SUMMER 2018 | VOLUME 103 | ISSUE 3

ACTORS’ EQUITY ASSOCIATION Equity NEWS

SUPREME ATTACKS!

WORKERS FACE NEW THREATS: HERE'S HOW WE CAN FIGHT BACK The play is done; the curtain drops IN MEMORIAM Slow falling to the prompter’s bell A moment yet the actor stops Reported between May 1, 2018 and July 31, 2018 And looks around, to say farewell. *Equity Councillor — William Makepeace Thackeray's Miscellanies, vol. ii

BETTY LINTON AIDMAN TERRY HECK JACK NAUGHTON SUSAN ANSPACH BETTE HENRITZE RITA O’CONNOR RUTH BAKER CARL HUNT TIM O’CONNOR BERNIE BARR TAB HUNTER BOB O’DONNELL GARY BEACH WYNN IRWIN SOON-TECK OH JOHN BENNES MILTON JAMES VALERIE D. PAYTON KATE BRITTON NORMA JUSTIN BARRY PHILIPS KENDALL CARLY BROWNE SANDY KANAN V PHIPPS-WILSON BETTY BUNCH ART KASSUL CRAIG T. RAISNER FRED BURRELL KATHERINE KELLGREN LOUISE REYNOLDS ANTHONY CALDER MARGOT R. KIDDER RACHEL ROCKWELL DIANE L CALDWELL JAY KIRK VON SCHAUER MARION CANTONE DEEN KOGAN ROBERT SCHLEE BETTE CLOUD LOUISE LATHAM ERNIE SCOTT LARRY COEN GREGG LAUTERBACH SYLVIA SHORT STANTON COFFIN PAT LI WILLIAM SISSON CHARLES (CHALIE) CORRADO LINDA LIPSON DENNY SPENCE LORRAINE DALE PHILLIP B. LOCKER MIMI STEVENS JOHN DE SANTIS JEFF LOEFFELHOLZ MICKI VARRO JAMES MICHAEL DRUMM DELIGHT LORENZ RUTH VOOL MICHAEL EILER ROBERT F. MANDAN RHONDA WALLACE JOE ENDES NANCY MARLOW JOMARIE WARD EUGENE FRANCIS * HAROLD E. MASON DARRYL WARREN FLORENCE GALPERIN RICHARD MERRIFIELD PAUL WILDMAN TOM GRIFFIN DOUGFRED MILLER DOROTHY WILLIS FRED HARTMAN R. W. MILLER RONALD THOMAS WILSON JOHN HARVEY LILIANE MONTEVECCHI TROND WOXEN RANDELL HAYNES PATRICIA MORISON BEN ZELLER

Equitynews Actors' Equity Advisory Committee Director of Communications Christine Toy Johnson (Chair) Brandon Lorenz Al Bundonis Diane Dorsey Editor Nicole Flender Doug Strassler Bruce Alan Johnson Ruth E. Kramer Contributor Heather Lee Joyce Vinzani Kevin McMahon Liz Pazik Got a question or Barbara N. Roberts comment? Email us at Melissa Robinette [email protected] Buzz Roddy Kate Shindle Joann Yeoman

EQUITY NEWS (ISSN: 00924520) is published quarterly by Actors’ Equity Association, 165 West 46th St., New York, NY 10036. Telephone: (212) 869-8530. Periodicals postage paid at New York, N.Y. and additional mailing offices. Copyright 2018, Actors’ Equity Association. Postmaster: Send address changes to Equity News, 165 West 46th St., New York, NY 10036. Equitynews

CONTENTS SUMMER 2018 | VOLUME 103 | ISSUE 3

8 13 SOLIDARITY D.C. ARTS GAINS Workers are facing new attacks. The District of Columbia has Here's how solidarity can help us approved a sales tax that will fight back. fund the local arts community.

16 17 THEATRE SPOTLIGHT ACROSS THE NATION Learn what makes Ithaca's Check out the many theatre Hangar Theatre such a options in the Buffalo/ valuable theatrical hub. Rochester area.

18 21 PRIDE HIGMEC Equity members marched to Two members share stories celebrate pride in a series of about how they got their parades this summer. Equity cards.

23 26 NEAT AGREEMENT CRUISE NEWS Boston area members played a Equity scored a major win in pivotal role in the recent NEAT creating work for performers on negotiations the Norwegian Bliss. FRONT of HOUSE FROM THE PRESIDENT THE FIGHT AHEAD

The past several weeks this movement. When we support other unions in their actions, have presented some major they will in turn support ours. We are a broad coalition of challenges for those of us many different varieties of workers, whether they be artists, in the labor movement, and tradespeople, administrative staff, teachers, law enforcement accordingly, Equity has been busy and firefighters, or many others. What affects one of us affects participating in the new concentrated push toward preserving all of us. Pay attention to what’s happening when you see the workers’ rights to organize and bargain for fair contracts. inflatable rat or workers flyering outside a building; today it’s On June 27, the Supreme Court finally issued its ruling them, but tomorrow it may be us. on Janus v. AFSCME, a case that had been closely watched In early July, I was invited to speak at the convention of by unions across the country. In short: it didn’t go our way. the International Association of Masters, Mates and Pilots; they Overturning a 40-year precedent, the court ruled that non- represent many different types of workers on everything from members working under union contracts cannot be compelled tankers to passenger ferries. In researching the work they do, I to pay fees to those unions. was reminded of how much we have in common. Even though As you may know, workers cannot be forced to join a union we operate in completely different industries, we share things when they are hired on union contracts. But for many years, the like continuous and often unpredictable travel (sometimes far unions who bargained those contracts were able to collect fair from home), and a perception that our work and careers are a share fees (sometimes also referred to as “agency fees”). These lot more romantic than the reality may be. It’s this kind of union- fees represented only the cost of negotiating and administering to-union relationship that we are working very hard to build. the contracts, while exempting the cost of the union’s other Ten days later, I was invited by The Chicago Tribune’s Chris activities, like political advocacy. The argument has been that Jones to be a guest speaker at the National Critics’ Institute non-union workers shouldn’t be forced to pay working dues at the Eugene O’Neill Theatre Center, an intensive retreat for for activism and other activities that they either feel they don’t professional theatre writers from all across the country. We had need, or outright object to. a wide-ranging discussion, a focus of which was driving home What the Janus ruling has now established is that although the “Ask If It’s Equity” message – especially to audiences who the affected unions have a legal obligation to allow anyone to attend touring shows. (Here I should also note that Jones himself work under their contracts, and to administer and advocate in has been exemplary in regularly pointing out the differences to the same way for those individuals, those workers no longer his readers.) have to contribute a percentage of working dues in return. To me, these three fronts – activism, building union This has several outcomes for labor. First, unions that are solidarity and underscoring the importance of unions to the obligated to perform services under federal law will be starved casual theatregoer – are tremendously valuable in ensuring that of revenue. Second, the actual members of those unions are our members continue to succeed. A union is only as strong essentially now going to have to underwrite the costs for those as the collective force of its members. I hope you will join us in non-members working under contract. This is why right-to-work raising our voices. legislation is so dangerous: it’s about making this the law of the land for all unions. And rest assured that although this ruling specifically affects public-sector unions, there is no doubt that these activists are teeing up to gut private-sector unions – like Actors’ Equity – as well. If we want to have a union 10 or 20 years from now, we have to raise our voices now. Do you want to know what you can do? Great. First: take to the streets. On the day after the ruling, Kate Shindle Equity joined with other union members in rallies across the country. I was downtown in the financial district with a terrific turnout of Equity members. We have to be visible as part of

4 | Equity News @actorsequity FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR STRONGER TOGETHER

A week doesn’t go by as your executive director when I they met our demands and we am not reminded just how important unions are in our current achieved a breakthrough. That is moment in history. the power of solidarity. One recent Tuesday served as an especially vivid I will close by returning to reminder. My afternoon started with the memorial service Jeff, a member I have spent for Jeff Loeffelholz, a member of the cast of Chicago who a lot of time thinking about. My goal is to work toward a tragically committed suicide. time when Jeff’s legacy can lead to a future where employers You may have read media reports about the situation. get the training they need to ensure a workplace free from Equity has hired outside counsel to investigate. Every bullying and harassment. Our ability to achieve that depends morning I think of Jeff. I say his name and spend a few not just on our staff, but on solidarity. And on you. minutes thinking about him before I start my day. In the year since #MeToo began, I have heard from our During the service, members of the Broadway community business representatives and from our members that they sang “You Will Be Found” from Dear Evan Hansen. It was a are afraid to speak out and say something if they are the touching show of community support. victim of harassment or bullying. Sometimes we hear from I ended my day that Tuesday evening watching the members who want to report an incident, but then ask us not results from Missouri, where our brothers and sisters in the take action because they are afraid of retaliation or that they labor movement had forced a vote to repeal Missouri’s will not be able to find another job in the industry. Right-to-Work for Less law. Union members had worked for I understand that impulse. But I want you to know that months, gathering more than 300,000 signatures to call the we are stronger together. That you are not alone. And that referendum. the mental and physical safety of all our members is a top Ultimately, the law went down to defeat by a 2:1 margin. priority at Equity. That didn’t happen by itself – thousands of Union members I know that it takes courage to report a problem in the and supporters knocked on doors and made phone calls workplace. We have tools we can use to address workplace about what was at stake. Those volunteers included dozens problems, from bullying to harassment or unsafe working of Equity members. conditions that don’t put a spotlight on you as individual These kinds of attacks aren’t just about unions. We know members. that states with these laws have lower wages and weaker I want to state emphatically the importance of coming education systems. I’m glad to see this law was struck down to Actors’ Equity. If you feel that you have been bullied by the people of Missouri and grateful for all the members of or harassed, or know someone who is, call your business the Equity family who volunteered to make it happen. representative. Your conversation will remain private and These are challenging and difficult times for the confidential. We can help you sort through your options and labor movement. But Missouri reminded me that when give you access to resources to help. If you do that, and if we work together, good things can happen – even when you allow us to take action, we will all be stronger for it. as a movement we have to fight in red states and against billionaires and special interests like the Koch Brothers. There are lessons for Equity in that success. Consider our recent New England Area Theatre (NEAT) contract. Our negotiating strategies often vary to fit the needs of an area. In this case, we called on members who worked the contract to observe the process. And they were willing to stand up and be seen. When our producers had to look across the table and Mary McColl into the eyes of people they had hired over and over again and hear from our chief negotiator how hard it was under the current contract for those members to make ends meet,

members.actorsequity.org Summer 2018 | 5 FRONT of HOUSE

DIVERSITY MATTERS HELP US HELP YOU

The past few months have Member Portal). This panel comprised a mosaic of members seen some exciting events on with disabilities and represented different races, gender and our team’s end that reinforce gender identities, ages and national origin. It gave us insight our mission to promote equal into a wide array of topics that will benefit members, including opportunity, diversity, gender tactics on how stage managers and actors can network more parity and inclusion to benefit our effectively, recommendations on how to improve accessible membership. In June, more than accommodations for members with disabilities, how to be one hundred Equity members, a better ally and ways to ensure that your individuality, skills staff, EMCs and guests marched the streets of New York City and talent always remain at the front line of available work to celebrate Pride and honor the LGBTQIA+ community. Next opportunities. We eagerly anticipate what we will learn when year will mark the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising our members discuss their shared experiences at the next town and WorldPride NYC, so we hope that you will join us for this hall, which will take place in Boston this fall. momentous occasion to celebrate equality. All members can use our email address, This month we also had the pleasure of handing out the [email protected], to inquire about issues surrounding Extraordinary Excellence in Diversity on Broadway Award to diversity & inclusion. This email was created for members to the cast of Once on This Island. This accolade acknowledges schedule meetings to discuss your community’s concerns the efforts taken by Broadway productions to truly reflect the or surrounding a diversity topic; to share news articles or tapestry of the American cultural landscape and reinforce your own blogs related to diversity and inclusion within the the ways that theatre can spearhead inclusion. It is our hope theatre industry; to get involved with the Equal Employment that the legacy of the Diversity Award will create even greater Opportunity (EEO) Committee or volunteer to help with an EEO awareness for our #ChangeTheStage initiative by highlighting event; or to request accessibility accommodations in relation the contributions that are made at such a visible level to promote to any Equity events (Remember, if you have a discrimination- diversity, inclusion and equal opportunity in our industry. related concern regarding a current or past employer contract, We are also excited to announce that Equity is updating please contact your Equity business rep. To find your business its self-identification features in the Member Portal. This marks rep, ask your show’s Equity Deputy or visit the member the first time that Actors’ Equity has expanded its features in the portal “Find Your Business Rep” in the “Resources” tab at: Portal to account for specific classifications including gender/ actorsequity.org/business-reps.) gender identity, race/ethnicity, sexual orientation and veteran And don’t forget that you can gain further insight into our status. It is important to note that this information remains efforts and learn about upcoming events on the Diversity & confidential and is for Equity internal purposes only. Inclusion page on Equity’s new website. These growing efforts What is the purpose of this, you might ask? We understand are a testament to our constant striving to improve the ways in that disclosure is a personal decision, but this information will which we can best serve your needs. Remember: a problem is actually help humanize our membership and provide a clearer just an opportunity for a new solution to be created. picture about your individual needs. It is a call to action that can help eradicate stark and pervasive barriers that occur in our industry. When we have comprehensive data for our membership, we can foster change by advocating for more authentic representation, ensuring that there are accessibility requirements for members with disabilities in all aspects from auditions to employment, and utilizing inclusive methods to develop resources to aid in eradicating those barriers. In updating this feature, Equity will obtain greater insight to make sure that hiring practices mirror best practices – and if not, we will continue to make it a priority to educate our employers to make necessary improvements. Nicole Smart In tandem with this self-identification feature, in our most recent New York City town hall we also discussed actionable steps to help foster expanding the pathways to inclusive hiring in our industry (video of which can be found in the

6 | Equity News @actorsequity INVISIBLE WOMEN PANEL CHARTS A NEW PATH FOR THOSE CAUGHT IN THE GAP BY DOUG STRASSLER

A panel sponsored by Equal Employment Opportunity old that I didn’t get to do as the wife of the guy who has the Committee member Claire Karpen and Equity member Rachel problem?’ Spencer Hewitt sought to dig deeper into the obstacles facing “What I find helpful is that there is a community of us,” stage managers and performers over the course of their careers. Matthis said. “I see less competition and more support, more Entitled “Invisible Women: Navigating Ageism in the Fight collaboration. I find that really valuable.” for Gender Equity,” this event referred to the ”gap years” faced Other topics of discussion that arose included the by the members of the panel. This occurs when performers age importance of mentorship. All those in attendance agreed out of the ingénue role but often see “grande dame” roles go that there is value in theaters taking chances on mid-career exclusively to celebrities or established performers. artists. Additionally, younger artists should seek mentorship in Hewitt moderated the panel, which included Equity actors collaborators of all ages – people at both ends of the spectrum Adriana Gaviria, April Matthis and Deirdre O’Connell, Equity of age and experience can empower the other. No older artist Councillor and Stage Manager Amanda Spooner and Joan should be seen as “other” or be removed from consideration. Jeffri, director and founder of the Research Center for Arts and In addition to a list of resources for women in the industry Culture at The Actors Fund. They all discussed experiencing a (see below), another key takeaway from the event was the work drop-off that extends beyond the assumed amount of time establishment of a mission statement that encapsulates the EEO’s between the ages of 35 and 55; in fact, they all acknowledged understanding of what the current situation is as well as how it is that the downward trend continues beyond that age as well, to be disrupted: “If we are contributors to the art of the human and not because of any waning interest or ability. Many female experience,” Hewitt said, “our art must include and support the artists long to create satisfying work during their later years, but evolution of the human experience intergenerationally, instead encounter a lack of equitable work opportunity for women in of falsely freezing age and misrepresenting it, altering and mid to late stages of their career. excluding the truth about how we evolve as artists, leaders, and Hewitt emphasized the importance of coming together and social participants.” sharing stories in order to establish a better work-life balance and enjoy a career that offers financial stability, flexibility and support. “When we stay individualized and our conversations stay secret, it’s much easier for them to curate what our RESOURCES expectations are,” she said. She cited the Kilroys, a group of playwrights who have collected works created by female and The following organizations work to create transgender writers in order to stymie the underrepresentation opportunities for women and awareness about the of female and trans playwrights in the American theatre, offering need to continue the conversation about issues proof that “the pathways that block our progress are optional; they are not mandatory.” including the gap years: Everyone acknowledged that these obstacles affect female stage managers just as much as they do performers. If a stage manager does not have an established Broadway Women in the Arts & Media Coalition contract on her resume by a certain age, it hinders their career; Parent Artist Advocacy League for the Performing Arts many will not offer them a Production Assistant contract, which Statera Foundation is often the only way to break in. Panel members and attendees Women’s Project concurred that it is crucial to increase pathways of access for mid- to late-career Stage Managers to sustain an upward career New Georges trajectory that includes access to high-paying contracts. League of Professional Theatre Women The panel agreed that the gender pay gap needs to be Trans Women of Color Collective (TWCC) addressed for actors and stage managers, particularly in terms Women Arts of stage manager career sustainability and growth. They also The Lilly Awards Foundation discussed how motherhood discrimination affects all women. A key goal is to eliminate a “you have to choose” ideology Philadelphia Women's Theatre Festival that forces motherhood to be a separate element from art or Berkshire Leadership Summit life and to establish a work culture that appreciates both child- artEquity rearing and caregiving as a part of expression. The Athena Cats Matthis spoke to the intersectionality of age, gender and race as well. “My resistance to ’I’m nowhere near fifty! When Women's Voices Theatre Festival am I going to play the age I am?’ has shifted,” she said, to “’Is Age and Gender Equity in the Arts (AGE) that the more interesting role? What do I get to do as a 50-year-

members.actorsequity.org Summer 2018 | 7 WHY STAKES FOR WORKING PEOPLE HAVE NEVER BEEN HIGHER: SOLIDARITY IS THE KEY TO KEEPING OUR UNION #EQUITYSTRONG BY DOUG STRASSLER

During the 1919 Actors’ Equity strike, members like the ones seen above protested against the unfair conditions enacted by the Producing Managers' Association, eventually winning all demands.

This past May, President Donald Trump escalated the long- No matter how you look at it, the environment has radically running war against unions with an executive order making shifted since 2016, creating challenges unions haven’t seen in it easier to fire federal workers represented by a union. That decades. The right to form unions is the very bedrock of any executive order came just a few months after the Department democratic society, and can be a powerful tool for workers of Education attempted to illegally curb workers’ protections. in any industry to achieve economic and social justice. The Then came Janus. The Supreme Court ruling in the Janus grounding principle is power in numbers: a collective body can v. AFSCME case (see “What Does the Janus Ruling Mean?” achieve more gains, and fight obstacles with greater resistance, p. 12) followed just a few weeks after the executive order. This than any individual can. was a major decision that threatens to severely undercut the Labor unions, of course, work to improve wages, benefits, bargaining strength of public sector labor unions. hours and other working conditions that affect workers’ ability Meanwhile, as attacks on organized labor escalate, arts to perform their jobs. They provide workers with a voice on the funding is also under threat. For the second year in a row, job, and protect them when they feel that their rights have been the Trump Administration has proposed entirely eliminating violated. funding for the National Endowment for the Arts. The impact of a union also extends beyond the workplace.

8 | Equity News @actorsequity Workers who are economically secure and protected from emotional and physical harm on the job contribute more within their community and to society as a whole, particularly in an industry where so many define themselves by the work that they pursue. While Actors’ Equity has a long history of bargaining for and achieving major wins on behalf of its membership, who have gone on to achieve fulfilling careers and lives, the shifting political landscape serves as a stark reminder that such fights are never easy, and often require members to stand together with greater resolve than ever. According to Susan J. Schurman, Distinguished Professor of Labor Studies and Employment Relations at Rutgers University, all unions share a common trait that extends beyond a specific trade or skill set. “Workers’ movements are the oldest civil rights movements – they struggle for both political and economic rights but also for human rights,” she said. In an era of increased awareness and engagement, Equity’s mission of advocacy falls right in line with much of the activism happening all over the country as human rights have been taken under siege. Gypsy And because Equity members are Equity members in the Muny production of who phonebanked performers or those who manage live against Proposition A proved that they had the unions' back. public performances, they are more equipped at harnessing both their passion and their position to espouse “Folks often ask me, 'But what is greatest kryptonite – the easiest thing for their cause. “They’re uniquely positioned solidarity?’ and I think the simple answer is businesses to exploit at the bargaining to have a platform that others might standing together for core human rights,” table. “Disagreement is fine, it’s how not, to leverage that and speak truth to said Melissa Robinette, 1st Vice President we learn and grow, but at some point power,” Paul E. Almeida, President of the of Equity. “Humans – stage managers when you have an adversary, employers Department for Professional Employees, and actors, of any color, gender/gender recognize this as a weakness and they said. “They can be a voice for positive, identity, race, religion, etc. – deserve know it in a heartbeat,” she said. “For progressive change, because we all a good wage, fair treatment and safe centuries, employers have become benefit from that. Not everyone is working conditions. We can and should expert at how to exploit any kind of comfortable in those roles, but it is disagree on other issues but the string division within a workforce, therefore important to speak out for the greater that binds us is human rights.” weakening their ability to be unified, and good of all members.” Schurman points out that historically, weakening their bargaining power. Once What both Almeida and Schurman a lack of solidarity has been any union’s that happens, the union is powerless.” circled back to is that the key to a union’s success is internal solidarity. “It is the only source of power and influence that THE SHIFTING POLITICAL LANDSCAPE IS workers have,” Schurman maintains. Unions are built through the active A STARK REMINDER THAT FIGHTS FOR participation of their members, who participate in advocacy at grassroots WORKERS' RIGHTS ARE NEVER EASY. NOW, and national levels. “There is a strong need to collectively organize and have THEY OFTEN REQUIRE MEMBERS TO STAND your voice heard,” Almeida advised. “Unions are the only counterbalance to TOGETHER — WITH MORE RESOLVE THAN strong powers like corporate interests and well-to-do billionaires. They feel EVER. threatened by unions having a voice in workplace and society. Unions are the only counterbalance.”

members.actorsequity.org Summer 2018 | 9 That is one reason why Equity has tiny bits and pieces. If one county in West unity members are likely to continue begun building out a stronger, modern Virginia had done this, they’d have been displaying. and strategic organizing program, part of crushed. I think of the expression 'go big When Equity members come the commitment made to members in the or go home.’” together and speak with one voice, good first year of the Equity 2020 campaign. Schurman praises the active things can happen. Since stepping into (See “Making #EquityStrong,“ Summer membership of Equity, which is more her official role as Organizer, Stefanie 2017). vocal and visible than in many other Frey has traveled the country galvanizing “Look at the teachers in the West unions. “Equity has retained volunteer members across a range of advocacy Virginia strike,“ Schurman said (see activism for a large group of people efforts. She is not only impressed by the sidebar). “When you have mass solidarity, that other unions are trying to recover.” passion she has seen on display, but is you are going to win – but you can’t have This bodes well for the kind of public also happy to note that the number of

MEETING UNION GOALS The following examples of protests are sterling examples of how solidarity helped union members meet their goals:

19 0 9 1919 1933 NEW YORK ACTORS' EQUITY STRIKE LOS ANGELES GARMENT SHIRTWAIST STRIKE WORKERS STRIKE

Clara Lemlich led a general strike After being forced to give hundreds Mexican workers in the dress on behalf of garment workers, many of of hours of unpaid rehearsal time, spend industry went on strike when their whom were Jewish women, in protest money on their own costumes and employers refused to comply with their of abusive sweatshop conditions: they travel and being subject to firing at the demands of union recognition, a 35- were required to supply their own sewing whim of management, Equity members hour work week, minimum wage, the materials and were often locked in so struck against the Producing Managers’ elimination of having to work at home as to prevent them from taking breaks. Association in August, shortly after and safer working conditions. During the 15,000 shirtwaist workers walked out of signing with the American Federation 26-day strike, the International Ladies the factories – a number that grew from of Labor. After a month, during which Garment Workers Union gave strikers November 1909 through February 1910, musicians and stagehands stood in benefit cards. The strike ended when when the workers received better pay, solidarity with the actors, the managers the workers received minimum wage shorter hours and equal treatment of gave in to all of Equity’s demands. To and a 35-hour work week. This strike, led union and non-union workers. succeed, they were required to organize, largely by Mexican women, is considered even while members were working on to be one of the most significant strikes the road. following the passing of the New Deal.

Left, members of Actors’ Equity during the 1919 strike. Right, members in the San Francisco area rallied against the Janus ruling this summer, proving that even a century later, the union remains #EquityStrong. those involved continues to climb. D.C. Arts Funding, NEAT negotiations of 65+ people who were ready, willing “Solidarity among Equity members and our fight against ’right-to-work’ in and able to literally back us up and stand has increased immensely over the past Missouri. The momentum is building and with us at the table to show employers three years, and something that excited we are just warming up!” that we are one solid unit. To me, that’s me about Equity 2020 is getting a chance The New England Area Theatre solidarity.” to see the solidarity and engagement (NEAT) agreement provides a clear And sometimes solidarity means continue to increase,“ she said. “We example of strength in numbers when supporting another union. Almeida cites saw the sparks of solidarity in the Off- facing a common goal. “We had a team the 40-day strike at Boeing International Broadway negotiation of 2016, we saw of about ten people, mostly working in 2000 that he helped lead as President it in the roll-out of Equity 2020 in 2017, stage managers and actors local to the of the International Federation of and several times in 2018 with Rocktopia, area,” Frey said. “And then we had a list Professional and Technical Engineers

1960 1970 2017 ACTORS' EQUITY STRIKE UNITED STATES WEST VIRGINIA TEACHERS & POSTAL STRIKE SERVICE PERSONNEL STRIKE

Actors’ Equity went on strike again, Back then, postal workers were part In a true demonstration of solidarity, this time in order to obtain a pension for of eight separate craft unions, all of whom rank-and-file teachers and public school their members. When the company of were denied the freedom to bargain employees from all 55 counties in West The Tenth Man walked out of the Booth collectively. A Congressional decision to Virginia shut down schools to protest low Theatre, the League of New York Theatres raise the wages of postal workers by only salaries and exorbitant health care costs. (what we now refer to as the Broadway 4% (less than the inflation rate) while at The strike achieved a five percent pay League) retaliated by closing the rest the same time raising their own pay by raise but did not provide guarantees to of the Broadway houses in what was 41%, triggered a strike. On March 17, control rising health care costs. Still, it has known as the Broadway Blackout. After 1970, New York City letter carriers went inspired teachers in Colorado, Oklahoma thirteen days, a skittish Mayor Robert B. on strike, leading to a wildcat strike across and Arizona to take similar action. Wagner brokered a compromise. Of the the country that saw over 200,000 postal Teachers in such states as Kentucky and 22 shows that had closed, three would workers join. President Richard Nixon North Carolina have also coordinated never reopen. But a pension fund had declared a national state of emergency protests and walkouts on smaller scales. been created. and ordered 24,000 military personnel to deliver mail instead, but they were unable to. After eight days, the strike ended, postal workers won full collective bargaining rights, and five federal postal unions merged to form the American Postal Workers Union, the largest postal workers union in the world.

members.actorsequity.org Summer 2018 | 11 (IFPTE) as an example of those attached question why, but gave their support, and Work’ Referendum, would have also to the labor movement coming to the aid the strike was a total success, yielding further weakened union strength within of an ally. everything they wanted at the bargaining the state. To vote no would repeal the “This action was one of the largest table.“ contested legislation, Senate Bill 19, strikes by professional workers in the Frey referred to another example which would have enacted a ’right-to- nation’s history,“ he said. “Unions that of union solidarity, which appeared work’ law mandating that no one can be they knew and unions that they didn’t in the way members rallied against required to pay dues to a labor union, know donated money and came to their Proposition A in Missouri this summer. nor be forced to join a labor union as a picket lines to support them. They didn’t A vote in favor of Prop A, the ’Right-to- condition of employment. Continued on page 27

WHAT DOES THE JANUS RULING MEAN?

BACKGROUND: The 1977 ruling in of State, County, and Municipal ”overthrows a decision entrenched Abood v. Detroit Board of Education Employees, Council 3, plays right in this nation’s law — and in its stated that while public sector into the hand of corporate interests, economic life — for over 40 years.” employees cannot be required to join who want to take away the ability of a union and pay union dues, they can ordinary workers to build strength in WHAT HAPPENS NEXT? Martin be required to pay an “agency shop” numbers. Since the ruling, Janus has Luther King called “right-to-work“ a or “fair share” fee to the union. The left state employment and joined a “false slogan“ for a “law intended amount of the fee is determined by right-wing think tank linked to the to rob us of our civil rights and job deducting from the amount of union Koch Brothers. rights,“ and unions say roughly five dues whatever portion of those dues million government employees in were spent on political or ideological WHO BANKROLLED THE CASE? 24 states will be impacted by the activities, adjusted yearly. This is The Koch brothers, among others. court’s decision in Janus – a bloc that because public-sector employees The organizations backing the includes union-represented teachers, benefit from the various activities Liberty Justice Center, who firefighters, health care workers, of the unions, including collective represented Mark Janus, have government employees, and police. bargaining. Unions are critical to names like the National Right to Everything from affordable health growing and maintaining the middle Work Legal Defense Foundation care and retirement security to quicker class, reducing inequality by raising and the Center for Individual medical emergency response times is wages for both union and nonunion Rights and purportedly protect the under threat. “The Supreme Court’s workers, and whittling away at the rights of citizens – but these legal decision in Janus v. AFSCME is another gender and pay gap. sponsors have received funding predictable attack on hard working from the Charles Koch Institute people across America who seek to WHO IS MARK JANUS? Mark Janus and numerous other billionaire re-balance the economic scales by is a childcare specialist, employed by organizations headed by powerful joining together in their workplaces,“ the Illinois Department of Healthcare right-wing families. Paul E. Almeida said. Still, he remains and Family Services, who argued optimistic. ”We are confident that he has a First Amendment right WHAT DOES THE RULING MEAN? professional employees will continue to choose not to pay fair share fees. On June 27, the Supreme Court ruled to see the value of unions and grow Despite working for the government, in a 5–4 decision that public-sector the labor movement into the future.” he refused to join the union because government employees cannot be he disagreed with political causes forced to pay unions “agency fees“ promoted by the union. Janus has as a condition of employment, been required to pay the union fees overturning the Abood ruling. In totaling about $535 per year. His a sharply worded dissent, Justice suit, Janus v. American Federation Elena Kagan noted that the decision,

12 | Equity News @actorsequity A BOON FOR THE ARTS: NEW SALES TAX WILL BENEFIT D.C. ARTS COMMUNITY BY DOUG STRASSLER

The District of Columbia is one of the leading metropolitan areas when it comes to professional theatre opportunities; “YOU TAKE NOTICE according to Actors’ Equity’s Regional WHEN ALL OF A SUDDEN Theatre Report, it generates nearly seventeen weeks of theatre employment YOU START GETTING 100, for each Equity member in the region. That means it creates more work than 300, 500 EMAILS ABOUT all other locations except for the larger theatre centers of New York, Los Angeles, A TOPIC. IT ABSOLUTELY Chicago and Orlando. In late June, the nation’s capital MADE A DIFFERENCE. IT received other news about which they could rejoice. The Council of the District of WAS VERY EFFECTIVE.” Columbia approved a dedicated sales tax that is expected to generate $30 million annually to fund the local arts community, — COUNCILMEMBER JACK EVANS including theatre productions. A passionate regional approach to policy lobbying led to the successful levying of this new tax. Local Equity elimination. Overall funding for the “The arts are the color in an otherwise members wrote hundreds of letters to National Endowment for the Arts has black and white canvas. John F. Kennedy councilmembers in support of the arts been cut by $20 million annually since said that you remember societies for funding legislation, and Equity President 2010, and state funding for the arts is 42.5 their art and their culture.” Kate Shindle also submitted testimony percent down from its all-time high levels Councilmember Evans said that to the council. This groundswell of dating back to 2001, according to the the groundswell of public support was public interest had a direct effect on the National Assembly of State Arts Agencies. very persuasive. “As a politician with outcome. Despite those statistics, there are an iPhone, you take notice when all of “Equity members are the heart plenty of reassuring reports as well. A a sudden you start getting 100, 300, and soul of theatrical productions that 2017 study by the non-profit organization 500 emails about a topic,” he said. “It generate millions of dollars in economic Americans for the Arts estimated the absolutely made a difference. It was very activity in the District of Columbia,“ said economic value generated by the effective. The more messages you can Shindle. “A strong cultural economy audiences who attend performing send the better.” He also takes special helps create a stronger economy for the arts events in the District of Columbia pride in knowing this new tax will have whole city. This move will create good exceeded $1.2 billion. Additionally, local a significant effect on smaller local jobs and benefit everyone in the District arts organizations generated another theaters. of Columbia.“ $1.6 billion in economic activity, totaling Roy A. Gross, Chair of Equity’s This tax was created thanks to a combined impact that approached $3 Washington, D.C/Baltimore Liaison the D.C. Commission on the Arts billion. Committee, thinks that the high number and Humanities Dedicated Funding This amendment act was introduced of arts funders and grants in the District of Amendment Act of 2018, which dedicates earlier this year by Councilmember Columbia have led to its ability to thrive a quarter of a percent of the existing sales Jack Evans, who chairs the council’s and create a continually growing number and use tax to the DC Commission on the Committee on Finance and Revenue, of union-hiring theatrical opportunities. Arts and Humanities. The sales tax rate will along with Mary Cheh, David Grosso, “We think the District of Columbia is be raised from 5.75 percent to 6 percent. Brianne Nadeau, Brandon Todd and a model for other cities that want to both The D.C. Commission on the Arts Robert White. support the arts and create new jobs,” and Humanities has provided grants and “The arts have always been very he said. “Having this dedicated funding educational opportunities to support important,” said Councilmember stream will enable theatres to apply for nonprofit organizations, including arts Evans, who has played a major role in multi-year matching grants which will education in public schools and public funding the arts in Washington, D.C., further boost arts funding and benefit the charter schools throughout the District, for since his 1991 election. He has enabled arts and those who make their living on the more than fifty years. The Commission will renovations of Arena Stage, Ford’s stage and behind it and for all those who manage grants generated by the new tax. Theatre and Studio Theatre, and is the work at bars, restaurants, parking garages This tax decision arrives against single largest donor to Shakespeare and other businesses near theatres.” a backdrop of severe arts funding Theatre Company’s Sidney Harman Hall.

members.actorsequity.org Summer 2018 | 13 #EQUITYWORKS THEATRE NEWS & NOTES

Hillsboro, OR – Bag & Baggage Productions has been signed Minneapolis, MN – Frank Theatre is on an SPT-1 contract and to a Special Appearance contract. will begin their 2018-19 season in the fall with salary increases ranging from 4 to 10%. Honolulu, HI – Kimeejay, Inc. has been signed to a Guest Artist contract. Ojai, CA – Ojai Performing Arts Theater will operate under SPT-1 and -3 contracts with six new productions. Irvine, CA – New Swan Shakespeare will operate under Phase 1 on an SPT-4 contract. Ogden, UT – Good Company Theatre has been signed to a Special Appearance contract. Kamuela, HI – Kahilu Theatre Foundation has returned on a Guest Artist contract. Philadelphia, PA – Quintessence Theatre Company has moved from a Special Appearance Agreement to an SPT-4 contract. Lakewood, CO – Benchmark Theatre has been signed to a Special Appearance contract. Phoenix, AZ – Now and Then Creative Company has been signed to a Special Appearance contract. Logan, UT – Lyric Repertory Company has transitioned from Guest Artist to an LOA-LORT with a seasonal guarantee of four Redlands, CA – LifeHouse Theater has been signed to a Actor and one Stage Manager contracts. Special Appearance contract.

Los Angeles, CA – East West Players has signed an LOA/ Rolla, MO – Ozark Actors Theatre has signed a new SPT-2 LORT contract. agreement that utilizes an SPT-5 contract during their summer season and will cover additional fall and winter programming. Los Angeles, CA -- Shakespeare Center of Los Angeles has In its first year, this will add seven additional work weeks for signed an LOA/LORT contract. members.

Milwaukee, WI – Milwaukee Chamber Theatre has increased San Diego, CA – Diversionary Theatre in San Diego will their salaries by 5% for their 2018-19 season on an SPT-8 operate under Phase 1 of the SPT-1 contract. contract. San Diego, CA – Lamb’s Players Theatre has moved from Phase 2 to Phase 3 under SPT-8 & 10 contracts with an increased commitment from 7 to 28 actors.

Sarasota, FL – WestCoast Black Theatre Troupe is now on a full SPT contract.

Shelton, CT – Valley Shakespeare Festival finished their transitional SPT and is now a full SPT Theatre. They operate as an SPT-2, offering 19 work weeks and 6 contracts.

St. Louis, MO – Insight Theatre has increased salaries to meet a SPT-1 minimum. This is an 8% increase for the actor salary and a 15% increase for the Stage Manager and Assistant Stage Manager salary.

Stanford, CA – Stanford Repertory Theater has been signed to a Guest Artist contract.

Stonington, VT – Opera House Arts has moved from producing on an SPT-4 to an SPT-5 contract, with two additional contracts Repertory Theater has been signed to a Guest Artist contract.

Sturgeon Bay, WI – Third Avenue Playhouse, which uses an SPT-4 contract for their summer season and an SPT-1 contract for their winter season, increased salaries by 8% for both riders in the upcoming year.

Michael Mendez in a WestCoast Black Theatre Troupe production of In the Heights. Photo by Vutti Photography Vancouver, WA – Lighthouse Arts has been signed to a Guest Artist contract.

Wichita Falls, TX – 4 Kidz Sake of Wichita Falls has been signed to a Guest Artist contract.

Photo by Paul Ruffolo

Brian J. Gill and Kay Allmand in Milwaukee Chamber Theatre's production of Sherlock Holmes and the Case of the Jersey Lily. TRACKING WHAT YOU’RE OWED

Central staff recovered $411.67 for a member who wasn’t Eastern staff recovered unpaid vacation payments in the paid the dance captain increment at a Missouri theatre. amount of $2,586.00, plus pension. Central staff discovered that a LORT theatre used Upon clearance, Eastern staff realized that the dance captain unapproved video footage for a commercial and was able to on an LOA-LORT show was being paid the previous years’ rate. recover payment for 25 members, totaling $16,175. They required that the member be paid the difference, resulting Central staff was able to recover $4,309.06 in salary and in over $200.00 to the member, plus pension. overtime for one member at a BAT theatre. Eastern staff discovered that a performer working under Central staff was able to recover a week’s salary plus health a contract which includes severance pay when employment and pension for a member who walked on for one performance is terminated after a certain number of years of continuous at a theatre that failed to hire an understudy. employment did not receive the appropriate severance Central staff recovered $641.00 for a Stage manager who pay. They made a claim on behalf of the performer, and the had not been paid for pre-production. producer agreed with Equity and paid the performer two Central staff recovered a total of $1793.28 for eight actors weeks’ severance totaling $2,172.00. at Southport Theatre LLC for a media appearance. Eastern staff discovered that a group of dancers provided Eastern staff was able to recover $78.83 for an Assistant their own pointe shoes for rehearsals and one-time performance. Stage Manager who had not received payment for pre- During dress rehearsal, it was discovered that the stage surface production. was a little slick for the pointe shoes, so the producer rubberized Eastern staff determined that several participants of a the shoes, ruining them for future use. Staff was able to get the showcase production of a new work did not receive bona fide producer to replace the performers’ personal shoes with new offers for an LOA-COST agreement of the same work which shoes. was recently produced. They were able to recover $7,680.00 in During collective bargaining, Eastern staff discovered pension and dues to two actors and one Stage Manager who underreported pensionable salaries from an employer, resulting did not receive a bona fide offer. in a back payment to the Equity League Pension Trust Fund of Eastern staff determined that an actor was owed a buyout $553,060.35. Interest payments will be paid on this amount as for a recent project presented on the LOA-COST agreement. well. The actor in question had participated in the 99-Seat Agreement Eastern staff recovered $1,531.00 in unpaid vacation a few years ago and was offered an understudy role instead payments from two theatres who neglected to pay during the of their original track. Staff was able to recover $2,031.00 in run. pension and dues for the member Eastern staff recovered $1,775.00 in unpaid pre-production Eastern staff was able to recover $60.00 in overtime to the wages for two Stage Managers in a season. cast and Stage Manager of an LOA theatre that restaged a work Eastern staff found that actors on a LORT transfer were not following press opening. paid for vacation accrued on a hiatus period between the two Eastern staff was able to recover $23,395 in salary, $1,871.60 theaters, resulting in vacation pay of $1,650 for three actors. in pension and $7,875 in health payments for nine actors on a Eastern staff found that a production incurred sliding scale showcase producer that extended beyond the showcase code. payments for five weeks, resulting in an additional $8,631.61 in Eastern staff discovered that insufficient notice of a salaries and pension credit for nine members. canceled extra performance was given, resulting in additional Western staff reported on the collection of retroactive compensation of $1,286.89 for twelve actors. payments for five actors who worked on a cast recording, Eastern staff was contacted by members regarding an resulting in a total of $9,870.00 unexpected payment for theatre parking. They then required the Western staff reported that over $450,000 in member theatre to reimburse the members for this miscommunication, earning have been reported under the 99-Seat Theatre which resulted in payments to members totaling $1,750.00. Agreement. members.actorsequity.org Summer 2018 | 15 THEATRE SPOTLIGHT HANGAR THEATRE

Located within the 100-mile radius that defines the Buffalo/ “But even on our nationally-acclaimed main stage, I Rochester Liaison Area is the Center for the Arts at Ithaca – see it happen,“ she said. “We just opened our spectacular better known as the Hangar Theatre. How did it get that name? production of Chicago, and having artists in all points of their Once upon a time, it was a municipal airport hangar. In other career – from seasoned Broadway vets to members of our words, the location that was once best known for having people newly-minted Young Professional Company to Lab Company come and go now gives them a reason to stay. members – creates opportunities for cross-pollination that “The Hangar Theatre is committed to providing enriches everybody involved.“ exceptional theatre experiences of high professional quality to Equity performer Kate Loprest, who worked in this enrich, enlighten, educate and entertain the diverse audiences summer’s production of Chicago, has high praise for the young in the Finger Lakes region,“ said Mary Beth Bunge, the Hangar talent groomed under the Hangar staff’s tutelage. “The Hangar Theatre’s Managing Director. “Strong education and training has two summer training programs and some of the students programs are central parts of our commitment to the local were in our production as well as backstage,“ she said. “I had and national artistic communities. We focus on experiences for the pleasure of meeting and working with so many wonderful artists and audiences at the local and national level.“ young actors and apprentices. It’s my honor to be their first Part of the Hangar’s charm is its serene location, according glimpse into what life could look like as a professional working to Bunge. “Its lakeside location and the fun, funky repurposing actor.“ of a decrepit airplane hangar into a beautiful, inspiring theatrical You don’t have to look far. Ask anyone who has worked at performance space reflect how theatre can spring from ‘nothing’ the Hangar about what they love most, and the answer remains into something essential, meaningful and beautiful,“ she said. the same: the people. Artistic Director Michael Barakiva also feels that the “There really is a strong feeling of creative support up intergenerational sense of community fostered at the Hangar here in the Ithaca community and certainly from the Hangar is one of its most defining features. “There is a unique and Michael Barakiva,“ said Equity member and performer synergy between the institution of the Hangar Theatre and Austin Jones, who has recently joined the Department of its surrounding Ithaca/Finger Lakes community that makes for Theatre Arts faculty at Ithaca College. “The people are the exciting, progressive, community-based possibilities,“ he said. strongest asset to working at the Hangar. The creative teams “More and more, I see how the Hangar is at its best when its and directors are all at the top of their game and your fellow artistic and educational mission intertwines. This happens in the actors range from seasoned veterans to emerging recent grads some obvious ways, like our Fall, Winter and Spring Break-A- and young professionals entrenched in their training. I’ve always Leg programs, in which students develop original pieces over the course of a week. Continued on page 22

Amelia Pedlow and Ian Lowe star in the Hangar Theatre production of Fortune.

Photo by Rachel Philipson EQUITY ACROSS BUFFALO/ROCHESTER THE NATION Thanks to Buffalo/Rochester Liaison Committee Chair Don Gervasi for his contributions!

Buffalo and Rochester have always been working-class towns, leaders in manufacturing at a time when waterways transported AROUND TOWN everything. Now, they are becoming known as white-collar BEST PLACES TO EAT FOR FOODIES towns with the philanthropy to support thriving arts communities Buffalo’s own Anchor Bar may be the birthplace of the including theatre and film. Buffalo Wing, but Duff’s is the local favorite. Go to Schwabl’s for something we call beef-on-weck: slow roasTed beef on WORKING IN THE REGION kimmelweck (a hard, salted Kaiser roll). Ted’s has the best charbroiled hot dog around. Or is it Louie’s? Dinosaur Bar- WHAT IT’S LIKE TO BE AN EQUITY MEMBER B-Que is the place to be in Syracuse (and find a salt potato IN THE REGION somewhere), and they have restaurants in Buffalo and Rochester While Rochester and Syracuse still have their LORT theatres, too. Oh, if you love home fries, French fries, macaroni salad, Buffalo boasts over 20 smaller theatre companies, each baked beans, spicy mustard, chopped onions, meat of any kind with their own artistic niche, allowing our members to create and hot sauce, then don’t leave Rochester without trying them diverse and compelling work. The Buffalo/Rochester Special all at once in a “Garbage Plate” at Nick’s Tahou Hots. Trust me. Appearance Agreement has made a huge difference attracting demand for our members, and a few of our professional WHAT YOU WON’T FIND ANYWHERE ELSE companies regularly employ our members in almost every show Opened in 1926 as a silent movie house and saved from throughout their season. the wrecking ball in the 1970s, Shea’s PAC (originally Shea’s Buffalo) is the heart of Buffalo’s Theater District, hosting WHAT IT’S LIKE WORKING IN THE REGION comedy, concerts and Broadway tours. The Mark Twain Room The Buffalo/Rochester area now stretches to Syracuse, which at Buffalo & Erie County Public Library’s features the original includes Ithaca, opening up more LORT and SPT opportunities handwritten manuscript of “The Adventures of Huckleberry to local members, well worth the drive up and down the NYS Finn”, as well as an extensive collection of unique editions Thruway to be seen by respected directors. There are also more and Twain memorabilia. Traditionally set for third shift workers, film opportunities popping up in the region. Buffalo bars are open until 4am, convenient for winding down after a double show day. To the north, Niagara Falls is a sight to WHERE YOU MIGHT BE WORKING behold, but to experience the true power below the Falls ride the Maid of the Mist, walk the Cave of the Winds, or fight the Buffalo: Kavinoky Theatre, Irish Classical Theatre Co., currents of Devil’s Hole Rapids on a jet boat! With such close Shakespeare in Delaware Park, Chautauqua Theatre Co.; proximity to Canada, enjoy a show at the Shaw Festival after Rochester: Geva Theatre, Merry-Go-Round Playhouse; Syracuse touring a winery or seven. Traveling east, we have Genesee Stage; Ithaca: Hangar Theatre, Kitchen Theatre. Country Village, a nineteenth century living history museum; Owais Ahmed and Mari Vial-Golden appeared and Corning Museum of Glass, dedicated to the art, history and together in Geva Theatre Center's world premiere science of glass. production of Heartland. Table of Contents image: David Lamb in The Father at Kavinoky Theatre. HOW TO GET INVOLVED Photo by Gene Witkowski. After strutting your stuff at the Theatre Alliance of Buffalo’s annual auditions for over twenty theatre companies, experience CURTAIN UP in September, the official kickoff to Buffalo’s theatre season, complete with black tie gala and street party. In June you can network at the Arties, Buffalo’s annual theatre awards.

BEST WAYS TO EXPERIENCE LOCAL COLOR Get outside! There are so many festivals that happen on what seems like a weekly basis like Buffalo Wing Festival, Allentown Arts Festival, Rochester International Jazz Festival, Brantling Bluegrass Festival or NY State Blues Festival and NY State Fair in Syracuse. There are also many trails to bike, hike, and walk in the warmer months, but there are also plenty of places to ski, tube or toboggan when the snow begins to fly.

members.actorsequity.org Summer 2018 | 17

Photo by Goat Factory Entertainment Media EQUITY SHOWS ITS PRIDE

Equity members came out in full force during Pride month as a show of both support and solidarity. Above, members marched on July 15 in the 2018 Disability Pride NYC Parade, where the theme was creativity. To the right, Equity members stood together in the Portland, Oregon Pride Parade. Sponsored by Pride Northwest, Inc., the Pride festival is the single largest platform to draw attention to the region's LGBTQ community. Below, Equity members marched at the New York Pride Parade, commemorating the 49th anniversary of the Stonewall riots. "Defiantly Different" was the theme of the parade, which attracted nearly 2 million onlookers and saw tens of thousand marchers participate. PANEL OFFERS ADVICE TO STAGE MANAGERS ON HOW TO RESPOND TO HARASSMENT

In the current #MeToo era, it is important for any employee to understand what their rights and responsibilities are. A panel LEARN MORE entitled “Harassment in the Work Place & Stage Management,” held at the Broadway Stage Management Symposium in New For more information on the training program York this May, clarified some of the options that those who may developed in tandem between Actors' Equity and the be experiencing some form of harassment can pursue. Actors Fund, go to: Stage manager Matt Stern moderated the panel, which ActorsEquity.org/Harassment included Mary McColl, Executive Director of Actors’ Equity, Barbara Davis, Chief Operating Officer of The Actors Fund and Bernita Robinson, a Stage Manager and Equity Councillor. Both McColl and Robinson also averred that the stage McColl emphasized that all Equity employers have now manager is just as much an employee of a production company been tasked with providing a copy of their policy or working as a performer is. to create one in the cases where none currently exist. “Every “You can never be afraid of going to work,“ Robinson said. employee has the right to that,“ she said. “When you take a “Call the union if necessary. Do not be afraid to do the right job, ask for that policy. If they won’t give it to you, call us.“ thing, to step forward when you are supposed to step forward. She also reminded all stage managers in attendance about Otherwise that behavior will continue. That harassment will what a crucial resource The Actors Fund – what Stern dubbed continue.“ “the HR department for an entire industry“ – can be for them “We’ve been going to theaters and doing safety checks when dealing with matters of sexual harassment. and site visits,“ McColl said. “If you call us, we might be able “This is an industry where people feel that their reputations to reassure you that we are already dealing with that employer. are how people get work, so a lot of people fear calling out Lots of times, employers have already taken action on things something that shouldn’t be happening,“ Davis said. “Everyone being brought to their attention before we’ve gotten involved. on our staff understands the workplace of theatre, and that it’s an The theatres are doing investigations like they should do, unusual workplace. They understand how it translates to what taking action and informing us. That’s because people had it’s like to work on a show where there’s nudity, where there’s the personal agency to say something about what they saw touching going on. There is confidential, individual counseling happening to others.“ about these issues.“ GEORGE M! CELEBRATES FIFTY IN STYLE

Earlier this year, members of the cast and creative team Bernadette Peters, Mack Schlefer (pianist), Joel Grey, Kathy of George M! convened at Sardi's to celebrate the fiftieth Conry, Patti Mariano, Jamie Donnelly, Harvey Evans, Sheila anniversary of the show, which honors the life of performer Sullivan, Ed Goldsmid, Ron Young, Karin Baker-Kayne, Ray George M. Cohan. Those in attendance included, from left Becker, Loni Ackerman, Jill O’Hara and Bill Becker. Seated are to right: Kathie Savage-Rinaldi, James Dybas, Bill Gerber, co-producer David Black and co-writer Francine Pascal.

Photo courtesy of James Dybas EQUITY BESTOWS ANNUAL AWARDS

Actors’ Equity Association and the Equity Foundation have distributed several awards in recent months. While the recipients range in terms of age and experience, they are bound by one important shared trait: continued excellence. Recipients of the Clarence Derwent Award (seen to the right with Foundation President Judy Rice), which honors most promising new female and male on the New York stage, were Sean Carvajal for Jesus Hopped the A Train and Ashley Park for her work in KPOP and Mean Girls. The Richard Seff Awards, which are presented to veteran female and male actors for their work in supporting roles, were given to Margaret Colin for Carousel and Michael Potts for The Iceman Cometh (they are seen bottom left). Darlesia Cearcy, Rodrick Covington, Alysha Deslorieux, Tyler Hardwick, Cassondra James, David Jennings, Grasan Kingsberry, Loren Lott, T. Oliver Reid and Aurelia Williams each received the 2018 ACCA Award for Outstanding Broadway Chorus for their work in Once on This Island. The Alan Eisenberg Award Scholarship, which consists of a $5,000 award, went to two University of Michigan Musical Theatre graduates: Jessica Gómes-Ng and Noah Kieserman (bottom right).

20 | Equity News @actorsequity HOW I GOT MY EQUITY CARD

JAMES VINCENT MEREDITH MEMBER SINCE 2000 I’d bounced around at non-union theaters in Chicago for a – until they told me few years. I was never really in a rush to do EMC or join Equity my salary, which because Chicago’s non-Equity scene was and is very strong, amounted to over with amazing non-Equity theaters and actors. But I was running three times what into a brick wall every time I auditioned at the big Equity Houses my non-union check – non-union jobs at those places were hard to come by. would be. I talked In 2000, I auditioned at the Goodman for the great Chuck to a local actor who Smith. Somehow, I got cast, in A Raisin in the Sun, as Joseph I respected and Asagai. The non-union money wasn’t great, but what did I care? admired greatly, the I was at the Goodman! And I’d worked with one of the actors late Freeman Coffey. before. Harry J. Lennix, playing Walter Lee Younger, had worked He said, “that with me in the same play sixteen years prior, at Northwestern iron ain’t always University, where I had played Travis and he had played Bobo! gonna be hot, so Just before rehearsals started, I was asked if I’d be willing strike!” I did, and I sign an Equity contract and join the union. I didn’t have the cash haven’t looked back. to join, but they offered to deduct a nominal amount from each check until I met my initiation fee. I still hemmed and hawed

HOPE VILLANUEVA MEMBER SINCE 2014 I got my Equity card from Olney Theatre Center in generous enough Maryland, just outside Washington, D.C., after almost giving up to trust me to PSM on ever making the shift. Awake and Sing! the I started looking into joining the union back in 2009. At the next fall and give me time, I was the Resident PSM at Honolulu Theatre for Youth, a my card outright. great TYA house. However, Hawaii is pretty isolated, so it’s not Since then, I’ve financially sensible for theaters there to be part of the union. I been able to work started researching my options. I’d come up as a non-Equity regularly in the D.C. PSM and had lots of luck, but as I explored the union, I found area and even do that I didn’t have the card to qualify me for those jobs, but also some projects in New that I couldn’t get the production assistant or assistant stage York City. Maybe I’ll manager gigs to allow me to earn my EMC points either. After even go back on the moving to D.C., I got lucky and booked some PSM slots on road at some point. national tours... but still no card. After several years on the road, The union has given I was ready to come home. me career stability I set up a meeting with Dennis Blackledge, the production and has been there on multiple occasions when I’ve needed manager at Olney and we had a great talk. He was a former backup. As I write this, I’m in tech for my third Equity production road guy himself and knew where I was emotionally. He was this year. May it all continue!

members.actorsequity.org Summer 2018 | 21 LEGACY ROBE: CONTINUING AN OLD TRADITION WITH A NEW NAME

Photo courtesy of Walter McBride

Justin Prescott, center, with Kathy Valentine, Charlotte Caffey and Jane Wiedlin, of the Go-Go's.

Following a multi-step process that included a vote of by the previous recipient. Equity’s National Council, and recommendations from Equity’s “The Legacy Robe reminds us why our tradition exists. Advisory Committee on Chorus Affairs (ACCA) and National It emphasizes the history of Chorus performers, their years of Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Committee, Actor’s Equity dedication and hard work and just how essential they are to every announced a new name for the tradition formerly known as the Broadway musical,“ said Executive Director Mary McColl. “The “Gypsy Robe.“ ceremony on opening night will go on like it has for years, and I Moving forward, the Robe and tradition will be referred to as look forward to celebrating another season’s long serving Chorus the “Legacy Robe“ – a name chosen by members in a survey. performers with recognition of their professionalism as they receive This tradition occurs on opening night of every Broadway the Legacy Robe.“ musical with a chorus. The Robe is given to the Chorus member who The first presentation of the Legacy Robe took place on July 26, has worked the most Broadway Chorus contracts on opening night when the musical Head Over Heels opened at the Hudson Theatre.

THEATRE SPOTLIGHT – Continued from page 16 believed that the people are why we get into this business and such a robust season keeps everyone on their toes and pumps at the Hangar that has been exceptionally true.” up the energy all summer long. I also absolutely love Ithaca and And this sentiment is shared among those who work am thrilled to share it with new people and long-term residents backstage as well. Kristin Loughry is one of the young alike.“ professionals who worked at the Hangar in the past. She That tradition of camaraderie and education is one that returned this summer as an Equity Production Stage Manager Jones sees continuing. after working there as a non-union Assistant Stage Manager “One of the most gratifying opportunities of working at the earlier this decade. “I started working here shortly after Hangar has been to act with some of my recent students,“ he graduating from college, so I spent some pretty formative years said. “In a whole new way it’s a wonderful reminder we are all here,“ she said. “There are many new faces since the last time just actors sharing in the roller coaster ride together. It makes it I was here, but in some ways it feels like I never left. In addition real and important to continue a legacy of love.“ to the main stage shows, we produce shows for children, With that kind of love, one can go very far – certainly farther experimental theatre and late-night cabarets. The bustle of than any destination that can be reached from an airport.

22 | Equity News @actorsequity #EQUITYWORKS NEW NEAT CONTRACT BOOSTS SALARIES AND WORK OPPORTUNITIES Equity’s most recent the current situation,“ Senior producers walked in and saw negotiating this contract for New England Area Theatres Business Representative these faces that they want to so many years, I was thrilled (NEAT) agreement for Russell Lehrer said, “and see in the audition rooms.“ to see so many Equity theatres in the Boston area they came back and really Equity organizer Stefanie members in the room talking will last through September 4, provided us with what we felt Frey agreed: “When the about how we could move 2022. Key changes to the new we needed.“ producers looked across forward together to create a contract include a 28 percent But the results of the the table, they were not just stronger professional theatre increase to minimum salaries; NEAT negotiation are not the saying ’yes’ or ‘no’ to people community for Boston actors increases to the number of only noteworthy aspect of this in from New York, they were and stage managers,“ said required Principal contracts, negotiation. Also of note is the saying ‘yes’ or ’no’ to the Spiro Veloudos, President for Chorus contracts and Stage role that members of Boston’s people it actually affects.“ the Producers Association of Manager contracts. liaison committee played Citing this agreement New England Area Theatres. Travel reimbursement in the negotiation process. as “the best we have ever And while it’s safe to say will be a requirement for Nearly a dozen members reached,“ Boston Liaison all parties walked away from actors who live between formed an action group and Chair Michael G. Dell’Orto this negotiation happy, it also 50 and 75 miles from the attended the negotiation, concurred that the presence reaffirmed a larger lesson theater. Furthermore, should assisting the representatives of observers in the negotiation about communication and nudity be required, the and witnessing firsthand how made a big difference. solidarity. member must be put on a negotiations work and what “Isn’t it amazing what “We don’t have to be contract for the callback, unions do for their members. we can do when we put the on the same page or agree,“ thus not only receiving salary “We always have local resources to work?“ he said. said Equity actress Rachel for the callback, but more membership involved in the “More money means more Policare. "The most important importantly being covered preparing of the negotiation resources for us, and more part is that we are all in the by the producer’s staff but here we were able to ability to serve people in our same room discussing these harassment policy as a clear expand the room to include region.“ issues and we’re trying to find employee. a really large portion of the Producers in the Boston solutions that are beneficial “We told the producers membership,“ Lehrer said. area were equally thrilled with to everyone and make the how much jeopardy they “You felt the temperature both the process and results. theatre community in Boston faced if they didn’t change change the moment the “As someone who has been stronger as a whole.“

Members of the negotiating team gathered to celebrate the new NEAT agreement.

Photo courtesy of Brandon Lorenz

members.actorsequity.org Summer 2018 | 23 AUDITION DISCRIMINATION LEADS TO PAYOUT BY DOUG STRASSLER

Recently, an Equity member potential courses of action, including state from seeing their name? “There are auditioned for a production of the and federal court options. Finally, Lehrer definitely people who are experiencing Joshua Harmon play Bad Jews and and business representative Kathleen this type of discrimination,“ Equity received a callback. Over the course of Munroe presented their evidence to the Principal Councillor Allyson Tucker said. these auditions, which took the form theatre, who “did not contradict any of “In this climate there are all kinds of of Skype interviews, the actor received it – they realized they were fully in the biases that everyone is facing, there are positive feedback from members of the wrong,“ according to Lehrer. issues where people who self-submit and production staff. Significantly, Equity was able to aren’t seen are curious if it is because “The actor has a traditionally ethnic take the maximum penalty for this kind they have a name that others perceive last name but one that is not necessarily of contractual violation, even though isn’t mainstream. Jewish,“ said Equity senior business the member was never on contract. “A last name may sound one way representative Russell Lehrer, “and, rather The member received $1,060, as or another, but everyone needs to be inappropriately, at the final callback, they well as pension payments, and the more aware so that they are not making asked him if he himself was Jewish.“ representatives were able to continue decisions based on their perception of In the moment, the Equity member a conversation with the theater about ethnicity,“ she said. “No one should be answered honestly that he was not. He appropriate casting procedures. typed out because of their name, only then began to hear from multiple sources “Because this discrimination because of their talent.“ attached to the production that he was occurred as part of the Equity audition Tucker feels that a dialogue not going to be considered for the role process, we were able to protect his needs to continue so that this form of because he was not Jewish. rights, and did so to his satisfaction, discrimination doesn’t occur at the very “They made inappropriate to clarify for the theatre why and how beginning of the casting and audition statements saying that he would have their approach to casting this role was process. “I feel that the way to build been the first choice for this role but for unacceptable, and what we expect for bridges is not to judge someone by this fact, and he had evidence to support our members moving forward on future their name but to truly see the artist who it,“ Lehrer said. “His religion or ethnic productions,“ Lehrer said. possesses that name and to see their background had no bearing on whether This payout is certainly a win for the talents and to continue to educate each he was capable of performing the role as member, but this incident is a reminder other about various cultures,“ she said. directed. He gave a good performance in about hiring biases that persist. Do “This dialogue has led to some of the his audition, and he was told they wanted the gatekeepers within the industry best conversations I’ve ever had.“ him for the role.“ make assumptions about a performer’s Equity advised the member about ethnicity or religious background just LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Dear Equity News, Scott at last found his home in Shubert), nursing us when we were sick, We in the Washington, D.C., theatre Washington, where in addition to his encouraging us to shine, keeping us in community are sad to report the sudden quarter-century with Shear Madness, he line when we strayed and always letting and unexpected passing of beloved brought his stage management skills us know we were cared for and loved. stage manager Scott Hammar. Scott and designer’s eye to the Shakespeare Scott is survived by his sisters Laurie passed away on June 3 of natural causes. Theater Company, Woolly Mammoth Ziolkowski and Pamela Hammar-Safah, For the last 25 years, Scott was the Theatre Company, Factory 449 and brother, Mark Hammar and their children. Production Stage Manager of Shear Taffety Punk. We miss you terribly, Scott. Rest in Madness at the John F. Kennedy Center For those of us fortunate to count peace. for the Performing Arts. him as both colleague and friend, Scott —Bob Lohrmann A native of Garden City, Michigan, was a kind and generous man. Other Scott received a BFA in Directing from than perhaps his cats, nothing delighted Dear Equity News, Central Michigan University and earned Scott more than taking an active role Virginia Robinson died peacefully an MFA in Design from Trinity University. in the lives of the children of many in her home in New York City on Friday, His stage management work took him to cast members as baby sitter, “uncle,“ June 8. She was 99. China, England, India, Japan, Mexico and godfather and mentor, opening his home Ms. Robinson was a New York City Nepal. In Oman, Scott stage managed and his heart and giving his time and resident for over sixty years and a working Debbie Allen’s Oman O Man. He also indeed his unsparing love. actress from the age of nineteen until stage managed at the Dallas Theater Scott deeply touched many, many the age of ninety-eight. She was born Center and toured with the National lives over the years, always making Virginia Routh on March 27, 1919, in Theater of the Deaf. us laugh in rehearsal (the perfect Mrs. Continued on page 27

24 | Equity News @actorsequity LORT AGREEMENT BUMPS ASM OPPORTUNITIES

Among the changes made regarding rules for the first year of the agreement.) employment in League of Resident Theatres (LORT) during “Our challenge is how do we track these additional the most recent contract negotiations were provisions ASM contracts?” said Sloan, who acknowledged that Equity for additional Assistant Stage Managers. Now that the representatives are already reviewing the number of ASMs agreement is in its second year, the number of contracted hired last year (2016-17) as a baseline to track the increased ASM positions has begun to increase for multiple tiers at number of contracts. She also said that the Seasonal Listing those theatres. form, which all Equity producers are able to access to provide “As of February 12, 2018, all LORT main stage theatres information about upcoming seasons or productions, has are required to have one additional ASM where one is been amended to alert LORT theatre managers to note not currently mandated,” Senior Business Representative which specific stage will be utilizing the additional ASM. Beverly Sloan said. “A theatres were already required to “While Equity staff is being proactive about tracking these have an ASM, but the majority of LORT theatres have more additional ASM contracts, we will also need the cooperation than one stage,” Sloan said. “So, for example, an A main of managers at these theatres.” stage theatre will now add an ASM to one of the shows on In addition to the changes in the numbers of ASMs to its B, C or D stages. And it can be on any of those stages, a be engaged in LORT Theatres, the ratio that determines the D stage even if there is also a B or a C stage.” number of non-professionals that are permitted at LORT These gains are part of a broader determined push to theatres also will be adjusted starting in February 2019, increase the number of opportunities for all stage managers Year 3 of the contract. While most A theatres are typically all in the Union. The recent New England Area Theatres Equity, all B+, B, C and D theatres have a minimum number agreement also included additional ASM guarantees. of Equity contracts they are required to have before they can According to the most recent Theatrical Season Report, hire the first non-professional. Stage Manager opportunities have steadily increased and For example, under the current ratio, a B+ theatre must are the highest they have been in over a decade, with 49,468 hire thirteen Equity contracts before it can hire the first work weeks. non-professional. In 2019, the number of Equity contracts LORT contracts are broken down into lettered required before the first non-professional can be hired to categories: A+, A, B+, B, C and D. The A+ theatres are the work will increase at all category levels. On the B+ stage, Tony-eligible not-for-profits, and theatres in the A category the number of standard contracts increases from 13 to 14 are a fixed group. The LORT agreement distinguishes the contracts. remaining categories, B+ through D, based on a multi-year B category stages, which currently must hire 11 Equity rolling average of box office receipts: B+ companies earn a contracts under the standard ratio before hiring a non- weekly average of $176,000 or more weekly, while D theatres professional, will be required to hire 12 contracts starting make $62,999 or less per week. next year. C category stages currently must hire nine Equity In 2020, which is the fourth year of the five-year contracts, and next year must have ten. D stages that agreement, A, B+ and B theatres will add a second additional currently must have seven contracts before engaging the ASM for a total of two additional ASMs. Starting in February first non-pro under the ratio will have to have eight contracts 2021, the fifth year of the contract, A, B+ and B theatres will next year. In 2021, the number of required contracts will add a third additional ASM for a total of three. Also in 2021, increase by one more in categories B+ and B. C stages will add a second additional ASM for a total of two. The agreement also created additional contracts for (A+ stages added a second ASM for their musicals, effective chorus performers in musicals on C and D stages. SAVE THE DATE! UPCOMING MEMBERSHIP MEETINGS

Fall Regional Membership Meetings Winter Regional Membership Meetings Monday, October 15, 2018 Monday, January 28, 2019 2pm ET / 12pm CT / 12pm PT 2pm ET / 12pm CT / 12pm PT

All meetings will be held in the Regional Offices. Please visit the be submitted in writing to Equity at least two weeks in advance Member Portal for further information and any changes. of the meeting. All motions that will be discussed during the Membership Discussion Period will be posted in the Member Members with disabilities who would like to request Portal one business day prior to the Membership Meeting. accommodations to participate in the Membership Meetings: please contact National Director of Governance Allison Bodwell Resolutions for the Fall Regional Membership Meetings at 212-869-8530, ext. 213, two weeks prior to the meeting. must be submitted to Allison Bodwell, National Director of Governance ([email protected]) by October 1, 2018. If you would like to present a resolution at an upcoming Resolutions for the Winter Regional Membership Meetings membership meeting, please note that the resolution must must be submitted by January 14, 2019.

members.actorsequity.org Summer 2018 | 25 EQUITY MAKES DEAL WITH CRUISE LINE

Actors’ Equity reached an agreement with Norwegian Cruise members who work at least eleven weeks on contract are eligible for Line to cover members on the cruise line’s new ship, the Norwegian six months of health care coverage). Bliss. From May 3 to May 5 while in New York, the Norwegian Bliss “I’m thrilled that Norwegian Cruise Lines hired members of was under Equity Agreement, marking the first time that a full Equity Actors’ Equity while the Bliss was docked in New York,” said Mary cast has been used on a cruise ship. McColl, Executive Director of Actors’ Equity. “This is a first step, but The agreement added $575 per day for actors and $750 per day one that underscores the big changes we are making to go out and for stage managers to the cast’s NCL salaries. Members earned a one- organize new work for Equity members, wherever live theatre might week credit towards their health care and pension benefits. (Equity be happening.”

EQUITY’S BONDING POLICY & HOW IT WORKS

One of the most important provisions of an Equity contract, It’s also important that we have your contract in timely the bonding policy was established decades ago in order to manner for seasonal theaters. For seasonal theater, such as protect union members when working under contract. Stock, LORT and Letters of Agreement, to name a few, the This policy helps ensure that you receive the minimum bond is based on the highest number of active contracts in a guarantee of contractual salary and benefits (including two-week period. If Equity receives more contracts than the pension and health credits) in a timely manner should an bond protects, the union will immediately demand additional employer default on its obligations to you or Equity. However, bond be posted. it’s important to note that filing your contract once it is signed If a seasonal theater does default, you may only receive the – no later than the first rehearsal – helps Equity guarantee the guaranteed portion of your contract from the available bond. agreement is properly bonded. But know that Equity will do everything it can to legally pursue Here’s how it works: The bond is simply determined by a defaulting employer in an effort to secure the full obligations how many contracts are needed for the agreement. For due to members. productions that are individually produced by one or more The Equity bond is just another example of how the union producers (“single unit” productions), it’s especially important is standing up for its members. #EquityWorks that the union receives your contract in a timely manner.

26 | Equity News @actorsequity SOLIDARITY – Continued from page 12 The prospect of this experience of rallying against isn’t about serving only union members of other unions as well. additional dagger in the union’s Prop A will pay dividends members but serving a need that “Make alliances with other side set off a vigorous campaign moving forward both in terms goes beyond the core message unions, even internationally, on behalf of Equity to educate of empowering unions and of the union.“ before you need their help,“ she voters and encourage them to increasing solidarity. “We Closer to home, of course, is said. “Today is the Janus decision, vote no on Prop A. The Kansas wanted to not only defeat Prop Broadway Cares / Equity Fights but no bad idea stays in one City Liaison Committee became A, but defeat it by such a huge AIDS, which has raised funding place. The next rule could affect actively engaged across many margin to send a message that and awareness for AIDS and people in the theatre industry active fronts, from canvassing Missourians need unions and HIV-related issues for over three and onstage, a good step is to get signatures on the ballot union supporters,“ she said. “It’s decades. to make friends so when the against Prop A to conducting my hope that Equity members in Frey points out that activism next attack on working people meetings both over the phone Kansas City now feel more a part can take many forms. “One of happens, you are all banded and in person with the Kansas of the union, and see themselves the interesting parts of my job together.“ Perhaps because City AFL-CIO. as part of something bigger as an Organizer is inspiring union they are so clear, the challenges Kansas City members took than the individual contracts activism in those who may have ahead can dominate our thinking. part in five separate phone they work,” she said. “Moving never been involved before,” she Even now, with solidarity, we can banking events, and they were forward, the greater KC AFL-CIO said. “Many think, ’Committees achieve important success. Just not alone; the cast of Gypsy has been screening candidates aren’t for me so there’s no place like workers achieved a win in at St. Louis’ Muny Theatre for the November elections, for me to be involved,’ and Missouri and repealed right-to- also participated in a phone and will endorse union-friendly that couldn’t be more false. work for less, Equity members banking event to rally Missouri candidates.“ Okay, committees aren’t for banded together to achieve residents to vote against Prop Unions also provide a you, I get that. But can you join more dedicated arts funding in A. Cast member and 2nd Vice structure for accomplishing us for a Labor Day parade or a Washington, D.C. this year (See President Jennifer Cody recalls tasks beyond the members union rally? Can you be a body “A Boon For the Arts,“ Page 13). being moved by watching her themselves, according to of support at a hearing on arts There is plenty of hope cast mates – who hardly had Almeida. Witness Operation funding? Solidarity takes many despite these many attacks. any time off – donate their time. Agua, the campaign established forms, but at the end of the day According to a recent Gallup “They listened and understood by the American Federation of showing up and being a part of poll, labor union approval is at a that this was a larger cause and Teachers to aid Puerto Ricans a collective action is what it’s all fifteen-year high. Hopefully this ultimately, the proposition went this past year in the wake of about.“ optimism will motivate union against their ideals,“ she said. Hurricane Maria. They provided In keeping with the members to mobilize now that it “Listening to new members gain small water purification systems aforementioned strength-in- matters most. confidence with every phone call to homes, schools, churches and numbers theme, Almeida’s “An informed electorate is and seeing them stand up for the community centers in affected colleague Katie Barrows, a powerful organism,“ Almeida union and believe that they can areas. Communications Manager at said. “It may not be easy, but make a difference was amazing.“ “These are people who Department for Professional when unions raise their voice in Kansas City Liaison Chair saw the need and answered the Employees, stressed the the halls of Congress, change can Sarah LaBarr also feels that the call,“ Almeida said. “The cause importance of reaching out to happen.“

LETTERS – Continued from page 24 Newark, New Jersey. She trained numerous films, including Diary to my theatrical development, a The memory of that energy in London, and was acting and of a Mad Housewife, and spent treasure that will remain with me inspired my work on the tour, and modeling professionally by the many years in daytime drama, forever. My fledgling stage life when I was considered to replace age of 19. where she had long-term roles was never the same following the Rooster in that company, I During World War II, Virginia on Loving and Love of Life. She the moment I first saw him on considered it an honor not to was a member of the USO, is known to current audiences as a Broadway stage. I had just be given the role, as the great entertaining troops in Africa and the hilarious and strange Garol scored my first job as swing Gary Beach had consented to Italy. After the war she worked in Broad City. Broad City paid for the second national tour of return to it with us. I was now his for the Dupont Radio Hour, a tribute to her on their website Annie, which was scheduled understudy, and spent the final and began a serious acting two years ago. Until a stroke to depart for Los Angeles the six months learning from the career. She performed in fifteen at 98, Virginia auditioned and following day. I stood in the back best. Broadway plays, working with worked frequently as an actor. of the Alvin Theater to catch a Gary Beach’s inspiration such directors as Elia Kazan, —Alexandra Neil performance, and an already- was, and always will be, present Franco Zefferelli, John Gielgud brilliant cast paled next to the every time I am blessed to take and George S. Kaufman. She Dear Equity News, Rooster Hannigan who took the stage, because his memory was a standby for Vivien Leigh in He wasn’t a close friend, that stage. When he danced will show me how to make any Duel of Angels. She also worked and he wasn’t family, but the loss through “Easy Street,” I could role better. Rest, Gary. Your Off-Broadway and in Regional of Gary Beach is heartbreaking have sworn that lightning bolts legacy will surely go on. Theatre. She appeared in for me. He was a very special gift exploded from his fingertips!!! —Eric Richardson

members.actorsequity.org Summer 2018 | 27 Equitynews 165 WEST 46TH STREET NEW YORK, NY 10036

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POSTCARDS FROM LIAISON AREAS

PHILADELPHIA

On July 28, the Philadelphia Liaison Committee, along with their Equity Business Rep Gary Dimon, hosted the Philadelphia Equity Picnic and Expo. Members came and enjoyed a barbecue, Philly pretzels and more. After the food was served they sat for two “car-port breakout sessions” where local member David Nikisther and Vice Chair Corbin Abernathy ran a “How to Market Yourself” session followed by an open discussion led by Liaison Chair Christopher Sapienza and committee members Drucie McDaniel and Cathy Simpson on the progress and workings of the local theatre market. “I couldn’t have been happier with the turnout of what is the beginning of more education of our membership,” Sapienza said. GREETINGS FROM PHILADELPHIA

CINCINNATI PHOENIX

Professional Actors of Cincinnati, a group of The Phoenix/Tucson Liaison Committee welcomed working Equity actors in Cincinnati, are delighted to Western Regional Director Gail Gabler, Business Representative be partnering with our local Equity Liaison Committee Gwen Meno and Western Principal Councillor Barbara Callander to created monthly two-hour workshops which are to the Arizona Equity General Meeting, held June 6 at Phoenix free for our members and EMC candidates. Some Theatre. Arizona's newest Equity member, Johanna Carlisle- workshops were even opened up to include the larger Zepeda, attended her first Equity meeting, and long-time theatre community. Equity member Ted Raymond was presented with a copy of Topics included meet-and-greets with local artistic Performance of the Century in recognition of his contributions directors, Monologue Boot Camp, an introduction to as a Liaison Committee Member and a Trailblazer. the Alexander Technique, Bystander Training, and Making The Most of Social Media. The workshops were held at our three Equity theatres, Ensemble Theatre, Cincinnati Shakespeare Company and Cincinnati Playhouse In The Park – we are very grateful for their generosity and support!