programs and Company, and Bill Heck for his jobs for actors, directors, multiple roles in Horton Foote’s choreographers, musicians and The Orphan’s Home Cycle , pre - crew, they teamed up with sented by the Signature Theatre close friend, AEA member Company and Hartford Stage. Kami Seymour, and got started. The Richard Seff Award It took a year to find a venue, honoring a veteran female and but once that happened, things male character actor for the best Derwent Award recipient Bill Heck with Maggie moved quickly. In just eight performance in a supporting role Derwent Award recipient Nina Arianda with Wes Lacey in The Orphans’ Home Cycle, Part 3 . weeks, the company signed in a Broadway or Off Broadway Bentley in Venus in Fur. (Photo: Gregory Costanzo) contracts to be producers, took production, has gone to Helen over the building, started Stenborg for her performance in Henderson for his performance awards included: Joe Harry Haun, Playbill; Michael building sets, designing the two-hander, Vigil, presented in the Broadway revival of August Dziemianowicz, Daily News; Kuchwara, Associated Press; costumes, reconstructing the at Off Broadway’s DR2 Theatre, Wilson’s Fences. Adam Feldman, Time Out NY; and David Rosenberg, Back floor to meet AEA standards, and to Stephen McKinley The Judges’ Panel for both Susan Haskins, Theater Talk; Stage. built an on-site rehearsal room, auditioned and cast their first show— Peter Pan, which Boston (Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?, for 25 years. garnered glowing reviews. All Publick Theatre), and Crystal The Stage Source Theatre this was done with only two full Elliot Norton Awards Shine at Fox ( Fences , Huntington “Hero” Award was presented to time employees, one part timer, Theatre Company). the Huntington Theatre’s and one volunteer (who has New Paramount Theatre The Outstanding Ensemble Managing Director, Michael now joined the group). Peter Award went to The Maso, who acknowledged the Pan featured AEA Councillors Savannah financial sacrifice that artists Greg North as Captain Hook Disputation at the make in pursuit of their craft. and Kim Arnett as the Dance Speakeasy Stage, The evening’s finale was the Captain. The set was designed which also nabbed presentation of the Elliot Norton by John Iacovelli who designed Outstanding Musical Prize for Sustained Excellence the Broadway set. For this first Production ( Adding to Karen MacDonald. A founding show 3DT used six Equity Machine ), member of the American contracts: three Principal, a Outstanding Repertory Theatre, Ms. Production Stage Manager, Director (AEA MacDonald described her life in Assistant Stage Manager and member Paul the theatre as a “kind of one Chorus. The second show Melone) and accident, a happy accident” and was All Shook Up. For this, they Outstanding recalled some of her greatest used the National Tour sets and Design. Adding mentors: her teacher Rose costumes and once again had Machine cast Schulman; Proposition, an early six AEA contracts. All Shook members Bob De Boston theatrical company, and Up was a huge success, Vivo, Leigh Barrett, the great Robert Brustein. “So leaving audiences standing on Brendan McNab, Liz why do we continue to do this?” their feet and cheering for Hayes, David Krinitt she asked the audience. “We do more—so much so that people At the Norton Awards are (l to r) AEA staffers Russell Lehrer and Melissa Ann and Cheryl it because we have to, because came back to see the show as Colgan with Boston Area Liaison Committee members Bill Mootos, Donna McMahon brought it’s in our blood and it’s our many as five times. Altar Boyz, Sorbello, Emily McMullen, Ellen Colton and Kippy Goldfarb. the house down passion.” the young company’s third with a scene from Bravo to all of the nominees effort, was no different. Taking the show to new levels in their The 28th annual Elliot Norton at the fledgling American the production. and recipients. state-of-the-art space, 3DT Awards, presented by the Repertory Theatre in Cambridge A special citation (“the incorporated music video and Boston Theater Critics and returned in 1997 to perform theatrical jewel of our region”) splash screens just like a real Association, took place in with Ms. Adams in Mamet’s The was presented by BTCA Office Closing concert, leaving screaming Boston on May 17, 2010, Old Neighborhood . President Caldwell Titcomb to fans in their wake. The 2010 shining a spotlight on the artistic The awards were emceed by Tony Estrella, Artistic Director of All Equity offices will be season includes The 25th achievements of Equity actors Emmy Award-winning journalist the Gamm Theatre, who closed on Monday, July 5, 2010 Annual Putnam County and theatres from the 2009- Joyce Kulhawik, who just described the hard work in observation of Independence Spelling Bee , Hello, Dolly!, and 2010 New England theatrical concluded a 27-year stint as necessary to sustain a theatre Day. the Pulitzer Prize-winning play, season. Equity co-sponsored Arts & Entertainment critic for Doubt —all using Equity the awards and was CBS and was recognized for her contracts. An ambitious start represented by James Bodge ongoing dedication to the Hartford Stage, Asolo Repertory for a small group. and members of the Boston professional theatre and arts WYMAN GOALS Theatre, Pittsburgh Public “In a time when many Area Liaison Committee, community. Other presenters Continued from page 1 Theater and the Barter Theater. theatre companies are shutting including Bill Mootos, Ellen included Boston Globe theatre The Phantom of the Opera and Often tempering his down or doing small scale Colton, Kippy Goldfarb, Emily critic Louise Kennedy, Boston has more than a dozen other dedicated stance on serious shows, 3-D Theatricals is McMullen, Annette Miller, Dawn Phoenix critic Carolyn Clay, Broadway credits including, Les topics with a dose of humor, taking a chance, a big chance, Schall, and Donna Sorbello. journalists Terry Byrne, Iris Miserables, Sly Fox , On the Wyman said in a nod to his considering this is a for-profit AEA members Tony Fanger and Sandy MacDonald, Twentieth Century , My Fair Lady predecessors, “Previous Equity company using our own Shalhoub and Brooke Adams and WGBH-TV reporter Jared and A Tale of Two Cities. He has Presidents have left me some money,” said T.J. Dawson. “Our (both in Broadway’s Lend Me A Bowen. appeared in numerous Off very large shoes (and in the commitment is to diverse, Tenor ) were guests of honor at Outstanding actor awards Broadway productions as well case of my immediate professional theatre with the gala. “We are so delighted to went to Sandra Shipley as at such regional theatres as predecessor a fetching pair of something for everyone.” 3-D be here,” said Mr. Shalhoub, (Entertaining Mr. Sloane , The Guthrie Theatre, Arena slingback pumps) to fill. Theatricals operates under a who performed for four seasons Publick Theatre); Nigel Gore Stage, the Goodman Theatre, Fortunately I have big feet.” COST contract. 8 / EQUITY news JUNE 2010
fellow Asian American performers. He told me that Once On This Island has always resonated with him because of his Filipino roots. I think I fell in love with the show because it speaks to my search for a community and reminds me of the love I’ve found in Asian American casts. Ms. Johnson also shared her thoughts on how to ensure the future of Asian American artists working on and off stage: “We have to keep telling our stories. This is the only way we can ensure that our voices will New York continue to be heard. Collectively, our cast for Once New Members Attend “Italian Wedding” On This Island has been in nearly 40 Broadway shows. With There are 13 new Equity Ransom, Randi Kaplan, Chad statistics showing that less than members in the company of My Kessler, Meagan Robar, Reichen one percent of performers on Big Gay Italian Wedding , a Lehmkuhl, Leah Gerstel, Liz Broadway last season were of Periodic Per Performance Gerecitano and Anthony Asian Pacific Islander descent Contract referenced to Off Wilkinson (also the playwright). we feel like we are beating Broadway. Shown here are: (l to r) (Not pictured is new member impossible odds. Now it’s less Joe Scanio, Carla-Marie Mercun Fabio Taliercio and current unusual for theatre productions (a current Equity member), Kevin members Tricia Burns, Brett to see a diverse array of actors McIntyre, Bryan Anthony, Erik Douglas and Adam Zelasko.) for auditions. Whether they get cast or not is what needs improving on.” Christine Toy Johnson (c) with Telly Leun and Yuka Takara in Wayman Wong (New York Once On This Island . (Photo: Bruce Alan Johnson) Daily News) was in the audience South Florida and reported: “After the show, New York Ahrens and Flaherty, who were Equity Featured on Webcast both in the enthusiastic By Irene Adjan to become Equity, and the Asian Heritage Month Celebrated audience, raved.” Ms. Ahrens South Florida Equity Liaison benefits and protections the said “It’s fantastic. I’ve never Union provided. He was also with “Once On This Island” seen it with an all Asian I was invited by Jason Fisher, interested in what was required of American cast, but it works By Brian Jose host of Curtain Call on WRPBiTV, a theatre to go from being non- original Broadway company beautifully. I hope they do it to appear on his webcast to union to Union. He asked if a A sold-out, all Asian American member Gerry McIntyre and again.” speak about Actors’ Equity. His theatre could simply start out concert performance of Lynn was made possible by a grant Mr. Flaherty said: “The cast show generally features what is union (yes) or did it have to “work Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty’s that Ms. Johnson received from was so fresh. Gerry [McIntyre] going on in our regional theatre its way up” to that status musical, Once On This Island , the Manhattan Community Arts knows this show like the back of scene, reviews of regional (sometimes). As well as getting to presented by Councillor Christine Fund. Under the musical his hand, and he brought out productions, as well as talk about the ins-and-outs of the Toy Johnson and Jose Llana in direction of Randy Redd, the such lovely surprises. I really information and trivia about the Union, I also had the opportunity partnership with the Eastern cast included Broadway loved hearing my buddy Ann theatre world in general. I thought to speak about the philanthropic Region Equal Employment veterans Mr. Llana, Ms. Johnson, Harada sing “Mama Will it was great that he was taking an aspect of our Union—how it has Opportunity Committee, was Alan Ariano Kylie, Liya Provide.” Every one of them was interest in our Union and wanted always been on the front lines of presented on May 16, 2010 in Goldstein, Ann Harada, Telly just wonderful. It had moments to feature that on his show. fighting discrimination and other celebration of Asian Heritage Leung, Deborah Lew, Jason Ma, of real delicate poetry, as well as During the interview, we spoke civil rights issues. Month. The EEOC is co-chaired Paolo Montalban, Hazel Anne passion. It was such a treat!” about what it meant for a theatre It’s terrific when anyone by Ms. Johnson and Julia Raymundo and Yuka Takara. Brian Jose has been a member of AEA since 2003. He has to be an Equity theatre and what outside our Union wants to learn Breanetta Simpson and Regarding the genesis of the appeared Off Broadway in Imelda it meant for an Actor to be an more about us, so I was pleased supported by AEA staff rep Pearl project, Ms. Johnson said: “Jose and Honor and in regional Equity Actor. He was interested in and I are always looking to and proud to represent us in this Brady. theatres across the country. what the process was for an Actor forum. The concert was directed by create opportunities for our
New Dinner Theatre Agreements and materials for the contract committee, the negotiations and “No, No, Nanette” Reunion Negotiated in Central Region the Central Regional Board. he 40th anniversary of the invited to attend and share music, Minimum salary increases, first rehearsal of the Broad - dancing, hors d’oeuvres, reminisc - ew four-year agreements employment at these theatres. increases in the health Tway company of No, No, ing, gossip, and more. The cost is have been reached with With the exception of Fireside, contribution, percentages for Nanette will be celebrated at an $40 per person and checks or Neach of the following the negotiations were held at increments and several afternoon tea dance from 1-5 p.m. money orders should be made Central Region Dinner Theatres: each theatre’s location. The improvements involving working on Sunday, September 19, 2010 out to LaBuca Restaurant and Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre appropriate Chicago staff conditions were negotiated. A at Swing 46, Jazz & Supper Club, mailed to Kathy Conry, 484 (Indianapolis, IN), Chanhassen members traveled to each of the summary of the new terms for 349 West 46th Street in New York. West 43rd Street, 7G, New York, Dinner Theatres (Chanhassen, seven theatres during March, each theatre will be available Members of all the companies that NY 10036. For information: MN), Fireside Theatre (Ft. April and May 2010. In each city, soon on the website and it is grew from that first rehearsal are [email protected] Atkinson, WI), The New Theatre the staff was joined by members anticipated that the new rulebook Restaurant (Overland Park, KS). who have worked with the for each theatre will be available Four year terms were also theatres. The local input was in early June. reached with the following Special invaluable in determining the If you will be working at any of Agreement Theatres: American outcome of each agreement. these theatres and have a Heartland Theatre (Kansas City, Members were at the negotiating question regarding your contract, TO WORK OR NOT TO WORK… MO), Drury Lane Theatre table and participated in the please do not hesitate to contact without an Equity Contract… (Oakbrook Terrace, IL), ) and caucuses, providing vital the Business Rep who handles K K K Marriott Theatre (Lincolnshire, IL). information regarding “how things the area in which the theatre is Its always okay Sometimes Never It’s THE question for many actors. To learn the facts, go to Equity’s website Each of these theatres has a work” in each location and helping located: Missouri and Kansas – at www.actorsequity.org . Look in the News Index under National for the story separate agreement with varying to shape decisions. The staff point Ann Gordon; Indiana – Tim Bruns; terms and conditions, so it is person was Ashley Dawe who did Minnesota and Illinois – Ashley To Work Or Not To Work. The direct link: important to consult the correct an outstanding job of coordinating Dawe; Wisconsin – Luther Goins. http://www.actorsequity.org/NewsMedia/misc/ToWorkOrNotToWork.asp rulebook before and during your all of the necessary information