JANUARY/ “Sometimes, I feel discriminated FEBRUARY against, but it does not make me angry. It merely astonishes 2013 me. How can any deny themselves the pleasure of my Volume 98 company? It’s beyond me.” Number 1 --Author/Playwright EQUITYNEWS Zora Neale Hurston A Publication of Actors’ Equity Association • NEWS FOR THE THEATRE PROFESSIONAL • www.actorsequity.org • Periodicals Postage Paid at New York, NY and Additional Mailing Offices Equity’s NewYork Building Undergoing Major Renovation Creative Real Estate Deal to Bring Increased Revenues By Michael Sommers present owners of the building. “Our he ongoing Equity’s new home in North Hollywood. (Photo: CoStar) people had the transformation of Times foresight back then Square into a glittering T to recognize that retail mecca reaps a major Times Square was Equity Buys Building windfall for Equity members as going to improve its national headquarters is being some day and the transformed through a creative in North Hollywood real estate values real estate deal. alongwithitsothey NewWestern Region Headquarters An entirely new Audition held on to the land,” Center, renovated office space, a said Steven DiPaola, Will Provide More Office Space, On-Site dramatic entrance and lobby, Equity’s Assistant upgraded elevators and other Parking, Room for an Audition Center Executive Director amenities are now in various for Finance and quity has purchased a “Ultimately, if Equity had decided stages of completion at the Administration. “It is building at 5636 Tujunga to continue its lease at 6755 Actors’ Equity Building. These one of the best EAvenue in North Hollywood Boulevard, the cost multimillion dollar improvements decisions we ever Hollywood that will be the new over 20 years would have been are being made without cost to made.” Western Region headquarters. $300,000 more than it’s actually the union. As the once- “The building allows Equity costing to own our own building.” In the process, AEA even blighted area opportunity for growth and He continued: “As our expects to garner additional Artist’s rendering of the new entrance to eventually was income. It also provides long- experience has proven, revenue in the years ahead, the Equity Building in New York. renewed as a term cost savings for the purchasing the real estate that thanks in part to decisions and (Photo: Courtesy of Newmark) worldwide tourist Association,” said Steven Equity acquired in New York in agreements that its Councillors story structure located at 165 W. destination, major DiPaola, Assistant Executive 1978 and in Chicago in 2009 and staff made more than 30 46thStreet,Equitysolditin1981 retailers began to open large Director for Finance and were prudent, forward-thinking years ago. but retained the land, which stores there. During 2011, Administration, who represented strategies that have given Equity After briefly owning the 17- Equity in the negotiations. (continued on page 5) yields rental income from the (continued on page 4)

over the life of the agreement, diem (20% in the first year, with Council Ratifies New SET retroactive terms for shows subsequent increases each running at the time of additional year) for rehearsals (Short EngagementTouring)Agreement ratification (January 15). Terms Increases to Overage and conditions for salary, per Participation (both pre- and Equity Achieves Significant Salary, Per Diem Increases, Other diem, etc. go into effect post-recoupment) starting in Improvements in Four-Year Pact withThe Broadway League January 21, 2013, unless June 2013 otherwise specified New raked stage provisions t its meeting on Agreement. This agreement, workweeks during the most Initial increases to the single allowing for Extraordinary Risk Tuesday, January 15, which governs qualifying serious economic down-turn occupancy per diem rate (12%) designation and payment A2013, the Council productions on the road, since the Great Depression, in and double occupancy per Establishment of a Labor- overwhelmingly ratified a new achieves significant salary and a toxic, anti-labor atmosphere diem rate (25%) with additional Management Committee to four-year SET (Short per diem increases and other that has seen the gutting of increases annually address contractual concerns Engagement Touring) improvements. collective bargaining rights Increases in the following during the term of the “I am pleased to report that across the country. Because of increments: Chorus Agreement the Negotiating Team and the SET Agreement, audiences Understudying Principal; Language clearly defining Equity staff negotiated a strong nationwide benefit by seeing Principal Understudy; Six- Stage Manager overtime and financial package and Equity productions that employ Month Chorus Rider; Principal accelerated health payments improvements in quality of life our members.” Term; Second ASM Additional for short-term Stage Managers issues,” said AEA Executive Highlights of the Duty AEA Executive Director Director Mary McColl, who Agreement Out-of-town Actors will now Mary McColl served as Chief served as Chief Negotiator. Annual increases to the have the option of provided Negotiator; Equity’s Negotiating She stressed: “These are two minimum salary totaling 10.4% housing, or an increased per Team was chaired by areas that are very important to Councillor Jeff Williams, with our members. Extensive team members from all regions surveys and member outreach and work categories (Principal, in advance of the negotiations Go Green – Chorus, Stage Management). gave our Negotiating Team a Additional support was clear directive and focus that Register for Paperless provided by Equity staff. succeeded at the bargaining table.” Balloting In Equity’s Index Since its inception in 2008, 30 productions have toured 2013 Council Election NY building undergoing using the agreement, which renovation ...... 1 quity’s 2013 Council Election cycle is about to begin. generated over 20,700 work AEA buys building in Hollywood ..1 From now until March 22, 2013, you can register for weeks for Equity Actors and New SET Agreement ...... 1

NEWS paperless balloting and vote online in our upcoming Stage Managers. “The SET E election. It’s safe, secure and saves you and your Union Your income tax ...... 2 Agreement creates Equity jobs time and money. on the road, that otherwise From the President...... 3 Log on to the Members’ Portal, click on the Preferences

UITY would be non-union,” continued Centennial feature: Tab and select “yes” for online elections. Thanks for going Commitment to Social Change ....6

Q McColl. “This agreement green in AEA’s 2013 Election. 165 West 46th Street New York, NY 10036 Address Service Requested Second Class Postage Paid in New York, NY E allowed us to regain National News ...... 8 2 / EQUITY news JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2013

Area Liaison Your Income Tax Hotline system Once More, Over the Cliff… Call 877-AEA-1913 (Or was that Into The Breach?) And Other Recent Developments in Taxation

Equity has a National toll-free By Sandra Karas vote on federal emergency aid for the constitutionality of the ban on hotline system for members who Director, VITA Program those areas that suffered the same-sex couples to wed when live in Area Liaison and office aftermath of Hurricane/ other couples are not subjected s they clawed their way cities. The number is 877-AEA- Superstorm Sandy. As of January to the same prohibition under the back up the craggy slope 1913 (honoring the year of Eq- 4th, they voted to provide a law. The Court will consider the to the edge of the uity’s founding). Each Area A portion of the aid after holding constitutional issues and precipice, the outgoing Congress Liaison city has its own exten- out for almost 70 days in an effort determine whether or not had let themselves fall, only to sion, where members can ac- to cut federal spending. Another California may impose different realize that raising taxes on cess news and information in vote was to be taken on January constitutional standards on everyone across the board, along their region. 15th for additional aid to the couples based solely on whether with myriad financial cuts would Superstorm victims. they are of the same or opposite (1) Dial 877-AEA-1913 not bode well for the coming Sandra Karas, Equity's Fasten your seatbelts, it’s sex. California already upholds (2) Dial your city extension: year, especially for those who Secretary-Treasurer and goingtobeabumpyride. those same-sex marriages that Director of the Volunteer worried more about getting re- 811 Atlanta were entered into during the brief Income Tax Assistance (VITA) elected than representing their Stop, In The Name of Love! 812 Austin/San Antonio period before the Prop 8 program. constituents. But I digress… (Not Defending the Defense 813 Boston of Marriage Act) referendum. As I write this a few days after 814 Buffalo/Rochester The gang of nine is expected $450,000 – Married Joint; Congress finally passed the tax It’s not the Motown Supremes to issue decisions on both of $425,000 – Head of Household. 815 Chicago portion of the proposals that had who are considering the vagaries these cases sometime in June, All rates will be adjusted for 816 Cincinnati/Louisville been submitted and debated for of a couple’s heartbreak, it’s the 2013. The cases could lead to a inflation going forward. 817 Cleveland weeks, the resulting tax situation DC Supreme Court, granting “split” decision, wherein the Court 4. The Alternative Minimum 818 Dallas/Fort Worth for most of our members is a certiorari – agreeing to review – grants rights to the surviving Tax (AMT) has a permanent 819 Denver mixed bag. I prefer to look at it as two cases dealing with same-sex spouse under the Code and patch with exemption amounts of a Win-Win, a Win-Lose and a married couples. 820 Detroit denies California couples the $50,600 for Single and $78,750 Lose-Lose. The Win-Win is One centers on the rights of a 821 Florida – Central right to marry, citing state’s rights. for Joint returns, with inflation illustrated by the permanency of surviving spouse of a decedent 822 Florida – South We will keep you posted as to adjustments after 2012 and the Bush Tax Cuts for all but the who died leaving a sizable estate. 823 Houston any developments that relate to allowing personal credits to approximately top 1% of the And we address this here in 824 Kansas City your taxes. In the meantime, seek offset the AMT. income earners. This means that order to alert same-sex couples 825 Las Vegas good tax advice on any issues 5. Continues the the bottom 99% will see no rise to seek advice from their tax 826 Los Angeles that may affect your marriage. transfer/estate tax with in their income tax rates. The top experts. $5,000,000 exclusion with 827 Milwaukee/Madison 1% will see only a small tax rise Although a small group in Off the cliff, but not inflation adjustments going 828 Minneapolis/St Paul in their income and capital gains Congress defended the Defense off the grid… You still have to file your forward and increases in the 829 Nashville rates as opposed to the of Marriage Act (DOMA) in a returns! highest rates from 35% to 40%, 830 New Orleans draconian heights to which they recent case wherein the survivor depending on how high the 831 New York wouldhavegoneintheravineof of a same-sex, married couple The dysfunctional Congress notwithstanding, we must push assets are valued. 832 Philadelphia the dreaded fiscal cliff. Both sides sued for federal estate tax 6. Maximum Capital Gains win here. exclusion rights, the Attorney forward with getting our 2012 833 Phoenix/Tucson Rate remains at 15%; goes to The Win-Lose proposition is a General’s decision not to defend returns filed. What they try to 834 Pittsburgh maximum of 20% in 2013 (for year-long extension of the law led to a summary accomplish in the coming year 835 San Diego those in the 39.6% bracket). unemployment benefits that were judgment in the survivor’s favor. will be reported as we learn it. In 836 San Francisco 7. Business Mileage holds all set to expire as a cliff-hanger. But Now this case is headed for the interim, here are the 837 Seattle year at 55.5¢/mile; Medical and thereisalsoataxraiseof2%in deliberations by the Justices of highlights for the new filing 838 St. Louis Moving rates are 23¢/mile and social security payroll taxes on all the Supreme Court to determine season. CAVEAT: Congress the Charitable rate is 14¢/mile. 839 Washington DC/Baltimore employees, hitting hardest the whether DOMA should allow the could change its mind yet again 8. The Daily Meal Allowances middle and lower income assessment of estate tax in a and render much of the new remain between $46/day - workers. At $113,700, the marriage where, under the Code, 2013 legislation moot. 2012 law $71/day and the amounts are contribution stops and those opposite-sex couples would be appears to be holding steady at determined by the city and the earning above that do not have to allowed the estate exclusion. the moment. date you are out of town - pay any additional social security Attorney General Eric Holder has 1. Tax season starts later this working or looking for work. tax. As an example, if your instructed the Courts to no longer year. Some returns may not be 9. The Marriage Penalty Relief income from wages is $50,000, defend DOMA and that position filed before January 30 and is permanently extended beyond you will pay an additional $1,000 will be maintained until the DC 9 others no sooner than late 2012. in tax in 2013. One hand giveth issues its decision. We will keep February. It’s no surprise that the 10.You may still file to a) and the other taketh away. youinformedasmorenews IRS and state agencies are Claim above the line student The Lose-Lose situation is develops. In the interim, it is scrambling to write code and loan interest deduction of up to EQUITYNEWS illustrated best by looking at the important that married, same-sex bring their computers and offices DICK MOORE $2,500; b) claim a refundable Editor: calendar. While Congress has couples who filed as married up to date in the wake of the late HELAINE FELDMAN adoption credit; c) qualify for Associate Editor: provided a stop-gap in tax rates, persons on their state income tax “cliffside” decision by Congress. expanded child care credit. Equity News Advisory Committee it has not addressed spending returns, but as single persons on Some provisions are preserved 11. Educator’s expense Christine Toy Johnson, Chair cuts or the debt ceiling. Medical their federal returns be aware and others are eliminated. (Eastern) extended through 2013 as well providers, the military and that they may now file “protective 2. The tax rates just enacted Nancy Daly (Western) won’t go into effect until 2013. as the itemized deduction for Diane Dorsey (Central) thousands of other unkind cuts claim of refund” amended returns sales taxes in lieu of state and Nicole Flender (Eastern) are looming toward the end of with the IRS to preserve their 2012’s are as follows: Bruce Alan Johnson (Eastern) rights to file as “Married Filing Stas’ Kmiec’ (Eastern) February with debt limits set for Filing Status 10% 15% 25% 28% 33% 35% Joint” taxpayers if there is a Kevin McMahon (Western) determination shortly thereafter. Single $0 $8,701 $35,351 $ 85,651 $178,651 $388,351 Liz Pazik (Central) determination in their favor. Both of these critical budgetary Married Joint $0 $17,401 $70,701 $142,701 $217,451 $388,351 Barbara Roberts (Western) Those who believe they are Melissa Robinette (Eastern) discussions have been deferred, Married Separate $0 $8,701 $35,351 $ 71,351 $108,726 $194,176 affected should contact their tax Buzz Roddy (Eastern) creating uncertainty as to how Head of Household $0 $12,401 $47,351 $122,301 $198,051 $388,351 experts for more information. At EQUITY NEWS (ISSN: 00924520) is much physicians who participate VITA, we are prepared to assist published monthly except for com- in Medicare will be reimbursed Widows(ers) with dependent local income taxes, above the those who seek information and bined issues in Jan./Feb., July/Aug., and how much the taxpayers can children use the Married Joint line qualified education Oct.,/Nov., by Actors' Equity who qualify for filing amended fund to support our military, rates. (NOTE: The rates in 1999, expenses, direct distributions to Association, 165 West 46th Street, returns. New York, NY 10036. Telephone: among other spending areas, to before the “Bush Tax Cuts” above charity from your IRA and The second issue coming (212) 869-8530. Periodicals the detriment of our standing in 25% were 28%, 31%, 36% and mortgage insurance premiums. before the Supreme Court is the postage paid at New York, NY. and the global economy, if we default 39.6%.) A post script to my additional mailing offices. Copyright challenge to California’s on our debts. Both sides lose 3. The “Cliff” rates make all phishing warnings 2003, Actors' Equity Association. Proposition 8 which prevents here. 2012 brackets permanent, Subscription price for non-members same-sex couples from seeking Just when you thought it was of Actors' Equity Association: $25 Before the formal budget cuts except the top rate, which will be marriage in that state after the unsafe to open and read any per year. Postmaster: Send address are addressed again, Congress 39.6% (the same top rate as in Courts had found their unions email from a taxing authority, changes to Equity News, 165 West was forced to conduct another 1999) for incomes above these 46th St., New York, NY 10036. lawful. What is at issue here is show-down with itself to take a thresholds: $400,000 – Single; (continued on page 3) JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2013 EQUITY news / 3 From the Your Income Tax The above notice does not negate the advice I gave on continued from page 2 unsolicited emails. That remains PRESIDENT New York State has just issued in effect. Any email that you did an electronic notification to not specifically request should inform us that taxpayers can sign not be opened and should be Resolved: up to receive notices via email. I deleted. Please note that the print the official communication above applies only to New York To Organize and Communicate as follows: State. It does not require anyone “Sign up for email notifications to enroll in its email notifications By Nick Wyman the website, e-mail, and social your current work areas. Internal from the New York State Tax system. Unless you feel media as well as Equity News), organizing would be aligning appy New Year! It is a Department. We’re encouraging compelled to hear from NYS but also getting our message your life and your habits with time when we make taxpayers to sign up to get email about your refund, your tax across to the rest of the industry your stated goals: losing weight, resolutions, usually notifications from us. For liability, your tax bills and other H and the public at large. getting more sleep, taking a example, we’ll send you an email (possibly) interesting items, you about losing weight. (As a Organizing, in union dance class, learning a new when your income tax refund is will not likely rush out to sign President who is rapidly parlance, can be external audition song, etc. on its way. You can also use yourself up. On the other hand, if morphing from Abraham Lincoln organizing or internal Communication is telling email to get: - bills and related you do avail yourself of this into William Howard Taft, I am organizing. External organizing yourself and the world what you notices - statement of interest service, be advised that you right there.) Resolution, in is bringing new areas of work want. Write down your goals, income for your federal tax should not provide any personal addition to “determination” or under our contract (think cruise your resolution. Share it with purposes - other notifications information of any kind in any “resolve,” can mean “degree of ships) or bringing new concerning your tax account. solicitation. Such requests would sharpness” or “focus.” I’d like to employers in current areas of friends and family. Share it with To learn more: - sign into your be from phishing sources and look at both types of resolution employment under contract your agent if you have one. Put online service account and can cause you and your on a macro (the 49,000 of us) (think non-Equity tours and fair- it out in the world. And then: and micro (just you) level. select “Manage Email” from the accounts harm. compensation non-Equity network, network, network. “Account Preferences” tab - click In a process going back a If you have questions about theatres): we plan to do both. This is a tough business.Your on the email alerts link to see couple years, your governing these or other tax topics, consult Internal organizing is aligning elected leadership and staff are what notices are currently Council has developed a vision your tax advisor or stop in your the membership with the union’s resolved to create a union available through email - you can of who we want to be as a union objectives (and clearly nearest VITA office. Always get organization that supports and also go to the Online Services and a strategic plan for getting communication plays a key role advice from someone who can champions you with contract page of our web site to view us there. Our determination/ in this). assess your particular situation. negotiation and administration, videos and demos. Please do resolution is to be a symbol of So that’s Equity’s resolution. Advice from friends will not help with services and professional not reply to this email. Replies excellence, creating solidarity What about yours? Let’s say you in the event you are audited. development opportunities, and are routed to an unmonitored and connection that enables us your determination/resolution is The VITA office in New York is with timely, useful mailbox, so we don’t read them to negotiate the best deals to bring your career to a new communication. I hope you are or respond. The New York State located on the 14th Floor of the possible; our focus/resolution level. What’s your focus/ Department of Taxation and Equity Building. Hours are: 10:30 will be on two areas: organizing resolution? How about resolved to do whatever you can Finance will never contact you by am – 4 pm, Mondays, and communication. Communi - organizing and communication? to create the foundation and email to ask you to validate Wednesdays, Thursdays and cation means not only External organizing would be opportunity for success. personal information such as Fridays (no Tuesdays). getting useful information across finding new areas of work Together, we can make our your user name, password, or telephone: 212-921-2548. VITA to you (and getting it to you (industrials, teaching, etc.) and Centennial year the best year account numbers. If you have Sites are also located in Los more quickly and effectively, via finding new employers within yet. Let us be resolute. questions, please visit our Web Angeles at the Actors Fund and site: http://www.tax.ny.gov in Orlando at Actors’ Equity.

good case for it. you have only one telephone visited and you can claim a Gifts for business (To and service contract standard allowance for meals. agents, managers, directors, Tickets for Research In addition to the above list, Take If Off! choreographers, instructors, (Theatre, film, opera, concert, you should be keeping a etc.) – PR, CK or CC. This dance tickets for the performer’s detailed journal or date book What You Can Deduct category is limited to $25 per study) – PR, CK or CC. Be that indicates all of your recipient per year. judicious with professional appointments, auditions, visits By Sandra Karas, Director CK, or CC Make-Up & Hair Care (While viewing; connect the to your union member centers, VITA Program Agents’ Commissions/ working or in preparation for a performance to your research your agent/manager, your Managers’ Fees (10% (for specific job. Includes wigs and and don’t claim every ticket you coach/class, etc. as evidence of The following is a list of most agents) 15% (for managers) – hairpieces, theatrical make-up, buy! your professional approach to of the ordinary and necessary PR, CK styling you pay for when you are Tips/Gratuities (To the and qualifications in the industry. business expenses incurred by Answering Service working a gig) – PR, CK, CC, K dresser, maid or any related Remember, the IRS doesn’t members of our union, as well (Includes voice mail, beeper and & I. Photos can help show your personnel) - J and include to know you or what you do. The as the documentation required answering services) – PR, CK, looks. whom and on what gig. burden is on the taxpayer to to substantiate the expense. or CC Office Supplies (Stationery, Trade Publications verify every entry on his/her tax Bear in mind that Coaching/Classes/Lessons mailers, postage, stamps, desk (Backstage, Variety, Performers’ return. The above list is a representative samples of your (Voice, speech, acting, dance, supplies, etc.) – PR, CK or CC Cues, etc.) – PR, CK , CC, J guideline for you to organize work, your image and other movement, dialects, fencing, or Repairs/Equipment Transportation Seeking your records appropriately and information that can inform and any specialty performance Maintenance (Piano tuning, Employment (Bus and subway be ready in the event you are clarify what you do to remain in training that maintains or equipment maintenance, fares, auto use, taxicabs, jitneys, called on to prove you are what the business should be retained improves your current job skills contracts, repairs, etc.) – PR, car services, etc. to attend you say you are. Actually, it’s no with your records (playbills, – No gym memberships) – PR, CK or CC auditions, go-sees, interviews) – different from an audition; let’s programs, headshots, reels, CK or CC. This one also may Rental of Equipment, PR, CK, CC, J just hope this is one time you’re reviews, etc.) require you to send a 1099 to Studio Space, Cable TV, etc. Union Dues and Initiation not called back! Key to proof requirements: your coach. (Business use of contract Fees (Union and professional If you have questions about these or other tax-related PR = Paid Receipts; Entertainment for rentals) – PR, CK or CC entertainment & trade matters, contact the VITA office CK = Canceled Checks; Business (For seeking and/or Research Supplies (Music, associations) – PR, CK or CC. in New York by calling 212-921- CC = Credit Card Statements; continuing professional scores, tapes, CDs, scripts, Sometimes you will also find 2548 or by stopping in the office K & I = Contracts and contacts, obtaining work, etc.) – libretti, books, etc.) – PR, CK or amounts in your working dues on the 14th floor of the Actors’ Itineraries; PR, CK or CC. This one also CC pay stubs. requires you to indicate who, Tax Preparation/Legal Wardrobe (No street wear is Equity building at 165 West 46th J = Journal, Diary, Datebook what income-producing Fees (Any business-related deductible. Only specialized Street. Office hours are 10:30 or Organizer Entries for purpose, where, and when. fees paid to a professional) – costumes, dancewear, uniforms, am – 4 pm on Mondays, cash/unreceipted expenses. Equipment Audio/visual PR, CK or CC footwear, etc.) – PR, CK or CC Wednesdays, Thursdays and Advertising & Publicity equipment, recording devices, Telephone (Long distance or Out-of-Town Employment Fridays (no Tuesdays). (Photos, headshots, CD/DVD players, MP3/iPods, toll calls, a second line or Audition Expenses composites, resumes) – computers, personal organizers, dedicated to business use, (Lodging, air/bus/train fares, Sandra Karas is Secretary- PR, CK, or CC cell phones, etc. for business cellular charges, bundled telephone, fax, meals, laundry, Treasurer of Actors’ Equity Accompanist/Audition use) – PR, CK or CC. This one packages for talk, text, email, tips while working or looking for Association, Director of the Expense (Accompanist, scene also requires you to determine etc.) – PR, CK or CC. This will a job away from your home) – AEA, SAG-AFTRA VITA partner, audition your business versus personal also require apportioning your PR, CK, CC, J, K & I. Keep track Program and an attorney in space/equipment) – PR, use percentage and make a business versus personal use, if of the days out and the cities private practice. 4 / EQUITY news JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2013

New York Building which necessitated access to the Audition Center, on the 46th Street side to await the owner based upon the reconfiguring the union’s offices the membership department refurbishment. When they return building’s profits. More than 7% continued from page 1 that already were situated there. and our offices,” said Executive in 2014, a fresh expanse of of AEA’s income has been developer Jeff Sutton and SL Unused penthouse space was Director Mary McColl. “It also digital advertising screens will derived in recent years from this Green Realty were drawn to the rebuilt as AEA office areas while provides us with more public blaze above the bronze-lettered property and DiPaola anticipates retail possibilities in both the the eastern side of the 16th floor space, amenities and better frieze that reads “The Show even greater returns in the Equity Building and the I. Miller was made over into the security.” Folks Shoe Shop Dedicated to future. Building located directly on the expansive new Audition Center, As part of the agreement Beauty in Footwear.” “The success of Times northeast corner of Broadway which is slated to open later this negotiated by McColl and Further brightening the lives Square in general and this and 46th Street. spring. DiPaola with the owners, the of Equity members, the upgrade building in particular positively Purchasing the I. Miller The Center boasts two property beneath the new of the building and the higher impact the rent that Equity is Building, the partners different-sized, sound- entrance hall was added to prices paid for it by the new able to collect on the land which approached Newmark & attenuated audition halls with Equity’s existing land footprint. commercial tenants are likely to it owns,” said DiPaola. “Our land Company Real Estate, which sprung floors, a dance warm-up Equity Council and the House increase revenues for the union, turns out to be the gift that controls the Equity Building, with area, bathrooms and dressing Affairs Committee oversaw the which receives land rent from keeps on giving.” a proposal to lease its lower rooms, padded benches, WIFI executives’ work. The Newmark floors. In order for the and even a plug-studded pillar managing director who developers to create an where members can charge facilitates the Equity Building expansive “big box space” that their electronic devices. project, Brian L. Steinwurtzel, would be suitable for a flagship Construction has now begun says he was struck by the Equity Foundation Awards store, the basement and bottom on an entirely new entrance and prescience of the 1981 deal Grants to 108 Non-Profit three floors of the Equity lobby on an adjoining site upon which these latest terms Building – which includes the formerly occupied by a six-story are based. “Nobody could have Theatres Nationwide original lobby and Audition structure at 155 W. 46th Street. dreamed 30 years ago that Center – will be combined with This soaring, three story-high Times Square would change so he Actors’ Equity a result of estate bequests and the I. Miller Building. entrance hall will lead to express radically,” he said. Foundation awarded 108 individual donations. Would you “We were holding important elevators going to a sky lobby The new retail tenant for the TTheatre Grants totaling like to be part of the work of this places in the building that both along the fourth floor, which is 30,000-square-foot commercial $74,650 in 2012. This was lasting and tangible way to help parties really needed to expand planned to feature a coffee shop space is Express, a clothing and distributed to 64 theatres in the fellow performers and live the commercial area,” explained and a newsstand. This annex is apparel store aimed for young Eastern Region, 28 in the theatre? If so, and for further DiPaola. A favorable agreement expected to be completed in women and men. Even as the Central Region and 16 in the information on making a was developed in which Equity 2014 and in the meantime, Equity Building is being Western Region. The grants are bequest or donation, contact would obtain significantly members and other tenants will renovated, the landmarked awarded to theatres that have a Comptroller Joseph DeMichele improved quarters with no enter through the Times Square exterior of the soon-to-be- current 501(c) (3) tax status, an at Equity, 212-869-8530, ext. additional expense. Visitor Center on the Broadway adjoining I. Miller Building will be established artistic and 348. Or, you may send a To acquire the potentially side of the building. In a final restored to its late 1920s administrative track record, a donation by check to: The lucrative commercial space stage of the project, the main grandeur. The life-sized marble history of fiscal responsibility Actors’ Equity Foundation, 165 occupied by Equity, the owners elevator bank will be equipped statues of Ethel Barrymore, and have worked to improve the West 46th Street, New York, NY agreed to relocate the Audition with state-of-the-art systems. Marilyn Miller, Rosa Ponselle state of the theatre. 10036. All contributions are tax Center upstairs to the 16th floor, “This new lobby will provide and Mary Pickford already have Started in 1962, the Equity deductible. us with faster and more efficient been removed from their niches Foundation continues to grow as

If You Thought the Barrymores were America’s Quintessential Theatrical Family... Read On

By Nicole Flender Equity member Hudson Galardi- Richman met in an Equity Troy who was cast in To Kill a summer stock company and did ip, hip hooray: Equity is Mockingbird at the Bay Street 14 plays together that season as turning 100 this year. Theatre. leading lady and leading man. If Just as America’s great H Nancy Hillner and her former life imitates art...well...the rest is universities have their legacies, husband John Hillner have been history. Their daughter Kelly we have ours. in numerous Broadway and Off- Lester is also an Equity member. Frank Craven joined Equity in Broadway shows. Their daughter The stories, the legacies, go 1981 and boasts writing and Amy got her Equity card by going on and on. Some family acting in numerous Off-Off to the required six-month members have worked many Broadway productions. He is replacement call for Hairspray Equity contracts in different parts justly proud of his lineage: dad of the country. John Craven who originated the Family members in the 1998 production of Perfect Wedding at Others like Don role of George Gibbs in Our the Westport Country Playhouse are: (l to r) David Rogers, and his clan have Town; grandpa Frank Craven Amanda Rogers, Diedrich Bader, June L. Walker (Rogers), Frank been the driving who played the role of the stage Ferrante (seated) and Dulcy Rogers (Bader). force behind a manager in Our Town alongside script called for a child actor. In a Wedding. single theatre. son John; and great-grandpa production of Life with Father, Anne Runolfsson has a What brings them John Craven who played the the boys played Don’s sons and special memory of one together is New York and Boston circuits everyone dyed his hair red. At performance: the 2007 Easter dedication and with the likes of Joseph Jefferson press time, the Old Log is Bonnet competition where she professionalism. and Edwin Booth. Perusing presenting Perfect Wedding. and daughter, Tess Adams, did a Alexandra Devin IBDB, I found dozens of Perfect Wedding seems to duet. Each represented her sums up the Broadway entries for grandpa make for perfect Equity stories. current show. Anne was Carlotta meaning of legacy Frank who, appearing on Actors David and Amanda in Phantom and Tess was young beautifully, “My Broadway from 1907 through Rogers moved their family to Cosette in Les Misérables. mother’s 1976, must have been a charter Westport for the school system. Alexandra Devin and Kathryn dedication to Equity member. Before moving, David had Ritter are another unions prompted Ninety-four year old Equity performed at the Westport mother/daughter Equity duo. her to maintain her member Don Stolz has been Anne Runolfsson (r) and her daughter Tess Country Playhouse and over Alexandra joined Equity in 2001 membership as running Minnesota’s Old Log Adams at the Easter Bonnet Competition. time his high school and college- with a Theatreworks/USA tour. active even though Theater for 66 years. Don’s five aged daughters Dulcy and Kathryn joined in the 1973 where she landed the role of she didn’t do any other contracts sons (Peter, Dony, Thomas, Amanda became head usher revival of Hal Prince’s Candide. Shelly in the national tour. Her [than Candide]… therefore it was Timothy and Jon) joined Equity and House Manager. Ultimately Alexandra is currently a Drama mom writes that she has many impressed upon me that this was and have all served as actors these girls became actors and Therapy candidate at NYU. YouTube hits of this role that she an important goal if I were to and stage managers. Four of the married actors. It didn’t take Georgia Kennedy joined Equity reprised at the Hollywood Bowl pursue this professionally.” five sons are still active at the producer Jim MacKenzie long to with Broadway’s Donnybrook! because she grabbed Nick Councillor Nicole Flender is a theatre. Growing up, the boys put it all together and cast this Now she is the proud Jonas’ leg. proud member of a multi- appeared onstage when the family of six in 1998’s Perfect grandmother of eight year old Helen and Peter Mark generational Equity family. JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2013 EQUITY news / 5

Hollywood Building members and staff – which has additional office space, exterior been an issue in our past and signage and space to lease to a 2013 Annual Election Calendar continued from page 1 current rental office space,” said third party. Lease and rental Monday, February 11, 2013 Final day for submission to all visibility and financial security, Executive Director Mary McColl. income will help Equity to offset Nominating Committees (Materials while also giving us the “It also decreases the costs of costs. due in all three Regional Offices resources to develop and deliver maintaining a Los Angeles office The North Hollywood area is by 5 pm Eastern Time) services to our members. We when compared with long term an “enterprise” zone that has now have a third, tangible real rental expense, and the recently received $1 billion in Tuesday, February 26, 2013 Deadline for reports of all estate investment that Association gains a new asset.” funding from Los Angeles Regional Nominating Committees strengthens our portfolio and Western Regional Director County for revitalization and Friday, March 8, 2013 Deadline for nominations by expands our abilities in Los Mary Lou Westerfield added: development projects. The Independent Petition (Materials Angeles.” “The membership and staff in building resides in the NoHo Arts due in all three Regional Offices Authorization for the building Los Angeles have long hoped for District that is receiving funding by 2 pm Eastern Time) a permanent home (we have that will add to the value of the acquisition was approved by Wednesday, March 13, 2013 Deadline for Candidates’ moved at least five times in the building. Council on October 16, 2012. Statements for Equity News, last 30 years). The fact that our Transit-wise, the building is a The purchase price was $5.2 Equity Website and Ballot new home will also provide an block away from several bus million, with an additional $1.5 Brochure (Due in All three Audition Center for the members lines including the Orange Line million allocated to cover the Regional Offices by 2 pm Eastern is a dream come true.” that extends all the way to the costs of developing our program Time in the building. Money for the Built in 1948, and renovated west end of the San Fernando Friday, March 22, 2013 Deadline for registration to vote purchase and build out will come in 2000, the new location is a Valley, giving members incredible electronically from some of Equity’s reserves free-standing, one-story access to mass transit, including and will not be an addition to the structure that has 18,000+ the North Hollywood Metro stop. Friday, April 12, 2013 Annual National Membership operating budget. square feet of space, in addition It has close access to the 170, Meeting (all Regions via “The purchase of the building to on-site parking for 50+ 101 and 134 freeways. teleconference) Candidate is a sound financial investment vehicles, that will enable Equity Renovations will begin later speeches that allows us to develop an to greatly expand services to the this year, with building Monday, April 15, 2013 Distribution of ballots (from audition center and have members. In addition to an occupancy expected in early balloting company) Audition Center, there is room for 2014. dedicated parking for our Wednesday, May 22, 2013 Deadline for receipt of ballots Thursday, May 23, 2013 Tabulation Day

Incredibly, since then it has PASS, a service company Brief Notes played an additional seven utilizing technology from Sound years and 2,800 more Associates Inc., in collaboration performances. with Disney Theatrical A Look Back @Equity Milestones • Milwaukee Repertory • On December 20, 2012, Productions. The services are I- Theatre has received a $30,000 Chicago played its 6,681st Caption for deaf and hard-of- grant from the National performance, surpassing the hearing patrons and D-Scriptive 100 Years Ago issue of Equity from a Endowment for the Arts to original Broadway production of for blind and low-vision patrons. restaurateur in the theatre support its spring 2013 Les Miserables to become the “Thanks to the Initiative, now January/February 1913 district offers an “Equity productions of Clybourne Park third longest-running show in grandparents, parents and • There is no standard Special”—a hamburger on toast, and A Raisin in the Sun. The Broadway history. children with disabilities can all contract for actors so no actor cole slaw, potato salad and Rep is one of 832 non-profit • Bad News: Mosaic Theatre enjoy live theatre on par with knows in advance what he will coffee for $1.25. organizations nationwide to in Plantation, Florida ended a the ways non-disabled audience be required to do. receive Art Works grants members do. I-Caption and D- • Rehearsals are unpaid: six, 25 Years Ago totaling $23.3 million. “These Scriptive give theatergoers of all eight or ten weeks of rehearsals January/February 1988 two plays bring to the fore ages—including those with for a play and 16 or 18 weeks of • Effective January 1, benefits conversations about racial disabilities—a unique rehearsal for musicals is not for pensioners and beneficiaries equality and political opportunity to create lasting extraordinary. then receiving a pension correctness,” said Mark family memories,” said Sharon • The President of the increase by 30% but no more Clements, The Rep’s Artistic Jensen, Executive Director of Stagehands has told reporters than $10 per month; the Director. “If done as well as I Alliance for Inclusion in the Arts. that, when entering a theatre, he minimum pension for those know our theatre can do them, • Local 32BJ of the Service often did not know which sub- members whose pensions are these plays…will showcase the Employees International Union, cellar was for the actors and effective on or after January 1, power that our art has to spark representing hundreds of which was for the coal. increases from $100 to $125 per important and often difficult theatre cleaners, porters, • There is no Equity. conversations and our ability to elevator operators, bathroom month. be a significant partner in such attendants, matrons and other 75 Years Ago • Save the Theatres, Inc. conversations. This, I believe, is service workers at most remains committed to seeking and has always been, one of Broadway theatres, reached a January/February 1938 landmark status for Broadway 12-season run when it closed the greatest strengths of live tentative agreement with The • Burgess Meredith is serving theatres. its doors on December 9, 2012 theatre.” Broadway League on as Acting President, having • Equity recognizes the after Artistic Director Richard • The longest-running show December 17, 2012. The union been elected following the financial problems facing Dinner Jay Simon decided to leave the in Broadway history, Andrew had threatened to strike if it resignation of Frank Gillmore. Theatres, which have declined company to spend more time Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of could not reach a new • New York State from 76 to 33 in a ten-year with his family and pursue other the Opera, made theatre history agreement by the end of the Unemployment Insurance, in period. Members attend Special opportunities. once again on January 26, year. effect since 1936, begins to pay meetings to discuss the terms of • Good News: At press time, 2013 when it became the first • Equity Members Betty benefits to eligible unemployed a new contract. the Penumbra Theater Broadway show ever to Buckley and Sam Waterston workers, including actors. Company in St. Paul, a leading celebrate its 25th Anniversary. were inducted into the Theater • A meeting of unions, 10 Years Ago African-American organization Phantom became the longest- Hall of Fame at New York’s including Equity, whose whose financial woes forced the January/February 2003 running show in Broadway Gershwin Theatre on January members are employed on WPA closing of the theatre in 2011, • Members approve a history on January 9, 2006 with 28, 2013. Others in the Class of Arts Projects, draws more than has raised enough money to Constitutional amendment its 7,486th performance. 2012 were playwrights 1,500 members. This Arts Union resume operations on a limited allowing online voting in Annual Christopher Durang and Paula Conference discusses basis. Elections. Vogel, directors Andre Bishop increasing employment for • Disney’s The Lion King and • The Coalition of Broadway and Michael Kahn and, artists under the WPA and Newsies will offer new Unions and Guilds (COBUG) is posthumously, costume creating a Bureau of Fine Arts in accessibility services on launched to strengthen the designer Martin Pakledinaz. Washington, among other voice of employees in the Broadway. Supported by funds issues. from the City of New York theatre industry. Equity is a Theatre Subdistrict Council, founding member. LDC and the City of New York, 50 Years Ago • VITA (Volunteer Income Tax the productions have joined The Office Closing January/February 1963 Assistance) kicks off its 25th Broadway Accessibility/ All Equity offices will be • The January issue of Equity season of providing free help Audience Expansion Initiative, a closed on Monday, February 18, [Magazine] includes a list of 111 with taxes for Equity members. partnership between Alliance 2013 in observance of Equity Franchised Agents. The 401(k) Plan is extended for Inclusion in the Arts and G- Presidents’ Day. • A letter in the February to the LORT Contract. 6 / EQUITY news EQUITY 7

“Several years before Brown vs. Board of Education, this Union closed a theatre in Washington, DC because it was a segregated house. In 1961, long before the Civil Rights Act of 1964, this Union made it possible for us to refuse to perform Equity’sCommitme in any venue where segregation was practiced. Long before Jackie Robinson hit his first ball, this Union was already on the field, fighting for the right thing. I think it’s still doing that, and it deserves the support of all of us… in addition to being entertainers, we are also artists...” -- Ossie Davis (1917-2005), actor/activist, in a speech to members of the New York City Council during the 2004 Production Contract negotiations. Began in 1913 and

By Michael Sommers color obviously needed to change. An those circumstances eventually closed the he saga of Equity’s commitment Equity Magazine editorial titled “No Color house to touring legitimate shows for to social equality and justice for Line” proudly noted in 1944 that AEA did several years. Members gave up its members and the world at not know the name of its first African- employment weeks and salary increases in large is long and continues American the process but today. Although AEA’s struggle member or the National for social change is too when that finally was protracted to be effectively artist joined reopened Tdistilled as theatre, the ongoing story the union: triumphantly as combines both climactic public events and “The actor an integrated behind-the-scenes drama. was simply venue in 1952. It begins during AEA’s inception a elected and “It is very century ago when the union’s founders became a rare for even framed membership requirements that member of the most stated “any person irrespective of the progressive of nationality” could be eligible to join as Association unions to professionals. In that pre-suffrage 1913 era, on the same decide upon such wording meant that women were footing with such a drastic equal members. other action,” said Efforts to improve the conditions and pay members.” Lois Spier for its members absorbed most of the Soon the Louis Gossett and Ted Van Griethuysen in Equity’s 1959 Integration Showcase. Gray, a developing union’s attention during its first union professor of few decades. But even as AEA coped with formed a labor a Depression-struck theatre in 1933, the committee to secure accommodations for management relations at Cornell ILR. “It plight of artists in Germany caused Council members denied by segregated hotels. represented a big sacrifice for the members to protest the Nazi government’s ban on Although a 1946 editorial observed “It is to take such a principled stand.” Jewish performers from the stage: “The only by a long, slow process of education During the ongoing give-and-take actors of all civilized nations must voice that progress can be expected,” the issue between producers and AEA about the their objection rapidly came to a boil the next year in National situation, language was to a point of Equity’s negotiated into the Production contract that view which sets John Kani (l) and Winston Ntshona in a scene from Sizwe Banzi Is Dead. confrontation said “The Manager shall not practice political opinion with the discrimination against any member of and race above National Equity because of race, creed or color.” The talent.” Theatre’s language continued to evolve in contracts, Racial issues segregated which by 1962 added that “The actor shall on the 1940s admission not be required to perform in any home front policy in production or any theatre or other place of eventually drew Washington performance where discrimination is AEA into the DC. The practiced as to admission to or seating at civil rights union’s such production against any actor or movement. Jim controversial patrons by reason of his race, color or Crow laws and decision to creed.” Subsequent negotiations over the practices that keep its next decades won additional contractual directly affected members from specifics regarding greater employment its members of performing in opportunities for minority actors. 6/ EQUITY EQUITY news / 7

enttoSocialChange dContinues Today

discussions that eventually resulted in the Document of Frederick O’Neal: Equity President – 1964 -1973. Principle adopted by the Broadway industry. “Collective bargaining is a gradual process of usually small n more recent years, AEA has changes,” noted Alan Eisenberg, endorsed and worked on behalf of AEA’s former Executive Director. Marriage Equality for all Americans “But between the negotiations, it and to repeal Proposition 8 in is necessary and important for California. The union was active in the union to make sure the the I AM PWD campaign to raise language is being enforced.” public awareness for individuals During his 25-year tenure, said withI disabilities. A longtime component of Eisenberg, at times Equity would the International Federation of Actors, pressure selected productions AEA addresses equality and social Equity Members join the Memphis Sanitation Department in protesting issues on a global level among other deplorable conditions for black workers (April, 1968). regarding non-traditional casting possibilities. “We never believed subjects relating to the profession. in quotas but we believed that Cooperating in a fresh initiative with eanwhile AEA worked to some shows could do better,” he remarked. the Broadway League to foster greater prove to the industry the AEA has cooperated with other unions in inclusion in the American theatre, Equity viability of what would their efforts for social change. After British Councillors and staff met in late 2012 to eventually become known as Equity asked for assistance in the apartheid discuss cultivating richer opportunities non-traditional casting. During struggle in 1962, AEA requested its with representatives from virtually every the late 1950s and early members to not perform in the Union of union and guild whose members work on 1960s, it sponsored a series South Africa while segregation and Broadway or among major theatres. Mof “integration showcase demonstrations” discrimination exist. The AFL-CIO These industry-wide sessions, which are for producers and casting directors. Equity commended Equity for its action: “These known as the Diversity Summit, are Library Theatre’s many seasons featured plaudits are more than well-deserved: You continuing in 2013. “This Diversity racial diversity. In 1986 the union organized have earned them and earned them in the Summit can ensure greater inclusion and a two-day National Symposium on Non- hard way, because you have matched your diversity onstage, backstage, in the traditional Casting involving more than 500 pocketbook with your heart.” offices and finally, in the audience,” said participants. During the years since, the But change often remains slow. As late AEA Executive Director Mary McColl. union’s efforts to achieve more diverse as 1976, hundreds of Equity members “Equity’s history shows that small steps ensembles onstage have expanded to participated in protests outside of the South sometimes reap great rewards. Yet in our reflect its membership of Hispanic and African Consulate in Manhattan regarding industry, like many others, there is still Asian actors as well as artists with the arrests in South Africa of John Kani and more to achieve in equality, fairness disabilities. Winston Ntshona, who shared a Tony and diversity.” Over more than half a century, the Award for Sizwe Banzi is Dead and The Throughout its existence, Equity has union’s various committees dealing with Island. Eventually the artists were released acted as both a vocal and a subtle discrimination issues have evolved and the charges against them dismissed. catalyst for social change. In according to concerns expressed by the Similarly, Equity members lent their voices safeguarding and advancing the rights of membership. During the 1980s, the union as individuals to other social causes over its members through ways and means aggressively sought to employ more people the years as when Councillor Christopher symbolic or pragmatic (and usually both) of color as AEA staff. At the same time, a Reeve traveled to Chile in 1987 to support Equity has made a lasting positive Joint Equity-League Committee on Equal a group of actors whose political theatre contribution to the world beyond the Employment Opportunity began activities resulted in death threats. theatre. 8 / EQUITY news JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2013

All Regions Black History Month Programs Planned NATIONALNATIONALNEWSNEWS Eastern Region program at 7:30. All members are welcome. The Eastern Region Equal Employment Central Region Opportunity Committee is presenting its 2013 Black The Central Region History Month Celebration Equal Employment on Monday, February 11 at Opportunity Committee is 6 pm at the Laurie presenting the eighth Beechman Theatre, 407 annual Spirit, A West 42nd Street, New Celebration of Diversity on York. The program, Julia Monday, March 18, 2013 and the “Duke,” is a at Chicago’s Smart Boston cabaret in tribute to the Museum and at the Court musical genius of Duke Theatre. Wheelock Family Theatre Invests in Young Playwrights Ellington performed by This event (including Julia Breanetta Simpson. the presentation of the Kathryn V. Lamkey Award) By Donna Sorbello instructor; director; author of There will be a reception honors members of color New England Liaison children’s books; author of the non- beginning at 6 followed by and theatres that make Committee fiction title, And Justice for Some: the performance at 7 pm. non-traditional casting a Exploring American Justice Tickets are free and first- An exciting program is priority all season long. Through Drama and Theatre; to come, first-served. RSVP scheduled to begin in the Boston The Kathryn V. Lamkey published playwright. The to [email protected]. public school system through the Award, named for the Emerging Playwrights Program will auspices of one of New England’s former Central Regional be an extension of her role in Western Region Equity theatres. Wheelock Family Director, honors those teaching as well as that of the work In the Western Region, Theatre’s newly appointed individuals and/or she has accomplished as Co- the Equal Employment producer, Wendy Lement, is organizations that Opportunity Committee is initiating the Emerging Playwrights continue to open doors to David Henry Hwang. (Photo: Lia presenting Global Black Program, scheduled to begin in the all types of opportunities Chang) History, highlighting the fall of 2013. Kicked off at an for Central Region contributions of Equity afternoon meet-and-greet develop young playwrights. His Members and producers performers born in luncheon for the newly assembled presence at the Wheelock event of color. countries other than the Advisory Board members, the highlighted his and Wheelock’s This event is by U.S. It will be presented luncheon offered Ms. Lement an shared interest in an endeavor invitation only. Contact on Wednesday, February opportunity to explain her vision. such as the Emerging Playwrights Central Region Business 27 at West Los Angeles The program will be aimed at Program. Mr. Hwang’s words Rep Luther Goins for more Community College. There providing playwriting classes to especially resonated in the information: 312-641- will be a brief reception at students from the Boston public Wheelock Theatre. Known for 0393, ext. 237. 7 pm followed by the school system with an interest and Wendy Lement. writings inspired by his Asian aptitude in writing. The program background and heritage, Mr. has been made possible through Founder and Artistic Director of Hwang has consciously sought to the support of Wheelock College Theatre Espresso, an educational, provide roles for minority actors. President Jackie Jenkins-Scott and interactive theatre company touring Wheelock is a 2000 recipient of through the Susan Kosoff Legacy schools, museums and Equity’s Rosetta LeNoire Award for San Francisco Fund, where contributions were courthouses. its consistent use of non-traditional made to the theatre on behalf of Immediately following the casting and has been providing Networking Event Set for Sue Kosoff, the theatre’s long-time December luncheon, playwright contracts for AEA minorities since producer and Co-Artistic Director, David Henry Hwang gave an its inception 30 years ago. Stage Managers who recently retired. inspiring interview to Jared Bowen The Emerging Playwrights A networking opportunity when future job openings Ms. Lement has been a from Boston’s WGBH-TV. Mr. Program, in which Ms. Lement will for Stage Managers to meet arise. The Bay Area Professor of Theatre as well as Hwang has recently been lead the first classes, is poised to with San Francisco Bay Area Advisory Committee’s Stage Chair of the Theatre Department at appointed Chair of the Board of provide an exciting and unique producers and production Management Subcommittee, Regis College for 19 years. Her Young Playwrights in New York, offering for the Boston public managers is set for Monday, chaired by Les Reinhardt, accomplishments run from theatre reflecting his interest in helping to schools. February 25, 2013 from 4 has helped develop this pm to 8:30 pm at ACT’s speed-dating style event. Geary Theater, 415 Geary Contact Les Reinhardt at Detroit Street. Participants will [email protected] New York share resumes and to be added to the references and get a few participant list or for more Liaison Committee Fundraising for Credit Union Sets minutes of face-to-face time, information. Equity and Friends Fight AIDS Annual Meeting easing the interview process Detroit Liaison Committee groups joined in the effort and the Actors Federal Credit members Leah Smith and Megan name of the event expanded to Union will hold its annual Buckley, Co-Chairs of the Equity include “and Friends” to meeting on Friday, February Chicago 1624 N. Halsted Street. and Friends Fight AIDS fundraiser, encompass all those that 22, 2013 from 3:30-5:30 pm Stage Managers may sign up began their efforts for the 2012 participate in the greater Detroit in the 14th floor Council Speed Interviews for a “rotation hour,” during holiday season on World AIDS Metropolitan Area. Room in the Equity Building, which they will be Day, December 1, 2012. Equity Fundraising efforts continue 165 West 46th Street Set For Stage guaranteed to meet for a few and Friends Fight AIDS is beyond the holiday season and (entrance now on minutes with each theatre in similar to Broadway into the Spring of 2013. The Broadway). The agenda will Managers attendance. Sign-up for Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, but Committee encourages all include Board and Credit The Steppenwolf Theatre Stage Managers begins on all funds raised by Equity and Michigan members and Equity Committee elections and the along with the Central Stage Tuesday, April 16. other participating organizations theatres to set aside a week or state of the union address Manager Committee will host For further information: stay in Southeast Michigan. more of performances to help raise by President Jeff Rodman. a Stage Manager Speed Business Rep Cynthia Equity’s Detroit Liaison funds, which will be presented at There also will be Interview Event from 10 am- Hanks, Committee began their involvement the annual “Giving of the Green” refreshments and more than Noon on Monday, April 22, [email protected] over 20 years ago. Over time, more event on St. Patrick’s Day 2013. $500 in door prizes. 2013 at Steppenwolf Garage, JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2013 EQUITY news / 9

Detroit Chicago Equity staff and even inspired Wayne State University San Francisco Liaison Committee Participates in students to adopt a family with four children this year. It has become a Adopt-A-Child at Christmas yearly tradition for the Detroit Liaison Committee to raise funds By Cynthia Hanks and then go on a whirlwind Central Region Business shopping trip to purchase the Representative clothes and gifts for the children. Three thousand children This year the Committee received an early Christmas on sponsored two children, siblings December 7, 2012, and a small age eleven and six. The gala event Milt Commons Celebrates 60 Years as an AEA Member at the Cobo Center has food, part of that was due to the Bay Area Advisory Committee (BAAC) members recently entertainment and arts & crafts generosity of the Detroit Liaison celebrated the 60th Anniversary of Milt Commons as an Equity activities for the children. Liaison Committee as the annual Adopt- Member. Treats and a little bubbly were shared by (l to r) Stephen Committee members BJ Love, A-Child at Christmas party was Pawley, Teressa Byrne, Megan Killian-Uttam, Milt, Jessica Powell, Milfordean Luster, Trudy Mason, held at the Cobo Center in Lauren Bloom, Marie Shell and Kelly Ground as Milt showed off his Detroit Liaison Committee Chair Dana Gamarra and Central downtown Detroit. Adopt-A-Child Member Milfordean Luster historic collection of 60 years of membership cards (he has saved them Regional Board member Peggy at Christmas is one of Detroit’s helps their "adopted" child all). He was presented with a note of thanks from the BAAC and later open her Christmas presents. Thorp attended the gala and longest-running goodwill holiday received a gift copy of “Performance of the Century,” which celebrates presented the children with their traditions. It was begun in 1967 by 100 years of Equity. Dolores Bennett in her Eastside members have been participating gifts. Detroit home when she and her as adoptive parents for at least ten Milfordean shared her favorite late husband decided to provide years. Committee Member moment of the evening. “Our Christmas gifts to 74 needy Milfordean Luster encouraged the beautiful 11 year old girl…very families in the neighborhood. The Committee to participate in the shy, very quiet, no smiles, little eye event now provides for families in program. “Everyone takes care of contact. I tried to engage her by need from all over the Detroit each other [in Detroit] by asking which outfit she liked better, metropolitan area. Though the participating in events such as the red and black or the purple program has grown significantly one. She turned to me with those Adopt-A-Child,” said Liaison (L to r) Cynthia Bassham, Jessica and Jack Powell at KQED. over the past 48 years, the Committee Chair Dana Gamarra, big, dark eyes and a very shy concept remains the same: adding, the Committee’s focus “is smile and said, ‘Both of them.’ It BAAC Volunteers (Again!)With KQED Pledge Drive was a great moment.” Dana Adoptive parents get to meet their right where it needs to be.” The San Francisco Bay Area Equity Members regularly volunteer on summed up the experience children and present gifts at an enthusiasm by Milfordean, Dana camera for KQED to raise awareness of the AEA “brand.” 2012 was perfectly, saying everything went annual party. and the entire Committee has no exception as Members manned the phones at the station’s “absolutely, fabulously well.” Detroit Liaison Committee garnered participation by the Holiday Kick Off Pledge Drive.

New York 1920) in the New York metropolitan area, recognized Bayfield, Callaway Awards Presented two actors—Merritt Wever and Michael Shannon—from the The Eastern Regional “approaches his work with same production: Soho Rep’s Membership Meeting on wonderful discipline and production of a new version by January 11, 2013 was the scene professionalism,” she said, Annie Baker of Anton Chekhov’s of the first Equity award adding that it was a “thrill to Uncle Vanya. ceremony of the New Year, as watch a younger colleague grow Zoe Winters, a friend and the St. Clair Bayfield and Joe A. in the mastery of his craft.” colleague, presented Ms. Wever’s Callaway Awards were Mr. Furr, who appeared on award. She was happy to be presented in what is always a Broadway in The Importance of there for her “extra talented” wonderful upbeat and emotional Being Earnest, Accent on Youth, friend, who, she said “reached a Cymbeline, King Lear and Who’s Good Turnout at Fall Membership Meeting ceremony. deeply rich level of humanity in The Council Room was filled Afraid of Virginia Woolf, in In spite of rain, a Presidential debate and the seventh game of the Uncle Vanya.” with students from Appalachian addition to The Rivals, was National League baseball playoffs, the Fall General Membership Ms. Wever, who has many State University, the alma mater pleased that Ms. Ivey was the Meeting hosted by the BAAC at Berkeley Repertory Theatre’s Thrust Off-Broadway and regional of David Furr, recipient of the presenter, delighted to see the Stage in October was well attended. theatre as well as film and TV Bayfield Award, honoring the students from his alma mater, credits, has appeared for four best performance in a and grateful to accept the award, seasons on Showtime’s Nurse Jackie. She was delighted with the award from her Union, saying it was “significant and meaningful.” Michael Shannon, who can be seen on HBO’s Boardwalk Empire and had recently made Attending the Women’s Panel are (l to r) Alexandra Matthews, Jennifer LeBlanc, MaryAnn Rodgers, Molly Noble and EMC his Broadway debut in Grace, Rebecca Pinagree. was unable to attend the meeting. His manager, Byron Women’s Subcommittee Keeping Busy Wetzel, accepted on his behalf The Bay Area Equity Women’s Subcommittee hosted the second and read a letter sent by Mr. Women’s Theatre Mixer in September. Fifty plus attendees supported Shannon, regretting his absence, and enjoyed a performance of Shotgun Players’ Precious Little, a pro- but wanting everyone to duction written, directed, and designed almost entirely by women and “understand how much I with a cast including AEA Members Nancy Carlin and Rami Margron. (From l) David Furr, Byron Wetzel (standing in for Michael appreciate this honor. I don’t win Following the performance, Committee Chair Lauren Bloom mod- Shannon) and Merritt Wever show off their awards. (Photo: Stephanie Masucci) awards often (well, pretty much erated a panel on “Having It All? Seeking Balance as Women in The- never actually) and to get one atre.” Nine women theatre professionals, including AEA actors, supporting role by an Actor in a which he called “especially from Equity is particularly sweet, directors, writers and producers, addressed the difficulty for women Shakespearean play in the New meaningful coming from the because you know how much of finding work opportunities in the Bay Area and national markets, York metropolitan area. Mr. Furr actors’ union” and for a goes into the work.” and balancing child rearing responsibilities in order to increase cre- was cited for his performance as Shakespearean role. Both awards carry a $1,000 ative output. Orlando in the Public Theatre’s The Callaway Award, check and an engraved plaque Save the date: In May/June, the Committee is planning a 36-hour production of As You Like It at established by Equity member for each recipient. The Judges playfest benefit. Over 25 local female AEA members will participate the Delacorte Theatre in Central Joe A. Callaway to encourage Panel includes Joe as actors, directors and stage managers to present six short plays Park. Councillor Dana Ivey, with participation in the classics and Dziemianowicz, Daily News; written 36 hours prior by six local female playwrights. The event will whom Mr. Furr had worked in honors the best performance by Adam Feldman, Time Out New showcase AEA women onstage, backstage and as directors and The Rivals at Lincoln Center, a professional production of a York; Harry Haun, Playbill; and playwrights. Proceeds will benefit Safe House, a San Francisco shel- made the presentation. David classic play (one written prior to David Rosenberg, Back Stage. ter for battered women. 10 / EQUITY news JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2013

New York many of our patrons were a little older and had lived through those Membership Ed Committee Hosts dark days of AIDS. They were so SCENE AROUND responsive and generous. We Reception for New Stage Managers averaged $1,000 per show.” But the audiences weren’t the only By Kimberly Russell have—you can only play the surprise for her. “Much of our cast Membership Education cards you are dealt. Flexibility was in their 20s or younger and Committee is a strength. “Utilize all the had not been involved with resources that are available to BC/EFA before. So they A Stage Manager New you—especially your AEA researched the charity on their Member Reception was held in Deputy. He or she can be of own and then jumped right in to the Equity Council Room on great service.” help. We were never short of December 10, 2012. The event collection volunteers.” Equity In addition to his busy was hosted by Ruth E. Kramer, Stage Manager Jill Gold, who schedule, Mr. Ewen serves as Stage Manager Councillor and helped organize the collection, a Stage Manager Councillor. Los Angeles Vice-Chair of the Eastern said, “I’ve never seen so much He encouraged his new Region Membership Education enthusiasm. We had a company colleagues to be active in the “Coney Island Christmas” Committee. Malcolm D. Ewen, of 20 and it was all I could do to Union, explaining that Equity Production Stage Manager for keep 20 people out of the lobby.” exists on their behalf. “It is Comes to Geffen Playhouse the Broadway production of To keep the holiday spirit going, A bit of the Big Apple came to Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. the company used gift bags and Southern California during the Annabelle Gurwitch led the stockings rather than the 2012 holiday season with the company in the appeal over the traditional red buckets for the production of Coney Island course of 15 performances and donations. It’s especially moving Christmas at Los Angeles’ Geffen was overjoyed at the support of to see such generosity at the Playhouse, where the cast raised the local audiences. “I wasn’t sure holidays,” said Jill. “That’s when it’s $15,408 for Broadway what to expect,” she said. “But really needed.”

New York Book on Equity History, Role in Professional Theatre Is Subject of Panel was the occasion for a panel Wyman, author Robert Simonson, Equity’s new Stage Manager members. Publication of Performance of discussion and book signing at the Equity Member Lee Roy Reams, the Century – 100 Years of Actors’ Drama Bookshop in New York on book cover illustrator Justin Edward Albee’s Who’s Afraid your Union and every Equity Association and the Rise of December 14, 2012. Participants “Squigs” Robertson and Equity of Virginia Woolf? was the individual can make a Professional American Theater, included (l to r) President Nick Member Danny Burstein. afternoon’s Guest Speaker. difference.” “The way to He offered this personal New York along. Video clips employment…is to create advice. “Managing your were shown of relationships with other personal life in concert with Dancers Celebrate those unable to Stage Managers.” your professional life is a attend who Mr. Ewen encouraged challenge. Be realistic and set Legacy Awards wanted to send attendees to take advantage goals and on occasion ask their love— Dancers Over 40 presented the of all opportunities for yourself the question, ‘What Harold Prince, fourth annual Legacy Awards on networking. “The way to will truly satisfy me as a Stefanie Powers December 10, 2012. Honorees employment, whether it is person?’” and Chita Rivera. (l to r) Larry Fuller, George Marcy, Broadway, regional or Other speakers Kim Jordan, Billy Goldenberg, Chita also introduced a video storefront, is to create Carol Lawrence, Vincent Cinelli of the Dennis Grimaldi, Richard Skipper, montage of the honorees, with relationships with other Stage Lee Roy Reams and Norma Equity-League Pension, Donna McKechnie and Leslie clips from Top Banana, Seven Managers—know other Stage Doggett-Bezwick heard Ken Health and 401(k) Trust Fund Uggams sing their praises. Hosts Brides for Seven Brothers, 42nd Managers.” There is a great Urmston, Leni Anders, Equity provided information about Harvey Evans and Richard Street, Evita, Sweeney Todd, West deal to be learned from Second Vice President Rebecca qualifying for medical, vision Skipper kept the evening moving Side Story, and many more. colleagues. Seek advice and and dental coverage and create a support network. “Be spoke about the Pension and Warwick, RI honest with yourself—self- 401(k) Plans. For information assess; know your strengths on the Fund, visit the website: Ocean State and weaknesses.” www.equityleague.org. Equity Loves Equity Being calm Outside Business One component of a Stage Representative Frank Stancati Eastern Regional Vice Manager’s job is working with also was on hand to speak President Melissa Robinette people. How does one deal about what is covered in a first presented an Equity logo and a with personalities? With rehearsal meeting. greeting on opening night of respect! Don’t involve yourself The final portion of the Winter Wonderettes at Ocean in theatre politics. It is event was a Q&A Panel State Theatre Company in both long-time members, “love (choreographer), Kim Morgan challenging to do a job that featuring Ms. Kramer; Mr. December, 2012. Producing Equity,” says Ms. Robinette. Dean, Lulu Lloyd, Melissa interacts with such a broad Ewen; Megan Friedman, the Artistic Director Amiee Turner and Pictured are (l to r): Dan Robinette, Erin McCracken, spectrum of individuals—focus PSM of the Off-Broadway Managing Director Joel Kipper, Micciche (conductor), MK Lawson Amiee Turner and Joel Kipper. and concentrate on the job at production of Cougar the hand. Also, be in tune with the Musical; and Equity Business Albany, NY room; be sensitive to energy Representative Michelle Kelts. and energy levels. Being calm Providing able assistance New Liaison Area is a plus. “Occasionally, you and welcoming Equity’s may need to do a bit of acting newest Members was Holds Meeting and appear to be the calm Councillor and Committee The new Greater Albany person in the room. You want Member Marjorie Horne along Liaison Area held its first to be the person that your cast with Committee Members Membership Meeting at Proctors and company can come to Kimberly Russell and Richard Theatre in Schenectady on when there is a problem.” Costabile, and Equity’s December 10, 2012. President Don’t beat yourself up over the Director of Outreach and Nick Wyman and National Director, unpredictable or things you Career Development, Tom Organizing and Special Projects, can’t control. Make decisions Miller. Flora Stamatiades were on hand based on the knowledge you to help welcome the new group. JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2013 EQUITY news / 11

Princeton, NJ McCarter Celebrates Holiday Milestones; Raises Funds for Local Organizations The McCarter Theatre in Backstage, the Young Princeton, New Jersey Ensemble raised $251 for celebrated several milestones children’s charities via “The during the run of Charles Curse Can” (curse in rehearsal Dickens’ A Christmas Carol in or backstage and it costs you a December, 2012. quarter; phone goes off it costs a Ten out of 14 AEA members dollar) and the First Annual The McCarter Theatre company of A Christmas Carol celebrates the publication of Performance of the returned to the theatre this Christmas Eve Toy Car Road Century: 100 Years of Actors’ Equity Association and the Rise of Professional American Theater. season. In addition, reaching Rally, down the dressing room their 100th performance with the hallway ramp. good fortune in our lives have the that the most vulnerable of their Education Program. company were AEA members Onstage, the company and obligation to give a little back to citizens do not go hungry. The As long-time cast member Justin Blanchard (Young McCarter Theatre continued to those in need.” organization is the largest source Annika Goldman (Christmas Marley/Old Marley/Mr. Stocks), support local social service The Rescue Mission of of food for hunger relief charities Past and Martha Cratchit with Michele Tauber (Mrs. organizations by collecting Trenton serves the needy who in the Mercer County, New 100+ performances under her Fezziwig/Mrs. Stocks/ donations for the Rescue have no place to turn for shelter, Jersey area. belt) of Princeton, age 13, said in Laundress) and Price Waldman Mission of Trenton and Mercer food and clothing by providing a In 2009, 2010, 2011 and the curtain speech, “Anything (Bob Cratchit). Equity Councillor Street Friends, with donations safe, clean and warm refuge. It 2012, McCarter Theatre, the you care to give is meaningful. James Ludwig (Fred/ totaling more than $37,000. The also provides services and company of A Christmas Carol Thank you for your generosity. Undertaker/Schoolmaster) company, led by Equity Members counseling and creates an and the theatre patrons have And from the bottom of our celebrated his 200th Graeme Malcolm (Ebenezer environment where one can live also helped Trenton Area Soup hearts, Happy Holidays!” performance, joining Anne Scrooge), James Ludwig and with dignity and build self Kitchen; Allies, Inc.; the To help, visit: O’Sullivan (Mrs. Dilber and Cheryl Mintz followed their daily esteem. Children’s Home Society and rescuemissionoftrenton.org former Mrs. Fezziwig) who had standing ovation to jump into a Established in 1987, the HomeFront with donations of mercerstreetfriends.org over 225 performances and heartfelt curtain speech, with Mr. Mercer Street Friends Food more than $111,400. These trentonsoupkitchen.org Cheryl Mintz (Supervising Stage Malcolm quoting Dickens’ “At this Bank secures and distributes Outreach programs were alliesnj.org Manager) with over 475 festive season of the year, we food and provides related cultivated by Christopher Parks chsofnj.org performances to their credit. who have been blessed with nutrition assistance to ensure and McCarter Theatre’s homefrontnj.org

THEATRE Eastern Region SPOTLIGHT Theatre Adds to Resort Attractions FINAL tlantic Stage was They secured their current home, ager, additional facilities for re- founded in Myrtle the 79th Avenue Theatre, which hearsal and storage as well as a CURTAIN “ABeach, South Carolina they share with university produc- strong growth in community sup- in 2008 by a committed group of tions, in the summer of 2009. In port through monetary dona- theatre artists working at Coastal their second season, average at- tions.” In April 2012, the company Carolina University,” says Steve tendance more than doubled and was invited to Charleston’s Pic- “Were I to die and go to heaven Earnest, an Equity Member, “our patrons’ enthusiastic and colo Spoleto Festival, followed by and find it populated by actors, vocal support con- the company’s first ever summer I would not be unhappy.” firmed the area’s children’s theatre offerings. hunger for what we “Atlantic Stage is important to —-Playwright Ben Hecht have to offer,” said the Myrtle Beach community,” 10/11/2012 – 1/09/13 Artistic Director and Eq- says Equity Member Jon Hayden. uity Member Thom “It makes bold plays choices and Ruth Antonofsky Larry Hagman Raymond Purcell Penn. has offered AEA Members a David Atkinson Gwyn Hamilton Peg Robb “Season Three chance to work on at least one Ralph Beaumont Eugene Hare Marty Ross Larry Block Megan Hunt David Martin Ryan brought in record Pulitzer and Tony Award play in Beverley Bozeman John Houston Ingle Judy Schoen houses for several each of the past seasons. And R.G. Brown Alen Joseph Peter Schroeder shows. Attendance the hard work has paid off as Peter Burnell Bart Kahn Alexander Scott swelled to over 3,000 more people are catching on to Council Cargle Theodore Kazanoff Ron Scott patrons, with people ‘The Jewel of the Grand Strand.’” Carole Caselli Jack Klugman Eugene Smith coming in from Cal- “I have been privileged to Chung-Tao Cheng- Ralph Linn David Steckelberg Kristi Ray McIntyre (l) and Mindi Penn in abash, Little River, work as a stage manager for At- God of Carnage. Stephen Joe Livingston Michael Stoltz North Myrtle Beach, lantic Stage,” says Equity Mem- Gary E. Collins Stanja Lowe Kathleen A. Sullivan Founding member of the Atlantic Myrtle Beach, Conway, ber Brittanie Sicker. “The theatre Engle Conrow Anthony Mainionis Ben Tatar Stage Theatre Company and a Surfside, Mur- is filling a Edward Crotty Claire Malis Wally Taylor Professor of Theatre at Coastal rell’s Inlet and much needed Pepe Douglas Joel Marston Russ Aubrey Thacker Carolina University. “It was felt,” Pawley’s Island, hole in the M’el Dowd Don Craig McArt Patrick H. Tolson he continues, “that having a pro- not to mention Myrtle Beach Shana Dowdeswell Myron Meljie George Turner Jacquelyn Dubois Max Middleton Susan Tyrrell fessional, resident theatre com- all of our ‘snow area for cul- Charles Durning Reuben Mitchell Michele Vacca pany would strengthen the bird’ friends from tural, engaging Norma Fire Nehemiah Murphy Porter Van Zandt theatre program at CCU, which all over the U.S. and thought- Kathryn Fuller John Newton Evelyn Ward had recently been given the op- and Canada.” provoking the- Michael Garr Patricia Northrop David Whitaker portunity to offer pre-professional Now in its atre. Atlantic fifth season, “the Stage carefully Luigi Gasparinetti Maurice Nystrom Virginia Kay White BFA degrees in Theatre. The Cliff Goodwin Philip Persons Ionia M. Zelenka original vision of Atlantic Stage theatre contin- David Russell (l) and Steve chooses their was to provide a workplace for ues to grow, Earnest in Dinner With Friends. season in mission to introduce audiences professional actors while at the both in terms of order to chal- Equity member Marianne to the joy and wonder of profes- same time offering students the budget and quality,” says Steve lenge their audiences. They bring Fraulo says: “Atlantic Stage has sionally produced live theatre. chance to work alongside profes- Earnest. “ASC is one of only them new productions that they taken on the task of creating Many years ago I was part of sionals during the final stages of three Equity franchised theatres have never seen before and want provocative, inspiring theatre in the founding family of a trailblaz- their undergraduate theatre train- in South Carolina and it operates to talk about afterwards. Even a place that traditionally has not ing company in Atlanta, and the ing program.” on an SPT 1 contract. Currently though they are a small group, had the opportunity to experi- experience at ASC reminded In its first season, the com- Atlantic Stage produces a six- they are a hard working and car- ence it and [the founders] me that a new crop of dedicated pany had no permanent home show season using up to four Eq- ing group that creates a family at- leaped to this challenge at a theatre folk are walking those and produced its plays at the uni- uity contracts per show. Other mosphere. They know how to time when more theatres are paths anew, as we must in every versity and at a beachside resort improvements include a year- bring out the best performance in closing than opening. It was a generation.” (as dinner theatre productions). round Production Stage Man- their people and productions.” privilege to be a part of their 12 / EQUITY news JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2013

New York The 24th Annual Gypsy of the Ye a r Competition closed with a salute to Fred Ebb and the Fred BC/EFA’s “Gypsy of the Year” Raises $3.9 Million Ebb Foundation which has awarded BC/EFA $6.9 million 1 2 3 from Mr. Ebb’s continued royalties since 2005. This year’s top fundraiser was the national tour of The Book of Mormon, which raised a record- breaking $478,130, followed by Wicked – Emerald City’s $357,370, $252,152 from Wicked – Munchkinland and the tour of Les Misérables with 4 5 6 $172,290. Broadway‘s top fundraising award went to Once with $232,770; followed by Evita with $224,105; The Book of Mormon with $209,265; and Wicked’s $165,370. The Heiress brought in the highest Broadway play total with $50,254 and Avenue Q took the top Off- In the words of lyricist Fred winner Chita Rivera and Ricky In an afternoon of dancing Dylis Croman. Broadway spot with $24,940. Ebb, “We’re a special kind of Martin were joined by Katie highlights, The Lion King took In a spirited number, The 24th Annual Gypsy of the people known as show people.” Holmes in announcing the grand honors for the best onstage choreographed by David Ye a r was directed by Equity And for the 24th year, more than total and top fundraising and on- presentation with (3) a modern Marquez, (5) 21 dancers member Kristin Newhouse with 200 members of the Broadway stage presentation awards to a dance choreographed by cast swinging 42 of the iconic red production stage manager Jason community showed just how standing-room-only audience at member Ray Mercer, with the BC/EFA collection buckets Trubit leading a team of ten special they are with a rousing the New Amsterdam Theatre. cast of Bring It On: The Musical saluted the 17 Equity national outstanding Equity stage and emotional edition of Gypsy The show’s opening number – grabbing the runner-up spot. The touring shows that together managers behind the scenes. of the Year. (2) featuring 32 current show included presentations raised $1.9 million of the event’s BC/EFA is grateful to everyone The annual event, held on Broadway gypsies, two of the from Newsies, Mary Poppins, grand total. across Broadway, Off-Broadway December 3 and 4, 2012, was recent Gypsy Robes and a Once, NEWSical the Musical, The stars of Annie and Once, and on the road in national tours the culminating celebration of six special guest appearance by Evita, Mamma Mia!, the ill-fated (6) Tony winners Katie Finneran traveling across the country weeks of fundraising by 51 “king of the gypsies,” Harvey cast of Rebecca, Rock of Ages and Steve Kazee shared whose extraordinary energy, participating Broadway, Off- Evans, celebrated the history of and (4) the extraordinary BC/EFA’s commitment of talents and generous efforts Broadway and national touring Broadway dance and was dancers from Chicago in a donating $350,000 to help made the 24th Gypsy of the Year companies, which this year directed and choreographed by recreation of Bob Fosse’s victims of Hurricane Sandy.Tony Competition such a success. raised $3,902,608 for Broadway Rommy Sandhu with music “Bye, Bye Blackbird” and “Sing, Award winner Judith Light For a complete story, many Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. arrangements by Ben Cohn and Sing, Sing” entitled “Forever returned to again lead a poignant more photos and video: (1) Two-time Tony Award lyrics by Stacia Fernandez. Fosse,” directed by cast member moment of silence. www.broadwaycares.org

Letters to The Editor her Union. In a room, her regal presence Letters received from paid up members on subjects of concern to Equity members will be considered and spoke volumes, and there was published as soon as possible. The Editor reserves the right to limit letters to 175 words and to select one always a twinkle in her eye. She or two representative letters when many similar letters are received. Letters must be signed, but names will be sorely missed. will be withheld on request for those letters which may affect members’ employment. Signatures will not Joan Valentina be withheld on letters antagonistic or accusatory, either implied or expressed, against other members. Opinions expressed in Letters to the Editor are not necessarily those of Actors’ Equity Association. TIME GOES BY Dear Editor: IN MEMORIAM Farrell in Annie. I would like to pass along a word of gratitude to CT’s Westport Dear Editor: She was one of a kind. Country Playhouse for their Anne Sullivan passed away on Deborah Jean Templin holiday community gift, a staged October 28, 2012 in Datil, New reading of The Philadelphia Story Mexico. She received the Del Dear Editor: held on December 10, 2012. The Hughes Award for Lifetime Equity lost one of its brightest beautiful country playhouse was Achievement and Excellence in lights with the passing of Leila jam-packed and it was truly great the Art of Stage Management in Danette on September 4, 2012. fun. Imagine all those chairs on 1987. Leila was 103 and still attending stage, too. To quote Tracy, the Anne was a PSM and SM for auditions and taking care of night was “fine, simply fine” and both Broadway and national tours. herself. She began as an we, the audience were “fine, Shows she worked on included: elementary school teacher in NOW simply fine” as well. What a treat Inherit the Wind, A Taste of Baltimore. At age 59, she stopped to see Blythe Danner as Mrs. Lord IN Honey, Fiddler on the Roof, teaching to join the original cast of BOOK and James Naughton, a nattily Cabaret, Gypsy, The World of The Great White Hope, making STORES gray, distinguished and Suzie Wong, Annie, Company and her Broadway debut. Other stage appropriately clueless Seth Lord. The Wiz. She also toured with credits include The Little Foxes, The lovely Kelli O’Hara was a Lena Horne and Martha Graham. Amen Corner and Striver’s Row, $42.50 HARDCOVER 978-1-55783-837-7 smashingly “fine” Tracy. U U Every road house respected her where she played my Today while going through a 

 
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   knowledge and humor, Anne starting in her 90s. She was a finding this Playbill must be transformed herself from the mentor to numerous young kismet. Manhattan Blue Blood she was performers, and always had time Quite poignant and funny how born, into the authentic Westerner to help me learn those difficult AEA Members get a 25% Discount at playbillstore.com time goes by. she wanted to be. I treasure the lines. At the time of her passing Go to: http://www.playbillstore.com/peofce100yeo.html Ellee Rose insights into human behavior she she was still paying her AEA Middletown, CT 25% Discount Applied at Check-Out gave while touring as Grace dues because she wanted to help