WINTER 2017 www.equity.org.uk

Celebrating 20 years of the Equity Pension scheme Students join new deputies network Report from the TUC Congress Face value EUNICE OLUMIDE: MODELS NEED A UNION First Act Insurance is delighted to introduce Contents

News 04 Equity Pension 06 London arts manifesto Success stories 10 Progress in dance 11 Audiobooks event 10 14 A range of insurances that complement the established Cover star Equity cover: 24 Eunice Olumide 24

Features 24> • Employers’/Public Liability (when employing others and distinct from the Equity members PLI cover). 14 Student Deputies • Sets, scenery, props and costumes. 18 Meet the CDA 08 • Portable, technical equipment and instruments. 20 TUC report • Hired in equipment cover. • Buildings and contents. Campaigns 28 White Ribbon day • Business interruption. Key features include Plus 08 Meet the membership Competitive online quote and buy cover provided by HISCOX. • 30 Letters

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Christine Payne Acting for Others General Secretary Acting Class film examines helps vulnerable EQUITY MEMBERS ACROSS THE UK industry bias have taken part in Acting for Others annual bucket The shocking nature of the sexual harassment collection dates. On 16 and 23 October, casts and abuse being reported has caused us to think EQUITY COUNCILLOR DAVID JOHN asked audiences to donate to a cause close to about what more we can do to support our members REPRESENTED the union at the premier their hearts: offering support to vulnerable of The Acting Class: a documentary about members of the industry. class bias within the industry. Acting for Others is an organisation made up THE RECENT REVELATIONS Rocks and Inez Thorn. On 19 September, he spoke on a panel of 15 charities that offer “advice, emotional concerning sexual harassment in the film This produced an online publication A discussing the issues of working-class support and financial assistance to those who industry have been appalling. This Guide to Bullying - What You Can Do, plus representation in the performing arts have worked in the entertainment industry”. They behaviour is simply unacceptable and postcards and a section within the at TUC Congress House. work with actors, dancers, musicians, creative Equity will continue to defend our members members’ area of the website www.equity. David John said he was delighted to team members, front of house and backstage staff in the casting process or in the workplace org.uk/bullying alongside our existing speak at the event, adding: “Young who are in need of help. and will hold the perpetrators to account. Bullying Reporting Line. Two training days working-class talent entering the industry On 20 May, at The Actors’ Church, Covent This is an issue the union takes took place in January 2017 for is a subject close to my heart. I personally Garden, London casts competed in the West End extremely seriously and we have to use the representatives from branches, and at our have been able to make my living in this Bake Off, which raised £5,000 for the cause. moment to try and effect real and conference in May this year we ran a industry only due to the education grant In 2016, productions and events across the meaningful change. Change not just in session called ‘Tips for Dealing with system, which is sadly long gone. nations managed to collect £362,000 for Acting attitudes but in practices. Rosie Hilal from Bullying’ for our student members. “Our job as actors is to reflect the for Others, with the Prince of Wales Theatre’s Book Equity’s Women’s Committee put our case Bullying has a detrimental effect on whole of society in an authentic and of Mormon raising £42,810.33 over two weeks. brilliantly in multiple news outlets, mental well-being, and so we have also HAPPY BIRTHDAY convincing way and we need people from You can find out more about Acting for Others’ including BBC Breakfast, Sky News and worked with The Stage, the British all backgrounds and cultures to do this. work, and how to help this charity, by visiting: Newsnight. She spoke for us all. As our Association for Performing Arts Medicine This is an extremely important issue for www.actingforothers.com Manifesto for Casting sets out, we believe and Spotlight on a mental health website: EQUITY PENSION! Equity to commit to, as many members are the industry will thrive only if it adheres to www.artsminds.co.uk struggling to survive in the industry and the highest professional standards, which On behalf of Equity, Louise Grainger CAST OF MAMMA MIA! AND EQUITY’S COUNCIL JOIN IN THE many possible future members are being certainly must include those in positions of recently delivered the keynote speech at the CELEBRATIONS MARKING 20 YEARS OF THE EQUITY PENSION counted out before round one.” power and responsibility, and also increases International Comedy Conference on The film follows Tom Stocks, a the equality and diversity on stage, screen, mental health in the comedy industry. performer who had to twice turn down radio and online. In October, on World Mental Health THE EQUITY PENSION SCHEME drama school offers because he could not It takes courage for members to make a Day, the Northern Ireland General Branch (EPS) HAS CELEBRATED ITS 20TH afford the fees. Subsequently, he set up stand and speak out so publicly on this took part in an event concerning Building ANNIVERSARY, as the Novello Theatre the Actors Awareness campaign to tackle issue and it takes tremendous courage for Resilience for Arts and Freelancers and production of Mamma Mia! marks its third of class inequality within the industry. those who have been the victim of sexual members at the Welsh National Opera got consecutive year of the full cast being The documentary also features actors harassment to come forward and report the involved in raising awareness about mental signed up to the scheme. including Julie Hesmondhalgh, Christopher abuse. The union is here to support you and health in the workplace. In addition, the The EPS was set up to help Mamma Mia! Eccleston and Samuel West, who speak Distribution starts: we will treat cases reported to us in complete East of Scotland and the Bristol & West performers and creative Deputies, above, about how the industry has become more confidence. Please get in touch if you have General Branches have undertaken practitioners prepare for their and the Equity exclusive, and why a lack of socioeconomic concerns (see contacts on page 34). valuable work locally on mental health. The future and retirement. Council mark the promoting the benefits of diversity on (and behind) screen must Members’ fee free The shocking nature of the sexual East of Scotland branch set up a mental It was designed specifically Pension’s Equity membership, such as be redressed. THIS MONTH EQUITY WILL commence harassment and abuse being reported has health sub-committee this year and have for members because of their anniversary the EPS, agreements, insurance The documentary’s directors Mike distributions to performers of royalties and other caused us to think again about what more created a members’ support pack, find it on unpredicatable work lives and is and legal help to their colleagues. Wayne and Deirdre O’Neill are interested in usage payments related to their work we can do to support our members. As a their website at: www.equity.org.uk/branches the only scheme that theatre, film, The Equity Council and union staff screening the film to Equity branches, undertaken on Equity contracts, beginning with consequence, Vice President Maureen Following two motions from this year’s television and radio production also took time out from the October contact them at [email protected] Equity film and television royalties. Beattie and I will put forward proposals to Equity Conference, from the London Area companies will pay into. Council meeting to reflect on the Equity distributions will include, but are not the Council meeting in November on Annual General Meeting and the West Mamma Mia! Deputies Mark Isherwood achievements of the pension scheme. limited to, the following: Equity film and dealing with sexual harassment. & South West London General Branch, and Oli Reynolds are delighted in their Currently, the EPS is managing more television royalties; BBC, ITV, Channel 4 and On another related matter, bullying, the Equity will be appointing a member of fellow cast members’ united commitment than £117 million, and there are around Sky catch-up/On Demand services; BBC, ITV union has been working with our sister staff to support our anti-bullying and to the scheme. 8,300 people signed up to it. The EPS is and Channel 4 European Retransmission; unions in the Federation of Entertainment harassment work. “It shows that people really believe in now Aviva’s, the insurance, savings and Theatre cast album recordings. Unions on the Creating Without Conflict All organisations must constantly review the change that can come from being in investments firm, largest personal pension These are contractual payments and will campaign. A composite motion on bullying their own internal procedures to ensure Equity,” Oli said. “It’s a great thing for the scheme and it has received more than normally be paid to the agent named on the was passed at the 2014 Equity Conference they are fit for purpose. We have unfortunately union and a great thing for London £60.8 million from production companies. corresponding contract. There will be no fees or from the North & East London and had to respond to disruptive behaviour at theatres.” Mark agreed, stating that the Members can indicate which of the more commission for Equity members. For example, Northern Ireland General Branches which some of our branches and I will be looking scheme showed “the power Equity has than 270 investment funds they wish to non-members will pay 5% + VAT for BBC, ITV resulted in the creation of the Anti- into whether we need to change the rules when it comes to getting a good deal”. invest in, including Ethical and Sustainable and Channel 4 European Retransmission Bullying Working Party, composed of and procedures to ensure our democratic The work of Mark and Oli underscores Future funds. For more information contact monies. For more on Equity’s distribution Xander Black, Charlotte Cornwell, Nicky processes are protected and that all members

Philip Hartley & Mark Thomas the important role deputies play in [email protected] services contact: [email protected] Goldie, James Hamilton Welsh, Patrick can attend meetings confidently.

04 / WINTER 2017 WINTER 2017 / 05 FRONT OF HOUSE

In brief... BRANCHES SEEK ARTS PLEDGES AnnualPeter Plouviez Conference AllThe at union’s Equity 2015 were Annual saddened to hear IN LOCAL VOTE ofRepresentative the death of formerConference General will be Secretaryin London Peter on 17 Plouviez and 18 May. and The EQUITY’S LONDON BRANCHES will launch their Local Manifesto Pledges initiative on Councillordeadline for Anthony motions Booth.is noon We on are 31 October at Parliament. The campaign aims to persuade the main political parties in all London grateful12 March for and all for they amendments did for members. boroughs to sign up to five policies that will support live performance in the capital. Tributesnoon on 17to April.both will The appear 2016 ARC in the The branches’ manifesto particularly seeks to put live entertainment on the agenda in the run-up nextwill take issue place of the in magazine.Bristol on 21, 22 to London’s local elections in May. and 23 May. The document asks parties to sign up to a number of measures including enforcing the payment of industry rates for productions or events which receive local authority support; ensuring money Equity elections for professional live performance is part of multiple departments’ budgets; and creating at least one BBCThe election deal of the President, the ‘Creative Enterprise Zone’ in each borough by 2022. Council,The union the has Appeals reached Committee an and The manifesto also seeks cross-party commitment to provide professional live performance theinterim Standing agreement Orders with Committee the BBC will spaces and to establish a biannual trades council meeting for creative industries’ professionals. takeMinimum place feesin 2018. for main Nomination artists are For further information contact Paul Fleming on [email protected] papersup by 2.5% will andbe included supporting with artists the Springand walk-ons edition fees of thishave magazine. also been Nominationsincreased by 1%. will The close agreement at 12 noon, Wednesdayalso includes 25 a pre-purchaseApril. Ballot papersof Equity backs Acting Up report willcertain be sentrights. out The on dealWednesday is effective 6 June andfrom the 1 October Ballot closes2014. at 12 noon, EQUITY HAS STATED ITS SUPPORT for the recommendations Wednesday 4 July. made in the Labour party’s Acting Up report on making the performing arts more accessible and diverse. Exhibit B show Equity contributed evidence into the inquiry that produced the report and StaffEquity strongly Training opposes Day its conclusions reflect the work of the union’s campaigns, such as the censorshipA day of staff and training is extremely will take place Manifesto for Casting, Play Fair and Professionally Made Professionally concernedon Thursday, that 2 thisNovember. show All Paid. The report said that there is a “class-shaped hole” in the debate wasregional forced and to nationalclose. The offices union’s will be about access to a career in the entertainment industry. It added that: consistentclosed but positionEquity’s isGuild that itHouse “Looking at protected characteristics is critical but so too is looking at supportsoffice reception artistic freedom in London will socioeconomic background, which strongly intersects with protected ofremain expression. open and calls will be characteristics such as race and disability.” answered that are directed to the Its recommendations include revamping the Ebacc to “recognise the benefits of creative main switchboard of 020 7379 6000. subjects”, the government ordering “a review into National Minimum Wage enforcement in the Pobol y Cwm award performing arts industry by HMRC” and for broadcasters, film companies and theatre “to do more to bring on and develop working-class and diverse talent” for both onstage and behind EquityAnnual logo Conference the scenes roles. The union’sOctober 2015 meeting Annual of Equity’s CouncilRepresentative agreed Conferencea proposal towill change be thein London Equity onlogo. 17 andMembers 18 May. will The see the newdeadline logo for on motionsthe new ismembership noon on cards12 March in 2018 and forand amendments on our publicationsnoon on 17 April. soon. The 2016 ARC will take place in Bristol on 2 Stage Mgr Day OnWelsh 10 soapOctober, opera Stage Pobol Managers y Cwm acrosshas received the globe a special celebrated Bafta Stage Managementhonouring the Day,show’s an 40th opportunity to recogniseanniversary. the The importance award was of backstagepresented atproduction an event at team Roath members. SocialLock Studios media inwas Cardiff buzzing Bay. with stage managersHannah Raybould, sharing photos,director shout-outs of toBafta their Cymru, fellows, presented blogs and the all things stageaccolade management, to actor Gareth underscoring Lewis, the valuablewho accepted work it that on behalf goes on of themainly behindcast and the crew. scenes.

06 / WINTER 2017 www.equity.org.uk MEET THE MEMBERSHIP

When did you decide to make puppeteering your career? QAs a kid I went to a puppet exhibition at a Bradford TV museum, which was all [Jim] Henson’s stuff – such as things from The Muppets and a TV show called Storyteller, which I Puppet master loved. That’s where I found out about Jim Henson’s creature shop in Camden, the place where these creations were made. Iestyn Evans is a member of Equity’s Puppeteers’ Network and describes Fortunately I managed to get some work experience there and for a long time I wanted to make animatronics. I was also doing youth why the art form is firmly in fashion and how you can start with a sock theatre and as part of that there were two productions where performing and making came together. One was The Lion, The Photography Paul Stuart Witch and The Wardrobe where I built a pantomime lion that you could get into and make talk, walk and roar and then Little Shop of Horrors with the big man-eating plant.

What’s the most rewarding job you’ve ever been on? I began QThe BBC Three puppet sitcom Mongrels, which I worked on during 2009-10. It’s probably by making a the most rewarding because my company Talk to the Hand had so much input in that job. We pantomime lion decided what the puppets were going to look like; built them; performed them on set; co-ordinated that could talk, the puppetry; liaised really heavily with production on how we were going to do things. It would usually walk and roar” be a six-month build followed by a three-month What issues do you think shoot, so it took the best part of a year for us, it was very puppeteers face in the immersive. We really got to challenge ourselves on a Qworkplace? daily basis, just to get better and refine our craft. Puppeteers are regularly asked to fix the puppets they are working with, which is like assuming Why do you think there has been increased an actor will be repairing their costume or props. Fixing or interest in puppeteering in TV and film? maintaining puppets is a skilled job for a specific person, and by QI think it has developed from the exciting puppetry that has accepting that role you’re potentially putting someone out of a job, or been happening in theatre and the influence of people such as Julie you’re not getting paid enough to do that work yourself. Recently I heard Taymor who directed The Lion King, which opened on Broadway in of a production where a puppeteer performing on the show was offered 1997. Avenue Q happened shortly afterwards and was inspired by 30 quid a week to maintain all the puppets. Plus, film productions Sesame Street. Then War Horse was developed, showcasing a pencilling dates in, rather than properly booking us isn’t really completely new way of puppeteering a horse on stage, and then Walking functioning and I think we need to try to get back to: “If you need us, with Dinosaurs. People started looking at those things and thinking, you book us, and then if you don’t need us you still pay us.” When I got “What would it be like to put those techniques into film?” I also think into the industry, the standard day was around ten hours – that was the there’s a nostalgic aspect. With Star Wars and other franchises coming first TV kids’ show that I worked on, The Fimbles, and that was quite back, people wanted to make it feel like the originals, which was very sustainable. More recently, jobs have become 11, 12 hours. There are also hand-made and created (as opposed to the prevalence of computer- health and safety issues in the workplace. For example, I know generated creatures that you find in the prequels), so that brought back performers who have hurt themselves because the camera was too low doing practical effects. and they had to contort themselves to get their head and body out of shot, and then they’ve subsequently injured their back. You’re a member of Equity’s Puppeteers’ Network, which was established a year ago. Could you tell me about the What advice would you give someone Qinspiration behind this Network? who wanted to pursue puppeteering? Last year a puppeteer colleague had an experience where she wasn’t able QJust start doing it. Buy a puppet, get someone to make you a to join Spotlight because of a perceived lack of acting experience. She puppet or do it yourself – use a sock. There are now more places than argued that she had been acting with puppets her whole career, and a lot ever before where you can train and do workshops. Write to people of people have been getting puppeteering jobs through Spotlight. There who you find interesting. I went to Australia, and while I was there I was a lot of trouble with them accepting that she actually had acting saw the theatre company Royal Deluxe, known for their giant experience. She spoke to Equity and this raised further issues about the marionettes, and also a company called Creature Technology who do working lives of puppeteers and fed in to the creation of the network. I the stuff for Walking with Dinosaurs and who built How To Train Your Iestyn is concerned remember some time ago going to a meeting about puppetry with Dragon puppets. I wrote to them and said, “Can I come and visit you?” with the increasing Equity that became too caught up with a debate about what a puppeteer And everyone I wrote to was like, “Yeah, come in! Have a look!” Watch hours demanded in was and nothing really came of it. This new network is proving to be how other people do it, record yourself puppeteering, see what you TV production and much more productive. For a long time people have said, “Why isn’t think works, see what you think doesn’t work, develop an eye for it. the expectations there a puppeteers’ union?” And the answer is, “There is a performers’ I think one of the most important things in puppeteering is having an around repairing union, we just needed to start having a conversation with them so that eye for when something looks right, and the only way to develop that is

puppets Interview: Laura Gilbert they understood us better.” with practice.

www.equity.org.uk WINTER 2017 / 09 SUCCESS STORIES

Audiobook narrators joined together to celebrate their work and discuss this growing sector UNION AND AUDIBLE CHAMPION THE READER Creative team FOLLOWING THE SUCCESS of crucial to the production of an excellent ON THE FRONT FOOT IN DANCE Equity’s 2015 audiobook conference, the audiobook.” union once again brought together Laurence Howell went on to raise a UNION HAS A NEW AGREEMENT WITH HOFESH SCHECHTER COMPANY AND IS CONNECTING TO CHOREOGRAPHERS deserve fringe producers, publishers, readers, agents and toast, in celebration of the reader. fair pay alongside authors on 2 October. Staff worked with It was a lively evening, and audio the Audiobooks Working Party to host an producer Alec Reid described it as EQUITY AND HOFESH SHECHTER COMPANY have ‘Understanding Contracts for Choreographers – What Do We Need performers event to celebrate the role of the audiobook “the perfect occasion for reuniting with worked together to create a house agreement to help develop and What Do We Want?’, which highlighted key industry concerns narrator, which was held at the BFI old friends and meeting new ones,” industry best practice. including commissions, inadequate funding and exploitation of CREATIVE TEAM COUNCILLOR DAN Stephen Street Kitchen & Bar, and and that “it was a real pleasure to be The union and the National Portfolio Organisation joined forces to emerging choreographers. In addition to this, members pointed out AYLING, pictured, has worked with the supported by Audible. reminded how interesting and create a contract that guarantees decent working conditions for dancers they were troubled by unfavourable rates, and issues regarding union to ensure the forthcoming More than 150 people in attendance stimulating are the people who work working on its shows, and ensures they are paid above the Independent copyrights and royalties. This feedback will now be taken on by Equity production of The Trap at Omnibus listened to speeches from Equity audio in the audiobook industry”. Theatre Council minimum rates. as the union negotiates new choreographers’ agreements, and it was Theatre in Clapham uses solely Equity- councillor David John and from Audible’s Equity audio organiser Cathy Sweet Henny Finch, executive director of Hofesh Shechter Company, said: decided that a choreographers’ working group would be established. approved contracts for actors, stage Laurence Howell, who spoke about the said: “I am delighted after a lot of hard work “At Hofesh Shechter Company we are very proud of our sector-leading Equity creative team councillor Mickael Riviére commented that the managers and the entire creative team. booming industry. the event was such a success for our terms and conditions for artists, including our permanent company of event demonstrated that there was a “real thirst for knowledge and for “It is important to recognise that the David said: “It’s important the raise members. We are grateful to Audible for dancers who come from all over the world to work with us. I’m delighted doing the right thing,” and the meeting provided an opportunity to union’s Professionally Made awareness of the contribution of the its support and we could not have done we were able to work with Equity to create a house agreement that is in collaborate in the pursuit for better, fairer working conditions for Professionally Paid campaign is about narrator. Just like the actor performing a well it without the invaluable help from the line with their terms and conditions and hope that other dance companies all choreographers. fair pay and conditions for all members, written play, the audiobook narrator is Audiobooks Working Party.” will follow our lead and adopt best practice for their artists as well.” including those in the creative team,” Paul Fleming, live performance industrial organiser at Equity, agreed, explained Ayling. “So as the councillor stating: “Our new agreement with Hofesh is a meaningful testament to Equity and One Dance that represents directors, designers and the union’s commitment to standing with contemporary dancers seeking UK hosted an event fight directors, it is utterly sensible that I Equity at Edinburgh to achieve decent terms and conditions in their sector. for choreographers should be leading the way, and “Our constructive negotiations with Hofesh are helping us begin to in July where they demonstrating that it is, of course, establish industry standards on which all contemporary dancers can spoke about the possible to work on the fringe, pay EQUITY ATTENDED THE EDINBURGH depend – whether freelance or in a standing company. That means pressing issues people for the work that they do and Fringe Festival, to support performers and assurances around rates, holidays, sick pay and, most importantly, an facing their sector acknowledge the skills of all the people raise awareness of the union’s work. ongoing voice over the evolution of the sector that needs their talent.” working on the production.” Organisers Emmanuel de Lange and Meanwhile, in July, Equity and One Dance UK hosted an event When asked what advice he would Stephen Duncan-Rice visited casts and for choreographers to speak about pressing issues facing their give to companies who want to make met with a range of members, from actors industry. Almost 40 choreographers, and representatives from sure their teams are properly paid, Ayling to street performers, and the union hosted both organisations, gathered at The Hospital Club in London. said: “Do not be frightened if you don’t 11 events. These included a discussion on A panel was chaired by Equity head of live performance understand the contractual situation. disability in the entertainment industry, a Hilary Hadley, and featured One Dance UK chief executive Just ask for help – because there is ‘Funny Money’ talk on payment in the Andrew Hurst, Equity Dance Committee member Sara plenty out there.” comedy sector, drop-in advice zones and Wookey and previous Equity Choreographer Committee www.equity.org.uk/made&paid The Sanctuary – a calm, quiet space member Maggie Rawlinson. away from the noise of the festival.

Phil Adams, Mark Thomas Attendees got involved in the panel discussion,

10 / WINTER 2017 www.equity.org.uk WINTER 2017 / 11 SUCCESS STORIES

Equity’s Los Angeles garden party was hosted by Equity President IMPROVING HAIR Malcolm Sinclair, top, and was AND MAKE-UP FOR enjoyed by members living BAME PERFORMERS or working in LA FOLLOWING CONCERNS ABOUT THE HAIR AND MAKE-UP TREATMENT OF BAME PERFORMERS, EQUITY AND BECTU ARE EQUITY NETWORKS CONNECT PILOTING A NEW TRAINING SCHEME

ACROSS NORTH AMERICA EQUITY HAS WORKED WITH BECTU to pilot a new training programme for hair and UNION HOSTS EVENTS IN LOS ANGELES AND TORONTO AND ITS WEST COAST NETWORK MEETS ON 5 NOVEMBER make-up artists, providing them with the knowledge and techniques necessary to work with black and Asian performers. The two EQUITY RECENTLY HOSTED ITS FIFTH unions, joined within the Federation of ANNUAL LA GARDEN PARTY, celebrating five years West End Deps meet to Entertainment Unions (FEU), have come of the US West Coast Network. Equity’s member-led together to fund vital workshops that will networks in the US and Canada are designed to bring discuss effect of social media improve conditions for minority ethnic actors. members together who are living or working outside Actor Peggy-Ann Fraser raised concerns the UK. about the inequality in behind-the-scenes President Malcolm Sinclair was the guest of EQUITY HELD ITS ANNUAL treatment to Equity. Black performers’ needs, honour at the Beverly Hills function, which was DEPUTIES’ AFTERNOON TEA in she explained, have not been met. Frequently, sponsored by Sipsmith Gin. The network party has September, to celebrate the hard work they have been asked to do their own become an established event at the close of the and tireless efforts of the Deps to make-up, or get hair cut by their personal Emmys season as it is held the Saturday after the final improve conditions for their fellow cast barbers. Fraser described her own experiences Liverpool join in the branch award ceremony. members, and the industry as a whole. of being left “ashy-faced or with a grey Previous to the party, the union hosted its third Deputies gathered at the Clore complexion” due to improper foundation use, celebrations across the UK annual Toronto International Film Festival reception in Studio for tea, cakes and a lively and of being “put in a scarf” by stylists who Toronto and a casting Q&A, which more than 70 discussion on the role of social media don’t know how to work with afro hair. EQUITY BRANCHES HOLD A RANGE OF EVENTS throughout the year: from members attended. In Los Angeles there was a within theatrical productions. Equity Peggy-Ann met with Equity’s Minority Ethnic campaigning, summer picnics to guest speakers and 2017 included shows to programme of activities including a Q&A with a panel dance councillor Nicholas Keegan and Members Committee and Bectu’s Hair and celebrate the union’s Year of Variety. The Liverpool and District General Branch of leading casting directors, arranged in partnership Donmar Warehouse casting director Make-up Branch, to find a solution to this took the opportunity to mark their summer social by presenting 86-year-old actor with Spotlight, plus a series of meetings with studios Alastair Coomer spoke at a Q&A issue. They identified that the problem was John Swindells with a certificate to mark his membership. John, who starred in and employers by Equity organisers. about this subject, and deputies caused by a lack of training, a lack of British TV drama series Z Cars as Sargent Ted Bowman, now lives in Canada but For members on the West Coast of the US, the spoke about the effect Facebook, correct equipment and a lack of BAME was born in Wavertree, Liverpool. Despite moving across the ocean in 1973, John fourth annual New York reception will take place on Twitter and Instagram had on models for artists to train with. Accordingly, recently wrote to ask to join his hometown branch. He was, of course, welcomed 5 November, find out more at:[email protected] their working lives. the two unions developed a course to plug the with open arms. Find your local branch at www.equity.org.uk/branches

Phil Adams, Rex Features, Phil Hartley Phil Adams, Rex Features, knowledge gap.

12 / WINTER 2017 www.equity.org.uk WINTER 2017 / 13

ere President Malcolm Sinclair addressed the crowd of 260 members. STUDENT DEPS A new VOICE for students Roze Elisa is one of Equity’s newest student deputies. She will be part of the network that will engage students with the union, provide support and enable them to shape the future of the union

Photography Phil Adams Words Laura Gilbert

quity is creating a brand new student deputy network to help empower its members. The union will use this new scheme to engage students, provide them with a support network and actively involve these members in democratic structures. In turn, this will enable students to help shape the union’s future. Equity has well-established networks for members working in various fields, including Opera and the West End, and believes it is now time to replicate this model. Student membership was established in 1998, and there are currently almost 5,000 people in drama and creative practice programmes across the country carrying Equity cards. The union is now asking students to put themselves forward and act as deputies for their schools and universities. Third-year East Fifteen student Roze Elisa has done just this. When asked why she believed it was important for drama students to unionise, she underscored the importance of “getting prepared”. “You should know your rights, and how far people can go with you or else they will take advantage,” she stated, “and Equity helps you not get taken advantage of.” Having moved from the Netherlands to the UK to pursue her training, Roze initially “didn’t know a lot about the British world I was going into”, and her school was particularly keen on encouraging its students to join Equity. “I never really There are looked into it before,” she admitted. “I knew unions were a thing for other jobs, but I Rae niscurrently eos eosamus almost didn’t really realise it was a thing for performers as well.” After visiting Equity’s dendant5,000 aut Equity que website, she became a staunch advocate for the union’s work. comnismembers ut ullam, in Roze believes that student deputies can aid their peers by explaining the benefits vendicidestdrama quisinveni and of union membership. “I feel a lot of us are joining simply because it’s part of what sundiscreative as etur practice serios you have to do, you just join, the end,” she explained. “People don’t really vercillectoprogrammes cusa pa vel magnimi libusan

14 / WINTER 2017 www.equity.org.uk WINTER 2017 / 15 STUDENT DEPS

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01905 706050 [email protected] bruford.ac.uk www.theataccounts.co.uk Rose Bruford College, Burnt Oak Lane, Sidcup, DA15 9DF *Subject to validation

Being a student deputy is an The Evelyn Norris Trust Was established in 1968 to amazing opportunity and I feel provide financial support very lucky to be in at the beginning” for members of the theatrical and concert professions who are in need of rest, recovery or a recuperative holiday. research what [Equity] is, and I think if there’s more year. Roze is particularly excited by the networking aspect of awareness then if there is an incident or anything, they will this role. “A very big reason of why I wanted to do this is If you’ve recently suffered know where to go, because they know what they signed up for because I thought ‘I’ll meet so many new people and get an illness, or needed medical and know what can help them.” different perspectives’,” she said. “When you’re out there in the treatment and think a short Equity will provide its student deputies with the training industry, then you may recognise people, and be able to say convalescent break and resources needed to know how to respond to other ‘oh, I know them, maybe we can help them’, or if you need would aid recovery, or if you’ve students’ concerns. This in turn will help create a dialogue someone for a project you might say ‘oh, I remember them been suffering from ill health between the union and its members, which will allow from Equity, because I met them there.’ and need to ‘recharge your students to regularly inform Equity about the issues they face “I honestly don’t understand why people would not want batteries’ then you should – whether this is the cost of drama schools, concerns about to become a student deputy,” Roze concludes. “It’s an amazing apply for funding. how Brexit will affect international students, or unpaid work opportunity, and I feel very lucky to be in at the beginning.” taken alongside their studies. Low and no pay issues are Equity student and events co-ordinator Amy Dawson said: For information on particularly important for students, and Roze believes her “Engaging students with the union early on in their career is a how to apply you can either contact peers deserve proper compensation. “People expect you to really positive step for Equity, and being able to engage in our [email protected]. work for free, because it’s part of the drama world, but it democratic processes is a wonderful opportunity for our ring us on 0207 831 1926 shouldn’t be,” she said. “We should still have the same rights student members. or visit our website as other workers. It’s a service you’re providing, and you “I hope that with this network we are able to find out what www.equitycharitabletrust.org.uk should get paid for it.” the issues are for students, and foster stronger relationships where you can follow the link to the In the interest of increasing student representation within with drama schools. Giving student members a greater voice Evelyn Norris Trust and download the union’s democratic structure, two members of the will be beneficial to all of us. They may even end up becoming an application. network will be elected to attend the union’s annual future leaders of the organisation!” conference. Outside of this, the deputies will meet twice a Find out more: [email protected] www.equitycharitabletrust.org.uk

16 / WINTER 2017 www.equity.org.uk CASTING DIRECTORS’ ASSOCIATION

have a female play this character? Can we have a BAME family?” But I believe commercials are being broader now, whether it’s a disability or greater racial diversity.

What are the challenges facing Three a diverse workforce in the commercial sector? S: A lot of the casting suites do not have disability access. I remember casting a wheelchair user in a film and I had to use the courtyard of the casting suite! THINKING It can be a problem for commercial casting, A: The Casting Directors’ Association’s Shakyra Dowling, Tree because the client expects it to be in a casting suite. Petts and Andrea Clark share their thoughts on current S: Plus, there is often the need for lights and a backdrop – which is what casting suites are casting practice and Equity’s Manifesto for Casting suited for. It’s those physical changes to a building that’s going to make a huge difference Photography Phil Adams to the amount of people we can bring through the door.

How do you get people away What’s the ethos behind the CDA? questions asking about the character: with from using stereotypes? Tree: It’s about professionalism within commercials you’re selling a product. S: You may be surprised about how many the industry and pushing a few boundaries – S: The questions should be “What’s my shot?” times clients agree to our suggestions. I specifically regarding diversity. or “What eye-line do you want me to have” and worked on a film and there were 36 characters Shakyra: As a group, we don’t just look at nothing more, there is very little space for and only two of these were women. I had a Spotlight actors. We want to find new people character development. quiet word with the director, saying: “That coming into the industry - kids who want to be social worker, the judge, can we think about actors, but they’re not going to a stage school, Do you have any tips for actors on them being female?” And he agreed. There was they’re not from a background where mum how to deal with rejection? also one character which was described as an would be able to pay for ballet lessons. T: I say this to actors a lot – because I used to ‘Irish underground street-fighting boxing Andrea: We’re also there to help each other, to be an actress and understand – when you walk manager’, and I said “What would be great is if share information with each other, whether it’s out the room, let it go. we could give this role to a real character about “I’ve got a problem with a contract”, or S: And know that casting directors brought actress” and they ran with it because the “Hey, I found this really great girl, you ought to you in because we think you are the one who’s female producer made that happen. My job meet her, I hear you’re casting this”. going to get a job, we don’t bring anyone in as isn’t just about bringing the right people to the a random, because it reflects badly on us. table; it is part of the creative process. What advice would you give to actors starting off in the industry? Why did the CDA launch the How can the Manifesto for Casting T: They need to understand the business side. UK’s first ever award to honour the help improve equality and diversity? Because currently we’re finding a lot of actors casting director? T: Major organisations are aware of, and aren’t turning up to their castings. Every actor T: It’s about raising awareness of casting support, the Manifesto. What we really need is who doesn’t turn up takes a place from an directors in the industry. I have said for years: the advertising agencies to write inclusive actor who will turn up, and it’s losing someone “Why don’t casting directors get an Oscar? casting. We can influence so much from our else a job. Why don’t they get a BAFTA?” The wardrobe end, but we need the people who are writing A: Make sure you’ve got up-to-date gets it, the art department gets it, so why not the spots to be very inclusive. However, I think photographs, CVs and showreels. casting directors? the more of us that are asking for it, the more A: We are celebrating the art of casting, the they’re going to be including everybody. I think How can an actor stand out at an skill and the creativity that’s involved in it the Manifesto helps with this awareness. I audition and get noticed? - and the business side as well. know that commercials are so powerful – they T: Be prepared: learn your lines and deliver. get into everybody’s living room and the more S: Commercials can be 30 seconds or less. What was the motivation behind inclusive casting we can have, the more society There’s no chance for you to mess that up. the CDA Diversity Award? will accept diversity as a whole, and that is You’ve got a seven-minute slot with us, you S: It was Casting Networks that wanted to The CDA want so important. have to come in and do a job. sponsor the award, and they came up with a physical changes A: So many people do casting now, the few ideas for awards, and diversity stood out to casting suites industry has exploded in the last 20 years. So What specific skills are needed to for all of us. That awareness needs to be raised to allow better it’s great that Equity’s Manifesto sets out your perform in commercials? within the industry, from the level of the access and blueprint for ideal practice. It comes back to T: To deliver immediately. Usually you’re not writers right through to the top creators. for advertising why the CDA is important – we’re here to help playing someone that far away from you, so T: We often get a script through and we ask agencies to write new casting directors and to uphold personality is key. I don’t want loads of the producer “Can we broaden this out? Can we inclusive material professional values.

18 / WINTER 2017 www.equity.org.uk WINTER 2017 / 19 TUC CONFERENCE

Part of the movement: Councillors Emmanuel Kojo, Mary Lane and Adam Burns, left and above. Right, Councillor Jean Rogers celebrating her TUC award with members of the Brighton & Sussex branch and Equity’s TUC delegation. Opposite, General Secretary Christine Payne

ability to transport instruments across prejudice the self-employed and we are a long borders for the purpose of touring is an way from parity of treatment,” due to the essential part of being able to do your job and policy’s use of a minimum income floor (MIF). earn a decent living.” “We need to call for the MIF to be abolished,” Together we Adam Burns spoke to another Composite he said, “it is harming our work force and is Motion on Monday that included an Equity increasing work poverty levels”. addendum about holiday pay rights. He stated: There was a tribute at TUC Congress to “Freelance workers must not be denied emergency and public sector workers who had employment rights and our right to rest,” and framework, exposing exploitative agents and been involved in the major incidents which are stronger critiqued the recent Taylor Report, stating its lobbying the government to recognise the right have troubled the UK this past summer, recommendations “if implemented would of self-employed workers). The variety including the London Bridge and Manchester undermine the rights of atypical workers.” councillor said: “We need help to campaign Arena attacks, and the Grenfell fire. Stephen Equity gave, and received, support from its fellow unions on a wide range of issues including On Tuesday morning, Mary Lane proposed against the closure of live entertainment Spence spoke on the Fire Brigades Union’s Universal Credit, Brexit, the closure of live entertainment venues and Grenfell Tower the union’s Motion on Valuing Entertainment venues threatened by developers wanting to Motion considering the latter, commenting Workers, asking Congress to support unions turn them into luxury flats and for the Agent “Whether in their workplace or in their homes, working in the entertainment sector (for of Change to be fully incorporated into arts and entertainment workers need Photography Andrew Wiard example, through lobbying for a licensing law planning laws.” This motion also passed. firefighters… The UK is the fifth largest Louise McMullan seconded the Artists economy in the world. Don’t tell me we Union of England Motion on the 1% for Art cannot afford it.” he TUC Congress is the annual conference. Councillor Jean Rogers and Home Office criteria for the existing visa Scheme, stating: “The motion speaks to the On Tuesday afternoon, Equity Councillor meeting of the UK unions. It is members of the Brighton & Sussex General regimes, let alone the possible future regimes need we have as a movement to reclaim access Jean Rogers became the first Equity member to where the trade union movement Branch also attended on the Tuesday. under Brexit. to art for working people. ‘Yes, it is bread we ever receive the TUC’s Women’s Gold Badge. T decides its priorities, and how to act On the Sunday evening, Christine Payne “Alongside the other unions involved in this fight for, but we fight for roses too’ is not just a TUC General Secretary Frances O’Grady gave a on them, in the following 12 months. spoke to a Composite Motion, which included debate we call on the government to secure the pretty song, it is the expression of a right that tribute to Jean. She said: “Jean has done Representatives put forward and vote on Equity’s Motion on Brexit asking Congress to future of EU workers living in the UK.” The we as working people have to enjoy the good incredible work with Equity, campaigning for motions. Equity sent a delegation comprising lobby for fair treatment of EU nationals and Motion passed. things in life, beyond our basic needs.” everyone in the arts, and challenging of General Secretary Christine Payne, deputy Irish workers post-Brexit. Emmanuel Kojo seconded the Musicians’ David John seconded the Public and unfairness, particularly the double for the general secretary Stephen Spence, The General Secretary said: “Creative Union’s Motion on the Convention on Commercial Services Union’s Motion, giving a discrimination faced by older women in acting. policy development officer Louise McMullan workers are highly skilled – but – because of International Trade in Endangered Species. speech about the effects of Universal Credit on She’s a much-loved member of the TUC and Councillors Mary Lane, Adam Burns, their unpredictable income and working He said: “This may seem on the surface to be Councillor David John gave a speech about the Equity members. He explained: “Universal Women’s Committee, and we’re lucky to have David John and Emmanuel Kojo to the patterns they do not always fit neatly into quite a niche issue. However, for musicians the effects of Universal Credit on Equity members Credit in its current form clearly does her fighting our corner.”

20 / WINTER 2017 WINTER 2017 / 21 Member offers In 1882, the great actor manager Sir Henry Irving founded the Actors’ Benevolent Fund Equity membership entitles you to a wide variety of discounts, from photos to the with a promise to help actors, Phoenix club; see below for a selection. Go online for a full list: www.equity.org.uk/discounts actresses and stage managers experiencing hardship due to alexander technique Scotland-based photographer Zédel and Colbert. See the Rex Restaurant accident, illness or old age. Individual lessons at Gilbert Street, Nr Aly Wight is offering a 10% discount off website: www.rexra.com. for details of the Bond St, London. 30% discount to headshots and location shots to members, different eateries. The offer is for an Equity members. Twenty-six years of teaching see www.alywight.com member and up to five guests (i.e. six performers; supporting improved poise and people in total). You need to show a valid confidence, preventing backache and vocal phoenix artist club Equity card as proof when you arrive at the strain. For info phone Kate Kelly 0845 Equity members get 50% off annual restaurant. 3479389 www.alexandertec.net membership, at this private members’ club and licensed bar for professionals in the stage newspaper cinema tickets entertainment industry and their guests, Equity members can have 10% off an Discounted tickets when showing Equity open Mon-Sat 10.30am-2.30am (last entry annual subscription. This is available on card: Queens FilmTheatre Belfast, 1am). Hot food served in the brasserie until both print and digital editions. Go to the Over a century If you are in need of Pictureville Bradford, Watershed Bristol, 9.30pm. Sunday open 12 noon – 1.30 am. website: http://subscriptions.thestage. support please visit our Cinema 3 Canterbury, Chichester Cinema Entertaining entertainers since the eighties, co.uk and select the version you require. later, the Fund website, or call us to find at New Park, Robert Burns Centre Film this “jewel in the ground”. Annual Remember to include the code EQUI in remains true to out about how the Fund Theatre Dumfries, Edinburgh Filmhouse, membership is £200 reduced to £100 on the Promotional Code box. might be able to help you. that promise. All enquiries are treated Hull Screen, Adam Smith Theatre presentation of your paid-up Equity card. in the strictest confidence. Kirkcaldy, Showroom Sheffield, NFT. Join online or phone the club during the travel lodge day. Located beneath the Phoenix Theatre, Travelodge offer 5% discount on 020 7836 6378 dance studios 1 Phoenix Street, Charing Cross Road, bookings through their Business Account actorsbenevolentfund.co.uk £60 off Pineapple Studios Annual London WC2H 8BU. Tel: 020 7836 1077, Service. To register set up an account, go Registered charity number 206524 Membership. Equity members get £60 off www.phoenixartistclub.com to www.travelodge.co.uk Click on the annual membership to Pineapple Dance Login/Sign up button on the top right of Studios in Covent Garden, London (usually rex restaurants the menu. Choose Business and then costs £160). Additional benefits of Chris Corbin and Jeremy King are keen follow the Sign Up steps quoting Equity as membership include 25% off all full-price supporters of the theatre and they have the Business name. clothing at the Pineapple store opposite the arranged for all members to receive 10% studio in Covent Garden. Members can visit the off any bill at their London restaurants. q-park studios at any time for classes or to meet These are: The Wolseley, The Delaunay, Equity and Q-Park have teamed up to We can provide grants for: friends and colleagues. Two passport size The Counter at The Delaunay, Brasserie provide Equity members with discounted photographs are required. Claim in person with parking in London and other major cities. • Childcare your Equity card at Pineapple Dance Studios, 7 The rates represent a 15% discount Langley Street, London WC2H 9JA. Tel 020 across the day with a special flat rate of • SEN Assessment & Therapy 7836 4004. www.pineapple.uk.com £6.00 for London parking from 6pm to • Uniform & Kit Special offer 2am. To take advantage of the Equity hair removal discount you need to pre-book your • School Trips Pulsar-permanent hair removal and skin parking. Follow this link to do this: treatments. Pigmentation, spots, photo- www.equity.org.uk/parking Supporting the children of • Clubs & Activities rejuvenation and more. IPL-intense pulsed light therapy. More advanced than laser: Yoga actors from birth to graduation • Times of Crisis never shave again. For men and women – Breeze Yoga Beckenham, Kent BR3 5HZ all skin and hair types. 10-20% discount give 10% discount on all their drop in • Sixth Form for Equity members. Minimum fee applies classes: www.breezeyoga.co.uk Our children are our future and their to house visits. Contact Dr Succar on Fierce Grace Brixton - Hot Yoga, SW9 well-being is of the greatest concern to us. • Apprenticeship 020 8848 8288 or www.natura.org.uk 9LP, 15% Equity discount is only available in person at reception with valid Equity Actors pursuing their chosen profession face • University ping pong weaudition/werehearse card. www.fiercegracebrixton.co.uk many difficulties but, when they are parents, Ping Pong is offering Equity members Yotopia Yoga and Pilates, Covent Garden, eating at their dim sum restaurants 15% off WeAudition/WeRehearse is an WC2H 9QJ 15% discount on class passes those problems can multiply... their total bill. www.pingpongdimsum.com online video chat tool that helps on production of Equity membership card. Juliet Stevenson, ACT Ambassador Please do get in touch actors audition, or find a partner to http://yotopia.co.uk rehearse or self tape with, from photography actorschildren.org home. The website is offering Equity HCK Photography is offering Equity Some parents seek one-off help. Some families are in [email protected] members 50% off by signing up and please note: Equity does not endorse members headshots/publicity shots for using the code EQUITY50. at the third-party services provided in these touch with ACT for many years. 020 7636 7868 £95, a saving of £155. . For more www.weaudition.com/union membership offers. They are made available information contact Kit at: 020 7112 8499. on the request of the vendors. www.hckphotography.co.uk/equityoffer

22 / WINTER 2017 www.equity.org.uk WINTER 2017 / 23 MODELS

I was first scouted as a model at fourteen. It happened at least five times before I gave it a chance. Growing up in Edinburgh, it just wasn’t something I thought of as a credible career path. I was a total geek and was wrapped up in academia and athletics. Modelling is a highly rewarding industry but it takes a huge Fac amount of resilience to become established. ing I grew up in the Wester Hailes area of Edinburgh, more synonymous with Trainspotting than the modern tourist trail. Many of the people I grew up with have unfortunately passed away, or have serious social issues that they are still trying to overcome. I did not take up the opportunity to move to London initially because I was so young and my mother wouldn’t give me permission to move. We discussed it and we FACTS both felt it was imperative that I had a good education. Eunice Olumide is a supermodel and actress who was Attending university and finishing my education gave me a certain strength of character and grounded me. Since I had awarded an MBE this year for services to the arts. Here, neither two parents, nor monetary support, education helped to she discusses modelling and why the industry needs Equity make me feel like I was capable of achieving my goals and taught me how to cope in a foreign environment. Photography Martin Hunter Pretty much my entire career I never admitted to being a model. People have so little understanding of how the industry works, and since there are so many different types of modelling eg, glamour, lifestyle, fashion etc, it disturbed me that the greater public knew so little of what it meant to be a fashion model. I recoiled at the thought of anyone thinking I was some

Eunice believes there has been a positive shift in the modelling industry and is encouraged by Condé Nast hiring African diaspora publishers such as Vanessa > Kingori and Edward Enninful

24 / WINTER 2017 WINTER 2017 / 25 MODELS

It is essential for models to unionise because we are often exploited. The industry needs to recognise that the product is a human being”

sort of glam queen with an easy life. In reality, you are only control over your image and you have little protection if you as good as your last job and the work pace is gruelling no arrive at a job and they want things from you which go matter how much fun or how well paid the job is. Over the against your core beliefs or were not explained to you in years I have taken a step back from modelling largely advance to accepting the job. Agents also often give advice because of agents with unsympathetic attitudes. Bookers in their own interest and not yours. For example, an agent just couldn’t understand that I didn’t want to advertise told me I was fired but then backtracked and moved me off certain products that I deemed harmful. the mainboard because I chose to go for an acting role. I was devastated as it was clear to me that I was being I adore the late Coco Chanel. She was unorthodox and punished for not taking the job they wanted me to do. unashamed in everything she did. This is what I love It broke my trust and highlighted how unprofessional and about fashion. I just love the revolutionary and inspirational unregulated some top agents can be. aspects of it, not following the mundane. I left the industry but started working again a few years ago, joining Vivienne I got so tired of being made to feel like my skin was too Westwood’s Climate Revolution as well as modelling the T dark or my hair was too curly. Wearing my hair natural shirt she designed, alongside Peter Capaldi, to support the was always really important to me and was practically junior doctors campaign. I’ve realised that as I am unheard of ten years ago. As a direct result of my education, established, I could now work with brands that I believed I was very familiar with the complexities of colonialism and in, such as the Illamasqua campaign I shot wearing the Sex how they have impacted the psyche of particularly Africans Pistols original clothing, Toms or for The Body Shop. The and African diaspora scattered across the world. I knew industry has many downfalls but let us not forget that it’s from a young age that having straight hair was considered one of the only industries in the West where women ‘good’ and having Afro hair was considered ‘bad’. Had I consistently get paid more than men to do the same job. accepted this I would have had to grow to hate who I really Also, there are very few jobs where you wake up every day was and I had great difficulty doing that. Refusing to relax and work with a completely different set of people, in a my hair meant I was dropped and unsigned over the years different location. It becomes a lifestyle, a way of living. for again being ‘difficult to work with’. I never had a problem with my hair being styled for a job but I hated There has been a shift in the modelling industry having to ‘Europeanise’ myself to be booked. I also hated over the past two to four years. It has become more turning up to shoots where hairdressers from the length inclusive in terms of skin colour and for alternative looks in and breadth or the UK and Europe tried to smooth your general, such as albino or people with skin conditions, hair with water spray, not understanding that that made it which is brilliant to see. Also, large companies such as even more curly. I had to accept that bread and butter jobs Condé Nast are at the forefront of hiring African Diaspora such as hair and bridal or hair dressing jobs were simply not publishers such as Vanessa Kingori or Edward Enninful. obtainable. I mean, can you remember ever seeing a model This is completely miraculous and a necessity in terms of of African descent on the cover of any bridal magazine, changing attitudes towards people of colour, which is more never mind reputable commercial fashion magazines? In than just a few hundred years out of date. my lifetime all of the Afro representations in the UK were of women wearing weaves or wigs, which I found very difficult It is essential for models to unionise because we are often to digest and fought hard against. This can lead to people exploited. In our industry you are not dealing with an booking you less as they feel you have an attitude, inanimate object; the product is a human being. Agents and reinforcing the typical stereotype of women of colour. photographers really do in many ways have far too much @euniceolumide / www.euniceolumide.com

Equity is the trade union for models

IF YOU WORK AS A PROFESSIONAL fighting to recover thousands of pounds for MODEL, Equity is the trade union for you. models following the collapse of the high-profile The union’s Models Network is fighting to improve agency FM Models. If you are owed money by this standards in the industry, so if you have a friend agency, or want further information about the or colleague working as a professional model, Models Network, please contact Emmanuel de > encourage them to join. The union is currently Lange at [email protected]

26 / WINTER 2017 www.equity.org.uk WINTER 2017 / 27 CAMPAIGNS oyTheal Theatrical Fund

The RTF helps people from ALL areas of Rthe entertainment industry – not just actors London and singers – but dancers, stage Brighton Project Diamond management, directors, front of house results disappoint and backstage staff. leading If you have worked professionally for a THE CREATIVE DIVERSITY NETWORK showbusiness reasonable period of time and are accountants (CDN) released their first findings from - The Stage Project Diamond in August. Created by experiencing financial hardship due to broadcasters BBC, Channel 4, ITV and Sky, sickness or injury, we may be able to help. and supported by Pact and Creative Skillset, Over 50 years of excellence the project was established to monitor diversity within the TV industry, and to provide Contact us on 020 7836 3322 Breckman & Company “detailed, consistent and comprehensive All applications for help are treated in Chartered Certified Accountants, . reporting” on this issue. the strictest confidence Registered Auditors The report is a - much overdue - first insight into what the TV industry looks like. However, 11 Garrick Street, London WC2E 9AR 49 South Molton Street, London. 95 Ditchling Road, Brighton. more information is required to understand the Email: [email protected] W1K 5LH BN1 4ST nature and extent of under-representation on Tel: 020 7499 2292 Tel: 01273 929 350 and off screen. www.trtf.com Information by broadcaster, genre and job Reg Charity No. 222080 www.breckmanandcompany.co.uk role will be crucial to discovering where progress is being made and where greater CAMPAIGN AGAINST attention needs to be applied. Without that level of detail the industry will only be held 134 x 92 flyer.indd 1 12/09/2012 11:50 back from the progress all parties want and T HE Notice from Equity need to make. ROYAL VARIETY CHARITY MALE VIOLENCE F O R M E R L Y THE ENTERTAINMENT ARTISTE S ' BENEVOLENT FUND It is disappointing that only a quarter of the UNION BACKS WHITE RIBBON CAMPAIGN AND ENCOURAGES returns were made. Equity will build on its CELEBRATING OVER 100 YEARS OF CARE FOR MEMBERS OF THE ENTERTAINMENT PROFESSION MEMBERS TO SHOW THEIR SUPPORT ON 25 NOVEMBER Count Me In campaign that asks its members Royal Variety Charity, Brinsworth House, 72 Staines Road, Twickenham, Middx. TW2 5AL MIGHT THE UNION BE HOLDING to make sure they are being counted and the 020 8898 8164 / www.royalvarietycharity.org / www.royalvarietyperformance.org MONIES FOR YOU FROM THE 1990s? union will also work with the industry to make EQUITY IS PARTNERING WITH WHITE RIBBON CAMPAIGN UK in the sure that members are receiving the request lead-up to 25 November, the International Day for the Eradication of Violence for their information. We are delighted to have reached an amicable resolution of the Against Women. The union and the charity will work together to encourage male longstanding problem of how to use the monies received by the members to wear a white ribbon on this day, and show their support for this cause. Founded in Canada in 1991, the White Ribbon Campaign was created by men union around 1995 and, known as the “Unknown Funds.” who wanted to oppose gendered violence, and to encourage other men and boys to Russian director The Royal Variety Charity assists those who’ve worked professionally in stand with women and girls in pursuit of equality. the entertainment industry and are in need of help. The charity strives to support all those, both young and old, who’ve worked on the stage, in An important part of the resolution is that Equity undertakes to meet Recently, the UK branch of this charity has reached out to unions in order to detained in Moscow the wings, in front of a camera, or behind it, as well as all those who have communicate with men directly in their workplace. spent their lives working in the numerous support industries dedicated the claim of any members or non-members who believe and can to entertainment. Richard Murgatroyd, trade union campaign manager for White Ribbon UK, said: produce evidence to show that the Union received residual “We believe that the progressive vision of Equity, with its emphasis on equality, EQUITY’S The Royal Variety Charity owns and manages its own residential and solidarity and empowerment, naturally gels with our campaign to end gender-based INTERNATIONAL nursing care home for entertainers, Brinsworth House in Twickenham, payments due to them in respect of their performance in and also offers a nationwide grant scheme to assist those living in their violence in the workplace and beyond. Although Equity isn’t the largest trade union COMMITTEE FOR own homes wherever they reside in the UK. The Royal Variety Charity not independent TV productions retransmitted before about 1998 and in the UK it represents workers in a tremendously influential part of society.” ARTISTS FREEDOM only offers support to those who have found themselves struggling as a Flip Webster, member of the Equity Women’s Committee, said: “This issue is of (ICAF) has joined with result of ill health, financial hardship or old age, but also to the dependants that those residuals were not passed on to them. of all those who have served the entertainment industries. particular importance to the Women’s Committee. The stereotyped portrayal of other arts figures in women in the popular media as all too often the victims of violence has a negative expressing concern To request a brochure or to arrange a visit to Brinsworth House, or Therefore, if you or your agent impact on both women and men. Equity’s motion to this year’s Women’s TUC about the treatment of simply to be added to our Admissions waiting-list, please contact Sheila Conference emphasised the importance of this issue. Our members are often theatre director Kirill Serebrennikov. ICAF’s Chair Powell on 020 8898 8164 ext 207 · [email protected] wish to make a claim you should contact the compromised by these stereotypes in terms of the roles that are available to them. Rosamund Shelley said: “We support those General Secretary of Equity on Writers, commissioners and execs can do much to change this. We hope calling for an end to the house arrest of Kirill The Royal Variety Charity are the organisers and beneficiaries of the annual Royal Variety Performance... now viewed by over 152 million members of our union will wear the White Ribbon on this day and explain its Serebrennikov and would urge the Russian television viewers worldwide. 0207 379 6000

significance to those that ask.” authorities to allow him to continue to work.” Patron HM The Queen · Life-President Laurie Mansfield · Chairman Giles Cooper · Est 1908 · Reg Charity No. 206451

Rex Features, Shutterstock Rex Features, Find out more from: www.whiteribbon.org.uk

28 / WINTER 2017 www.equity.org.uk www.equity.org.uk WINTER 2017 / 29 THE PRESIDENT WRITES Letters... give the union; they wanted to be activists, so a result... more than two hundred members were there. lives and works in the city, and from there Deaf and Disabled Members Committee better about themselves and the world that had Then I flew overnight to Warsaw to booked my flight for the next day to return to my (DDMC), here is an extract from the eulogy Sophie in it. She could cheer you up with a attend a three-day EUROFIA Conference. Get in touch wife in Ireland. Rehearsals for the production written and read by DDMC member Mik look, put you in your place with another. But she To explain, FIA (Federation Internationale were to start before my planned return to Scarlet at Sophie’s funeral. wasn’t just a talented wonderful friend. She des Acteurs) is the international Have you got something to say about England. I began, therefore, to make “Some people come into your life and they was a passionate campaigner who wanted to organisation to which unions such as ours, your experience of Equity or the contingency enquiries about flights etc in the bring laughter. Some bring wisdom. Others build a better world for all. She inspired many of and SAG/AFTRA, American Equity and contents of the magazine? event that I was offered the role. Subsequently, creativity or warmth or support. Some bring us to get out, get active and to make our voices the Canadian, Australian, South American, We want to hear from you. I would drive to the village several times each friendship, some a sense of fun and excitement, heard, which she did so eloquently. Japanese and European unions belong. day in order to check emails in the hope that others a sense of ease, they’re just nice to be Many of my circle of friends met Sophie for It helps us coordinate action across Please email or write to the editor via the one would arrive with a job offer. I never heard around. Sophie Partridge brought all of these the first time at my 50th birthday party, and borders in an increasingly supranational contact information below: back. I’ve been a professional in the business things, and so much more. She was a gifted despite only meeting her once in amongst industry, and we learn ‘best practice’ from for more than 30 years and you’d think I’d be actor, who could play drama, tragedy and some drunken revelry, all of them have been each other. The Warsaw meeting was for The Editor hardened to such treatment but this has been a comedy with equal skill. Boy, could she write! heartbroken to hear of her passing. That was the European unions. Guild House most upsetting event. Her work as a writer for Disability Arts Online the effect of Sophie Partridge. She touched all Day one concentrated on dancers, a Upper St Martin’s Lane Being a jobbing actor, the £500+ I spent on showed how review and comment should be who met her, and she leaves the world a lesser section of the membership who often work London WC2H 9EG flights, trains, tubes and petrol was an done, and her creative writing was second to place without her in it. Moreover, Sophie’s I’VE BEEN TRAVELLING A LOT abroad where language differences are of Tel: 020 7379 6000 investment in my career and I accept, without none. Sophie was a natural performer, but was creative talent and passionate work for a more recently, on your behalf. little consequence, focusing in on the Fax: 020 7379 7001 equivocation, the decision not to offer me the also a generous one. She was joy to perform equal society means her loss has a massive And at your expense, of course. Never Dance Passport, in place for a number of Email: [email protected] role but given the lengths and cost I went to in with, and I count myself lucky to have done so on impact on those who never knew her. I know I business class, to reassure you, and I was years, but in need of a bit of a relaunch. We Web: www.equity.org.uk order to provide a casting option, surely a one several occasions. I was lucky to witness Sophie will miss her so much and that despite Sophie out of the country already anyway, so that were represented by our dance Councillor, line, “Thanks for attending the audition but we discover the joy of playing music live, when we being, as she herself always reminded us all, saved a bit. On my honeymoon actually, young Nick Keegan... very successfully. will not be offering you the role,” is not too worked on the Sonic Vistas project. We pixie-sized, the hole she leaves in all of our lives but enough of that... The following two days touched on Give us a no much to expect? recorded a song which we sang together, and is immeasurable. Thank you Sophie, for being in I spent three days in Los Angeles, first copyright, and Brexit (natch!). Michael Christopher had a wonderful time doing so. She went on to my life, for being in all of our lives. We love you.” of all hosting an evening event for the About ten years ago, I went to my first I recently returned from a holiday in Ireland. play music professionally which I know she loved Sophie’s family have thanked Equity and the industry. Agents, casting directors, reps FIA meeting in Copenhagen. I’d just Whilst away, I would daily drive to the local doing. She was an all-round talent, and whatever DDMC for their wishes and support during this from the studios and so on; we are in the become a Vice President and was very village to get WiFi and check for emails. I was Sophie Partridge she applied herself to she shone brightly. difficult time. The DDMC will carry on with its delighted to receive one inviting me to a final While her talent was immense, she meant drive to make the creative arts a more inclusive audition for a supporting role in a major, new Following the passing of Sophie Partridge, a so much more to all who knew her. Her warmth and diverse place in her name. musical. There was one problem - it was passionate and talented member of Equity’s and love made all who knew her feel a little The Deaf and Disabled Members Committee 5:30pm and I was asked to be in London I was in LA to speak at the annual early the following afternoon. This, however, was an extremely important gathering of our members who live career opportunity and as I had been informed there was only one other actor to be In memoriam and work in the US, who pay their seen, I was optimistic about getting the role. So I booked a morning flight and arrived in With regret it is recorded that since the publication of the last edition of Equity we have learned of the deaths of the following members: dues, and need to feel connected to the capital hours before my call time. I was Herbert Alsen-Murke, Rob Anker, John Appleton, Peter Austin, Knutt, Al Kozlik, Helmut Krebs, Erich Kunz, Sylva Langova, Donald greeted and treated with friendliness and Richard Bailey, Trevor Baxter, Emile Belcourt, Hywel Bennett, Lee Layne-Smith, Sandie Lee, Noreen Leighton, Jerry Lewis, Emmy the Equity family” great courtesy by everyone I met within the Blakeley, Anthony Booth, Dagmar Braun-Hermann, Jill Britton, Loose, Maca The Caller, Liz MacKean, Elsa Martinelli, Groucho company and after giving of my best, I left late business of ensuring our members are green about the gills. I was deeply in the day accepting that the outcome was Georgia Burke, Glen Campbell, Jon Campbell, J D Cannon, Julian Marx, Matt Mattox, Johnny Maxim, Audrey Maye, Louella Michie, receiving what is rightfully owed them suspicious of these conferences, thinking now in the hands of the casting team. Caruso, Charlotte Casey, Mary J Chapman, Mary Chappelle, Jeanne Moreau Alexander Morrow, Patricia Mort, Alfred Muzzarelli, from such studios, and we need to be a they were probably just fun freebies for all I stayed that night with my daughter, who Rosemary Clooney, Barbara Cook, Phyllis Cornell, James Coyle, Rosemary Neil-Smith, Michael Neville, Robert Nield, Monica presence in these folks’ professional lives; involved. My mood wasn’t helped on being Bernard Culshaw, John Dalby, Bill Dana, Danny Daniels, Helmut Nordquist, George Thomas Norrington, Patrick O’Connell, Frederick we met some very good people with whom greeted in my hotel room with flowers, and Dantine, Ivor Lee Davies, Elizabeth Dawn, Barry Dennen, Anton O’Neal, Alan J Osman, David Palmer (i), Ljubomir Pantscheff, Hildy we need to work. with a sumptuous goody bag. Dermota, Liz Digby-Smith, Toni Eden Parks, Ilse Pausin, Alita Petrof, Mirto Picchi, Peter Plouviez, Albert But, secondly, and mainly, I was there The following morning the English- Popwell, Simon Raverne, Matthew Roberton, India Russell, Sandi to speak at the annual gathering of our speaking group met, and within ten Avril Ellis, Thomas Gilbert Fenwick, Richard Findlay, Julian Forbes, members who live and work out there, minutes I realised this was essential. Sir Bruce Forsyth, Anne Freeman, Al Freeman Jr, Barbara Gee, Russell, Helmuth Schneider, Paul Schöffler, Irmgard Seefried, John who pay their dues, and need to feel Wherever our employers want us to work Steven Geller, James Gill, John Gordon, John C Gordon, John Gray, Shearer, Bill Shirley, Frank A Silvera, Hilda Simms, Kenny Smith, connected to the Equity family; I think the in the world, in whatever country, they Helmut Griem, Robin Griffith, Ameral Gunson, Richard Haines, Sir Rosalie Sorrels, Juliette St David, Rita Starr, Randy Stuart, Italo Tajo, speech went down OK; it was a call to must be met with a union agreement to Peter Hall, Robert Hardy, Tony Hayes, Rosetta Hightowe, Ilse David Topham, Ron Travis, Constance Wake, Larrington Walker, action and insisted on the importance of protect both our interests and the interests Hollweg, Elisabeth Hongen, Kristine Howarth, William Hoyland, Emmett ‘Babe’ Wallace, Michael Ward-Alle, Debbie Watling, Ludwig trade unions, and, in particular, our trade of the local professionals. Damian Hutchinson, Erik Jack, Charles Jagger, Georgette James, Weber, Tony Whelan, Arthur B White, Reginald Whitehead, Benjamin union. I was told it was very 1970s! I’m not We are not there yet, but only with such sure what that means, though it was meant international work and campaigning can Ann Jellicoe, Yvonne Jose, Reeves, Naseem Khan, Beryl King, Bobby Whitrow, Don Williams, Howard Witt (i) not David William Palmer as a compliment apparently. we get there. In some cases it may be possible that another member may have used the same or a similar name subsequent to the passing of the above members Anyway, a couple of young members Onward. immediately offered any help they could Malcolm Sinclair

30 / WINTER 2017 www.equity.org.uk WINTER 2017 / 31 Equity branches are your local meeting place to discuss the industry, share insights and influence the direction of the union. BRANCH UPDATE Find your local branch at www.equity.org.uk/branches

scottish variety The Sherman Theatre, Cardiff CF24 4YE home counties west general Date of next meeting: AGM 8 Nov. Contact: Philip Rapier, [email protected] Date of next meeting: TBC, usually Contact: Linda Rifkind, [email protected] 7:30pm at South Hill Park Arts Centre RG12 7PA central england general Contact: [email protected] south wales variety Date of next meeting: 11 Dec, 7.30pm. Date of next meeting: First Tuesday of The Wellington Ale House, Bennetts Hill, isle of man general month, 7.00pm. Tyn-y-Twr Tavern, Baglan Birmingham. Contact: David Edgar, Date of next meeting: TBC. The Archibald SA12 8AU Contact: Shelli Dawn, [email protected] Knox Inn Meeting Room, Onchan Contact: 01685 812779 [email protected] devon & cornwall general south yorkshire variety Next meeting: 12 Nov, 2pm. Ashtorre Rock, kent general Next meeting: TBC Contact: Old Ferry Road, Waterside, Saltash Date of next meeting: AGM 1 Nov, 5pm. [email protected] PL12 4GT Contact: Nigel Howells, The Quarterhouse Theatre, Mill Bay, [email protected] Folkestone CT201 BN. thames variety branch Contact: Marie Kelly, 07703 207878, Date of next meeting: AGM 20 Nov, 5pm. dorset general [email protected] Equity, Guild House, Upper St Martins Lane, Next meeting: 16 Nov, 7pm. Wessex XF London WC2H 9EG Contact: Studios, Dorchester. liverpool & district general Nick Putz, 020 8808 3802, [email protected] Contact: [email protected] Next meeting: AGM 1 Nov, 6.30pm. Everyman Theatre, Hope Street, L1 9BH west of england variety east of scotland general Contact: Sheila Jones, equityliverpool@ Mancunian Way Date of meeting: TBC. Inn on the Green, 2 Date of next meeting: 26 Oct, 7pm. The gmail.com Filton Road, Horfield, Bristol BS7 0PA Founders Room, Festival Theatre, Edinburgh Contact Mary Lane, 07900 848003 EH8 9FT Contact: northern ireland branch MANCHESTER & DISTRICT VARIETY BRANCH GO THAT EXTRA SMILE [email protected] Catriona Joss, [email protected] Date of next meeting: TBC Contact: Vicky Blades, [email protected] brighton & sussex general essex general Date of next meeting: First Saturday of the Date of next meeting: 4 Nov, 11am. north lancashire month,10.30am. Friends Meeting House, Ship St, Trinity Methodist Church, Chelmsford CM1 2XB & cumbria general The Manchester and District Variety becoming part of Equity. manchester & Brighton Contact: Chris Webb, 07973 465154 Contact: [email protected] Next meeting: TBC Contact: Peter Branch celebrated Equity’s Year of The branch also gathered in coaches district variety Rylands, [email protected] Variety on 31 July with a soiree attended on 23 October for their annual trip to Date of next meeting: cardiff & s wales general gtr manchester & region by the Lord Mayor of the city. Blackpool. 21 Nov, 7.30pm. Date of next meeting: TBC usually Next meeting: AGM followed by meeting. ne of england general The evening was filled with bubbly, This has been established as a Monroe’s Hotel, Manchester First Thursday of month (excl. Aug), 7.30pm. TBC Contact: [email protected] Date of next meeting: TBC Contact: Steve canapes, live music and entertainment, tradition for a number of years, but this M1 2PF Contact: Yvonne Joseph, McGuire, [email protected] as members, friends, family and local time members saw the excursion as an [email protected] dignitaries marked the 50th anniversary “extra special” day, and another bristol & west north & east london general of the Variety Artistes’ Federation opportunity to celebrate variety in 2017. general Next meeting: 11 November, 10.30am. The Date of next Arts Theatre, Great Newport St, WC2 meeting: See Branch Contact: Karen Singer, [email protected] birmingham variety Norwich NR11RT Contact: north east variety Website for details Date of next meeting: AGM 29 Nov, Peachy Mead, [email protected] Date of meeting: Contact: Last Tuesday Contact: equity. north west london general 7.30pm. Austin Sports and Social Club, of the Month (excl. Dec). The Alberta Social bristolwestgen@ Date of next meeting: 5 Nov, 11.30am. Longbridge, Birmingham B312SF east midlands variety Club, Railway Street, Jarrow, Tyne & Wear googlemail.com Royal Central School of Speech and Drama Contact: Alec Powell, 07831 115448, Date of next meeting: First Tuesday of the Contact: Steve McGuire, 0120 723 8258, Contact: Elise Harris, [email protected] [email protected] month (excl August). The Headstocks NG6 [email protected] 8SF Contact: Clive Bumstead, 07815 north wales general blackpool variety 951798, [email protected] northern ireland variety Date of next meeting: 1 Feb, 2018. Date of next meeting: First Tuesday of the Date of meeting: Contact: Equity Variety Llandudno Contact: [email protected] month, 1pm. Blackpool Cricket Club, Stanley humberside variety branch Branch dinner has been changed to Friday 24 Park FY3 9EQ Contact: Denis Askham, Date of next meeting: AGM 6 Nov, 7.30pm. November 2017 at 7.30pm in The Dockers oxfordshire general [email protected] Henry Vernone Court, Pier Street, Club, Pilot St, Belfast. Ticket Price is £20.00 Date of next meeting: AGM 22 Nov, 7.30pm. Hull HU1 1UZ Contact: Christie Clifford, Contact: Roxanne James, 07504958324 Friends Meeting House, 42 St Giles, Oxford OX1 coventry & leicester variety [email protected] Bristol Fashion 3LW Contact: [email protected] Date of next meeting: AGM 20 Nov. TBC n&w yorkshire variety The Bristol and West General Branch is cuts, and one that wishes to engage Contact: Sheila Payne, merseyside variety Date of next meeting: Third Monday of the currently celebrating its 10th anniversary members from all over the South West south & se london general [email protected] Date of next meeting: Second Monday of month, 7.30pm. George 4th Pub, Birkenshaw and was born out of a campaign against England area. The inviting branch has held Next meeting: 21 Nov, 7pm. The Actors Centre, each month, 7pm. Adelphi Hotel, Ranelagh St, BD11 2AH Contact: Valerie Jean Mann, Bristol City Council arts cuts. The group is outreach meetings to local towns, to help 1A Tower St WC2H 9NP Contact: Paul east anglia variety Liverpool, Merseyside L3 5UL Contact: [email protected], 0113 285 3848 still one made up of staunch activists, as creative practitioners outside of Bristol Valentine, [email protected]

Bernadette Delaney, Hugh Burden Bernadette Delaney, Next meeting: 13 Nov, 8pm. The Canary Club, Chris Dale (Chair), 07703 301621 they find themselves once again fighting get involved in local campaigns.

32 / WINTER 2017 www.equity.org.uk WINTER 2017 CONTACT EQUITY 2017 ACTORS’ BENEVOLENT SUBSCRIPTION ENQUIRIES 020 7670 0207 TAX AND WELFARE RIGHTS HELPLINE CHRISTMAS CARDS FUND 020 7670 0223 LIVE PERFORMANCE HELP DESK BULLYING REPORTING LINE 020 7670 0237 020 7670 0268 ON SALE NOW RECORDED MEDIA HELP DESK EQUITY DISTRIBUTION TEAM 020 7670 0228

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EQUITY STAFF . DASHING •. STEPS, GIRLS . Telephone: To call a member of Equity’s head office dial 020 7379 6000 and SOUTH EAST OFFICE at the prompt press the asterix and dial the three figure extension in brackets Jamie Briers South East Organiser THROUGH STEPS! after the relevant name below. Equity, Upper St Martin’s Lane, WC2H 9EG THE SNOW by Jeremy Swan Email: To email a member of Equity’s head office type the initial and surname in TEL: 020 7670 0229 EMAIL: [email protected] by Grant Cathro Inside: lower case with no spaces followed by @equity.org.uk Card image depicts Season’s Greetings SCOTLAND AND NORTHERN IRELAND OFFICE pantomime characters running A5 (148 x 210mm) GENERAL SECRETARY’S DEPT Lorne Boswell Scotland and Northern Ireland from the Grosvenor café to Christine Payne General Secretary (155) Adam Adnyana Organisers Equity, 114 Union Street, Glasgow G1 3QQ a theatre, text bubble reads £5.50 Louise McMullan Department head, Policy Development Officer TEL: 0141 248 2472 EMAIL: [email protected] ‘Ladies and gentlemen, this & Assistant to General Secretary (160) [email protected] is your five minute call’ Duncan Smith Head of Finance (130) Inside: Season’s Greetings Ian Manborde Equalities & Diversity Organiser (173) NORTH WEST OFFICE: Max Beckmann North West Organiser A5 (148 x 210mm) Express Networks, 1 George Leigh Street, Manchester M4 5DL £5.50 Stephen Spence Deputy for the General Secretary, TEL: 0161 244 5995 EMAIL: [email protected] . THE MUSICAL ANGEL
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Original painting used by kind permission of the artist. Original painting used by kind permission of the artist. © 2017 Barbara Peirson © 2017 Helen Cotterill ALL PRICES PER PACKS OF ˜ 34 / WINTER 2017 break a leg?

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