MARCH “Imagination is the beginning 2011 of creation.You imagine what Volume 96 you desire, you will what Number 2 you imagine and at last you create what you will.” EQUITYNEWS — George Bernard Shaw 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

Annual Membership Meeting is Mary McColl, New Executive Director, Friday, April 8, 2011 Hits the Ground Running at Equity The Eastern, Central and Western Regions will be connected by telephonic hookup for the Meeting in order that members in all ary McColl joined Ac - an arts administrator. I don’t see Regions may be able to hear statements of candidates running tors’ Equity Associa - the work I’ll take on in leading for election to Council. Mtion on Tuesday, this Union as all that different January 18, 2011. Her first day from what I have done in the The statements will begin at 2:30 p.m. (Eastern Time) was a Council meeting where past. The reality is I know there 1:30 p.m. (Central Time) and 11:30 a.m. (Western Time) she had the opportunity to ob - are business challenges for The meeting in the EASTERN REGION will convene at 2 p.m. serve Equity’s democratic Equity similar to challenges in the Council Room on the 14th Floor of the Equity Building, process at work. In her first offi - faced by other performing arts 165 West 46th Street, New York, NY cial interview as the new Execu - businesses. There are artistic The agenda will also include the following: tive Director, Mary sat with and work related challenges for • Presentation of the Rosetta LeNoire Award Equity News to share some of both the membership and the • Membership Discussion Period in accordance with the By-Laws her views. Here is the interview: staff. My background gives me a A Sign Interpreter will be present on request. Equity’s TDD 1) You began your career unique perspective on how to telephone number—Telecommunications Device for the Deaf— as a dancer. How does that work to meet those challenges is (212) 302-4306. experience influence your and make it better for our The meeting in the CENTRAL REGION will convene at 1 p.m. new role as Executive membership. We’re in show in the Member Center on the 1st Floor of the Equity Building, Director? Being a dancer, I business and I believe that the 557 West Randolph, Chicago, IL always envisioned I would come “show” part should always be to New York and work on joyful. The agenda will also include the following: Broadway. Here I am! Not 3) You joined the staff in • Report of the Central Regional Vice President exactly dancing in a big musical, January and have really “hit • Report of the Central Regional Director but that experience – that desire the ground running.” In these • Membership Discussion Period in accordance with the By-Laws - has informed all of the work I few short weeks, what The meeting in the WESTERN REGION will convene at 11 a.m. have done in my career. It challenges do you see facing in the Bellamy Board Room on the 5th Floor of the Equity Office, certainly informs my position as Equity? The change in the 6755 Hollywood Blvd., Los Angeles, CA the Executive Director. My love economy and how it impacts us The agenda will also include: of performing is what has led - the Association, the life and me to work in arts work of the membership, our • Report of the Western Regional Vice President Mary McColl. • Report of the Western Regional Director administration because I bargaining partners in their • Membership Discussion Period in accordance with the By-Laws understand what it’s like to train, ability to employ us – is a very to be driven. That kind of union. After I realized dance big challenge. We are looking at training - that mindset - has would not be my career, I job opportunities, funding Your IncomeTax been what has inspired me to worked in a variety of positions challenges for our bargaining work to ensure the best possible that actually taught me what it partners and how that impacts DoYou Dabble? environment for performers. takes for a performing arts our members. The Production 2) You have a strong organization to be successful. I and LORT contracts – two very By Sandra Karas revenue, has been reviewing the background in arts learned from the ground up. important job generators – are VITA Site Coordinator forests of small businesses and administration. Tell us a little Those learning experiences going to be negotiated in the independent contractors to see s it rears its ugly head about that and how it allowed me to know every next twelve to fourteen months. how much extra tax it can shake every so often, the Hob - translates to being the aspect of a production. So as I Smaller contracts will be from the trees. So, woodland by Loss Rule – as it is Executive Director of a come on board as the Executive A friends, let us review the Code (continued on page 2) usually characterized – Section national performing arts Director, I still consider myself and see who qualifies. 183 of the Internal Revenue Internal Revenue Code §183 Code, has resurfaced in earnest lays out several tests to of late. The IRS, an agency that delineate between ongoing, for- regularly has to reinvent itself, or Council Approves Changes to Small profit business people and at least its methods of collecting dabblers or hobbyists. Both ProfessionalTheatre Contract must report income from their ventures, less ordinary and necessary expenses. The chief Members Surveyed to Determine Concerns difference is that the individuals t its meeting of January termination of a theatre’s catego - establish terms based on the and businesses that spend 18, 2011, Council ap - ry were added, reorganized or Rulebook. more than they bring in are Aproved the joint recom - clarified to make the Rulebook a A survey was conducted in restricted from doing so more mendation of the Eastern, more accessible document. December 2009 in order to than two years out of five. Those Central and Western Developing There are some expanded pa - determine the needs of the that report repeated losses are Theatre Committees for changes rameters in the area of media, membership working on this subject not only to this Code to the Small Professional Theatre too, including an increase in contract. More than 4,700 provision, but to strict penalties Agreement (SPT) that will run website footage from three min - members were emailed, and if they overstate expenses. If through June 7, 2015. Highlights utes to five minutes and the al - 1,202 responded. “The large you don’t know where you stand of the contract include a 3% in - lowance of footage on number of responses to the in this “business or hobby” crease in salaries in each year of Equity-approved non-embedda - (continued on page 2) minefield, here are the the agreement; improvements in ble third-party hosting sites. questions the IRS asks you to housing, including high speed in - Health payments increase slight - Index answer in making a ternet access and more required ly in the first two years of the determination. The parenthetical information about the contents of agreement, with payments in the Mary McColl: An interview ...... 1

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W Additionally, provisions relating to cities. Each Producer on an SPT e National News ...... 8 r o w Q d 5 d c i e d e 6 a earning your living – at least in rehearsals, performances, con - negotiates individually with a 1 A S P N E Letters ...... 12 (continued on page 6) secutive productions, and the de - Business Representative to 2 / EQUITY news SPT Agreement AEA Members Rally for Workers’ Rights Continued from page 1 In Madison, survey was gratifying,” said Wisconsin (photo, Central Regional Director r) and New York City Kathryn V. Lamkey. “From the results we now have a better (l), AEA members picture of our members’ current demonstrate their concerns and the areas in which support for the they wish to see improvements.” collective bargaining The largest number of rights of public responses to the survey sector workers in indicated that salary increases Wisconsin and their were important, but respondents legal right to be also recognized the recent represented by a economic downturn and didn’t Union in that want to see the theatres “hurt.” bargaining. See The second highest number of more photos at requests were for more rehearsal actorsequity.org . (Photo: Stephanie Masucci) (Photo: David Girolmo) time, which was addressed in the new agreement with the addition of a provision that permits a Producer to buy additional New MSUA Contract rehearsal hours under certain 2011 Annual Election Calendar conditions. Features Salary Increases, Wednesday, March 9, 2011 Deadline for Candidates’ For the period January 2007 Statements for Equity News, (contin - through December 2009, 12,075 Media Package Equity Website and Ballot Equity contracts were issued by Brochure (Due in all three some 250 SPT theatres. new four-year Musical salaries. Members will also see Regional Offices by 2 p.m. Research by staff indicated that Stock/Unit Attraction that the new agreement Eastern Time). Lottery for Ballot SPT has the third highest A(MSUA) Agreement contains the addition of one day Placement (National Office). number of Equity workweeks featuring salary increases and of unpaid bereavement leave, a Thursday, March 24, 2011 Deadline for registration to vote (behind LORT and Production), a media package, has been ap - direct deposit option for all electronically. You must be paid up the largest number of open proved by Council. The contract employment, a 1/6 tech week in dues through March 24 in order companies per week (l61) and is used by Kansas City Starlight bump for Stage Managers on to receive a ballot. the fourth highest earnings Theatre, the St. Louis Muny, Unit Tours, improved Friday, April 8, 2011 Annual National Membership (behind Production, LORT and Theatre of the Stars in Atlanta notification of cast changes Meeting (All Regions via Disney World). SPT theatres’ and Dallas Summer Musicals. when a Swing goes on, another teleconference). Candidate seating ranges from 49 to 349 Equity’s Chief Negotiator day of preproduction for the 1st Speeches. with 172 as the median; average was Central Regional Director Assistant Stage Manager, Monday, April 11, 2011 Distribution of ballots (from ticket prices range from free to Kathryn V. Lamkey, assisted by stricter guidelines for costume balloting company). $50 with $22.50 as the median. Senior Business fittings, and high speed internet Friday, May 20, 2011 Deadline for receipt of ballots. More than 60 Committee Representatives Christine access in Actor housing. “I am Saturday, May 21, 2011 Tabulation Day. members from across the Provost, Russell Lehrer and very pleased with the work of country were involved in the Business Reps Ann Gordon our team and the passion and process of drafting these and Jeffrey Bateman. spirit they brought to the changes, along with more than The Negotiating Team was discussion of all of the issues,” Council Establishes 20 staff members, led by Chair led by Vice Chair Wally Dunn said Ms. Lamkey. Jeff Williams and Central and included Bill Bateman, The MSUA Agreement will New Committee Regional Director Kathryn David Girolmo, Greg Hirsch, now contain a media package, ouncil has recently voted President Nick Wyman Lamkey. Rebecca Kim Jordan, Mark allowing for greater capture of to establish a Credentials states, “Handling conflict of David Kaplan and Sarah footage to publicize and CCommittee to address interest issues with good sense Marshall. Also assisting were promote theatres’ productions. conflict of interest issues. The and discretion is the sign of a Jeanne Lehman and Chair E. For this package, Actors will standing Committee is made up healthy organization. Our Faye Butler. receive, in addition to their of three Councillors Emeritus Constitution and By-Laws define Salary increases of 1%, 2%, salaries, no less than 2% of the appointed by the President and what we mean by conflict of 2% and 3% over the next four prevailing Actor minimum each one representative elected an - interest, and this Committee will years were achieved, as were week, which may not be folded nually from each Regional be able to help implement the increases in per diem, the non- into overscale. Board. The Committee, which rules.” touring Dance Captain The MSUA Contract will work in cooperation with Eq - In addition to addressing increment, health, overtime, generated nearly 1,000 uity’s legal counsel, is currently questions of conflict, the and all increments that are a workweeks in the 2009-2010 being chaired by Councillor Mar - Committee is authorized to EQUITYNEWS percentage of minimum, since season, with more than jorie Horne and has met once to develop new explanatory those amounts increase with $900,000 in earnings that year. Editor: DICK MOORE discuss its duties and proce - materials to help members the increase in minimum Associate Editor: HELAINE FELDMAN dures. understand their responsibilities. Equity News Advisory Committee Christine Toy Johnson, Chair (Eastern) to their lives and their Throughout all of it, one of the industry. I intend to work hard Nancy Daly (Western) Mary McColl employment. guiding factors will be respect for our members and to do what Diane Dorsey (Central) Continued from page 1 Nicole Flender (Eastern) 4) What best practices will for what this Union, its I and the staff can to ensure a you seek to implement that membership and staff stand for. stable industry. That will Bruce Alan Johnson (Eastern) negotiated in the near future Kevin McMahon (Western) will address these 5) How do you characterize translate into better careers and and those are equally important. Liz Pazik (Central) challenges? By the time this your approach? I think of lives for our members and for a Another challenge is to make Barbara Roberts (Western) interview goes to print, we will myself as an honest strong, viable Union. Melissa Robinette (Eastern) Equity a truly national Union. My be in the Plenary. Over several straightforward communicator. I also want to mention the goal is to reach out to all regions EQUITY NEWS (ISSN: 00924520) is days I will hear from Equity’s First, because it’s important to Centennial. I can’t think of a to create a viable relationship published monthly except for com - elected leaders what they think establish trust-filled more exciting time to join Actors’ bined issues in Jan./Feb., July/Aug., with each of our offices so that is important. I intend to take that relationships with the Officers Equity Association than at its Oct.,/Nov., by Actors' Equity we can put into practice the best information and help devise a and Council, and with the staff 100th Anniversary. This Union Association, 165 West 46th Street, thinking to help our members. I New York, NY 10036. Tele phone: strategy and a set of best that reports to me. Likewise, it’s started because a few actors also want to identify (212) 869-8530. Periodicals practices that will do three important to have a solid wanted to make changes to opportunities to help our future postage paid at New York, NY. and ad - things: strengthen the Union, relationship with our bargaining better the lives of every actor. ditional mailing offices. Copyright employers get on their feet in create the best possible working partners in our negotiations and We continue to do that every 2003, Actors' Equity Association. ways that Equity hasn’t before - environment for our members, in our day-to-day exchanges day. Its what this Union is all Subscription price for non-members without decreasing our of Actors' Equity Association: $25 per and give the staff the support with them. I believe that this about. For me, as a performer at contracted terms and wages. I year. Postmaster: Send address they need to continue to do the direct approach is the best way heart, I am excited to be part of am moved to do what we can for changes to Equity News, 165 West incredible work they do on to achieve the best outcome for Equity! 46th St., New York, NY 10036. our members and to add value behalf of the membership. our members and for the MARCH 2011 EQUITY news / 3 History is Being Made at From the the Geva Theatre Center: PRESIDENT Authentic Casting in a Things They Are A-Changin’ Hit Regional Play at Equity By Pearl Brady, Eastern he brings to the role of Georgie Equal Employment lifts the experience of all those By Nick Wyman to any member within administer contracts. To Opportunity Business around him. He’s taught all of us commuting distance of one of prepare for this, I have asked n a dazzling scoop that has Representative so much about the daily life of our three office cities) deal all of these folks to think about left the editors of the “Na - the Pazinski’s: their weariness with budget, concession an AEA Mission Statement f you see a production of tional Enquirer” gnashing and their passion. Georgie I requests, develop contract (What do we want to do?) and Othello or Pacific Overtures , brings out the best in the their teeth, I am prepared to proposals and make it probably doesn’t strike you an AEA Vision Statement (Who I family—he is a constant blow the lid off the Skull-and- recommendations to the as odd if you see an African do we want to be now? In five reminder of patience and joy. Bones-like secrecy of Actors’ Regional Boards and Council. American man playing the Equity governance: the Swiss years? In ten?). Andrew brings that to Georgie But why, you ask (in that B- titular Shakespearean general bank accounts, the lavish bac - I am asking the same thing and, by extension, to all of us.” movie cliché way you have), or an Asian American cast chanals, the cult of personality, of you. If you have a good idea, This will also mark the first am I telling all this to you, a singing the glorious Sondheim time in the Equity collective the marble statues of President perfectly indifferent AEA send it to me score. When it comes to memory that an Actor with Wyman,… sorry, I drifted off for member? Because things are ([email protected]). characters who have Down Syndrome will be working a moment there, where was I? changing —you have a new Regardless of whether you disabilities, though, rarely are under an Equity contract in a Oh, yes, the governance of Executive Director and a new share your ideas, be thinking of those performing the roles professional production. AEA. President — and I want your your version of Equity’s Mission Actors with disabilities. For many decades, Equity We have 75 Councillors and input and your buy-in. Just as I and Vision when you look at Not so in the Geva Theatre has been at the forefront in eight Officers . Almost all came suggested to you in my the candidate statements in Center production of Over the fighting for diverse and inclusive from the NYC area until 20 “Mastering the Business of Tavern in Rochester, NY. Tom this spring’s election, and vote casting. A particular challenge years ago when National Acting” column that you should Dudzick’s autobiographical play for those candidates who the Union has faced is in regard Representation divvied them know your strengths and plan about a working-class family in reflect your vision (though take to the hiring of Performers with up among the three regions for not just the next job, but the 1950s Buffalo has been a those promises to halve your Disabilities, or PWDs. Though according to percentage of next five or ten years, your regional hit since its debut in dues and quadruple your job multi-racial casting has become membership. The Councillors in elected leaders need to assess 1994, but only now has one of opportunities with a grain of an expectation of audiences each region meet once a AEA’s strengths and plan our its characters had his true salt). We are a very democratic nationwide, the same has not month as a Regional Board to collective future. essence unlocked. Union: you get to vote for a carried over as quickly for discuss local issues and One of the play’s characters, We are gathering all the characters who use concession requests, and then significant portion of your Georgie, is based on Dudzick’s Officers, Councillors, non- wheelchairs, have Down the whole Council meets (via leadership every year. You also brother, Michael, who was born Councillor Central Regional Syndrome, or have any number phone hookup) once a month get to join committees and with Down Syndrome. Never Board members and Area to discuss national issues and Liaisons together in a national place your hands on the policy. conference in New York City wheels and gears of the Below this level of elected this spring to discuss the big Union’s workings. I would leadership meetings are 4,000 issues: how we provide welcome your participation and committees (well, 93 , but it member services, how we assistance in the tough job of seems like 4,000). These communicate with our attempting to make the tough committees (usually chaired by members, how we handle job of our career a little easier. Councillors but most are open public policy, and how we

Working Abroad: A Brief Primer I’ve been asked to work in union contract – so why Producer will handle the the United Kingdom or should I involve Actors’ arrangements. If you are going Australia. What should I do? Equity? as an individual to appear in a Call Actors’ Equity Actors’ Equity will make sure show on a CAEA contract, you Association directly. While we that the compensation meets should contact Canadian Actors’ will need to speak to the appropriate minimums – more Equity, but always feel free to Andrew Rondeau (l) with Forrest Gertin in Over the Tavern at the Producer as well, don’t assume like what you’re used to here. contact us if you still have Geva Theatre Center. (Photo: Ken Huth) that the Producer will contact us Additionally, under some questions. voluntarily. Also, don’t assume agreements, you may be able to Will I have to join another that everything is fine just receive Health, Pension or union? Will I have to pay dues before has the role been played of disabilities. because the Producer tells you 401(k) contributions. Finally, if to both unions? by an Actor with a Since 2008, AEA has been a it is. there are outstanding issues For questions about joining, developmental disability, but leading supporter of the I AM What union covers this when you get home, Equity can you should contact the union when Skip Greer came on PWD ( Inclusion in the Arts and work? facilitate the resolution of those that will be covering the work board to direct the Geva Media of People With The union in the United issues with the hosting union. and your dues will be paid to production, authentic casting Disabilities) campaign, a tri- Kingdom is known simply as I can get Equity/League that union. If you will be out of was an easy choice. With the union effort to see PWDs fully Equity. In Australia, the pension and health benefits the country for a significant help of Assistant Director Susan integrated into the American appropriate union is the Media on an Equity contract period of time, you can call Ware, a teacher of theatre and scene depicted on stage and and Entertainment Arts Alliance, overseas, right? Actors’ Equity’s Membership dance who has worked with screen. or MEAA. Occasionally, Actors’ Unless there is an agreement Department to find out if you are people with developmental Eastern Regional Director Equity may cover overseas work in place between the Producer eligible to temporarily freeze disabilities for over 25 years, Rick Berg visited the production if it originates in this country. For and Actors’ Equity Association your dues obligations. Greer was able to find his ideal during rehearsals. “This is a questions about the specifics of that covers the engagement, Where, if at all, will I pay Georgie in 16-year-old singer- groundbreaking casting choice,” work under these contracts, you benefits cannot be paid on your taxes on my overseas actor Andrew Rondeau. says Berg. “Actors with should contact the appropriate behalf. income? “Andrew is a remarkable developmental disabilities have union. I’ll be working in Canada. In general, you will be liable young actor,” says Greer. “He is been almost entirely absent Who will take care of me Which union should cover the for taxes in both countries, but a very specific active listener, from our professional stages, while I’m overseas? work – Canadian Actors’ you should consult a tax and brings a truth and heart to and I’m thrilled to see Geva Your first resource should Equity, or Actors’ Equity professional before committing the role that has proven break this barrier. I think it will always be the union covering Association? to the engagement. invaluable to the company. inspire other producers to more the work. It depends on the For more information, contact Andrew’s generous spirit helped seriously consider hiring Actors My agent is negotiating on circumstances – call Actors’ Flora Stamatiades, Equity’s the acting ensemble forge the with disabilities.” my behalf, the Producer is Equity to find out. If you are National Director, Organizing & Pazinki’s family dynamics. He’s For more information: offering a good salary and traveling with a show that is Special Projects, (212) 869- unforgettable, and the integrity www.gevatheatre.org. housing, and I will be on a already on AEA contract, the 8530, ext. 419. 4 / EQUITY news MARCH 2011

Eastern Region an audience of over 47,000, and in 2010, the Small Professional theatre provided 320 workweeks for Equity Theatre Reclaims members. In its 25-year history Stages has Three-Acre Site in mounted 82 productions St. Petersburg, FL for over 2,600 perform - ances and played to au - riginally the site of the comfortable and easy access to Central Region diences numbering Second Church of all services; and we have more than 800,000. OChrist Scientist, the retained 160 parking spaces Stages Along the way, it has re - three-acre property is now the while beautifying the complete ceived 20 Kevin Kline home of freeFall Theatre, operat - lot.” St. Louis Awards, including three ing under Equity’s Small Profes - “The first night we stood on awards for Outstanding Celebrates Production of a Musical. sional Theatre Agreement and the newly renovated stage of a Ben Nordstrom and Brandi Wooten Ben Nordstrom, an one of two theatres in St. Peters - brand new theatre, raised our 25th perform at Stages St. Louis. burg, Florida to produce Equity hands and sang, ‘Gods of the Equity member who theatre year-round. theatre, smile on us,’ is a Anniversary works with Stages Anniversary.” frequently, says: “It’s been an Stages, a not-for-profit “As soon as we saw the moment none of us will ever tages St. Louis opened in honor and such a pleasure to be company, has outgrown its space in November 2009, we forget,” says Becca McCoy, an 1987 with a staff of eight a part of Stages’ incredible present home and is in the midst knew that our vision—to offer Equity member appearing in part-time employees, a S journey. Stages has helped to of a capital campaign to build authentic and daring drama freeFall’s first production, The season of 24 performances, a create a wonderful family here in The Stages St. Louis Performing unlike anything else in our Frogs (music and lyrics by budget of $50,000, an acting St. Louis. I know that all of my Arts Center and Academy. Plans region—would find a home here,” Stephen Sondheim, adapted company of seven and an audi - many brothers and sisters join call for a 730-seat main stage said Kevin Lane, Producing from Aristophanes by Bert ence of 3,000. Today, it boasts of me in raising a glass to Michael theatre, a 200-seat second Director and co-founder of the Shevelove and more freely 25 full-time staff members, 124 [Hamilton, Artistic Director], Jack stage and expansion room for a theatre with Eric Davis, who adapted by Nathan Lane), and performances each season, a [Lane, Executive Producer], Ron future 299-seat theatre. The serves as Artistic Director. wife of freefall Theatre’s budget of $3.7 million, an acting [Gibbs, Managing Director] and theatre has a gloried past and a The property offers a 150- Technical Director, Thaddeus company of more than 50 and seat studio theatre, which has Engle. “As we watch so many of everyone to say Happy 25th bright future. been completely renovated by our cherished theatrical freeFall, as well as a 300-seat institutions close their doors, it is Western Region Equity member traditional sanctuary space and thrilling to see one open theirs, Gary Lamb. an ample education center especially with such a focused A Win-Win “But I was in (formerly the Christian Science vision and integrity,” she adds. awe of the Reading Room). “We’ve really freeFall opened its door on Situation in production focused on a rich audience February 4, 2011. As part of the values of the experience,” notes Mr. Lane. opening festivities, there was a Southern shows that I’d “We’ve installed museum reception on February 15 with California seen here and windows in our outdoor lobby; Mayor Bill Foster, featuring made it my we’ve tripled our women’s welcoming remarks from he MainStreet The - mission to get lavatories; we’ve ensured community leaders. atre Company, a cast. It’s been resident Equity T In MainStreet’s production of Treasure Island are (l one of the best Theatre For Young Audi - to r) Larry Reinhardt-Meyer, Jeremy Lelliott, overall ences Company at the Andrew Ross Wynn, Mark McCracken, Michael experiences in Manuel and Matthew Henerson. Lewis Family Playhouse in my 30 years of Rancho Cucamonga, Cali - live theatre.” fornia, draws its talent from nine show a week schedule on “We’re pretty the Southern California area the weekends at the City-owned proud of the fact that we while introducing children to the and-operated venue. They’ve continually produce top-notch wonder of live theatre. It’s a win- produced 14 shows to date, productions using a union Participating in the ribbon cutting for the new freeFall Theatre win situation. mostly based on children’s contract and have done so are (beginning fourth from l in front) Artistic Director Eric Davis, “Many TYA companies tour,” literature. since the day we opened our Producing Director Kevin Lane, Mayor Bill Foster and Executive says Equity member Michael The company’s first show doors five years ago,” says Director Emilie Kuperman. (Photo: Barry Dingman) Faulkner, who played Mr. Salt in was Miss Nelson is Missing! b y producer (and Equity member) MainStreet’s recent production Jeffrey Hatcher, directed by Mireya (Murry) Hepner. “We are of The Gingerbread Man. “At Mark Rucker. Other productions giving thousands of kids their A Look Bac k @Equity Milestones the MainStreet Theatre have included the U.S. premiere first taste of live, professional Company, they bring 536 kids to of Dreams of Anne Frank by theatre, and as a producer I the theatre twice a day, British author Bernard Kops, take that responsibility 75 Years Ago for less” and “all theatres other teaching future generations that and the Los Angeles area extremely seriously. As a former than those in this permitted the theatre is a community premiere of The Gingerbread stage manager, I also March 1936 classification must remain either event. And for us actors, there Man by David Wood. The understand first hand the value • Faced with a growing entirely amateur or be is no more rewarding 2010/2011 season will end with we get by using union members number of “amateur theatres” completely professional.” experience than 536 laughing, Anne of Green Gables , with in our productions, and I know using professional actors without • On March 31, Council screaming kids.” music by Nancy Ford and book that our performers are a huge paying for their services, Council adopts the first contract covering School children come from a and lyrics by Gretchen Cryer. part of helping us nurture our on March 3 rules that “when an summer stock. Salaries, room 40 mile+ radius to morning “TYA contracts sometimes have audiences, who are the amateur theatre wishes to and board rates, regulation of a performances during the week, a stigma about them as being audiences—and perhaps the engage Equity members as summer stock season and and family audiences fill out the less than other contracts,” says artists—of the future.” actors, it must report to the classification of theatres are nearest Equity office and satisfy covered in the agreement. that office that it is a non-profit… Such theatres will be placed in a 50 Years Ago Simon, Ambassador and 25 Years Ago Virginia (now the August Wilson) 10 Years Ago special permitted classification March 1961 by the Equity office. Equity March 1986 theatres are landmarked in March 2001 The Equity Library Theatre members who work at theatres • • The landmarking of December of that year. All but • Equity executives and staff Children’s Theatre, a paid in this classification are to be Broadway theatres is a hot three of the remaining meet with the Immigration and employment project of Equity’s paid at least the Equity issue. Gerald Schoenfeld, Broadway theatres follow suit. ) Naturalization Service to discuss showcase theatre group, has minimum.” According to an Chairman of The Shubert • Equity joins with AFTRA the alien advisory process— three shows available for Editorial in the Equity publication organization is against it; Jack and SAG in a rally organized by specifically, poor communication, bookings, employing 30 Equity of March 1 936: “There was Goldstein, then director of Save the AFL-CIO to protest South inconsistent rulings and members. nothing in the Council resolution, The Theatres, Inc. (an outgrowth Africa’s policy of apartheid. enforcements problems. The Equity lists nearly 150 or in its mind, to prohibit the • of Equity) and currently Equity’s • The Trustees of the Equity- current regulations, Equity summer theatres—dramatic and actor from obtaining more than Director of Governance Policy League Pension and Welfare contends, can lead to a loss of musical—that have posted the minimum salaries, but it is and Support, presents the Fund approve a change in name employment for American actors. bonds for the upcoming season. not willing that they should work argument in favor . (The Neil from “Welfare” to “Health” Fund. MARCH 2011 EQUITY news / 5

buffs who consider A Night to woman of a certain age looking contract and I listened and took Women are Unsinkable Remember (based on Walter’s for gainful employment traveling note. At that time I had ten bestselling book of the same in steerage. I took all the facts I weeks’ work performing in (A Women’s History Month Feature) name) as the most accurate of had gathered and did precisely summer stock and needed two all of the many film versions, what Walter suggested. more to qualify for health By Deborah Jean Templin pages, about a character or set including the Clifton Webb- Suddenly Nora, a cockney insurance. Putting my program of characters. Eventually these production is like a build - Barbara Stanwyck Titanic and vaudevillian, was born. Of the under the Memorandum of notes led to monologues with a ing, you have to prepare James Cameron’s blockbuster of nine characters in the play, seven Understanding enabled me to particular point of view. Gradually the plans, lay down the 1997. I was having trouble are real people including get the two weeks of A it became clear—there would be base and from there you can finding information on third class Margaret Tobin Brown (the employment I needed which, nine different women in nine build it up. But first you have to passengers who survived. Walter Unsinkable Molly herself), the added to the ten weeks I had, scenes. My show, Unsinkable have a great subject and strong said, “Use your imagination,” and heiress Madeleine Astor and gave me the requisite 12 weeks Women , was beginning to take motivation. Here’s how I became I came up with the idea of the Ship Stewardess Violet Jessop. and six months of health shape. the architect of my own produc - character of “Nora.” She would My journey started at the York insurance. The mentors in my work tion. be a performer, and a friend of Theatre Company in New York in The important thing was to included the late Walter Lord. While covering seven roles in Wallace Hartley, Bandmaster of 2000 when Jim Morgan invited get the work itself and the task There are Titanic and movie the national tour of the Titanic Orchestra—just a me to be part of their was not easy in this economy. I Stone/Yeston’s Tony Award developmental musical series. had to have a realistic business winning musical Titanic from The production, Unsinkable plan and know my own limits— 1998 to 2000, I experienced Women: Stories and Songs from both physically and mentally. As being in the shoes of survivors. I the Titanic, has since been a self-produced artist I wear knew the lines, lyrics, blocking performed in conjunction with many hats. I have taken and choreography, but beyond women’s health fairs and as a computer training classes at The the script I was performing, there fund raising tool for libraries and Actors Fund and its Actors Work was more I needed to discover local charities, such as domestic Program, as well as seeking the about the women I was abuse shelters, throughout the counsel of retired business portraying. My research took me country. At the Walnut Street people through SCORE (an to the Astor Cottage in Newport, Theatre in Philadelphia, the organization providing free the Widener Library at Harvard production, directed by Nancy business counseling, mentoring, and Molly Brown’s home in and training for small Denver, as well as to the nation’s The Memorandum of businesses), attended Arts public libraries. I looked, I felt, I Understanding works for Presenter Conferences read, I took notes, I absorbed. Stage Managers, too. throughout the country and The next stage was the Councillor Marjorie Horne learned the basics of email writing, or the beginning of it. Deborah Jean Templin and her cast of characters. writes: “A few years ago I marketing. Each morning I would do three found myself working as a As a performer, your objective Stage Manager exclusively is to tell the story. As a business in business theatre: galas, person you have to make sure all business conferences, the elements are in place to tell New Members in New Works awards presentations, etc. I that story well. The professionals also found myself working on the staff of Actors’ Equity By Sean Grady these characters are in the flesh, portunity to audition, which didn’t without any AEA contracts have helped me to understand not abstract. The first was on a happen for me or my original cast cript is the kind of word and, thus, not receiving any the need for a paymaster and BAT (Bay Area Theatre) contract, mates. that sounds edible,” my liability insurance. “ and the show was performed in When cast in my next new health coverage, mother has said, “like I look forward to bringing S San Francisco and in Sacramen - work, produced under a New contributions towards my you can bite right into it.” Growing Unsinkable Women to new to. A “right of first refusal,” or the York Showcase Code, I did my pension or establishing a up in a performing family, my audiences this season and for option for the actor to join the homework due to my previous basis for unemployment mother an actress and my father the 100th anniversary of the company for a subsequent pro - lesson learned. I confirmed that claims. I started using the a ballet dancer, I have always Titanic in 2012. My advice: if duction before the show’s owners there was a clause of first rights Memorandum of been surrounded by constructive, you’re thinking about creating option a third party, is typical in refusal. A regional theatre in Understanding when it first artistic situations. Eventually, new your own show, choose a subject this situation. Northern California subsequently became available. I have a works were something I was you love, have a good story to But, when the show moved to produced the show. When hear - few jobs that are yearly drawn to like a raccoon to the tell, and know that your union is ing this, I contacted the show’s contracts and am able to shiny objects in the rubble. there to help you. writers, expressing my interest. I work with the producers to New works are indeed shiny: (Deborah Jean Templin has was told that they were “going sign the Memorandum and new, fresh and untouched by an - ethnic” with my role. I was con - make my checks out to my other actor’s stamp. This is the fused. I had played the role; there Paymaster. I have been kind of script that is most was nothing in the script to speci - using the Memorandum for bitable—not some revival of The fy him to be of any particular eth - about four years now and I King and I with Yul Brynner ex - nic origin. When I responded with am able to have six months pectations. No, we are perform - this, I did not receive a message of health care each year, ing a show that has not been in - back. Ultimately, because I had apply for unemployment and terpreted by actors before. It is an signed the Code, Equity was able I am also building up my artistically appetizing opportunity Sean Grady. to pursue a claim against the the - pension.” for any actor. atre and made sure that I got the However, it is important to New York for a reading, I found appropriate buy-out. keep your business hat on as you Robillard with musical direction this was not the case. The pro - In the end, it seemed that the splash around in your new char - by C. Colby Sachs, ran for a ducer only retained one original show’s creators had already of - acter’s colors. Know your rights month to sold out houses. At cast member; according to the fered the role to another actor. and demand your rights. As Equi - Open Stage of Harrisburg, the contract at that time, he had no However, due to my staying busi - ty members, it is imperative that show was used as a tribute for a legal binding to offer the rest of ness-minded, I ended up with we have a contract or agreement local supporter of the arts. us our original roles. (At the time several weeks of pay for the pro - signed and read thoroughly be - Audiences as diverse as Senior of this writing, due to my and my duction that I was completely en - fore we begin rehearsals. It is Citizen residences to elementary Deborah Jean Templin as other cast mates’ feedback on titled to. It was payment for help - perfectly fine to sit at a friend’s “Nora” in Unsinkable Women . the BAT contract survey, the BAT ing create; my character, only re - school children have enjoyed not house and read the second draft contract has been re-negotiated. ferred to as “Man 1” with little only the performance, but the of their script over coffee without been a member of Equity, As a result of that important feed - back story, was now much more Q&A following. With the input of doing this, but if you are in a rent - back that loophole has been defined and specific, and would teachers in schools from AFTRA and SAG since 1977. ed studio with an invited audi - closed.) not have been had I not been Ketchikan, Alaska to Louise, She has been in five National ence, you should probably know Frustrated, especially since part of the New York premiere. Virginia, study guides have been Tours ( Annie, Baby, The Passion better. the show’s writer found one of my It’s nice to leave your stamp created. of Dracula, Titanic and Mamma “Why is this important?” you West-Texan line readings so fun - on a role; the bite you took out of While serving on the Mia!) and has performed in might ask. One reason—artistic ny that he had asked me to recite that crisp script tastes twice as Nominating Committee for regional theatre and stock. She integrity. You yourself have helped it at parties, I still let it go. Howev - good. Actors’ Equity I became aware of is a recipient of Philadelphia’s shape this show. In the two origi - er, having vested interest as a the use of the Memorandum of Barrymore Award for Best nal musicals I was part of, I was dance captain and keeper of the Sean Grady joined Equity in Understanding, a component of Actress in a Musical and the the first actor to speak some lines show’s bible, I learned my lesson. 2005 and currently lives in New the Business Theatre and Events Richard Burton Award in Acting and sing some songs, giving the At the very least the producers York City. You can follow him on Contract. Several members of from the Los Angeles Arts writers a clearer idea of who should have offered me the op - twitter@ActorSeanGrady. the Committee had used the new Council. ) 6 / EQUITY news MARCH 2011 Your Income Tax lot ) managed just a couple of Musical Quiz months. What is the Countess Continued from page 1 Aurelia, the Madwoman, looking ere is another in our for? part – from this business or new series of excerpts A. A nine-foot-long feather boa profession?) Hfrom The Broadway Mu - • Have you changed sical Quiz Book by Laura B. An imaginary dog called methods of operation to Frankos, published by Applause Dickie improve profitability? (Have Theatre & Cinema Books and C. Radioactive water you assessed what works and reprinted with permission. This D. A stone gargoyle that what doesn’t, focusing on the one’s about composer/lyricist Eq - opens a trap door former and reducing or uity member Jerry Herman ( Hel - E. Pearls eliminating the latter?) lo, Dolly!, Mame, La Cage aux 4. The Grand Hotel (1979) • Do you have the Folles ), a Kennedy Center hon - was a tale of a Jewish refugee knowledge needed to carry on oree in 2010. and an aristocratic, anti-Semitic the activity as a successful 1. Jerry Herman’s songs first Polish Officer making their way business ? (Are you maintaining attracted attention in two revues, through Nazi-occupied France to and improving your skills to Nightcap (a late show in a sup - England. Who came in and doc - keep up with changing trends in per club) and Parade (1960, Off- tored the show in San Francisco? the industry?) Broadway). Who sang in both A. Gower Champion How I Got My Equity Card Have you made a profit in shows and remained a lifelong B. Gene Saks similar activities in the past? friend of Herman’s? (What are your experiences and A. Kenneth Nelson C. George Abbott income patterns in the B. Dody Goodman D. Peter Stone Sutton Crawford entertainment industry?) C. Estelle Parsons E. Tommy Tune By Sutton Crawford path of following my crazy D. Charles Nelson Reilly dreams. I am here because of • Does the activity make a 5. Working with director Arthur I joined Actors’ Equity on E. Phyllis Newman Laurents and librettist Harvey my family: my family of friends profit in some years? (Here’s September 16, 2010 after being 2. 1964’s Hello, Dolly! ran for Fierstein, Herman helped create and the family of actors I have that two out of five rule of profit- cast as “Constanze” by Brooke 1,844 performances and won a the first musical with gay leads. around me from my first high making. Are you spending more Wetziel in Northern Stages’ pro - record ten Tony Awards. Do you La Cage aux Folles opened in school theatre days, to now. So on your show biz expenses than duction of Amadeus. Since the know which song was cut after 1983 and ran for 1,761 perform - it is only appropriate now to say you’re actually earning in the very beginning, life has been a the New York opening? ances. When did Albin (George how thrilled and proud I am to business and do these losses family affair. So, of course, I had A. The overture Hearn) and Georges (Gene Bar - join the oldest and most influen - persist?) my New York grandparents in B. “Love, Look in My Window” ry) take their memorable walk on tial family of performing artists • Do you expect to make a tow when signing my member - C. “World, Take Me Back” that sandy beach? that is and ever was. profit in the future from the ship papers. My grandpa, actor D. “You’re a Damned Exasper - A. September (Proud grandpa Ron Craw - appreciation of assets used in and artist, Ron Crawford, a ating Woman” ford sketched Sutton as she the activity? (Huh? This one B. October proud Equity member himself, E. “Come and Be My Butterfly” signed her application to join doesn’t apply to performing C. June along with my many family 3. While Hello, Dolly! and Equity. Contract Associate Kar - artists, obviously, but it’s one of D. May members and friends have been Mame ran for years, 1969’s Dear lene Laemmie accepted the ap - the IRS’s FAQs. This applies to E. August my greatest inspirations, and World (based on Jean Girau - plication.) businesses that own assets are always helping me on this such as real property, business doux’s The Madwoman of Chail - Answer on page 12 vehicles, business equipment, office furnishings, etc. essential in the production of their your earnings do not exceed three years in a row, you may information which will result in depreciated over a longer period income.) your show biz income and your deduct the expenses in full in receiving the federal annuity of time). In the case of business The following represent parents, your squeeze or last the first two years, but you may that reflects your actual real property (such as questions I have gathered from year’s lotto winnings are only deduct up to your earnings earnings history. There are other commercial or residential IRS audit examinations, from underwriting your activities in in the third and subsequent applications these records can rentals), see the long-term asset colleagues, and our members’ the entertainment industry year- years. affect such as retirement rule and consult with your experiences in audit situations. in and year-out, you might be Q: How long do I have to planning, death benefits, and accountant before tossing those • Do you maintain a subject to a denial of some or all save this? A: it depends… skilled nursing care, among receipts. separate bank account for of your business expense The question arises every tax others. Other Documents such as your business income and deductions.) season by individuals who are Q: How long must the your Last Will and Testament, expenses? (This isn’t a So, what happens if you’re desperate to clean out their expense records be kept? A: Divorce Decree, Power of requirement, but it always helps examined and the Hobby Loss apartments and garages, or Expenses associated with your Attorney, Health Care Proxy, Life to keep personal and Rule is trotted out? The those who simply want to shred federal and state tax returns Insurance and other insurance professional records separate questions noted here are not all every piece of paper they can in generally must be retained for policies that are still in effect and it impresses the auditors.) inclusive, nor are they the only order to rid themselves of the three years from the date you should be retained until you • Do you advertise? Do you determining factors, but they go additional clutter. The answer, file your returns, with a few, but either replace them with new hold yourself out to the public a long way toward arguing that however, can be involved and a important, exceptions. ones or they are no longer in as a professional? (Duh! Of your occasional business losses little bit annoying, because it Long-term Assets such as effect . If it still applies to your life course, you do! You’re not are incurred by a true show requires you to do some careful your house, other real property, or circumstances, hang on to it. buying those headshots for your business professional. So, go sorting of your documents. Here stocks, mutual funds and similar For most of you, the three- parents, are you?) through them and ask yourself. are the key timetables: investments: retain all purchase year receipt rule will apply, but • Do you maintain careful Have you met the burden? Q: How long must I save records for as long as you own attach extra importance to those records, including financial Could you satisfactorily argue my tax returns : A: Forever! Yes, the house, building, investment long-term documents and data, industry contacts, your position? Would you likely you should retain copies of your asset, etc., up to and including assets. While you may not need instructors, agents, be spared the hobbyist returns until you have absolutely three years from the date you them to prove income or survive managers, etc? (Again, hello? moniker? Let’s hope that, in no possible reason to have to file the return that reports the an audit, they might be crucial in Of course, you have your life spite of the vagaries of our work prove that you worked and paid sale or other disposal of the determining something equally organized accordingly or you lives, we have taken all steps income tax on your earnings. asset. In other words, don’t as vital many years from now. would have to pay a whole lot necessary to qualify ourselves Before you say that you’re totally throw out the paperwork of So, before you oil the teeth of more in taxes!) and be treated as the over your tax returns as soon as anything that you still own that your shredder, organize what • Do you see yourself as an professionals we are. you file them, let me suggest might have an impact on your can go and what should be kept artist and conduct your If you show the requisite that the Social Security taxes down the road. (This rule in a safe place. business in that manner? Do profit motive and earn more Administration might have a few is similar to the “don’t throw out The VITA office is open you see your work in the than you spend, you’re in good odd numbers on file for you, or your tax returns” rule because Mondays, Wednesdays, industry as your primary work stead. If not, you may wonder some missing numbers you may need to prove Thursdays and Fridays (no or as a side line or part-time what happens to those altogether. We have seen many something many years from Tuesdays) from 10:30 to 4 on endeavor? (This trap has been expenses you incurred in your taxpayers who start the now, in this case, the value or the 14th floor of the New York successfully set by many losing activity? If you report application process for Social purchase price when you Equity building. Telephone 212- examiners who view theatrical losses in more than two years Security only to find the SSA originally acquired the asset.) 921-2548. Sandra Karas is Site employment as an enjoyable out of five, your business may has incorrect or non-existent Equipment and Business Coordinator of VITA, Secretary- sideline, but not really a long- be deemed a “hobby” and the earnings in a few or many years. Assets such as your Treasurer of Equity, a member term career choice.) expenses will have to be limited The only way to fix this problem computers, audio/visual, office- of SAG and AFTRA and • Do you rely on someone to the income you earn in that is to bring copies of tax returns related equipment: retain these someone who saves copious else to support you while you business or profession. In other and wage statements to the receipts for five years (or longer amounts of receipts. pursue this profession? (If words, if you earn $30,000 in Social Security office and have if your accountant tells you the the theatre and spend $35,000 them enter the correct business asset is being MARCH 2011 EQUITY news / 7 Actors and Critics: Perfect Together At least at the ATCA luncheon… E-Voting Sign-Ups Nearly Double; By Philip Dorian area’s particular sensibilities,” he Emmy Awards, slews of said. recurring TV roles and espite severe weather Registration Deadline Linda Lavin’s Other Desert acclaimed stage performances conditions, about 100 Cities character sleeps on stage as Dr. Vivian Bearing ( Wit ) and members of the Ameri - is March 24 D for ten minutes . Besides fighting Marie Lombardi (opposite Mr. can Theatre Critics Association really falling asleep (“I’d be sooo Lauria), the universe has been What’s green, fast and (ATCA) from around the country embarrassed”), she said she very good to Ms. Light. cheap? E-Voting in AEA’s assembled in NYC for a week - learned how to pretend-sleep in Dana Ivey ( Earnest ), an upcoming 2011 Elections. end in February, highlighted by third grade when the nuns Equity Councillor, was asked Equity’s E-Voting the annual “Luncheon with the enforced a nap in exchange for what brought her into theatre as campaign has nearly Stars” at Sardi’s. extra play time. (One never a vocation. “The language,” she doubled the number of E- Nine actors from six shows knows what one might use, do said , “ and tiaras.” The former Voters, but we still have a each addressed a question one?) passion she said she inherited long way to go. If you are posed by one of the host critics. Lily Rabe ( The Merchant of from her speech-pathologist not registered, log-on to Their comments included career Venice ) always dreamed of mother. (As for the tiaras: just the Members Only section insights, comments on their playing Portia. She said she consider how regal she looks of AEA’s website craft, and more than a dash of sees the character and Shylock wearing one.) (www.actorsequity.org) and click on the green E-Voting icon humor . as equal intellects, with Shylock Jeffrey Wright was asked if before March 24, 2011. You must be paid up in dues through André De Shields ( The brought down by the nature of there was a common thread that March 24 in order to receive a ballot. Witch of Edmonton ) began by

Midsize Agreement Extended

n February 15, 2011, and all associated financial Council voted to ac - terms. The current four-year Ocept the recommenda - contract expires on April 29, tion of the three regional 2011. Midsize Contract Committees The Midsize Theatre and to extend the Agreement Agreement is designed for for one year with a 2% in - theatres seating up to 699 crease to the minimum salaries outside of office cities.

FINAL CURTAIN

“Were I to die and go to heaven and find it populated by actors, I would not be unhappy.” —- Playwright Ben Hecht

Darwin R. Apel Gene Fanning Maurice Andrew (L to r from top): André De Shields, Paxton Whitehead, Stacy Keach, Linda Lavin, Lily Rabe, Dan Barbara Billingsley Jan Gillory Ottinger Luria, Judith Light, Dana Ivey, Jeffrey Wright. (Photos: Edward Rubin) Tom Bosley Charles E. Goff, Jr. Deirdre Owens Blake Brown Randal Jane Pesci- Jean Bruno Goldsborough Townsend expressing pride in his volunteer the times. She also noted that attracted him to a play. “The Marcia Lewis Bryan Joseph M. Hamer Addison Powell work on behalf of “my union ,” the production’s month-long roles all tell something about Richard Buck Martha Hawley Moira Rankin AEA, and its 48,000 members. layoff and re-opening allowed me,” he said, noting the Frederick Charles Norman Heidinger Mary Lou Reiner (He’s a former long-time Council for refreshed rehearsals, a “real significance of his recent A Free member.) Asked about his own luxury.” Man of Color . He shared some Canada Providence GB Riche career, he told how playing Willy Dan Lauria ( Lombardi ) is a key advice from George C. P.L. Carling Hollander Doug Robinson Loman in Buffalo had expanded champion of new playwrights. “I Wolfe, who directed him as the Beatrice Carroll Susan Hufford Marilyn Rodgers his song-and-dance man image. only do new plays,” he said. gay nurse who’s forced to care Dominic Castino Kay Kellogg Sachi Shimizu “Shed your skin as often as you Asked about the difference for the homophobic Roy Cohn in Genevieve Bierman John William Jean Simmons can,” he said. “Re-invent between playing fictional and the original Angels in America Chase Kingsbury Robert L. Snook yourself.” real-life characters, he said the (for which Wright and Wolfe Chao-Li Chi James MacArthur Theodore Sorel Paxton Whitehead ( The real isn’t more difficult, but it’s a received Tony Awards). “We Jill Clayburgh James Maloney Pat St. James Importance of Being Earnest ) different discipline. When don’t want to watch and think James J. Cordes Joe Mantell Richard Stadelmann told the group that he always tempted to change a particular ‘what a great actor he is,’” Wolfe reads reviews, a habit he reaction in his play, for example, told him, “but what a bastard Geraldine Court Art Martinson Sharlie Stuart formed while Artistic Director of he realized he couldn’t. “That’s Roy Cohn was. ” John Crawford Evie McElroy Steven Sutherland the Shaw Festival in Ontario. how Coach Lombardi did it.” (It If this critic were to Robert Crest Bob Mesrobian Shannon Tavarez “Anyone’s opinion could be was the day before the Super generalize about our ATCA Tony Curtis George D. Mozer Tom Thornton valuable” drew laughter, as did Bowl. “Coach will be looking guests, it would not be to state Camille D’Ambrose Lou Nardi Andrea Tobey his self -deprecating suggestion down on a Packers win,” Lauria the obvious , what great actors Sylvia Davis Ralph Newman James Wall that he gives “exactly the same assured us. Righto. ) they are; but instead, what Joan Decker Michelle Nicastro Carroll C Wayham performance in different roles.” Judith Light (also Lombardi ) terrific luncheon guests they Vincent F. Dowling Darrell Notara Diana Webster Stacy Keach (Other Desert was asked how she chose her were. Thank you to them all. Ron Doyle Betty O’Neil Jennie Welch Cities ) also reads reviews, roles. "I don't ask 'what's next,'" (Philip Dorian is a former especially from the Regionals. she offered. "I let the universe Equity member, now a Robert Ellenstein William Arnold Elvin Whitesides “Those critics best reflect their decide." Based on back-to-back syndicated theatre critic.) Gloria Evans Ostroff Dolores Wilson 8 / EQUITY news MARCH 2011 Malvern, PA Panto in PA Helps BC/EFA NATIONALNATIONALNEWSNEWS

People’s Light & Theatre easy transition from the comedy Company’s production of The of the show to the sincerity of the Three Musketeers (The Later appeal,” Chris said. “I would say South Florida Years): A Musical Panto in ‘King Huey has decided to make Malvern, Pennsylvania raised you all Musketeers. In the spirit of Members Updated on AEA Activities; $23,186 in 65 performances at friendship and brotherhood, their 365-seat house. Cast please give as valiantly and as Hear from Actors Fund on Healthcare members appealed to audiences honorably as you can so we can not only from the stage, but often vanquish this villain together.’ The in character one-on-one in the ‘all for one and one for all’ lobby—hard work that resulted in mentality especially influenced this incredible total. Chris Faith, the children in the audience who who played the role of Athos, often asked their parents for cash kept the appeal lighthearted so they could interact with the despite the seriousness of the cast,” he added. “The audience cause. “I would include a joke or reception was great and it gave two so that, even though the us a chance to keep it fun and audience knew we were going to downplay the gravity of what we ask for their help, it would be an were trying to do.”

San Francisco Busy Times Ahead in the Bay Area Spring is a busy time in the Theatre, 1901 Ashby Avenue, at South Florida members with (seated center) Eastern Regional Director Rick Berg and Business Representative Matthew Summersgill. San Francisco Bay Area and this Martin Luther King, Jr. Way, in year is no exception. Members of Berkeley. Free parking available. the Bay Area Advisory The agenda will include elections Business Representative, caused some confusion were By Irene Adjan Committee (BAAC) are for the BAAC. There are seven Matthew Summersgill. Local brought up. Since the rules South Florida Equity organizing several events open seats available: four three-year issues were discussed, not the regarding archival and B-roll Liaison not only to local AEA members, terms, one two-year term and least being the elimination of the taping are ever-changing, it was South Florida held its General but to those who may be in two one-year terms for Southeast Traveling suggested that a sheet be Membership Meeting on January residence at any of the five local Alternates. For more information, Representative position and the placed in the Deputy packets for 24, 2011 at the Crest Theatre in LORT theatres, on tour or just contact Kelly Ground or Steven reassignment of Doug Truelsen. SPT/LOA companies, clearly Delray Beach. Before the passing through the area. Pawley. It is a matter that has affected spelling out what was allowed meeting, the Liaison Committee If you are new to the area or Stage Manager/Production the Southeast tremendously. Mr. under that specific agreement. hosted a Healthcare Seminar have just decided it’s time to join Manager Speed Dating: Berg addressed our concerns Thanks to guests, Rick Berg presented by Renata Marinaro of in, contact BAAC Chair Kelly Monday, March 28, 2011, 4-8 and explained the decision, and and Matthew Summersgill, and The Actors Fund. Ground, [email protected] , or p.m. at ACT’s Geary Theatre, 415 the reasoning behind it, in much my fellow members of the South “I learned more about the new First Vice Chair Steven Pawley, Geary Street, San Francisco. detail. He then spoke about the Florida Liaison Committee for healthcare reform in one hour [email protected] . “AEA (See separate story, page 11) upcoming Plenary, the their hard work and input than I had in all the articles I had maintains a member’s privacy at Bay To Breakers: Centipede negotiation of the COST throughout the year. They are: seen in publications,” said Wayne all times and does not release Walkers Needed. The historic contract, the deputy call-in Barbara Bradshaw, Oscar LeGette. John Felix added, “I your contact info to local chairs. 100th Anniversary of the Bay to meetings, the upcoming Cheda, Dave Corey, John Felix thought the seminar very So it’s up to you to let us know Breakers 12K footrace is Sunday, Production Contract (Secretary and Hotline worthwhile. . . It was well you are here. We’d love to get May 15, 2011 from 7 a.m. to 12 negotiations, the Centennial, the Coordinator), Terry Hardcastle, presented, informative and clear, you onboard,” says Ms. Ground. Noon. All finishers receive progress of the PWD (Persons Wayne LeGette, Amy London, and Renata had a nice light commemorative medals With Disabilities) campaign, and Margery Lowe, Margot Moreland Save the Dates touch, leavened with humor, that representing the anniversary. the arrival of our new Executive (Councillor), Marjorie O’Neill- The Bay Area General kept a potentially dull bullet point For information, contact BAAC Director, Mary McColl. Butler, Barbara Sloan, Laura Membership Meeting: April 25, presentation from being tedious.” member Brian Herndon, Matthew Summersgill told Turnbull, and Tom Wahl. 2011, 6 p.m. at the Ashby “I cherish having her as a contact [email protected] . members that with the when things get crazy or hard to San Francisco Bay Area elimination of the Southeast understand. I now know I can call Theatre Critics Circle: The 35th Traveling Rep position, he would Renata and she can explain it to Philadelphia Annual Award Ceremony, be coming to Florida to visit our me,” said Margot Moreland. sponsored by Actors’ Equity, theatres with more regularity. In Renata’s experience in social Live Arts Festival, Philly Fringe celebrating excellence in theatre addition to attending our work and her passion for this for 2010 will be held Monday, meeting, he stayed the week and Get Underway subject make her an invaluable April 4, 2011. Doors open at 6 met with members of our Liaison resource for information The call for artists has begun section of either the “Live Arts” p.m., ceremony begins at 7:30 at Committee, as well as visiting regarding healthcare and for the 2011 Live Arts Festival or “Philly Fringe” portions of the Palace of Fine Arts Theatre five of our theatres – particularly how it pertains to and Philly Fringe. Visit the Festival must be signed to an Lobby, 3302 Lyon Street, San GableStage, Caldwell Theatre artists. If you can get her to website www.pafringe.com/how- appropriate (SPT, Guest Artist, Francisco. Tickets are $20. Company, Palm Beach speak in your area, I highly to-participate.cfm for details. Special Appearance, etc.) AEA Parking is free. This is the third Dramaworks, Mosaic Theatre, recommend it. The AEA Philly Fringe Code contract. year that Equity is a proud and Actors’ Playhouse. After the Seminar, we had a is available for AEA members’ Contact the Philadelphia sponsor of the Awards. A Q&A session followed and meet-and-greet for members and use in the “Philly Fringe” portion Liaison Committee at For more information on any there was discussion of “new our guests, Assistant Executive of the Festival. phlliaisoncommittee@ of these events, contact Kelly media” and the challenges and Director/Eastern Regional Producers who are yahoo.com for more information. Ground or Steven Pawley or visit questions it raises. Some Director, Rick Berg, and interested in using AEA Application deadline is April 1, the Equity website, examples of where this has members in the “Theatre” 2011. www.actorsequity.org. MARCH 2011 EQUITY news / 9

New York New York Credit Union Fleet of Fee-Free ATMs BC/EFA Fills the Longacre With Love and Laughter is Ranked Fifth Nationwide Laughter, longing and 1 2 liberation combined with Continuing to lead just about many of whom are bi-coastal or songs of love filled the every bank in New York City, tour the country, to have Longacre Theatre on ActorsFCU’s ATM fleet of more withdrawal and depository February 7, 2011 for the than 230 machines is now access that matches their 6th edition of Broadway ranked fifth among credit unions mobility. We’ve tried to service Backwards , a star- nationwide in ATM deployment their needs so they’re not packed benefit raising (ranking by Callahan and burdened by the often onerous $281,243 for Broadway Associates, 2011). surcharge fees imposed by Cares/Equity Fights “With more than 230 ATM banks,” continued Mr. Rodman. AIDS and the Lesbian, locations throughout the five “The 28,000 fee-free ATMs Gay, Bisexual & 3 4 boroughs, Yonkers and New available through CO-OP Transgender Community Jersey, our members have more Network save our members the Center of New York. free access to ATMs in the New excessive fees incurred by bank The only Broadway York City metro area than the customers.” Members can locate event custom-made for customers of just about every one of the 28,000 CO-OP ATMs the gay and lesbian other bank in the city. That by calling 1-888-SITE-CO-OP or community, friends and includes Bank of America, TD by visiting the ATM locator on families, Broadway Bank, HSBC and CitiBank,” says the website, actorsfcu.com . Backwards 6 featured an Credit Union President Jeff There is also a CO-OP Locator all-star cast Rodman. “We’ve ranked App available for iPhones. reinterpreting songs of consistently in the top 50 for the Complementing the ATM musical theatre with past nine years with Callahan fleet, ActorsFCU also offers women singing songs originally Alan Cumming plunged into a Academy Award winner, F. and Associates, and this is our members access to more than written for men and men singing military-themed version of “Don’t Murray Abraham, in addition to sixth year in the top ten. Our 160 deposit-taking NYC Check songs written for women. Tell Mama” from Cabaret , the American Idol runner-up Clay ranking speaks for itself: Cashiers that are part of the (1) Bebe Neuwirth returned to show that garnered him a Tony, Aiken, Farah Alvin, Brooks ActorsFCU members enjoy the PayNet Deposit Network. her Chicago roots, this time and (4) Lillias White shared a Ashmanskas, Ward Billeissen, benefits of an ATM fleet rivaled Members make more than $1.3 taking on the role of scheming rousing arrangement of “Some Tituss Burgess, Dan Butler, by few.” million in deposits monthly at lawyer Billy Flynn in “All I Care Enchanted Evening.” Robin De Jesús, Colman CO-OP Network, the nation’s these participating check casher About is Love;” (2) Tony Yazbek The evening also included Domingo, Mandy Gonzalez, Jose largest credit union ATM locations. This program gives performed a recreation of the Tony Award winners Hinton Llana, Jan Maxwell, Brian network, provides credit union members deposit capabilities complete “Music and the Mirror” Battle, Len Cariou, Debra Monk, Charles Rooney, Bobby Steggert, members with access to more seven days a week, including song from A Chorus Line : (3) Denis O’Hare and Karen Oliva; Jason Tam and Kirsten Wyatt. than 28,000 fee-free ATMs early morning and late evenings throughout the United States throughout the five boroughs. and Canada. This includes “PayNet locations provide our Washingto n/ Baltimore 6,000 ATMs at participating 7- members with deposit access Eleven stores across the that not only competes with Equity Auditions Celebrate Tenth Anniversary country. “The Credit Union has what banks are offering, but always aimed to meet the provides even great access,” By Gregory Gorton would be attending. She the auditors would load their remembers, “We all decided to plates like seniors at an early bird special needs of our members, says Mr. Rodman. Our Nation’s Capitol is do an outreach to our auditors buffet.” frequently defined by its and to all of the theatres we were Since our move in 2007, the inconsistencies. The weather. The inviting.” Ilona divided the Equity Auditions have been held Ann Arbor, MI Redskins. And, of course, theatres into groups and at The Round House Theatre in Congress. shepherded the rest of us in Silver Spring, Maryland. Thirty Audiences Happy to Assist at But there is one constant. It is contacting and arranging their theatres, as well as casting found in our theatre community “The Drowsy Chaperone” availability. “We reached out to directors and associates, were in and that is the Washington/ theatres in West Virginia, attendance this year. Over 200 Baltimore Equity Liaison Pennsylvania, Delaware and all AEA and EMC members had the Auditions.This year was the tenth of the region’s theatres. We even opportunity to audition. anniversary of our auditions, contacted The Pittsburgh Unfortunately, due to a which have continued to grow in Playhouse.” rehearsal commitment, our popularity. Looking back, many of the musical accompanist of the past The idea grew from a yearly people involved remembered well nine years, Chris Youstra, was membership meeting featuring how the pieces came together. unable to join us. We were very some of the area’s casting and Liaison Chairman Carl Randolph lucky, however, to have Doug artistic directors as guest recalls, “I first worked on the Lawler this year. speakers. After lively discussion, auditions as a volunteer. Now, as Many thanks to the it was agreed that more Chair, I have had the honor to Committee members who help employment opportunities would host the 10th annual bring these auditions to life: Bill become available if the casting DC/Baltimore Equity Auditions. Largesse, Ilona Dulaski, Lynn people saw more of the many Well, by host, I mean, to let my McCune, Jim Brady, Gregory talented Equity members in the predecessors who created them Gorton, Barbara Pinolini, Terri pool of Washington actors at a continue to do the fabulous work Price, Laura Gianarelli, Peter Gil, professional audition setting. they do.” Maureen Kerrigan and the many This was in November of Lynn McCune, who now lives other members and volunteers. Co-founded by the Michigan savvy theatre town and 2000. The then members of the in New York, says, “It was “The tenth year was a huge Equity Theatre Alliance, The audiences also understood the Equity Liaison Committee set the important that we provide an success,” says Chair Carl Performance Network of Ann good work we could do target goal of January, 2001. With opportunity for our local Equity Randolph. “More AEA members Arbor raised $1,586 over five together with these appeals. an enormous amount of work by actors without detracting from the and EMC members were seen . performances during the They loved the show and the Committee, many dedicated well established League of The auditions continue to be a closing week of their sold out wanted to help,” Naz said. Since volunteers, the supportive and Washington Theatres Auditions. staple for our regional community. run of The Drowsy Chaperone. many of the company’s generous people at the Olney Hence, the January time frame. The current committee and I Equity member Naz Edwards, performers come from the local Theatre (and a little bit of luck), We used those auditions as a humbly thank those who started who played the title character, University of Michigan, Naz the auditions became a reality in template for ours.” these auditions and those who said, “This piece is so said that she and other the first week of January, 2001. Laura Gianarelli, continuing a help to keep them going.” wonderful, it left audiences very company members make sure Chair Emeritus Ilona Dulaski decade of providing culinary So raise your glass to a happy and feeling very the younger performers are was truly a driving force behind delicacies, reprised her role as tradition well met, and to the next generous.” Company members constantly made aware of the these auditions. They became the Contessa of the kitchen. She ten years that await us yet. took turns making the nightly importance and responsibilities her passion, and her dedication recalls that first year, “We set up (Gregory Gorton is a regular speech and were astounded to of Equity membership and and determination helped inspire in the Green Room of Olney’s contributor to Equity News from bring in so much in such a affiliate organizations like the rest of us, as well as piqueing Gudelsky Theatre. At every break the Wahington/Baltimore area.) short time. “Ann Arbor is a BC/EFA.” the interest of the auditors who 10 / EQUITY news MARCH 2011 Chicago Los Angeles ActorsFCU Opens Office in Actors Meet Agents – Part II Cabrillo, I can see they are Chicago Equity Building This is the second installment to get an agent? How would you working regularly and that has a of an article about Franchised prefer submissions? lot more pull.” “The bottom line is Actors Federal Credit Union’s Members of the Committee Agency Seminars that have been The answer to new talent was that there is talent in LA that is newest branch—in Chicago—is received engraved pens (“One held in New York and Los a resounding YES, agreeing just as good as NY.” open for business and serving Team – One Family”) as thanks Angeles. The Los Angeles there is not a time of year that is Should I seek agencies that Midwest members. The office, for their efforts to bring the seminar, hosted by the Western better. Most said they prefer hard rep me across the board or open from 9-5 weekdays, is Credit Union to Chicago. “Our Region Member Education copy submissions and reiterated concentrate on theatre? located on the first floor of AEA’s strength lies in the loyalty and Committee (Chair: Jennie Ford), that a referral is helpful. Film and television work play new home at 557 West support of our members and was held in December, 2010. Is Los Angeles casting only a large role in the lives of actors Randolph Street. their spreading the word. We The participants were Victoria the land of the young and based in LA. Not every agency The Grand Opening couldn’t be more grateful to our Morris and Jacole Kitchen, both beautiful? What advice would represented works solely with celebration on January 13, 2011 Chicago members,” added Mr. of Kazarian Spencer, Rushkin & you give to a youthful looking stage actors. “If you also have a kicked off with 21 new accounts. Rodman. Associates; Gerry Koch, The early 50 year old with significant film and television career, you “AEA Central Region’s Credit The opening festivities were Gage Group; Steven Dry, stage presence? don’t want to be away during Union Committee promised us capped with a drawing for an Schiowitz, Connor, Ankrum and Experience, credits and pilot season. The ideal career is eager support for a branch in the iPad. The lucky recipient, out of Wolf; and Dave Sector of Daniel seeing the actor in a show are all someone who can do film and Chicago area,” said ActorsFCU more than 60 entrants, was Hoff. The moderator was important. “The selling point is TV and go back to the theatre as President Jeff Rodman, “and Equity member Ron Keaton. National Director of Membership you are an actor in an age range often as possible.” their instincts were right on the For more information on John Fasulo. where we don’t get a new face With LA theatre paying so money. I’m happy to say we Actors Federal Credit Union, Here are some highlights of very often. You have 30 years’ little, how can an LA actor make played to a packed house.” visit the website: actorsfcu.com . the LA Seminar: experience over a 20 year old money for you? What is the best way to get a and that makes you special.” Agents agreed that theatre is meeting with you? Do you feel that LA theatre an important part of an actor’s “Through referrals from a credits take a backseat to a New resume and encouraged taking manager, a casting director or York City credit? stage roles. “We think it’s someone who can vouch for your A question that is often raised, important for our clients to get talent: someone who has worked it was clear that the LA theatre back to the stage as often as with you or has seen your work.” scene is respectable, healthy they can.” One agent believes Are you looking for new talent and thriving. “If someone came “There are great theatres like and is there a best time of year with a credit from Reprise or South Coast with a lengthier contract. As long as you are branching out and climbing the Minneapolis, MN theatre ladder in LA, there is money to be had.” “Fully Committed” to the Cause How should a client At the opening of the AFCU office in Chicago are: (back row, l to respectfully inform his/her agent r) Gil Rogers, Dev Kennedy, Lisa Gordon, Liz Pazik, Steven Equity Sobotta; (front) Ron Keaton, Ann Gordon, Jeff Rodman. about roles for which they are member hoping to be submitted? Nathan Everyone agreed that good Los Angeles Keepers, communications is key. It doesn’t performing hurt to let the agent know you Fund Slates Spring Seminars in the one- are interested in a role, but be man show respectful in how you approach it Are you on the fence with life 933-9244, ext. 20 or via email at Fully – never sound like you are in the industry? If so, The Actors [email protected] . Committed questioning their job. Fund has a group for you. On The Fund is also sponsoring raised over What about working with a Wednesdays, April 6-May 25, a group on managing cash flow $3,000 for personal manager? 2011 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 for artists. This four week Broadway Not all agents think there is a p.m. at The Fund office, Suite workshop will meet on Cares/Equity need for a personal manager, 400 at 5757 Wilshire Boulevard, Thursdays from March 10-May Fights AIDS while others think a personal times are hard, it’s also a time a group will be exploring the 31, 2011, 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. at at the Jungle Theatre in manager could be helpful or a to give when you can.” Nathan emotional, spiritual and practical the Fund office. For information Minneapolis during the holiday hindrance. “We are very and his stage manager John issues of continuing a career in contact Linda Zimmerman at drive. After each of 12 manager friendly if they are hard- Novak organized the appeal. the entertainment industry. This (323) 933-9244, ext. 30 or at performances, Nathan working and team oriented.” “It’s Members of the crew and eight week program is free and [email protected] . appealed to audiences to give not about the concept of theatre management also confidential, but an initial For a full schedule of Actors what they could. “People were managers as much as whether contributed, making sure that interview is required for Fund workshops, groups and very generous,” he said, “and I they are trying to be an agent BC/EFA can help as many participants. For information, seminars visit the website assume by their generosity that without a franchise.” One agent they knew that even though people as possible. contact Tracey Downs at (323) actorsfund.org . (continued on page 11 )

New York Chicago down two weeks in a row, and all those that participated in the Fund Sets March Meetings SMs Receive CPR Training training. This will now become a The Actors Fund has Avenue, will be a workshop on The Central Stage Managers thanks the Chicago Red Cross yearly event, so mark your scheduled several special groups managing anger along the road Committee recently hosted two for its help with planning the calendars now for Monday, to meet during March. On to recovery for professionals in days of CPR training in the new event, the AEA staff for setting January 30, 2012 for your re- Wednesday, March 16, 2011 recovery from drug and alcohol Equity Building Member Center. up the rooms and tearing them certification. from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the addiction. For information, call Stage Managers from the Equity Council Room on the 14th (917) 281-5914 or email Central Region came to either Floor at 165 West 46th Street, a [email protected] . the Monday, January 24 or group of entertainment industry A six week support group for Monday, January 31, 2011 professionals will discuss how to entertainment industry session to get certified in both be successful in teaching, professionals over age 62 will AED/CPR and First Aid by the training and coaching. The meet on Wednesdays, March 23- Chicago Red Cross. Due to speakers have all developed April 27 from 3-4:30 pm. at the weather conditions, the first successful sideline and parallel Fund offices. A pre-attendance Monday was sparsely attended, careers in these areas. For interview is required. For but a big turn out on the second information, contact information, call (917) 281-5990 Monday made up for it. Chicago [email protected] or email: staff also participated, but theirs On Mondays, March 14 to [email protected] . was a re-certification from May 23 from 2:30 – 4 p.m. at The For a full schedule of Actors training last year. The Central Fund offices, 729 Seventh Fund events, visit actorsfund.org . Stage Managers Committee Participants in Stage Managers’ CPR training. (Photo: Cynthia Hanks) MARCH 2011 EQUITY news / 11 Actors Meet Agents good photographer can get you New York five looks – five different ways Continued from page 10 that I can market you.” Color is VITA Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony Honors the way to go. said: “We only take 5% for What is the best way to “break Co-Founders and Supporters rehearsals, 10% for shows and it up” with an agent to go to hurts me to think the PM is VITA (the another one? How do you feel getting 15% without having Volunteer Income Tax about freelancing vs. signing? played a role in the submission Assistance program) “If you feel that your agent is or negotiations.” held a ribbon-cutting not working with you, then you There seem to be a lot of ceremony for its need to figure that out because agent/casting director workshops newly-renovated you may be 50% of that.” “You in LA. How do you feel about headquarters in New need to break that connection in actors paying to meet casting York on Friday, order to even start a relationship directors and agents? February 4, 2011. with me.” All agreed they don’t The panelists agreed it could freelance. Sandra Karas, be worth participating, but with a Should a theatrical resume be Equity’s Secretary- caveat. “It helps if you are going different from film/TV? Treasurer and VITA to see the casting director or the Each agent has a different site coordinator, associate. If you are paying to answer. For one, there is a welcomed guests and see the assistant, that is not resume style that has been acknowledged VITA’s going to get you anything most of Co-Founders: At the VITA ribbon-cutting are (l to r) Rebecca Damon (SAG Foundation); developed for that office while Equity’s Sandra Karas, VITA Site Coordinator; Wallace Munro, The Actors the time.” others prefer to have the theatre Michael Enserro, Fund; Equity Executive Director Mary McColl; Equity Foundation President What are your thoughts on Arne Gundersen; Janette Gautier (AFTRA Foundation) and Cly Fowkes, credits at the top. But it was Conard Fowkes and photos? Black and white vs. daughter of the late Conard Fowkes. (Photo: David Lotz) agreed that its how one writes Schorling Schneider. color? the resume credits. For theatre “In 1976, Michael “It’s important that it looks like closet at 1501 Broadway. Among those attending the it’s the role, while for film/TV it’s Enserro, AEA Councillor, active you, but the body of work on Schorling demonstrated that ribbon-cutting were: Actors’ the “lead, co-star or supporting.” committee person and veteran of your resume is important.“ “A many contract negotiations, there was no limit to the kinds of Equity Foundation President and thought he could find yet another returns VITA would take on and AEA VP Emeritus Arne way in which he and his union Conard, who was also a member Gundersen; Equity Executive San Francisco could serve his fellow members. of the AFTRA Board, solicited Director Mary McColl; SAG The Internal Revenue Service the help and support of both Foundation Board member/SAG Stage Managers Set Networking Event had just started a volunteer AFTRA and SAG in supporting NY Division VP Rebecca the program. Thus was VITA Damon; AFTRA Board member The BAAC (Bay Area Stage Managers will sign up outreach program to encourage nurtured and expanded to offer and New York VP Janette Advisory Committee) Stage for a “rotation hour” during which those who had the knowledge or free tax assistance to members Gautier; and Actors Fund Management Subcommittee they can meet for a short desire to learn to assist those of the three unions. What began Director of Planned Giving and headed by Chair Heath Belden interview with each theatre who were unable to avail as an effort to help actors and has set a speed-dating style representative in the room. At themselves of professional tax Secretary of the Edith Meiser stage managers better navigate networking event for Stage press time, companies including preparation. The Volunteer Foundation Wallace Munro. the waters of the IRS has grown Managers and Production ACT, Theatreworks, Cal Shakes Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Executives, staff and Board to a year-round, free service that Managers/hiring managers to and Marin Theatre Company Program seemed to Michael like members from Equity, Screen includes not only the members’ be held on Monday, March 28, were planning to participate. a program that was tailor-made Actors Guild and AFTRA and 2011 from 4-8 p.m. in Fred’s Stage Managers attending for performing artists and he federal and home state filings, members from the three Lower Level Lobby at ACT’s should plan on bringing at least started Equity’s VITA site. Along but all states and localities in Foundation Boards also were Geary Theatre, 415 Geary 10-15 resumes to exchange. the way, he enlisted the help of which our members have present. Street in San Francisco. This is Contact Heath Belden at two other Councillors and active worked. VITA is unique because On Monday, February 7, the an opportunity for Stage [email protected] to union members, Schorling it provides advocacy along with new office opened for business Manages to provide resumes be added to the participant list. Schneider and Conard Fowkes. friendly, helpful and supportive and a long line began forming The three of them learned tax and get a few minutes of face Check the Equity website, volunteers who understand our before dawn, as it does every preparation from the IRS and time, thus easing the interview www.actorsequity.org for further members. What these founders year, with members eager to prepared returns for working process when future job information. created lives on and thrives in have their tax returns prepared. openings arise. actors, operating out of a storage their memories.”

Boston New York NEAT Contract Tops CTFD to Host Conference on Career Development Annual Meeting Agenda Career Transition For Dancers presentation followed by other industries, next steps and presents the 2nd annual breakout sessions. Free light career paths—are invited. RSVP By Michael Dell’Orto compensation for extra duties. “Stepping into Hope and breakfast, lunch and wrap-up to: Greater Boston Area Recommendations coming out Change: A Free Career party will be provided. The steppingintohopeandchangenyc. Liaison of this Caucus, as well as Development Conference for afternoon sessions begin at 2 eventbrite.com or call Kaylen suggestions made during the Dancers” on Thursday, April 7, p.m. with a keynote speaker Ratto at (212) 764-0172, ext. The Greater Boston Area General Meeting, will be 2011 in the Equity Audition followed by a resource fair and 232. You may stay for the entire held its annual membership incorporated as proposals in the Center, 2nd Floor, 165 West 46th additional breakout sessions, program or choose individual meeting at Boston Playwright’s negotiations scheduled to begin Street, and via streaming ending at 4:45 p.m. sessions. Check the CTFD Theatre on November 15, 2010 in April in Boston. webcast: All dancers—whether still website: with National staffers Senior The Reps from New York www.ustream.tv/user/ctfd. dancing; staying in the dance www.careertransition.org for Business Representative read remarks from Eastern The free all-day conference field; preparing for a transition; more information. Russell Lehrer and Business Regional Director Rick Berg; begins at 10 a.m. with a already transitioned; or exploring Representative Melissa Colgan gave information about how to in attendance. sign up for e-voting for the The primary focus of the upcoming election; and reported New York an actor with a disability (Mr. Mitchell) in a role meeting was the upcoming on the newly-revised SPT that is written as both disabled and non-disabled. negotiation for the New England Agreement, changes to the Afterwards, there will be a panel discussion about Area Theatres (NEAT) contract, Workshop, Reading, Panel Health Plan, the LORT 401(k) the results of the workshop. The event will take which covers 15 small-to- plan, the latest on Equity’s to Explore Creative Casting place in the second floor Audition Center of AEA, medium size theatres within a centennial celebration plans and 165 West 46th Street. RSVP to Pearl Brady at 100-mile radius of downtown of Actors With Disabilities the arrival of Mary McColl as (212) 869-8530, ext. 346 or Boston. Prior to the start of the Equity’s new Executive Director. On Tuesday, April 5, 2011 at 6:30 p.m., the [email protected]. General Meeting there was a Selected by acclamation to Eastern Region Equal Employment Opportunity Internal Bleeding is made possible in part with Stage Managers’ Caucus to serve another three years on Committee will present an exploratory reading of public funds from the Manhattan Community Arts discuss and receive feedback the Liaison Committee were Internal Bleeding by Christine Toy Johnson, Fund, supported by the New York City Department on issues relative to stage Michael Dell’Orto (Chair), Ellen starring Daryl “Chill” Mitchell (television’s Brothers , of Cultural Affairs and administered by Lower management in the NEAT Colton, Peter Haydu, Dawn Ed and The John Laroquette Show ) directed by Manhattan Cultural Council. Additional funding agreement, specifically the Saglio and Kippy Goldfarb. Robert McQueen. The reading will be the has been made possible by the Puffin Foundation. separately negotiated culmination of a short workshop exploring casting 12 / EQUITY news MARCH 2011 New York

U.S.Postage Letters to The Editor AEA Observes Women’s History Month 44 Letters received from paid up members on subjects of concern to Equity member s will be considered and published as soon as possible. The Editor reserves the right to limit letters to 150 words and to select one With Panel on Gender-Neutral Casting or two representative letters when many similar letters are received. Letters must be signed, but names will be withheld on request for those letters which may affect members’ employment. Signatures will not The Women’s Committee of for the panel at press time are: be withheld on letters antagonistic or accusatory, either implied or expressed, against other members. the Eastern Equal Employment Rebecca Patterson, Artistic Opinions expressed in Letters to the Editor are not necessarily those of Actors’ Equity Association. Opportunity Committee is Director, The Queen’s hosting a panel discussion on Company; Joanne Zipay, Artistic ABOUT “SPIDER-MAN” AN AMAZING them put together programs for gender-neutral casting called Director, Judith Shakespeare EXPERIENCE the community and its schools. Limitless Casting: Could the Company; Terry Berliner, Dear Equity News, Library director Renee Best Man for the Part Be a Director; and Richard I’m writing this letter in re - Dear Editor: Voorhees says: “We would like Woman? , on Tuesday, March Schechner, NYU Department of sponse to the concern many I just got back from Madison, to become the Cape Cod 29, 2011 at 6 p.m. in the Council Performance Studies. members have expressed re - WI, where thousands of union resource library for drama and Room on the 14th Floor of the Refreshments will be served. garding safety issues at Spider- members and supporters are the arts and to invite Equity Building, 165 West 46th For more information, contact Man . I am one of the deputies marching to support the State’s Street. In an age when men in Pearl Brady at on the show and have nothing public sector workers and community theatre groups, drag are commonplace in [email protected] or but praise for our staff and our oppose Governor Walker’s drama students, scholars, and theatre, why are women playing (212) 869-8530, ext. 346. stage managers who have proposal to strip them of their patrons of the arts to male roles so rare? Confirmed working diligently since re - collective bargaining rights. experience the collection.” hearsals began in July. This pro - This really was an amazing If you have some books, duction has been sailing in experience, and one I will keep please call me at The Drama Chicago uncharted waters since its in - with me for a long time. The Book Shop. 212-944-0595 ext. ception not only because of the feeling of camaraderie and 3. Your contributions are tax Stage Managers to Host stagecraft involved but because accomplishment, the feeling of deductible. Or contact the many of the creators are new to belonging to something bigger library directly: Marstons Mills EMC Mentor Night Broadway. Our creative team than just Equity, the show of Public Library, 2160 Main and producers have sought to Street, P. O. Box 9, Marstons The Central Stage Managers able to meet working AEA Stage real emotion and intellectual put on a production the likes of Mills, MA 02648, 508-428-5175 Committee is hosting an “EMC Managers and ASMs, ask vigor was a breath, no a which has never been attempted [email protected] Mentor Night” forum and panel, questions and, perhaps, request hurricane, of fresh air. To use before. To ensure the safety of with Alden Vazquez as an AEA Mentor to help them an overused word: AMAZING. Nancy Reardon the company, staff and stage Moderator, on Monday, March transition to the professional Kudos to Executive Director management have worked tire - 28, 2011. This event is Equity workforce. Visit the Equity Mary McColl, our terrific and lessly guiding the creative team IN MEMORIAM especially for Membership website: www.actorsequity.org energetic new leader, who and advising them when some - Dear Editor: Candidates who wish to work as for time and other details. hustled to meet as many of our one was put in a potentially dan - My mother Anne Diamond Stage Managers. They will be members as she could while gerous position. Brownstone passed away on connecting with other labor We have suffered two injuries January 29, 2011. She starred leaders. I was very proud of in rehearsal (a broken toe and in hundreds of radio shows her. San Francisco two broken wrists) as well as opposite every major star Mary and I were joined by one extremely serious injury in including John Wayne and Councillors David Girolmo, Dan It’s Always Holiday Time at ACT performance. The Department Jimmy Stewart, did screen Mooney and John Atherlay and of Labor and OSHA cancelled dubbing for foreign films and members of a touring show, as The cast and crew of San provides in San Francisco, and performances until they could wrote and starred on early TV well as AEA members from the Francisco’s American asked them to open their hearts review our safety protocols in Dragnet , Burns and Allen , Milwaukee area. Led by SEIU, Conservatory Theatre appealed to contribute. “I was so honored which they had previously ap - The Nurses , Tombstone we marched down Wisconsin to audiences over seven to make the speech every night,” proved. They instituted addition - Territory and others. Well- Avenue towards the Capitol performances during the run of he said. “The audience appeals al measures and allowed known in Hollywood as a with local IATSE stagehands, A Christmas Carol in December, have become a Holiday tradition performances to resume. Equity leading actress at The firefighters (including raising over $9,631. Veteran at ACT. They bring us back to staff (led by Louise Foisy, Kim - Pasadena Playhouse, she bagpipes), cops, nurses, sheet Equity actor Steven Anthony what is important about that berly Rimbold and Keith Sklar) played opposite James metal workers and the head of Jones, who portrayed the Ghost time of year and the ACT said to our stage managers that Whitmore, Claire Trevor and the State AFL-CIO. of Christmas Present, spoke audiences are always Equity would not sign off until Robert Redford; on Broadway; We chanted on the street directly to the audiences, supportive and generous. They stage management felt that regionally, in stock, and in one and into the building as we explained the work and all the remind us that that time of year they’d had enough time to work season at Arena Stage starred crowded into the Rotunda to help that Broadway is about more than just the the additional safety measures alongside Philip Bosco, hear some firebrand speeches. Cares/Equity Fights AIDS commercial benefits.” into the show. This resulted in Claudette Nevins, Robert It was protest at its best: another cancellation and lost Prosky and Alan Oppenheimer spirited but civil, rooted in revenue of over $250,000. Our as Lady Britomart, Major peace and serious as can be producers were not pleased but Barbara ; Charlotta Ivanovna, about not letting our rights be recognized that it was for the The Cherry Orchard ; Cora, The stripped away. And fun and health and well-being of all. Iceman Cometh ; Lady India, inspiring! Anyone who has ever worked Ring ‘Round the Moon; Gloria, Thanks to those who on a Broadway musical knows Three Men on A Horse. Known participated. Today, I am one that they are potentially danger - to Equity as Assistant to proud Union member, and ous. The stagecraft employed Presidents Theodore Bikel, especially proud of Actors’ and the number of people work - Ellen Burstyn and Colleen Equity Association. ing in very tight spaces often re - Dewhurst, that role allowed her Dev Kennedy, Central sult in accidents and injuries. All to raise three children when her Regional Vice President of these elements that make up husband, stage and company a musical (including budgets) PLEASE HELP manager Joseph Brownstone, have been magnified greatly at To the Editor: died. She was granted a Spider-Man . I recently packed up Lifetime Membership in Equity Michael Tolan Mourned What has remained a con - (almost) all of my theatre books for her devotion to actors and ormer Councillor Michael 1960 Negotiating Committee, stant in this, my ninth Broadway to give to a little village library the Union, but her acting career Tolan died on January 31, which, after a 13 day strike, show, is the high level of com - on Cape Cod—The Marston was equally an achievement. 2011 at the age of 85. resulted in the establishment of mitment and professionalism ex - F Mills Public Library. Since I Diana Brownstone A member of Equity since Equity’s first pension plan. He hibited by our aforementioned have been a teacher as well as 1953, Mr. Tolan’s career was elected to a five-year term staff and especially our seven an actress, my collection spanned theatre, film and TV, in 1961, saying in his election (yes, seven!) stage managers. includes not only scripts, but including appearances on statement: “I believe Equity’s They are Randall White, Kat also books on theatre history, Musical Quiz Broadway in Will Success Spoil main task now is to take steps Purvis, Sandy Franck, Jenny voice, make-up and more. Rock Hunter? , A Hatful of Rain , toward expanding the working Slattery, Michael Wilhoite, Drew Answers to Musical Quiz (page 6) Maybe you have some Romanoff and Juliet and A possibilities of its members.” To Neal and Theresa Bailey. I go to 1. D books (they don’t need to be Majority of One . He joined the this end, he was one of the work eight times a week content 2. E new) that you could give to this Council as a replacement in founders, in 1963, of the in the knowledge that I have a 3. A wonderful library, too. If not, feel December 1960 after having American Place Theatre. team like this watching my back. 4. E free to send a donation to help played a significant role on the Michael Mulheren 5. A