SEPTEMBER “The greater the artist, 2012 the greater the doubt. Perfect confidence is granted Volume 97 to the less talented as a Number 7 consolation prize.” EQUITYNEWS —Robert Hughes 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

First Membership Meeting of the Tom Carpenter is New 2012-2013 Season will be held on Eastern Regional Director/ Monday, October 8, 2012 – Central Region (6 pm) Monday, October 8, 2012 – Western Region (6:30 pm) Assistant Executive Director Friday, October 12, 2012 – Eastern Region (2 pm) homas Carpenter has Tom also has a strong The Central Regional Meeting will convene on been hired as Eastern background in copyright law, Monday, October 8, 2012 at 6 pm in the Regional and as live performance Member Center at the Equity Building, T Director/Assistant Executive increasingly intersects with 557 West Randolph, Chicago, IL Director and General Counsel. recorded media, his expertise The agenda will include: Tom joined the Equity staff in will be instrumental as Equity ● Report of the Central Regional Director. late August, quickly immersing develops new strategies to ● Report of the Central Regional Vice President. himself in the day-to-day protect the intellectual property ● Membership Discussion Period in accordance with the By-Laws. operations of the Eastern rights of its members. His years The Western Regional Meeting will convene on Region. of experience in the government Monday, October 8, 2012 at 6:30 pm at “I have tremendous respect affairs arena will be valuable as Theatre West, 3333 Cahuenga Blvd. West, Hollywood, CA for Equity’s proud history and Equity develops a solid and The agenda will include: traditions,” said Tom. “Growing achievable public policy agenda. ● Tom Carpenter. Report of the Western Regional Director. up, my parents took my sister “We are so pleased to have ● Report of the Western Regional Vice President. and me to the theatre and I Tom join our staff,” said Mary ● Membership Discussion Period in accordance with the By-Laws. remember to this day the bargaining and contracts and McColl, Executive Director. “His The Eastern Regional Membership Meeting will convene on excitement I felt when the house will lead the New York and breadth of experience and his Friday, October 12, 2012 at 2 pm in the lights dimmed and the show Orlando staffs. He will also leadership skills complement Council Room on the 14th Floor of the Equity Building, was about to start. Now I have serve as lead staff for the our existing staff and support 165 West 46th Street, New York, NY the opportunity to work on Union’s Public Policy efforts. He our mission. Tom is quickly The agenda will include: behalf of this talented is a member of Equity’s becoming the ‘go-to’ guy for our ● Presentation of the Paul Robeson Citation. membership and I’m very executive team and, as General Eastern Region.” ● Membership Discussion Period in accordance with the By-Laws. excited to be part of the Equity Counsel for Equity, Tom will Mr. Carpenter most recently (A sign interpreter will be present on request.) family.” oversee arbitrations and worked as the Assistant manage the Union’s Future Membership Meetings will be held on Friday, As the Eastern Regional National Executive Director and relationships with external legal January 11, 2013 in the Eastern Region and Monday, January Director, Tom will oversee the Chief Labor Counsel for SAG- counsel for labor relations. 14, 2013 in the Central and Western Regions. The Annual region’s operations, collective (continued on page 2) Meeting will be held on Friday, April 12, 2013 in all Regions. Organizing Department Restructured Developing a Area Liaison Affairs, Outreach Now Included Communications Strategy quity’s Organizing and The reassignment of CALA members. We will see an Results in Day-Long Special Projects and Outreach and Career increased growth in member EDepartment, under the Development offers outreach and advocacy at a Seminar:“The Business direction of National Director opportunities for greater national level.” Flora Stamatiades, now inclusion and participation In addition to working closely Behind the Show” includes the Committee on Area among the membership. with Ms. Stamatiades on a Liaison Affairs (CALA) and Organizing has been identified variety of initiatives, the Liaison ctors’ Equity us to broaden our Outreach and Career as an important piece in Equity’s chairs will continue to work with Association hosted a communications with them. We Development. long-range strategy plan their respective Regional Afree, day-long seminar decided to provide a service process. The expansion of this Directors. Tom Miller, Director of entitled “The Business Behind that would be of benefit to the department will help bolster that Outreach and Career the Show” for casts of Broadway membership, and in return ask goal. Development, will report to Ms. and commercial Off-Broadway for participation in a survey that “This is an exciting first step Stamatiades and continue his shows, and members of the would give us a better in our organizational restructure work in the areas of outreach, Council in late July. More than understanding of what that and is important,” said Executive Eastern Member Education, 40 members attended, all of might look like,” explained Director Mary McColl, “because Equity Membership Candidates whom participated in a follow-up Executive Director Mary McColl. it speaks directly to Equity’s and career development. survey designed to gather “The responses to that survey core mission of service to our additional input about what will help us shape our overall members would like to see from communications strategy for the the Union as a way to make future. This was a ‘test run’ but Equity stronger. successful and we will be The idea of hosting a working on how to provide these Equity Continues seminar developed as an opportunities more broadly offshoot of Equity’s strategic across the country.” Organizing Efforts planning efforts and in response “The Business Behind The to members’ call for greater Show” is a seminar created and rganizing continues to first-time contract. The most communication about important be an important area recent achievement was the (continued on page 2) topics. The purpose of this of focus for Equity. The signing of the non-Equity tour of O seminar was to provide Organizing Department and the Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Index members a deeper Organizing Committee have Christmas! The Musical, understanding about the Tom Carpenter is new worked steadily to identify areas scheduled to play the Wang business side of theatrical Eastern Regional Director...... 1 of the theatrical industry that Theatre in Boston and Madison NEWS productions and demystify the From the President...... 3 can be brought into the Equity Square Garden in New York City. economic and artistic decisions Theatre Spotlight ...... 4 family. Significant inroads have (It should be noted that this that producers, presenters and been made with producers, producer did not produce the Centennial feature: general managers face when The 1919 Strike...... 6 UITY especially those who Broadway company.) A cohesive working on a production. Final curtain...... 9 Q traditionally have not used plan to address cruise ships is “We have heard from the 165 West 46th Street New York, NY 10036 Address Service Requested Second Class Postage Paid in New York, NY E Equity agreements, to attain the in development. National news ...... 10 membership that they would like 2 / EQUITY news SEPTEMBER 2012

Tom Carpenter College of Law and his Behind the Show evaluates a production, whether Area Liaison undergraduate degree from it involves moving a production Hotline system continued from page 1 Northwestern University. continued from page 1 or developing an idea for a show AFTRA, where his portfolio of “There are tremendous new presented by the Commercial (your own or someone else’s). Call 877-AEA-1913 responsibilities included challenges on the horizon for Theatre Institute, an Several presenters talked about oversight of legal work the men and women who make organization formed in 1982 to the financial considerations of a Equity has a National toll-free supporting collective bargaining the theatre their life-long train future producers for production, from the hotline system for members who and organizing, as well as careers,” said Tom. “In my commercial Broadway, Off- capitalization aspect and live in Area Liaison and office oversight of the Government career, some of the most Broadway and touring strategies to entice potential cities. The number is 877-AEA- Affairs and Public Policy rewarding work I’ve done is to productions. CTI director, and investors, to the nuts and bolts 1913 (honoring the year of Eq- Department. Prior to the merger help organize new work and producer himself, Jed Bernstein, of a show budget, including how uity’s founding). Each Area of SAG and AFTRA, he served negotiate strong contracts for assembled movers and shakers it is developed, budget lines and Liaison city has its own exten- as AFTRA’s General Counsel performers and other media among Broadway’s producers, what each line represents sion, where members can ac- and Director of Legislative professionals. I’m especially general management and throughout the life of a show. cess news and information in Affairs. Early in his career Mr. excited to be able to continue touring presenters. Speakers Speakers also revealed little those efforts here at Equity.” discussed items that are taken their region. Carpenter was Legal Counsel included Tom Viertel, partner, Originally from Ohio, Tom Scorpio Entertainment; David for granted within the day-to-day (1) Dial 877-AEA-1913 for Teamsters Local 705 in Chicago. He received his Juris resides in Brooklyn, NY with his Richards, partner in Richards/ operations for a show, including (2) Dial your city extension: Doctor from Chicago-Kent husband David Slivken and four Climan Inc.; Rich Baker, the number of pages Playbill 811 Atlanta rescue dogs. President of Fox Associates; provides for a producer; the additional revenue stream of the 812 Austin/San Antonio and Maggie Brohn, partner, Bespoke Theatricals. Each credit card operations; and how 813 Boston presenter focused on an aspect costs are divided between the 814 Buffalo/Rochester Looking for Affordable of the industry from the producer and the theatre owner. 815 Chicago production side – “What does a The topic of the road was a 816 Cincinnati/Louisville Housing? The Actors producer do? What does it take candid and enlightening 817 Cleveland to be good at it?” examination of the challenges a 818 Dallas/Fort Worth Fund Can Help. (Bernstein);“How are shows presenter and a producer both 819 Denver Gotham West Set to Open in NY; capitalized? How do producers face. The domino effect of 820 Detroit get paid?” (Viertel); “Sample balancing the needs of both 821 Florida – Central Survey Underway to Determine Need Show Budgets- New York” sides and its final impact on the 822 Florida – South in Rahway, New Jersey; New Units (Richards); and “The Economics actors was frankly discussed. 823 Houston of Broadway Touring” (Baker The speakers also revealed that some antiquated financial 824 Kansas City Proposed in LA and Brohn). “What a great opportunity for requirements still find a place in 825 Las Vegas Clinic available for anyone in re you looking for afford- CTI and Equity’s leadership to the budget discussion. Also 826 Los Angeles able housing? The the performing arts who is unin- come together to paint a rich discussed was the meaning of 827 Milwaukee/Madison Actors Fund can help all sured), and The Schermerhorn A picture of how the business “success,” including what makes Equity members prepare to find in downtown Brooklyn (which 828 Minneapolis/St Paul behind the show really works,” a show successful and how it. The Fund is also planning to includes a 2,000-square foot 829 Nashville said Mr. Bernstein. “It was terrific success is measured. expand its current housing facili- performing arts center). 830 New Orleans to have so many working actors At press time, the results of ties, adding a new venue in Mid- Visit www.actorsfund.org/ 831 New York attend the seminar and the communications survey town Manhattan and gathering housing to download an applica- 832 Philadelphia gratifying to give them an inside taken in the days following the information about developing a tion. look at what producers, seminar were still being 833 Phoenix/Tucson project in Rahway, New Jersey 834 Pittsburgh Actors Fund Housing presenters and general reviewed. “We will look at other Housing Seminars 835 San Diego Development Corporation managers do.” ways to reach out to our To begin your search, attend 836 San Francisco (AFHDC) The Equity members in members so we can gather The Fund’s “Finding Affordable attendance learned first-hand more information about what is 837 Seattle AFHDC is working to develop Housing in NY” seminar. Learn more affordable, supportive and about the essentials of important to them,” said Ms. 838 St. Louis who’s eligible and how to apply senior housing for the performing producing, and how a producer McColl. 839 Washington DC/Baltimore for the City’s many affordable arts community and is currently and middle income residences conducting a survey in the New to another and to pay reduced and what landlords are looking York City/New Jersey region to dues and initiation to other for in terms of credit scores, help gather information for the A Look Back unions if the member is in good rental histories, earnings and tax development of affordable standing with his/her parent returns. artists’ rental housing in Rahway, Hear about some of the best organization. New Jersey.Visit www. 75 Years Ago opportunities becoming available rahwayartisthousingsurvey.org September 1937 in 2013, such as Gotham West, to take the ten-minute survey ● The September issue of 50 Years Ago a 1,238-unit residence that will and you’ll help make this building Equity’s official publication September 1962 occupy an entire city block in a reality.Your responses are vital reports that the new American Hell’s Kitchen, with 250 low ● The 19th season of Equity and will assist in determining Federation of Radio Artists EQUITYNEWS income and 432 middle income Library Theatre (the Equity- project financing, design, ameni- (chartered by the Four As on Editor: DICK MOORE units. Applications are now sponsored showcase theatre ties, and more. August 27) “is off to a grand Associate Editor: HELAINE FELDMAN available at group) opens with Councillor start.” It is further noted that the Equity News Advisory Committee www.West 45Lottery.com. Los Angeles Earle Hyman starring in Mr. Federation has acquired a Roberts. Christine Toy Johnson, Chair In Los Angeles, AFHDC has Housing Resource Center National Board “which has, in (Eastern) joined forces with Artspace to ● Equity lists 106 Franchised The Fund’s online Housing Nancy Daly (Western) develop 100 units of affordable turn, elected officers to serve to Agents. Diane Dorsey (Central) Resource Center provides infor- the first National Convention in Nicole Flender (Eastern) mation on affordable housing, housing in the downtown area for Bruce Alan Johnson (Eastern) November 1938; has appointed roommate opportunities, tempo- the arts and entertainment com- 25 Years Ago Stas’ Kmiec’ (Eastern) munity. The proposed “Broadway its executive officers; has set up Kevin McMahon (Western) rary housing, tenants’ rights and September 1987 Arts Center” would offer afford- locals in New York, Los Angeles, Liz Pazik (Central) housing court. ● Barbara Roberts (Western) able artists’ housing, perform- Chicago and San Francisco, and Actors Federal Credit Union Melissa Robinette (Eastern) Housing Bulletin Board ance and exhibition space, and is preparing to establish others reports it is offering free Buzz Roddy (Eastern) The Fund’s online Housing support for the street’s historic elsewhere; has a membership of checking and a Visa credit card. EQUITY NEWS (ISSN: 00924520) is ● Bulletin Board allows members theatres. This project has attract- approximately 2,000; a Career Transition for published monthly except for com- to post housing availabilities and temporary office at Equity Dancers sets its first major bined issues in Jan./Feb., July/Aug., ed foundation support, including Headquarters, and a working fundraising event with Agnes de Oct.,/Nov., by Actors' Equity search for places to live. If you a grant from MusiCares, and is Association, 165 West 46th Street, are looking to/for a sublet, a part of the LA Department of treasury…” Mille as Honorary Chair. ● New York, NY 10036. Telephone: roommate, something temporary Cultural Affairs initiative to sup- Actors’ Equity, Chorus (212) 869-8530. Periodicals or permanent, check it out. port the development of the Equity, the American Guild of 10 Years Ago postage paid at New York, NY. and Musical Artists, Screen Actors additional mailing offices. Copyright Actors Fund Buildings Broadway Cultural Quarter.You September 2002 Guild and the American 2003, Actors' Equity Association. The Actors Fund has two af- can download the preliminary Federation of Radio Artists sign ● Equity creates a new Subscription price for non-members fordable housing facilities in New reports about the project at of Actors' Equity Association: $25 an Interchangeability position of National Director, York City: The Dorothy Ross www.actorsfund.org/AFHDC. per year. Postmaster: Send address Organizing and Special Projects. Friedman Residence in Midtown For more information, visit Agreement, making it easier for changes to Equity News, 165 West ● Nashville becomes Equity’s Manhattan (which houses The www.actorsfund.org/housing, or members of each organization 46th St., New York, NY 10036. 24th Liaison city. Fund’s Al Hirschfeld Free Health call 212-221-7300, ext. 19. to move from one type of activity SEPTEMBER 2012 EQUITY news / 3 Members Unite to From the End Alzheimer’s; PRESIDENT Walks Planned in Four Cities Make Your Own Luck By Nick Wyman you already have (“Thank You” 20s, she is weighing a return. I quity and SAG-AFTRA more this year. I had no idea and “Mosaic”). hope she does come back – if it missed the television cover- members, friends and there was such a need for this Although I admit that luck is what she wants. age of the Olympic Efamilies will be until I led the 5K in LA last year plays a large part in our careers, We do this business because marathon. I missed most of participating in walks in New and saw many actors run up to I “luck is the residue of design,” we love it. It rarely loves us the Olympic coverage – I was York; Los Angeles; Washington, us as they saw our union signs. as well-known stage manager back. Stage managing and act- busy running my own marathon: DC; and Hollywood, Florida as ‘I’m an actor, too. Can I walk Branch Rickey said. Musical ing onstage are but a part of the the Acting Career Marathon. part of a National Walk to End with you?’ ‘I’m so glad my comedy star Louis Pasteur said mosaic of our life or of our liveli- Right now I’m in good stride: Alzheimer’s sponsored by the unions did this for us.’ We were “Chance favors the prepared hood. If this part of your mosaic performing an Off-Broadway Alzheimer’s Association. walking in glory,” she says. mind.” “Make your own luck” is a has become too frustrating and play, about to start rehearsals Nancy Daly, former AEA To join or support Actors catchphrase. Psychologist unrewarding to tolerate, con- for a Broadway musical. Sweet. Councillor and member of SAG- Unite to End Alzheimer’s SAG- Richard Wiseman has found sider letting it go. If you must, Of course, a couple years ago AFTRA, founded Actors Unite to AFTRA/AEA, copy the links that “lucky people generate pack your suitcases, close the (2010: the Year Employment End Alzheimer’s (AUEA) in 2011 below to each of the four walks good fortune via four basic prin- door on the business of show Forgot) I hit the wall, in in honor of her mother. One and you will be linked directly to ciples. They are skilled at creat- and, with our blessing and un- marathon parlance. I wasn’t run- hundred rank-and-file members each team’s page. Everyone is ing and noticing chance derstanding, continue your ning, I was crawling – crawling across the country joined the welcome. opportunities, making lucky de- search for fulfillment and remu- toward my pension, as I joked. team, raising more than New York City – Sunday, cisions by listening to their intu- nerative employment elsewhere. Running or crawling, I am $23,000. In January, 2012, October 21 – ition, creating self-fulfilling Or perhaps pack just an clear that I have been unbeliev- Nancy received a personal letter alznyc.org/ActorsUnite prophesies via positive expecta- overnight bag and take a hiatus ably lucky.Yes, I have some from President Obama praising Washington DC – Saturday, tions, and adopting a resilient – as song-and-dance man skills, but my success also rests the dedication and success of October 27 – attitude that transforms bad luck Robert Frost says, “I’d like to get upon a number of fortuitous en- the team and their commitment act.alz.org/goto/ActorsUniteDC into good.” My columns are my away from Theatre awhile/ And counters as well as a variety of to their fellow actors and Los Angeles, CA – Sunday, effort to help you to make your then come back to it and begin factors (my size, my coloring) for families who are living with November 4 – own luck by designing a career, over.” which I can take little credit. This Alzheimer’s. act.alz.org/goto/ActorsUniteLA designing a life that keeps you As cheerleader-in-chief, I business is a challenge. Suc- “The foundation of this team Hollywood, FL – Saturday, connected with Theatre for as want to encourage you to stay cess is so unlikely that I fre- has always been to take care of November 10 – long as you desire to be con- the course. As the NY Lottery quently use the metaphor of a our own,” said Nancy, whose act.alz.org/goto/ActorsUniteHFL nected. says, “Hey, you never know.” lottery (and I sometimes wonder mom died of Alzheimer’s on (Editor’s note: For Nancy Now the business tends to And, unlike the Olympics, the whether the college students in- May 8, 2012. The work of the Daly’s personal account, “Living erode that desire in many actors medals don’t just go to the top vesting tens of thousands of dol- team has become her greatest in Twilight: A Daughter’s to the point where they throw in three finishers; in a sense, each lars in a Theatre major might not legacy to her parents. “I would Alzheimer’s Story,” visit Equity’s the towel: “I’m sick of not making of us carries the medal we have get a better financial return from love for this team of 100 actors website, www.actorsequity.org.) money, I’m sick of not getting a already won: our Equity card. lottery tickets). to become 150 or even 200 and chance to practice my craft, I Run your career as best you The Cynic’s Guide to Acting quit.” I just had lunch with a can, and know that your elected says that the two best paths to young friend who came to New leaders and a defined benefit success in this business are to York with a theatre degree want- pension will be there to cheer have a trust fund or to be the Provost Addresses ing nothing more than to do you at the finish. offspring of a very famous actor. Shakespeare for a living. The Your elected leaders are If you have foolishly bypassed Illinois Arts Council; business met him with total in- doing their damnedest to im- both these routes, I have further difference, and after eight years prove our collective and individ- advice. To save yourself from an Supports Funding, tending bar rather than tending ual odds. We, too, are buying old man’s tendency to repeat to the Bard, he has taken a reg- our tickets, checking the num- himself, simply re-read my Advocacy for the Arts ular 9 to 5 job. Perhaps he will bers, scratching off the symbols, columns about running your ca- come back to acting; perhaps hoping for success. Those lot- entral Regional theatres that employ Equity reer as a business (“Earn Your this will be a hiatus. My wife tery tickets are part of the mo- Director Christine members. That means our MBA”), how to choose what (who is, as I am the first to tell saic of our lives. Let us design Provost spoke at a members can live and work in work or “work” to target (“The C anyone, the best actor in our this mosaic with intelligence, op- recent Illinois Arts Council their chosen profession here in Five C’s” and “Work, Art and family) took a hiatus after her timism, tenacity, fortitude, and a (IAC) hearing about the Illinois.” Provost went on to talk ‘Work’”), how to build your future run in Angels in America on prepared mind. Let us make our importance of the arts in the about E. Faye Butler, (“Three Requests”), and how to Broadway because with three own luck. Here’s hoping you cre- state. The purpose of the describing her as a “nationally accept your current place in the kids, we needed at least one ate as long and lucky a life in hearings, held over two days in recognized actress who has business and how to acknowl- parental presence at home. Now the theatre as I have been Chicago and Springfield, was chosen to stay in Illinois edge yourself for the success that all three kids are in their blessed to have. to gather input and ideas from organizations, artists and the general public as the IAC develops its 2013-2020 of how impactful the arts can Director of the League of the launch of a statewide Strategic Plan. be when supported. As an Chicago Theatres, was also on Creative Economy Council; “We need the help of the example, she explained that hand at the Chicago hearing. reinvigorating arts education in public to ensure the Illinois First Folio spends more than The League represents more the state; pursuing arts-based Arts Council addresses the $100,000 of its $400,000 than 230 member theatres in community development; and needs and aspirations of the annual budget on goods and the Chicago area. Ms. Clapp expanding funding. He closed people we serve,” said Shirley services within five miles of the spoke of the investment in the his testimony by urging the IAC R. Madigan, IAC Chairperson. theatre. arts, underscoring that the to “Be Bold,” and “put a plan in The Illinois Arts Council serves In her speech, Ms. Provost “arts are at the core of what place that…positions Illinois as the people of Illinois through a dramatically illustrated how makes a community not just the national leader in cultural variety of grants and services Equity theatres can make a livable, but vital.” policy and creative business geared to support the arts positive impact within Another speaker was Ra development.” sector, arts education and to communities. For example, Joy, the Executive Director of The dozens of individuals foster creativity and working Christine Provost. Teatro Vista gives voice and a Arts Alliance Illinois, a who spoke at the hearing all artists. home to Latino actors, statewide arts advocacy and agreed that funding and Ms. Provost opened her playwrights, directors and service organization advocacy for arts is vital for the testimony by reaffirming because our state supports the designers, while Erasing the representing over 22,000 arts arts and the creative sector to Equity’s strong support for arts, and theatre in particular.” Distance takes true stories advocates and hundreds of continue to grow and thrive in public funding for the arts at She outlined the economic about people affected by cultural organizations across the state of Illinois. The IAC the city, state and federal contributions the arts provide mental illness and creates all artistic disciplines. Mr. Joy 2013-2020 Strategic Plan will levels. She said: “In our state, in a community and pointed to shows that educate the public. made several be available in November, there are currently 50 Equity urban renewal as an example Deb Clapp, Executive recommendations, including 2012. 4 / EQUITY news SEPTEMBER 2012

a short train ride away. I hope to find myself back for many more years to come.” “I never could have predicted what a godsend the Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey would be for my career when I accepted my first (Equity card-earning!) job there over 14 seasons ago,” says Equity member Greg Jackson. “Since that fateful day I’ve had the good fortune to play a plethora of incredible roles, from the Eastern Region classical and contemporary canons as well as having the Shakespeare Theatre invaluable experience of working with an amazingly of NJ Celebrates The diverse and talented array of actors, directors, designers and Big Five-Oh! Erin Partin as Isabella (c) pleads with Sean Mahan (l) (Antonio) administrators. The success and as Lindsay Smiling (the Provost) looks on. (Photo: © Gerry Goodstein) expansion the theatre has he Shakespeare Theatre institution every step of the way, relationship with Paul Barry and year, the Shakespeare LIVE! enjoyed under the unwavering of New Jersey, the and for that we are immensely Ellen Barry, Paul’s professional Educational touring company vision of Bonnie Monte has state’s largest proud and grateful,” says Artistic as well as personal partner, for performs at schools and venues been inspiring to behold. Within T this wonderful place I have met professional theatre dedicated Director Bonnie J. Monte, who all those years is an equally throughout New Jersey, to Shakespeare and other world has been at the theatre since rewarding source of warmth. Connecticut, Pennsylvania and some of my dearest friends and classics, is celebrating its And to see ‘our New York. collaborators, found milestone 50th Festival’ still Equity member Erin Partin representation, connected with anniversary this season. flourishing, is has been working with the other theatres (both in NY and Founded in 1963 in Cape icing on the Shakespeare Theatre of New regionally), and experienced May by Equity members cake. Here’s to Jersey for 11 years and is some of my most thrilling artistic Paul Barry and Philip 50 more.” “proud to call it an artistic home. triumphs—all within an easy, Dorian as the New Jersey Today, the Under the leadership of Bonnie hour-long commute from Penn Shakespeare Festival, the theatre serves J. Monte and her dedicated Station. The Drew campus in company was invited to 100,000 adults staff, the theatre has blossomed Madison is a bucolic oasis take up residence at Drew and children into one of the top the country where I can escape the city University in Madison, annually has to offer. It is truly an grind and focus on my craft in New Jersey in 1972 so it through its example of what a remarkable some of the finest works the is also celebrating that productions regional theatre can be. They theatre has to offer. The event’s 40th anniversary. and education educate and develop the minds audiences are appreciative, engaged, insightful and “From the founding of (L to r) Jim Hopkins, Brian Cade and Kevin Isola in programs. Its of their audience by offering a ‘The New Jersey The Liar. (Photo: © Gerry Goodstein) Main Stage rich tapestry of classics, and discerning. The productions are Shakespeare Festival’ in productions their dedication to the growth top-notch, the feeling is one of 1991. Cape May, to the move to Drew are presented in the 308-seat and education of young artists is family, and the sense of mission Co-founder Philip Dorian also University in 1972, to the F.M. Kirby Shakespeare Theatre outstanding. I feel so fortunate at STNJ is palpable—from the expresses his gratitude: “To opening of the new F.M. Kirby in Madison from May through to come back year after year main stage to the outdoor stage have participated in the Shakespeare Theatre in 1998, December. In the summer, an and play on their ‘boards.’ I must to the educational and outreach founding of a theatrical and now to our 50th Outdoor Stage production is also mention that to find such an programs and throughout the institution that has lasted 50 Anniversary, our audiences added at an open-air incredible theatre this close to community of artists. I count years is a source of great pride. have applauded, cheered, and amphitheatre in Morris Manhattan is a gift. The city is myself extremely lucky to be To have maintained a loving supported this venerable Township, and throughout the never more than called a company member.”

Central Region opera company, and many Tulsa Project Theatre has done smaller arts organizations. While nothing but embrace and the city boasts of several theatre support me through all of my Tulsa Theatre troupes, none of them was an career choices. It is a company Equity company. This seemed that I love coming back to time Goes Equity out of balance and needed to and time again. Although New fter three seasons in change,” Mr. Cunningham Actors and Stage Managers to watch as this company went York City has become my home, existence, Tulsa Project continued. “Our mission from have the same benefits. from nothing but a hope and a it is so wonderful to have the ATheatre (TPT) has the start was to bring Equity to “Working toward the goal of dream to what it is today. I’ve opportunity to come back to officially “gone Equity,” and will Tulsa. Most everyone else had Equity affiliation caused Tulsa been in several productions with Tulsa with work through TPT. be using a Tier 1 Small some sort of union Project Theatre to up our game,” this company over the past few They have made a vow as a Professional Theatre Contract. representation. It was time for Mr. Cunningham said. years in different stages of my company to bring quality theatre This has been the theatre’s goal “Everyone wins in this career—with no contracts, to Tulsa and it makes me proud since it first presented an scenario. Our Guest Artist Contracts, and to work with them time and time outdoor production of The company is stronger. finally, for the first time ever with again. Rocky Horror Show for Our talent is happier. TPT, an Equity contract. “Just as I have grown and Halloween 2009. Since August And, most “One of the things I love most moved forward in my career, I 2011, TPT has been the importantly, our about Tulsa Project Theatre is believe the same is true for resident theatre company for audiences should how young they are,” he adds. Tulsa Project Theatre. I think Assembly Hall in the Tulsa expect quality “TPT is still in this wonderful their joining the Union will not Convention Center. “Having a entertainment.” stage of creatively dreaming only allow them to grow and home in a space like that gave One of the happy and still reaching for the stars. move in the direction that they us a full season to show we actors is Equity Their energy and drive is unlike have been dreaming of, but also could meet Equity standards member Jonathan any theatre I’ve ever worked at. help other local groups grow, and do it in a facility that met its Gilland. “I am Of course there have been creating a stronger performing expectations,” said Todd honored to have seen setbacks and troubles, but what arts community in Tulsa.” Cunningham, Tulsa Project Tulsa Project Theatre young theatre company hasn’t Looking to the future, musical Theatre Executive come to life over the experienced that. The thing that theatre will remain the Director/Producer. past few years,” he validates their existence is that company’s focus, but there are “Tulsa has a rich history of says. “While I’m not they get right back up and try plans to include non-musical supporting the arts. For more originally from Tulsa, I again. Isn’t that what it is all productions as well and to than 60 years, our community did graduate from the about? I myself am an initiate collaborative efforts with has maintained a symphony University of Tulsa extremely young actor and only the community and state and Jonathan Gilland in Joseph and the local universities. orchestra, a ballet company, an Amazing Technicolor Dream Coat. and was able to got my Equity card last year. SEPTEMBER 2012 EQUITY news / 5

Western Region little choice but to transform Center opened its doors. She themselves into artistic headed off to college to study mercenaries, bouncing from theatre and hoped that someday Bigger is theatre to theatre to hone their she could come home to work. craft and leaving them at the “Having been a professional Better in mercy of an audition cycle that actor for many years I finally got might only yield two shows per my wish and have been thrilled Denver season. To have Kent Thompson to be a part of a resident add me to the Resident Acting company that maintains such a n 1972, Donald R. Seawell, Company at the Denver Center high standard of excellence. The a Wall Street lawyer and has been an absolute blessing. theatres, four in total, are state- Broadway producer, fulfilled I The consistent work, this of-the-art, beautifully equipped the dream of philanthropist and amount of stage time across a spaces that allow an incredible Denver Post owner Helen G. variety of genres and character experience not only for the Bonfils when he conceived the types, is something you can audience, but also for the actor Denver Performing Arts only have within a company— working there. But more than Complex. The Complex would and that’s to say nothing of the the space, a theatre gets its eventually become the largest benefits of working with the heart and soul from the staff, performing arts facility under Kathleen McCall and John G. Preston in The Taming of the same artists over and over crew, designers, directors and one roof in the world. Shrew. (Photo: Vicki Kerr) again. Here at DCTC, we’ve got actors that inhabit it. It finds its The first piece of the puzzle the advantage of having played vision from the Artistic Director was the 2,700-seat Boettcher Artistic Director Kent Thompson. management has arrived with the game together already, and works its way through the Concert Hall opened in 1978. By “We’re committed to making five daggers to choose from. allowing the veteran players to company. The vision at the 1979, the Denver Municipal their experience here as fulfilling There are too many examples of assume their leadership roles as DCTC is inspiring, challenging, Auditorium had been renovated, as possible—from taking care of this kind of ‘above and beyond’ leading actors on and off the exciting and rewarding, whether two cabaret spaces had been them to making sure they have work to mention, but they are stage and to mentor rookies like we are re-examining a classic or added and the Helen G. Bonfils enough rehearsal time to great evidence of the kind of myself on how one forges a life, giving voice to a new work. And Theatre Complex opened with production support. After all, on professional environment four theatres. The Denver the night of a performance, the consistently provided by the Center for the Performing Arts’ actors’ work is what carries the DCTC. As a major LORT theatre Denver Center Theatre show.” in the state, the Denver Center Company (DCTC) found a home The actors recognize and provides a varied and exciting in the Bonfils Complex and appreciate this. season of 11 plays each year. opened on New Year’s Eve with “I’ve had the great good luck Audiences are treated to three simultaneous of performing in 36 productions everything from Shakespeare to productions—The Caucasian at the Denver Center Theatre never-before-seen musicals and Chalk Circle, Moby Dick Company over the past two plays. There’s also a New Play Rehearsed and The Learned decades,” says AEA member Summit, which helps develop Ladies. Sam Gregory. “What struck me five new plays each year. I am In its more than 30 years, the 20 years ago and what remains proud to be considered a Denver Center Theatre true today is the Company’s member of such a top notch Company has mounted 375 commitment to excellence. I AEA theatre company.” productions, 167 readings of have consistently been amazed AEA member Drew Cortese new works, 125 world premieres and humbled by the extremely is a newcomer to the Denver and 21 commissions and, in high standards of Theatre Center. “When I was 1998, in recognition of its body professionalism and artistry coming out of grad school, the Sam Gregory and the cast of the DCTC production of Two Things You Don’t Talk About At Dinner. (Photo: Terry Shapiro Photography) of work, it received the Tony evidenced in all aspects of head of our program offered us Award for Outstanding Regional production. A lot of the effort an apology for having trained imaginary or otherwise, in this one of the greatest joys for me Theatre. goes unseen by the public, but and prepared my class for insane business.” has been to see focus placed on “Denver Center Theatre is greatly appreciated by the acting company work at a time AEA member Kathleen women playwrights and women Company relies on highly gifted resident and guest artists alike. when acting companies McCall was born and raised in directors over the past seven and accomplished professional In rehearsal, for example, I have themselves were vanishing from Colorado and remembers being seasons. To say I am blessed is actors—and of course that asked for a prop, say a dagger, the American theatrical in high school when the Denver an understatement.” means AEA members,” says and within the hour, stage landscape,” he says. “Actors had

truth of who I am, and know that I am connected to all life. I am HEALTH more than my resumé, my body, or current show. I use meditation WELL- to train myself to see beyond my current set of circumstances. It NESS is proven to reduce stress—the & number one cause of all ‘dis- ease’—and meditation is free. I Central also use the tools of affirmative Region SM Shares Health Tip entral Region Stage Manager Carole Jo CBradley, a contestant in the recent AEA-Union Plus Health & Wellness Video Carole Jo Bradley. Contest, shares this health tip on zen and the art of stage prayer, visioning, and spiritual management: laws to facilitate inner healing. “The number one way I stay For the last seven years, this fit is through practicing daily practice has kept me in meditation. Wellness of my mind peak performance, while stage leads to fitness in my body and managing. I only wish I realized in all of my affairs. During its value when I first started meditation, I contemplate the calling shows—25 years ago.” 6 / EQUITY news The 1919 Strike

By Peter Royston “responsible managers,” ignoring the fact that more and more n July of 1913, the New independent managers were York Review being enveloped by the growing editorialized, “An actors’ Theatre Syndicate. The Society union…is doomed to proved so ineffective that in failure…Every actor December of 1912, one hundred considers himself the members met to decide whether nonpareil of his own line and to continue or dissolve. Although wants a larger salary than any the mandate came down to other competitor. Therefore to disband the Society, some felt regulate pay and form of contract the need to continue the fight, would be an impossibility, despite the fact that, as Harding because on these questions no wrote, “every previous actors’ set of actors will stand together.” association had been wrecked Even beyond the many concrete reasons for its founding, clear: Equity had to become Equity had to fight against affiliated with the ever-growing perception in its early days: organized labor movement. But perception from outsiders that perhaps Equity’s greatest performers were so full of pride challenge in these early years that they would never unite in was the perception from many common purpose, and the of its own members into the perception from many actors that nature of acting itself. For them, the very act of acting was no acting could not be put on par mere job to be put on the same with unionized labor. As level as unionized carpenters and historian Sean P. Holmes wrote, steamfitters. The Strike of 1919 many actors believed that “(a)s secured for Equity a place at the an art form that depended for its table of organized labor, and for effect on engagement with its members the first fair and emotions and the illusion of spontaneity…acting was standard contract that they had incompatible with the values of ever known. But more than these objectivity and rationality at the considerable achievements, the heart of the emerging 1919 Strike strengthened the idea professional cultures of the early that acting was not just an twentieth century.” Or as actor ephemeral avocation. Acting was Blanche Bates said in a speech, a profession; acting was work. “We are not laborers with Alfred Harding began his calloused hands…and what we book, The Revolt of the Actors, “No More Pay, Just Fair Play.” Marie Dressler and Ethel Barrymore during the 1919 Strike. have is something that cannot with the very Biblical sounding be capitalized. What we give chapter, “As It Was In The by factional fights or by the determination is remembered Equity. It all went off without a cannot be weighed or Beginning,” and, indeed, the hostility of the managers.” today. New Orleans Liaison hitch and, it must be said, measured.” stories of the conditions that A committee was formed to John Bostic says, “I am without much fanfare. Equity’s What Mrs. Bates was Equity was formed to fight against plan for a new, hopefully constantly amazed at not only first years were full of small ignoring was the fact that the take on a very Biblical quality stronger, association. The new the courage but the vision of the skirmishes; it was a time of actors’ work was indeed being today: stranded actors wandering group took on a name which early union members. It seems “feeling our way” as Edwin capitalized, weighed and the wilderness, working in squalid encompassed what they were to me that somehow they Arden later wrote in Equity measured in equations that conditions, actors rehearsing for fighting for: “Actors’ Equity.” understood that if their craft was Magazine. But the storm clouds often left them broke and in the months for free only to play for The comedian Francis two or three performances, actors Wilson, Equity’s first president, working under a “Satisfaction was realistic about this new Clause” which left their venture’s chances, but chose to employment under the absolute see the glass half full: “I have whim of a manager. Bizarrely, seen so many of these attempts salaries were halved during the start and fail – but I am an weeks before Christmas, Holy optimist and am always willing Week and Election Week (!) to try once more.” This could Attempts at organizing were have been the union’s motto tried. The Actors’ Society was during those early days – trying, formed in 1896 with the naïve failing, and then trying again. mandate of working only with This undaunted

AEA members rally for affordable healthcare at the New York City Labor Day Parade in 2010.

to continue to grow and remain were gathering and soon would cold. Fred Niblo seemed to a viable and healthy profession break. By 1917, an agreement answer Mrs. Bates when he that they were going to have to has been reached, but few stated, “It is not art to get up at change the established system managers actually used it. The four o’clock in the morning and not only for them but for those contract is very fair, a manager catch a train. It is not art to who followed them.” told Francis Wilson. When will travel in a vile-smelling day On May 26th, 1913, 112 you start using it, then? asked coach all day – a day coach so people crowded into the Elks Wilson. “When you make me,” old and terrible that railroad Hall in the Pabst Grand Circle the manager replied. companies only keep it to haul Hotel to officially found Actors’ For Wilson, the future was actors in...It is downright labor.” s / 7

Former AEA Eastern Regional VP Kate Shindle addresses the “We Are One” Rally in Los Angeles in 2010 to support collective bargaining rights.

manager fellow comedians W.C. Fields, had been thrown at Francis managers I know desire nothing associated with Ernest Truex and Frank Fay, Wilson’s feet – “When you make more than the ‘simple’ things the PMA. Equity would pretend to stall his car in me” – had been strongly met. that we see ‘average’ people membership grew front of still-open theatres. “We On September 6th at 3 am, the achieve: the ability to provide for in leaps and pretended to be fixing the car managers signed a five-year ourselves and our loved ones bounds while and clowned around until the contract. Equity had grown from while doing work that is Broadway houses prospective ticket purchasers a membership of 2,777 at the meaningful and valued.” Tom went dark, were attracted by us,” he said, beginning of the summer to Helmer, former Councillor, and including the cast “We entertained them so well on 14,000 as the new theatrical Philadelphia Liaison Chair, of the show the street corner that they season began. concurs: “We all get a paycheck Lightnin’ who under a union contract that hung up a banner require the same federal and on their marquis state deductions for Social that read “Lightin’ Security, Medicare, taxes, Struck!” Unemployment In his essay, Insurance….because we are “All the World’s a ‘employees,’ not ‘independent Stage! The Actors’ contractors.’” Strike of 1919,” Many see echoes of 1919 in Sean P. Holmes today’s tensions between outlined some of employers and unions. “These the very theatrical are particularly perilous times methods the for unions,” says Abner Genece, actors used to San Diego Area Liaison, “Those In 2009, Philadelphia AEA members rally “woo the public” who would destroy what has against a proposed Pennsylvania during that long, been built for all who labor have entertainment ticket tax that would hot summer: gained traction in a growing negatively impact theatres. • Actors sang atmosphere of social and The Women of Equity bound for Wall Street, 1919. parodies of economic anxiety…All labor is How could the wild, irrational popular songs to the crowds on being hunted. Equity is not heart of theatre be brought to Broadway streets, including this willingly missed the show The 1919 strike was a exempt.” As member Janine the bargaining table? version of George M. Cohan’s inside.” passionate demand for respect DiVita described when she In the spring of 1919, the war-time hit “Over There”: • On August 19th, Equity from a profession that many, joined protesting Wisconsin new managers’ group, the “So beware, have a care staged a massive benefit including many actors, saw as state union workers in 2011 Producing Managers’ Just be fair, on the square, performance before a sold-out too enlightened to be compared after their collective bargaining Association (PMA), announced everywhere. crowd at the Lexington Avenue that it would not recognize For we are striking, yes, we Opera House. With W.C. Fields Actors’ Equity. In July, the are striking playing master of ceremonies, contract between Equity and the And we won’t be back till the acts included Marie Dressler, Producers expired, and Equity managers are fair.” the first president of the newly laid out its demands: recognition (Ironically, Cohan was formed Chorus Equity, staging a of the union, better rehearsal Equity’s most vocal critic, 150 chorus girl dance number in pay, an eight performance week, vowing to never sign an Equity just a few minutes, Lionel and and pay for holidays and contract!) Ethel Barrymore, Eddie Cantor, Sundays. The managers dug in • Eddie Cantor, along with and a final cry from the heart their heels and based on Marc Antony’s funeral the lines were oration for Julius Caesar: “Will drawn. you stand up and show that you On August are with us and join in our cry of 1st, 1,500 Equity! Equity! Equity!” Equity As August bore on, more and members met more Unions responded to this at the Hotel call and refused to cross Astor, and in an Equity’s picket line. As Sean overwhelming Holmes wrote, “The other vote, pledged to theatrical unions’ decision to stick with back the actors shifted the (Front l to r) Western Regional Director Mary Lou Westerfield, Equity and its balance in the theatrical power Joe Voves; (back) Don Mueller, Richard Ostlund and Clarinda new affiliation struggle decisively in favor of Ross march in Los Angeles to support marriage equality. with the the actors.” American The strike had spread to to “common” unionized workers. powers were stripped: “Whether Federation of Chicago, Boston and All that changed after 1919. we want to face it or not, we Labor. A week Washington, D.C. 37 Shelly Gaza, Denver Area must stand up for ourselves in later, it was In 2011, Central Regional VP Dev Kennedy and productions had closed, 16 had Liaison, says, “If anything, I feel times like these because once AEA Executive Director Mary McColl go to voted that no Madison, Wisconsin with other AEA members to had openings prevented and $3 like most AEA Members today unions are attacked in one state, member would support collective bargaining rights for public million had been lost by the feel the complete opposite from it is just a matter of time before work for any and private sector workers. producers. The challenge that that. So many actors and stage our own union is threatened.” 8 / EQUITY news SEPTEMBER 2012

I pounded the pavement like hundreds of others, looked for Ocean State Theatre How I auditions in Backstage, and waited for the paper each week Grows and Knows Got My to come out. Receptionists were mostly kind-hearted as I handed “How to Succeed” Equity Card in my 8 x 10 glossy and knew they would probably dump it in ood news! Ocean Steve Gagliastro, Tony Triano; the wastebasket, but they would State Theatre, an front: Caroline Listul, Kate Madeleine Sherwood all smile sweetly and say, “Noth- GLOA-LORT company Ferdinandi, AEA Eastern Re- ing today, Madeleine.” in Warwick, Rhode Island, will gional VP Melissa Robinette, I’ve been a member of Equity be moving into a new space to and Morgan Rose). The com- By Madeleine Sherwood into applause, then the first terri- for 50+ years and on Equity produce year-round. Pictured pany is run by Equity Members fying sound that comes out of Council (1983-1993) as well. My are cast members from OST’s Amiee Turner and Joel Kipper. (Editor’s note: On March 12, my throat, which they describe friend Conard Fowkes called me recent production of How to The show was directed by AEA 2012, Madeleine Sherwood as a voice, but that first instant it Madame Contrarian, then kindly Succeed…. (Back row, l to r: Member Lennie Watts and wrote the following to Equity is the siren of terror and inten- switched it to “Catalyst.” A’Lisa Miles, Derek Johnson, choreographed by AEA Mem- News: “A short while ago I was tion and faith and hope and trust Being a member of Actors’ Matthew Rickard, Erik Keiser, ber Chris Saunders. put on an In Memoriam list by and vanity and security and in- Equity has given me the oppor- Ensemble Studio Theatre. (They security and bloodcurdling tunity to do the work I love the have since apologized.) I decid- courage which is Acting.’ Ruth most. ed I had better surface. To the Gordon 1896-1985 Yeah!”) I lived for 50 years at 32 best of my knowledge, I am not Osceola Archer directed a Leroy Street in the Village, and dead, just very deaf. I live in my play for Equity Library Theatre. from Day One, I loved working family home in the Laurentians Everyone loved and respected in New York City. Now I am hap- in Quebec. I will be 90 on No- Osceola. She was a devotee of py to be home in Canada. vember 13, 2012.” live theatre. I read for her and Long live live theatre. “I have always enjoyed our was told “You have so much en- Madeleine Sherwood played AEA News, especially ‘How I ergy and enthusiasm, the part of Mae/Sister Woman and Miss Got My Equity Card.’ For years I the Mexican girl is yours.” The Lucy in both the Broadway and wanted to write for that column rest of the cast was all people of film versions of Tennessee myself, especially after reading color. They called me the blond Williams’ Cat on a Hot Tin Roof Ruth Gordon’s account in Equi- Mexican. They liked my fire. and Sweet Bird of Youth. Other ty, which said it so beautifully: Lucky for me. That was about Broadway productions include “‘I wanted to be an actress in 1950 and I was able to join Eq- The Night of the Iguana, Invita- 1912; I want to be an actress to- uity and get my card. This was tion to a March, Arturo Ui, Do I day. That walk from the dark- way before I created the role of Hear a Waltz?, Inadmissible Evi- ness backstage through the Abigail for Arthur Miller in The dence, and All Over. On TV, she door or opening to the scenery Crucible, then Cat on a Hot Tin played Reverend Mother where I make an entrance into Roof and Sweet Bird of Youth Placido to Sally Fields’ Sister the bright lights with that big dim with Elia Kazan. Bertrille in The Flying Nun from mass out beyond, which bursts As soon as I got to New York, 1967 to 1970.

INITIAL THIS! 12 34 56 78 9101112 13 14 15 By Jim Bernhard at Tiffany’s? 70 Choir garment ACROSS 71 Beige and wheat 16 17 18 1 Imogene of comedy 72 Concordes for short 5 Boast 73 Pitcher 19 20 9 Lug 13 Nobel-wining Danish DOWN 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 physicist 1 Brit, hon, 14 Barrett of gossip 2 Alley of old comic strip 15 Break down a sentence 3 It was played by 59 Across 29 30 31 32 16 S. (actress) 4 Commedia dell’_____ 19 Corp. boss 5 Bikini top 33 34 35 36 37 38 20 Cape in Antarctica 6 CD attachment 21 Extreme degree 7 “Lend______” (1948 39 40 41 42 23 C. (actor) Broadway revue) 29 Syllable before “Na Na” 8 “Everything in 30 Letters before Victor the______(Giles Cooper- 43 44 45 46 31 ______-con Edward Albee play) 32 La la preceder 9 Seraglio 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 33 Govt, disaster agcy, 10 MGM’s “______Gratia 35 Last president commonly Artis” known by his initials 11 Entertainment org. for the 54 55 56 57 37 Twangy mil. 39 F. (actor) 12 Deighton or Cariou 58 59 60 43 Hindu group 15 Character 44 Chinese chairman 17 Frost 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 45 Mont Blanc and Jungfrau, 18 Stubby of “Guys and Dolls” for example 21 Notation on checks that 47 Initials before F at the end bounce 68 69 70 of the work week 22 “The Gift of____” (O. Henry 48 Extinct bird story) 71 72 73 51 Q-U link 24 Carol Burnett’s alma mater 53 MGM’s lion 25 Musical by Pearson, Maltby, 54 N. (playwright) and Shire 57 Annie in “Oklahoma!” 26 “There’s nothing to it!” 40 Take another walk down the 52 Preposition on some traffic 63 Stouthearted ones in “The 58 Garden supply company 27 Hiked aisle signs New Moon” 59 Latin bandleader Edmundo 28 Falstaff’s princely friend 41 Theda the silent vamp 55 Workers in the garden 64 Yoga accessory 61 W. (playwright) 34 Play by Yazmina Reza 42 Play by Terence Rattigan 56 Dostoyevsky’s ” ______from 65 Freeman and Pacino 68 “______Good Boy 36 Def______(hip-hop record 43 Mid. the Underground” 66 Vigoda, for one Deserves Favor” (Stoppard- label) 46 Jack of “Flower Drum Song* 60 Shrek, for example 67 “La______” (song by Previn play) 38 “Gotcha!” 49 Table scraps 61 “Quiet on the ______” Charles Trenet) 69 Dinner at eight or breakfast 50 Leigh Hunt’s Abou’s tribe 62 Roe (answer on page 9) SEPTEMBER 2012 Equity Members Join Labor Day Tweet-a-thon FINAL his Labor Day matinee of Cabaret! Proud new weekend, Equity union member! Tmembers participated @mgrplayhouse CURTAIN in the American Rights At @ActorsEquity Work Tweet-a-thon. The four- Michael J. Ward III day event brought together @MichaelJTWard: “All that union members who work in harms labor is treason to “Were I to die and go to heaven entertainment, sports and America.” —-Abraham Lincoln and find it populated by actors, news media—all of whom # unionmember I would not be unhappy.” tweeted about the advantages #sagaftramember @sagaftra for themselves and workers in @ActorsEquity — Playwright Ben Hecht each sector of the economy of Hannah Wichmann Reported between 1/5/12 and 4/11/12 being a #unionmember. More @Hlywood_H: Happy Labor than 11,000 tweets were sent Elizabeth Abbassi Patricia E. Kennedy Day! I love being in my union, Vivienne Cleary receives her by union members and their Ian Abercrombie Wendell Kindberg thanks for all you do for us. Equity card in the mail. supporters throughout the long Phillip Richard Allen Patrick A. Kmiec Proud member since 2008. weekend, reaching 11.7 million Sheila Allen Bryant Lanier @ActorsEquity #unionmember Russell Arms Russell Patrick Latham people on Twitter and creating Ethan Angelica Raymond J Lee Dimitra Arlys Carol-Jean Lewis up to 43.8 million impressions. @EthanAngelica: Feeling @raymondjlee: Proud to be a John C. Attle Michael Lipton Here are just a few: very proud to be a Robert Baines Gary Lonak member of @actorsequity #unionmember of David Beckett Ralph Lowe @sagaftra this glorious Labor @ActorsEquity. Thanks for the Marilyn Bernard Thelma Lee Day:) #ProudUnionMember health insurance, overtime, Zina Bethune Laurie Main Brian Myers Cooper days off and sprung dance Etel Billig Theodore Mann @BriMyCooper: ACTORS: floors! John Bisom Leo McNamara Golden Day, health & pension, Matt DeAngelis Hazel J. Medina Shirley Bodtke overtime, vacation, sick day @mattdeangelis22: In the Phillip Bruns Patricia Neway and so much more=words I face of anti union sentiment George Byrne John F. Nola LOVE! Thanks @ActorsEquity across the country I am a very Maureen Bailey Marilyn O’Connor Proud #unionmember proud theatre professional and David Banks Ivory Ocean @ActorsEquity #unionmember Peter Breck Lee Paves Jimmy Ludwig Chris Calloway Al Raymond @JimmyLudwigNYC: #LaborDay Leonardo Cimino David E. Rossow Labor Day! So proud to be a Bostin Christopher @bostin: Stafford Clark-Price Harriett K. Stallings-Salisbury #UnionMember today. I’m a working actor this holiday Remembering all the people Adrienne J. Cooper Deborah Solomon Aaron Holland loves his Equity weekend in tech for Of Mice & Sam Coppola Richard Stack card. who sacrificed so we can Men at @PersevTheatreAK. Lee Cotterell Sue Jane Stoker bargain collectively! Proud #unionmember Ted D’Arms Charles Schneider Sarah Daniels @ImSarah @ActorsEquity @ActorsEquity Happy Labor Heidi Helen Davis Felix Shuman Daniels: Giving love this Francis Jue @fjue: Proud that Day! Kibibi Dillon Buddy Vest weekend to my favorite union, Actors and Stage William Duell Michael Wager @ActorsEquity! Thank you for Managers have James Farentino Sullivan H. Walker the Equity cot. Oh yeah, and been an integral Ben Gazzara Stan Weinstein everything else. part of the Richard Gibson Robert Wexler Laura Zingle @stagezingle: American Labor Charles Hudson David Findley Wheeler Celebrating my first Labor Day Movement. Katherine Hull Kenneth White John Hallow Dick Anthony Williams as a proud @ActorsEquity #unionmember David Jones Marjorie Wood member! Huzzah! @ActorsEquity Walter Kattwinkel Nicol Williamson Sharon Lawrence @SAG-AFTRA @sharonlawrence: Proud & Schyler Conaway gr8ful for my @sagaftra & @schylerconaway: @AEA #union membership on Loving the AEA Meets AFM this #LaborDay. Health @ActorsEquity care,pension & wking tweet-a-thon quity’s Secretary-Treasurer Sandra Karas meets American conditions protected & happening this Federation of Musicians’ National Secretary-Treasurer Sam preserved! weekend! Proud Folio (r) on the set of her production of Cabaret at the Merry- E Chelsea Costa and THRILLED to Go-Round Playhouse in Auburn, N.Y. on September 4, 2012. @Chelsea_Costa: Proud be a #unionmember. Joining them is Ed Sayles, the theatre’s Producing Artistic Director. @ActorsEquity member today Happy Labor Day!! Joshua Quinn is a proud Equity member. Ms. Karas, still in costume and makeup, plays Fraulein Schneider in and every day. the production. #HappyLaborDay Linda Powell @misslindapowell: Union Answer to the puzzle on page 8.

Shout Out! Proud member

@ActorsEquity and @sagaftra. EWER SSTS TANS

Brynn Williams @Brynn ROBE MEAL EVERY

Williams: Proud #AEA SOMERSETMAUGHAM

member since 2005! ROS ORTHO Thanks. @ActorsEquity:). ADO CHARDNASH I R Happy Labor Day!

Tony Howell @tonyhowell: LEO RST MOA TGI

Grateful to give a labor day ALPS MAO CASTE MURRAYABRAHAM

EALJNASAL LBJ FEMA

H C E TRA NEO RCA SHA

Credit Where TH I AUBREYSM NTH

It’s Due ADARE CEO

Credit for the Gypsy Robe EPATHAMERKERSON

photos on page 6 of the BOHRRONAPARSE July/August 2012 issue of HAUL BRAG COCA Equity News should go to Walter McBride. 10 / EQUITY news SEPTEMBER 2012

East Haddam, CT “Carousel” Cast Holds Real Nice Cake-Bake The cast of the Goodspeed Opera House production of NATIONALNATIONALNEWSNEWS Carousel in East Haddam, Connecticut raised $700 for Broadway Cares/ Equity Fights AIDS with a bake sale at the matinee and evening perform - Ronn Carroll and James Snyder in ances on August 15, Carousel. 2012. The event was (looking a bit like Mr. Carroll) in celebration of the 100th made an appearance at the anniversary of the birth of chef intermission of both shows, Julia Child. Led by Equity San Francisco encouraging audiences to taste members Ronn Carroll (the an incredible assortment of Starkeeper) and James Snyder goods, indeed some from her “Mixed Relief” Reading Showcases Members, (Billy Bigelow), the cast invited cookbook. “We think Julia audiences to “Have a Real Nice Labor-Event Benefits Actors Fund would have been proud,” Mr. Cake-Bake” in honor of Ms. Carroll said. “Even at 100 she The Bay Area Advisory Child’s centennial while still provides fun and inspiration Committee (BAAC) developed promising to “bake our buns off” for us all.” and hosted a staged reading of for BC/EFA. Ms. Child herself Mixed Relief as part of Laborfest on July 23, 2012. Presented at The Lorraine Hansberry Theatre in San Francisco, proceeds from Whitefield, New Hampshire the event went to The Actors Fund. Weathervane Theatre Rededicated; The script, provided free by Celebrates 47th Anniversary Support Women Artists Now (SWAN) and directed by AEA The Weathervane Theatre is wrote. Equity also issued a Member Phoebe Moyer, celebrating its 47th anniversary proclamation congratulating the combined actual reporting with The cast of Mixed Relief: (front, l to r) Daniel Olson, Valerie in 2012 in a restored and Weathervane, the only Weak, Ray Renati, Brian Herndon, Cassidy Brown, Nancy rededicated facility. A fire on professional alternating a fictional accounting of women Madden, Aaron Wilton; (rear) Kelly Ground, Lauren Bloom, artists of the WPA and the Cathleen Riddley, Marie Shell, Terresa Byrne, Susan Soriano, October 10, 2011 destroyed the repertory theatre in the country impact of government funding Safiya Fredericks, Jessica Powell and Dawn L. Troupe. original structure, most recently producing seven rotating on arts and women. Characters, used for dressing rooms, productions in an eight week primarily women, included time of downsizing and limited materials for Equity and The storage and the Scene Shop. In season, “on the occasion of the Eleanor Roosevelt, Dorothy performance opportunities,” said Actors Fund were available in a letter, Equity President Nick rededication and in honor of its West, Anzia Teezierska and Kelly Ground, Councillor, the lobby during the reading and Wyman acknowledged the 47 years of theatrical and rededication as a time to cultural contributions.” Equity Wendy Wasserstein, among member of the Western at the mixer reception following celebrate. “The story of the fire also paid tribute “to the others. Regional Board and Chair of the the performance.” and how everyone pulled extraordinary members of the The cast, crew, designers Bay Area Advisory Committee. In its first ever endeavor and and house staff were all Equity “Members were able to perform together to rebuild and keep the community who made this with limited time, all elements members and the reading by for the public as AEA artists Weathervane Theatre alive and landmark rededication and donated (including the theatre), BAAC was the first of what is (often overlooked) and in turn flourishing is inspirational,” he season possible.” BAAC and the local members hoped to be many showcase raise funds for a good cause. were able to raise $720 for The opportunities for members in the Laborfest, as the only labor-type Bay Area. event held annually in the San Actors Fund. BAAC hopes to “The purpose of the event Francisco Bay Area, was a provide more such showcase was not only to participate in a means to be pro-active and opportunities for Members in the labor event but also to provide show Equity in a positive light to future and is developing a members with outlets to practice fellow labor unions and the Spring New Works Event for their craft and be seen in this general public. Informational Women’s History Month.

Chicago compassionate care to those in the theatre industry who are “Merchant” is Concerned experiencing the effects of catastrophic illness, including First Folio Theatre’s cast of setting run to support Season of HIV/AIDS. With a post-show The Merchant of Venice used Concern, the Chicago area appeal from Equity actors Cutting the ribbon on the site where the original building joins the final week of their record- charity which provides Michael Goldberg the new lobby and dressing room/greenroom/wardrobe wing. (Shylock) and Michael Joseph Mitchell (Antonio), the New York cast raised $1,209.62. First Free Health Fair, Flu Shots Planned Folio Theatre, A free Health Fair sponsored screenings and bodywork along located in Oak by Better Wellness and You with information on health Brook, Illinois, (BWAY) and The Actors Fund insurance and nutrition. Free has been will be held from 10 am to 3 pm mammograms for uninsured collecting on Thursday, October 11, 2012 women age 40 and older will be annually for in the Council Room on the 14th provided at a later date by the Season of Floor of the Equity Building, 165 Project Renewal Scan Van Concern since West 46th Street. There will be Program. To make an the theatre was free flu shots (Members must appointment for a mammogram, founded in 1997. register by 2:30 pm), plus call 800-564-6868. SEPTEMBER 2012 EQUITY news / 11

New York New York Dancers Respond to AIDS at Fire Island Festival Equity Member Wins Week of Free

1 Plantadit, Charlie Sutton, 3 Car Rental in Union Plus Contest Ryan Watkinson, (3) Charlie Williams and Equity member Sierra Rein Samantha Zack, of New York City is one of five highlighted the program lucky winners of a week of free performed on an outdoor car rental with Union Plus. She stage set against the sunlit was randomly selected from (Photos: Rosalee O’Connor) (Photos: waters of the Great South more than 12,600 participants in Bay. the Union Plus Car Rental The three sold-out contest. performances drew a Sierra says she has a few record-breaking crowd of trips in mind to use her prize. more than 1,000 and “We may take an Anniversary Dancers Responding to AIDS returned to the raised $374,000 for DRA, drive outside of the city and get Fire Island Pines for an 18th year on July 20-22, bringing the cumulative away from it all for a day. I’m 2012 with its signature event, Fire Island Dance event total over the last 18 also in a vocal group, Marquee Festival. years to $2.9 million. Hats Five, and we sometimes need Performing were 32 Sierra Rein. (and shirts) off to (4) the extraordinary Equity transportation to out-of-town members of 11 dance dancers who participated in what The New York gigs. This prize might help lower companies, including Times called “one of the twelve best events of the our travel costs,” she says. Union members are eligible Ballet Hispanico, year.” Union Plus gives Union for a Union Plus discount of up MOMIX and Parsons For more information about Dancers members several options to to 25% on car rentals. To take Dance, as well as save, such as on car rentals. advantage of the best rates Australian Ballet 4 “We sometimes forget that our under this program, reserve principal artist Yosvani Unions give us premiere access online at UnionPlus.org/ Ramos, tap dancer to savings we never thought CarRentals. AEA members in Jared M. Grimes and were possible and Union Plus is New York City and Hoboken, NJ (1) a host of Equity a good place to start,” Sierra can also visit this website to dancers appearing in says. For my fellow actors, this learn about savings with the a special performance can mean savings to go towards Connect by Hertz car sharing of Plain Gold Ring, their career materials, training, program For information on all created for the Festival health and general peace of Union Plus programs, visit by Tony Award-winning mind.” www.UnionPlus.org. 2 choreographer Rob Ashford. Ashford’s contemporary dance, featuring eight Broadway Equity members: Helen Anker, Marty Lawson, Mayumi Miguel, (2) Tony nominee Karine New York Back 2 Back, Baby!! By Kim Travis the coaches to the cheerleaders Whitefish, Montana Manager, and the fans, this group Equity Softball Team represents AEA with dignity, Montana’s Alpine Theatre Raises Funds For BC/EFA honor and true sportsmanship. Thursday, August 23, 2012 The championship game was The Alpine turned out to be a beautiful day an absolute thriller. Tied 5/5 Theatre Project’s to win a championship. That’s going into the bottom of the 8th, production of Little right. Equity, your Broadway and knowing Jujamcyn had the Shop of Horrors in Show League team, has won top of their line-up coming up, Whitefish, Montana the League championship— we knew we had to score some raised $2,200 for again. runs. We strung four hits Broadway Undefeated Cares/Equity through the Fights AIDS with a playoffs, and one-night-only needing only cabaret one win for a performance second spearheaded by consecutive Equity member title, Equity’s Nicholas Ward, the motto became “voice” of the plant, The cast of The Merchant of Venice. “One and Audrey II. “To be Done!” These honest,” said Nicholas, “we were grand total. “We were so proud “$2,200 may not be a lot champions Equity’s championship softball team. drinking at one of the local bars to do something that was bigger compared to shows in bigger epitomize the than ourselves,” said Nicholas. towns,” said Mr. Ward, “but for a on a Monday night and thought word Team. together to go up 8 to 5. Then, in Artistic Director and Equity small theatre in Montana it’s it would be great to put together Dog fight or walk in the park, the top of the 9th, with stellar member Betsi Morrison agreed, pretty amazing. We were all very a fundraiser for BC/EFA rather they stick together. They pick defense and perfect pitching by “When my husband (and Little proud of ourselves and happy to than just hangin’ around. each other up, cheer for, worry Greg Salata, we shut them Shop director) Luke Walrath and help such a fantastic Everyone got really excited over and genuinely care about down. When we got the last out, I moved to Montana from New organization.” BC/EFA funds two about it.” With the help of a one another. From the players to pure joy and mayhem ensued. York ten years ago, BC/EFA was AIDS service organizations in strong social marketing push, Everyone such a big part of our lives. It Montana: Lewis and Clark Alpine’s 500-seat theatre was watching was very special to be a part of Country AIDS Project in Helena sold out! Cast members agreed, this it all again here!” Local and Open Aid Alliance in autographed and sold show was one of audiences gave rave reviews. Missoula. posters, adding to the evening’s the most exciting finals in recent BSL San Francisco history. And we are thrilled Membership Meeting Set for October 22 to bring another The San Francisco Bay Area Theatre. The doors will open at www.actorsequity.org, for champion ship Fall Membership Meeting will be 6 pm for a reception and mixer, information on the agenda and home to held on Monday, October 22, with the meeting to begin at guests. Actors’ Equity. 2012 at Berkeley Repertory 6:30. Visit the Equity website, Greg Salata on the mound. 12 / EQUITY news SEPTEMBER 2012 (Photos: James Zielinski and Walter McBride) New York Audra McDonald and 3 Norm Lewis (The “Broadway Barks 14” Finds Forever Homes For Furry Friends Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess); Megan Hilty and Cuddly cats,” Ms. Lansbury told 1 Angelica Huston (TV’s canines and the crowd. “Together, Smash); Jeremy Jordan furry felines Bernadette and Mary (Newsies); Adam filled Shubert and all of you have Chanler-Berat, Celia Alley on July made an enormous Keenan-Bolger and Matt 14, 2012 with difference in the lives of Saldivar (Peter and the the return of so many once Starcatcher); Michael Broadway homeless New York McGrath and Judy Kaye Barks, the City animals. And (Nice Work If You Can annual pet because of that there Get It) and dozens of adoption are also many lucky others. shows and watch,” said Kazee. event that people now sharing (3) Steve Kazee, Tony “I’m so happy I get to finally be a benefits New their homes and hearts recipient as leading actor in a part of this wonderful afternoon York City’s with these sweet and help out.” your generosity, over the last 14 musical for Once, said it had animal shelters while spreading creatures.” “I’m so happy years forever homes have been the message of the importance Surrounded by that the Broadway found for hundreds and of spaying and neutering. Barks tents and tables community hundreds of wonderful dogs and founders (1) Bernadette from 27 New York embraces Peters and Mary Tyler 2 area shelters, more Broadway Barks Moore welcomed dozens than 40 actors each year,” said of fellow Broadway stars currently appearing Bernadette Peters and thousands of animal on Broadway at the end of the lovers to the 14th edition of served as special event. It is a sweet the event, which is pet escorts for the day for us all, but produced by Broadway afternoon as they especially for the (4) Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. introduced 4 animals that find (2) Broadway legend adoptable and wonderful homes, Angela Lansbury helped adorable dogs and been a lifelong dream of his to many of them with folks working kick-off the festivities by cats. Among those lending a help out at Broadway Barks. right here on Broadway!” praising the impact hand were Bebe Neuwirth; “When I was doing For a full story, more pictures Broadway Barks has had Andrew Rannells and Rory Spamalot right there at the and a list of participating shelters over the years. “Thanks to O’Malley (The Book of Mormon); Shubert, I’d come out between go to broadwaycares.org

Letters to The Editor Letters received from paid up members on subjects of concern to Equity members will be considered and published as soon as possible. The Editor reserves the right to limit letters to 175 words and to select one 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 be withheld on letters antagonistic or accusatory, either implied or expressed, against other members. Opinions expressed in Letters to the Editor are not necessarily those of Actors’ Equity Association.

IN PRAISE OF THE She frequented the Equity ACTORS FUND office in midtown, always Dear Editor: enjoying meeting and greeting I’d like to take a moment to friends there. She brought joy recognize an employee of The to many children in the 1950s Actors Fund, Amy Wilder, and and 60s producing the Bozo a member of Equity’s the Clown Show (also creating Washington, DC/Baltimore the character of Princess Liaison Committee, Barbara Ticklefeather), Wonderama Callander, for their amazing and the Johnny Jelly Bean efforts at obtaining financial Show. Ms. Faye entertained assistance after my the troops in WWII and as a devastating injury. ventriloquist, she appeared on Over the years, I had heard the Paul Winchell Variety Show of the work of The Actors Fund with her beloved “Sunflower,” and never imagined that I was cast as Mazeppa in the would become a recipient of its $42.50 U HARDCOVER U 978-1-55783-837-7 first National Tour of Gypsy generosity. Rest assured that and appeared on Broadway in  

  
 
  

 
   your contributions to The Hellzapoppin’. 


  Actors Fund go to an A beautiful red-head, she  
 extremely worthy cause— was a spiritualist, philosopher  




  namely, helping fellow actors and a very gentle and loving  
   around the country who find  
    

 soul. Her joy when she would 
themselves in distress. play piano and sing was great  
 With respect and fun and inspiring to everyone appreciation, who was in her presence. She Monica Lijewski 



 had a wonderful outlook on  

 
   IN MEMORIAM life—believing in peace, Dear Editor: prosperity, perfect health and Doris Faye, a talented positive thinking. The heavens applausebooks.com 1-800-637-2852 ventriloquist, entertainer, became a little brighter Preorder from or by calling and get comedienne, musician, TV because another star is among 25% OFF plus FREE SHIPPING in the U.S.! Enter promo code APPL1 at checkout. producer, accomplished singer them. Only least expensive shipping method applies and Aunt extraordinaire, Susan Edwards Martin passed away on July 3, 2012. Los Angeles, CA