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Home , Alex Sharp, Andy Karl, Annaleigh Ashford, Brad Oscar, Brandon Uranowitz, Julie Halston

EQUITYACTORS’ EQUITY: STANDING UP FOR OURNEWS MEMBERS

JUNE 2015 / Volume 100 / Number 5 www.actorsequity.org 2015 Equity Theater BreakingThrough Barriers Election Results Continues to Provide Work for Kate Shindle elected President of the union; all other officers reelected and 16 elected to Council Performers With Disabilities Kate Shindle led 1st Vice President Not elected: Dan NicholasViselli is the new Artistic Director the slate of officers Paige Price Zittel, Eric H. Mayer ht yCrlRosegg Carol by Photo elected to three-year 2nd Vice President By Helaine Feldman terms in Equity’s 2015 The following candi- Rebecca Kim Jordan he stage is the way national election. In date was nominated 3rd Vice President to change the addition, 16 members with no opposition “ Ira Mont world,” said Ike — 11 from the East- and, pursuant to Rule T Schambelan, founder and ern Region, 2 from the Secretary/Treasurer VI(E)6 of the Nomina- artistic director of Theater Central Region and 3 Sandra Karas tions and Election Breaking Through Barriers from the Western Re- Eastern Regional Policy, has been (formerly Theater By the gion — have been Vice President deemed elected. Blind) until his death on elected to Council. Melissa Robinette Chorus February 3, 2015. Nicholas Ballots were tabu- Central Regional Bill Bateman Viselli, who joined the lated on May 21, Vice President company in 1997 and has 2015. There were Dev Kennedy CENTRAL been named to continue 6,182 total valid bal- REGION Schambelan’s work, agrees The cast of Agatha Christie’s The Unexpected Guest, including lots cast, of which EASTERN The following candi- with the late artistic director’s (L to R) Pamela Sabaugh, Scott Barton, Melanie Boland, Ann 3,397 were cast elec- REGION Marie Morelli, Lawrence Merritt and David Rosar Stearns. dates were nomina- sentiment. “Ike Schambelan’s tronically. Principal ted with no opposition contributions to our associates disability with pity, disabled, nor is Viselli, Following are the and, pursuant to Rule profession, the disabled fear, helplessness and although his wife, Ann Marie results: VI(E)6 of the Nomina- community and the world-at- Maureen Moore dependence. This perception Morelli, also a company tions and Election large have been profound,” he OFFICERS Kate O’Phalen is incorrect because in the member, is a wheelchair-user. Policy, they have been says. President Judy Rice same breath we admire and The company is not only a deemed elected. Viselli began his tenure as Kristine Nevins idolize those in society who showcase for Performers with Kate Shindle artistic director with the Joanne Borts Chorus are strong, resilient and Disabilities, it is a professional Not elected: Nick company’s production of The Sid Solomon Ariane Dolan adaptable, which pretty much theater company that includes Wyman, Larry Cahn Unexpected Guest, an Agatha Not elected: Jeff describes every disabled able-bodied actors as well. Stage Manager Christie mystery, with a cast of Western Regional Blumenkrantz, Scott person I know. As artists, we “Our performers are Malcolm D. Ewen nine, including two actors who Vice President Evans, Christopher are in the best possible professional actors,” stressed are legally blind, two actors Doug Carfrae Gurr, Scott McGowan, position to prove this point Viselli. TBTB’s mission WESTERN who are amputees, one actor Not elected: Donal Buzz Roddy, because art is all about statement says it is “dedicated REGION who uses a wheelchair Thoms-Cappello Karen D. Howell, adapting, bending perceptions to advancing actors and because of multiple sclerosis, Todd Buonopane, Mary-Pat Green and effecting intellectual and, writers with disabilities and The following one who has a spine injury Matt DeAngelis, Jeff Marlow more significantly, emotional changing the image of people candidates were that has affected his gait and Joe Zaloom, Craig A. change. Art comes from a with disabilities from nominated with no Barbara N. Roberts one performer who has Meyer, Wally Dunn, different place. It transcends dependence to opposition and, Not elected: cerebral palsy. Tom Helmer, John physical limitations. In our independence.” pursuant to Rule Cynthia Marty, Jeffrey “It is our ultimate goal to Christopher Jones, profession, disability is a It accomplishes this goal by VI(E)6 of the Christopher Todd, alter the perceptions of Stas' Kmiec' characteristic which only hiring and including writers Nominations and John Herzog, Mary disability, which have been matters as much as we want it and Equity actors with Election Policy, they Stage Manager Gutzi, Edgar Landa, hard-wired into us for to matter.” disabilities to work in Off- have been deemed Ruth E. Kramer Jeffrey B. Landman, centuries,” said Viselli. “In our Schambelan was not elected. Amber White Kyle Nudo world, one immediately (continued on page 2) Production Contract Negotiations Begin In July he Production Contract will take place throughout June. 64,708 workweeks and is the Vice President Ira Mont and in- negotiations will begin in Covering Broadway, national highest earnings generator for cludes members who have TJuly. The current and tiered tours, the Production Equity members. worked under the Production contract is set to expire Contract is the union’s premier Equity’s Negotiating team Contract. Executive Director September 27, 2015. Final contract. In the 2013-2014 will be co-chaired by First Vice Mary McColl will be the chief preparations for the negotiations season, the contract generated President Paige Price and Third negotiator.

#EquityWorks: Theater News & Notes Anaheim, CA - Equity has another two years, increasing TigerLion Arts, a transitional Company marks its 30th renewed its Letter of its Equity member contracts SPT producer, has worked anniversary season Off- Agreement with 3D and workweeks by 24, over with Equity to mount a small Broadway this year. Theatricals with salary the next two seasons. regional tour to local , NY - Signature

Periodicals Postage Paid at New York, NY and Additional Mailing Offices increases. Fremont, CA - Made Up arboretums and outdoor (continued on page 3) Boulder, CO - Equity has Theatre, specializing in venues with its original play, renewed its Letter of sketch and improvisational Nature. The production will Agreement with comedy in the Bay Area, is employ five Equity members Index NEWS Shakespeare Festival with producing its first resulting in nearly 100 Theater Spotlight ...... 3 salary increases. professional, scripted workweeks for members. Awards ...... 4 Carmel, IN - Actors production on an MBAT New York, NY – Founded Robe Recipients ...... 5 UITY Theatre of Indiana has Agreement. by David Mamet and William National News...... 6 165 West 46th Street New York, NY 10036 Address Service Requested Paid in New York, NY Q renewed its SPT Rider for Minneapolis, MN - H. Macy, Atlantic Theater Easter Bonnet Competition....8 E 2 / EQUITY news JUNE 2015

Barriers known that we served Area Liaison performers of all disabilities. We (continued from page 1) Congratulations to Hotline system are still an integrated company Broadway productions, of performers with and without Equity’s 2015 Tony Award- Call 877-AEA-1913 presenting plays dealing with disabilities, and I believe that Nominated Members disability issues, and producing this is the only way to bring Equity has a national toll-free a Ten-Minute Play Festival performers with disabilities to Best Book of a Musical & Best Original Score hotline system for members who while inviting well-known the mainstream. We show that , live in area liaison and office playwrights to participate. Or, in our artists are able to work Best Choreography cities. The number is 877-AEA- short, by presenting and alongside each other and even Joshua Bergasse, 1913 (honoring the year of creating diverse stories and make the audience forget that Best Original Score Equity’s founding). Each Area telling them with an authentic there is any ‘disability’ being Sting, The Last Ship represented because we have Liaison city has its own voice. Characters who are blind Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play a great respect and comfort extension, where members can are played by actors who are Steven D. Boyer, Hand to God with each other as performers, access news and information blind; characters who use Bradley Cooper, The Elephant Man not as ‘disabled’ performers. We in their region. wheelchairs are played by Ben Miles, Wolf Hall: Parts One & Two are children, brothers, sisters, Bill Nighy, Skylight (1) Dial 877-AEA-1913 performers who use wheelchairs. In 2011, several of husbands, wives, aunts, uncles, Alex Sharp, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time parents, and as a disabled (2) Dial your city extension: the festival’s plays traveled to Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a performer, I believe that I can 811 Croatia, thus bringing TBTB’s Play bring a different perspective to 812 Austin/San Antonio work to an international Geneva Carr, Hand to God theater because of my daily audience. In 2012, to mark the , The Audience 813 challenges in life. Art does not 22nd Anniversary of the Elisabeth Moss, 814 Buffalo/Rochester come from my legs; it doesn’t Americans with Disabilities Act, Carey Mulligan, Skylight 815 come from someone’s eyes or TBTB was invited to perform at , Constellations 816 Cincinnati/Louisville ears or any tangible physical the Kennedy Center in Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a 817 Cleveland attribute that we consider Washington, D.C. Musical normal. It is much deeper. It is 818 Dallas/Fort Worth “I’ve been with TBTB since Michael Cerveris, Fun Home 819 1997, back when it was Theater Robert Fairchild, An American in Paris 820 Detroit By the Blind,” says Equity Brian D’Arcy James, Something Rotten! 821 Florida – Central member Pamela Sabaugh. Ken Watanabe, Tony D. Yazbeck, On the Town 822 Florida – South “Though I am legally blind, I 823 Houston never considered myself a Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical 824 Kansas City ‘blind’ actor, but rather an actor, , 825 first and foremost. TBTB, I felt, shared in this belief. Though Leanne Cope, An American in Paris 826 Los Angeles Beth A. Malone, Fun Home our mission certainly is to 827 Milwaukee/Madison Kelli O’Hara, The King and I advance the work of performers 828 Minneapolis/St Paul Chita Rivera, The Visit with disabilities — and 829 Nashville changing perceptions — it has Best Performance by an Actor 830 New Orleans always been an integrated in a Featured Role in a Play Matthew Beard, Skylight 831 New York company of talented and Nicholas Viselli K. Todd Freeman, Airline Highway 832 diverse artists who are defined Richard McCabe, The Audience 833 Phoenix/Tucson by the artistry they share, human.” Alessandro Nivola, The Elephant Man rather than whether or not they 834 Pittsburgh Equity member Anita D. Nathaniel Parker, Wolf Hall: Parts One & Two happen to have a disability. 835 San Diego Hollander says that Theater Micah Stock, It’s Only a Play That’s not to say we haven’t 836 Breaking Through Barriers has Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a had the chance to incorporate 837 Seattle given her the great pleasure of Play disability into the overall 838 St. Louis doing several shows and , You Can’t Take It With You aesthetic of a production, or 839 Washington DC/ touring in Croatia and Japan. Patricia D. Clarkson, The Elephant Man create work that’s been Hollander also serves as Lydia Leonard, Wolf Hall: Parts One & Two informed and enhanced by the National Chair of the Sarah Stiles, Hand to God disabled experience. But what SAG/AFTRA National PWD , Airline Highway has been most positive for me, Committee, Co-Chair of the NY Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a is having had the chance to Local SAG/AFTRA PWD Musical work, time and time again, on Committee and on the , Something Rotten! some extraordinary material, AEA/Broadway League Andy Karl, On the Twentieth Century with gifted professionals.” Coalition for more diversity and Brad Oscar, Something Rotten! “I am, I think, the only inclusion in Broadway and Brandon Uranowitz, An American in Paris company member who has regional theaters. “It is in the Max Von Essen, An American in Paris actually become disabled over audition,” she said, “where we Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a my time with TBTB,” says Ann can truly raise consciousness Musical EQUITYNEWS Marie Morelli. “I have MS and JOSH AUSTIN and give people ideas that will Victoria Clark, Gigi Editor: am now a wheelchair-user. It lead to our getting more work.” , Fun Home Equity News Advisory Committee was in 2008 that we changed Lucas, Fun Home Christine Toy Johnson, Chair “Broadway is still a stubborn the name to Theater Breaking Ruthie Ann Miles, The King and I (Eastern) nut to crack in the performer Through Barriers and made it Emily Skeggs, Fun Home Nancy Daly (Western) department although audience Diane Dorsey (Central) accessibility has improved and Special Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Theatre Nicole Flender (Eastern) Attention more people with disabilities Bruce Alan Johnson (Eastern) are attending shows,” she Special Tony Award Kevin McMahon (Western) Los Angeles added. “Regional theaters have Liz Pazik (Central) Members: done much better. Mixed Blood Barbara Roberts (Western) in Minneapolis; Deaf West in The small group meetings Melissa Robinette (Eastern) L.A.; Phamaly Theatre about the new internal mem- Buzz Roddy (Eastern) Company in Denver; Goodman performers with disabilities is a fresh ways to present our bership rules and agree- EQUITY NEWS (ISSN: 00924520) is Theatre in Chicago; Urban difficult one, but he believes artists — to prove our ments originally announced published monthly except for com- Improv in Boston; Surflight and that we have never been in a fundamental point that disability bined issues in Jan./Feb., July/Aug., for June are postponed to the Ocean Professional Theatre in better position to effect positive does not diminish the quality of Oct.,/Nov., by Actors' Equity fall. The schedule for the Pro- Association, 165 West 46th Street, New Jersey; and Barrow Street, change than we are right now. the art or the artist — raises duction Contract negotiations New York, NY 10036. Telephone: Nicu’s Spoon and TBTB in New “I have watched TBTB grow the power of collaboration to a has been pushed up and (212) 869-8530. Periodicals York have all cast PWDs. Over into a solid, highly respected much higher level in our arena. those negotiations will now postage paid at New York, NY. and ad- my 30-year career, I have seen Off-Broadway company, the We’ve proven this time and ditional mailing offices. Copyright begin immediately after the the progress that can be made only one of its kind, dedicated time again with all of our work. 2003, Actors' Equity Association. July 4th holiday. Because of Subscription price for non-members by never giving up. It’s an to advancing the work of artists It is now time to forge ahead this change, the final prepa- of Actors' Equity Association: $25 per exhausting pursuit, but worth it with disabilities by presenting and continue raising the bar. rations for the negotiations year. Postmaster: Send address in the end.” first-class art. While theater is The table has been set and we changes to Equity News, 165 West will now be condensed into Viselli agrees that the truly a collaborative art, our all gratefully look forward to 46th St., New York, NY 10036. the month of June. mission to raise awareness for need to invent and pioneer what lies ahead.” JUNE 2015 EQUITY news / 3 From a Barn to a Playhouse, the Forestburgh Playhouse has Kept Going

We asked the staff at the audiences sat on benches and the Forestburgh Summer Forestburgh Playhouse to tell us community members helped with Theatre to Gregg Harlan and about the theater; this is what costumes, cooking and whatever Craig Sandquist, who they had to say: else was needed. Although the transformed it into what is now ith a rich history and date is not specified, Equity known as the Forestburgh long ties with Actors’ actors began working at the Playhouse. The Playhouse did WEquity, the Forestburgh Forestburgh Theatre in the ‘60s, not escape the AIDS crisis and, Playhouse is the oldest, marking the beginning of a long sadly, the Harlan-Sandquist era continuously operating and fruitful relationship. lasted only 10 years. Those short professional summer theater in In 1980, the last of the years, however, represented a New York State. In the summer of remaining original owners sold time of dynamic change. The 1947, John Grahame, Alexander Forestburgh Maissel and a group of actors Tavern, right next to the Playhouse, Esther Murphy and Alexander Maissel in June 1947 working on from Greenwich Village’s the Playhouse. Provincetown Playhouse became a journeyed to the Catskills and institution Playhouse are often treated to a journey.” bought a barn. These actors within the unique and special experience. According to Elizabeth Earley, renovated the barn and opened Catskills. In According to Larry Smiglewski, a former Resident Company the Forestburgh Summer addition, the an Equity stage manager who member currently in Broadway’s Theatre for business. In the early apprenticeship program was has worked at the Playhouse for Something Rotten!, “Two days, the company produced Jonathan Charles Fox Copyright over seven seasons, “It would be summers at the Playhouse gave Shakespeare, Moliere and other transformed into easy (and foolish) to write it off me invaluable perspective as a classics, children’s theater, and what is now as ‘theatre in a barn,’ but I have working professional. It created ran an apprenticeship program known as the had the privilege of collaborating within me an extremely strong with the Provincetown EMC “Resident with top-notch designers and work ethic, reverence for the Playhouse. Company.” incredibly talented performers chance to work and gave me my Not only rehearsing during Norman who are all here for the same first ‘theater family.’ Returning to the day, actors collected eggs Duttweiler reason – to create beautiful FBPH to play Mary Poppins was from the henhouse and milked became the producer in 1992 theater.” a thrilling experience. I saw the cows – the company even Equity members Elizabeth Earley and Zak Actors are housed in heart of the Playhouse very served as the emergency fire Edwards in the company’s 2014 production and opened the of Mary Poppins. picturesque settings, all meals much beating, while nurturing department for the area. The 45th Anniversary Season. During are provided to the entire staff talented new artists on their his time, the and company in the tavern and journeys. I am forever going to relationship with Equity was rehearsals are conducted on an be grateful for my time at FBPH.” solidified, the production value of open-air rehearsal deck. It isn’t The Forestburgh Playhouse shows skyrocketed and uncommon that actors will look operates during the summers Duttweiler singlehandedly took a out onto the meadow during and offers three different types of How I financially unstable playhouse rehearsals and spot deer, foxes, performance experiences: and transformed it into an and occasionally, a bear. musicals and plays on the main Got My efficient and viable business. Smiglewski added that stage, a youth theater production New producer, Franklin Trapp, a “rehearsing in an open air and musical cabaret Equity Card former Resident Company environment can be both performances presented with member and a member of challenging and exhilarating. dinner in the adjoining Kate Goehring Equity, took over in 2014. When we do the final producer’s Forestburgh Tavern. Dubbed the “Returning to a place where I run-through before moving into “Miracle of the Forest,” close to have such fond memories is a the theater, it is amazing to not 30,000 patrons attend Chicago. Oh, Chicago! The commitment felt like a leap, dream come true,” said Trapp, have the set or costumes performances every year, and I’d moved there straight after but how could you say no to “and I am excited to take the because it forces you to focus on the growth shows no signs of graduating from Oberlin College Oscar Wilde, tea and waging the Playhouse to the next level.” the work. Sometimes that run is slowing down. with my degree in American fight against cake and lumps of Performers that work at the my favorite part of the whole Romantic Fiction (“oh yes, this sugar? Years of wonderful will distract me from acting”) and collaborations, handy health a single goal: don’t shake in insurance and ample examples space, known as Stage 4 mark the employment of an auditions. of actors playing well with others #Equity Works (formerly 2ndStage). The AEA stage manager and no have ensued. Whatever with landing a role (continued from page 1) upcoming summer production less than three Equity actors on — that was too much pressure. More recently, playing Bella Theatre Company, the first of Silence! The Musical will contract. My only goal was to contain my opposite the dreamy Judy theater company to devote an audition excitement by not Kaye’s Mamma in Lost in entire season to the work of a shaking. That proved an Yonkers at the Arizona Theatre single playwright, will mark its #EquityWorks: effective strategy, and I was a Company, this dressing room 25th anniversary season Off- joyful Equity Membership mirror conversation ensued: Broadway with the 2015-16 Tracking What You’re Owed Candidate soon enough. Kate: (blotting on concealer) I season. Eastern Region staff of date rider and rehearsal delay Working lots as an EMC was gotta get more people to Washington, D.C. – determined that the Dance of two days. The employer entirely plausible in Chicago’s register to vote. Theater Company, led by Captain duties for a LORT agreed to pay the actors for a broad vista of creativity, since Artistic Director Ari Roth and production were being full week of rehearsals in Judy: (adding wrinkles) Send Producing Director Serge substantial opportunities for performed by a non-Equity actor accordance with the original them the “Borowitz Report.” Seiden, will join the Equity artistic growth abound for and made a claim with the start date on the face of the Kate: (messing up mascara) family as a Small Professional actors. I remember being wide- theater to employ the actor on contract, rather than a pro-rated Brilliant! Theatre effective in the fall with eyed at the first show I ever did an Equity contract, retroactive to salary at 4/6ths for that week. its 2015-16 season. The with Equity actors — The Rover Judy: (heading to ‘places’) the first day of rehearsal. With Central Region staff collected company will operate two at the . THEY And do “How I Got My Equity this claim, Equity achieved one over $500 in missed payments performance spaces: the 260- Card.” additional contract for the for two members relating to CAT GAVE US OUR OWN seat Lang Theatre and the 160- She’s Mamma, so you don’t production, including the Dance productions. FOLDERS! As a candidate at seat Springer Theatre, located say “no.” She’s also Judy, so Captain duties, and a From February to April of this the time, this floored me. Light inside D.C.’s historic Atlas compensation package of year, Equity collected over emanated from the scripts. what could be more fun than Theatre. $6,100. $1,500 in missing payments The card, when it happened, saying “yes”? Washington, D.C. - After After reviewing signed from Guest Artist and Special sort of had to happen — Equity is a brilliant and several years of negotiations, contracts under a LORT Appearance Contracts on Gwendolyn in the now-defunct important union in myriad ways. Studio Theatre will commit to agreement, AEA staff contacted behalf of Equity Members in the Body Politic Theatre’s The And several decades in, light producing Equity work in its the theater regarding a change Western Region. Importance of Being Earnest. still comes from the scripts. experimental black box theater 4 / EQUITY news JUNE 2015

City and CBS’ The Class. Julie Halston, Brad Oscar Receive Oscar received a Tony Equity Foundation Award nomination for his work in , which he also played ulie Halston (You Can’t Take It in ’s West End. Broadway With You) and Brad Oscar credits include Big Fish, Nice J(Something Rotten!) are the Work If You Can Get It, The recipients of the annual Richard Addams Family, , Jekyll Seff Award presented by the & Hyde and . He Actors’ Equity Foundation to was in the national tours of The veteran female and male Phantom of the Opera, Yo u n g Brent Wagner, University of Michigan Dept. of character actors for the best Chair, with Eisenberg Award-winner Isabelle McCalla, former Julie Halston Brad Oscar Frankenstein and Jekyll & Hyde, performance in a supporting role Equity Executive Director Alan Eisenberg and the University’s and he has also appeared Off- Dean of Theatre & Dance, Christopher Kendall. in a Broadway or Off-Broadway appeared in the Broadway, in Encores! production. comedies, Vampire Lesbians of productions and in regional Isabelle McCalla earns this The recipients will be Sodom, The Lady in Question theater, receiving a Carbonell presented with the award at and Red Scare on Sunset. Award as Best Actor in a Musical year’s Equity/Alan Eisenberg Equity’s Eastern Regional Board Broadway credits include for Barnum at the Asolo meeting at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, , , Gypsy Repertory Theatre in Sarasota, Award Scholarship June 9, 2015, at the NYC Equity and Twentieth Century. Off- Florida. uffern, New York native character, Sally Bowles, when office. Broadway appearances include The Judges’ Panel includes Isabelle McCalla knew she she performed in Cabaret with Halston, a recipient of three The Tribute Artist and The Divine Joe Dziemianowicz, Daily News; Swanted to be a performer the university. Although, in Drama Desk, two Drama League Sister. She has won four MAC Adam Feldman, Time Out New after her mom took her to see a addition to playing Anita from and two Outer Critics’ Circle ( Association of Yo r k ; Susan Haskins-Doloff, performance of on , she would love nominations as well as an Off- Cabarets & Clubs) awards for her Theater Talk; Harry Haun, Broadway. to tackle Bowles once more. Broadway Alliance Lifetime solo comedy performances and and David Rosenberg, The Hour “I was 5 years old,” she said, Now the ninth winner of this Achievement Award for her work, on TV she was on Sex and the Newspapers. “and I vividly remember petting annual scholarship, McCalla one of the actors who crawled plans to move straight to New down the aisle. After that, my York City after graduation to Two Membership Candidates are Recognized mom bought the VHS of the continue to pursue her dream of show, and I kid you not, I working in this industry. with the Roger Sturtevant Award watched it every day for a year; I “It feels unbelievable to win ‘learned’ each track by watching it this award,” she said. “It’s quity Membership What does becoming over and over again. I was a wonderful to be recognized not Candidates Amanda an Equity member mean swing in the making, I suppose.” only by Alan Eisenberg, but also EHartley Urteaga and to you? Aside from recently by tActors’ Equity Association, Nichalas Parker were awarded Urteaga: My husband and I completing her B.F.A. in Musical which I have a huge respect for. with the Equity Foundation’s just had a baby last year, and Theater from the University of I’m grateful that my hard work 11th annual Roger Sturtevant I’m very excited about joining Michigan, McCalla was named over the past four years has paid Musical Theatre Award. Named Equity so that I can earn a better the recipient of Equity’s Alan off.” for the beloved casting director Amanda Hartley Urteaga Nichalas Parker living to support my little girl – Eisenberg Award. The award, For McCalla, she’s also who passed away in 2003, this and hopefully be an inspiration What prompted you which was created by the union’s grateful to be a member of for her to follow her own dreams. award is given to EMCs who to be a performer? former executive director – and Actors’ Equity. have demonstrated outstanding Parker: Being a part of this Urteaga: I have been a stage an alumnus of the school – is a “Being an Equity member abilities in the field of musical union gives me some sense of performer since I was 16 in dif- scholarship awarded to a means that I will be supported by theater. stability and support. In a profes- ferent varieties of performance, graduating senior of Michigan’s a union that validates the arts as Urteaga is a recent Joseph sion where you’re constantly mo- from a magician’s assistant to a theater program. a viable career path. With the Jefferson Award winner for Best tivating yourself and others, it’s burlesque dancer. I hold a bach- So far, throughout the actor’s benefits and regulations provided Supporting Actress in a Musical still nice to know that no matter career, she has performed in by Equity, I know that I’ll always elor’s in theater from Rhode Is- in The Robber Bridegroom at what job you do, Equity is there. productions including Legally be taken care of. Plus, it’s an land College (my home state) the Griffin Theatre Company in Blonde, Singin’ in the Rain, 42nd honor to be a part of a and an MFA in acting from The If you had your druthers, Chicago, including being hon- what two dream roles Street and The Cherry Orchard, community of the most Theatre School at DePaul Uni- ored with having one of the top would you play? among various others. McCalla distinguished actors in the field.” versity. I’ve always wanted to be five best female performances even crossed off a bucket-list a performer. I blame my big fami- Urteaga: I have lots of dream by Chicago’s Newcitystage.com. ly back home in Rhode Island; roles. I’d love to play Martha in Parker, a six-foot-four baritone, the Hartleys love to be enter- The Secret Garden and Sara was part of the apprenticeship tained. I’ve always felt closest to Jane Moore in (to Career Transition for Dancers program at the Walnut Street God while onstage, so I figured name a couple). I do plays as to Host L.A. Summit Theatre in Philadelphia – one of that performing was a calling for well as musicals, and I’d love to only four actors selected from me. I’m most at home singing work at Steppenwolf n July 23, 2015, Career geles dance communities to ac- over 500 applications – where and playing funny characters someday. I’m very proud to be a Transition for Dancers complish the following: he has been seen in productions who are kind of crazy. Chicago actor; we have a fierce • Owill host the “L.A. Make known the results of such as I Love You, You’re Per- Parker: Since I was a kid, I’ve community of artists here! Dancers Summit – Life Beyond the survey and create a picture of fect, Now Change; A Christmas always loved to perform for my Parker: I would have to say the Spotlights.” the challenges and needs of the Carol, and, upcoming, Memphis. family. But honestly, I was torn Porgy from Porgy and Bess and This year, CTFD partnered L.A. dance community. How does it feel to win between performing and playing Franz Liebkind from The Pro- • with Sasha Anawalt, dance writer Pull together five “Dancers the Roger Sturtevant football in middle school – I fig- ducers. and Director of Arts Journalism Think Tanks,” with opinion lead- Musical Theatre Award? ured I would get back into foot- What’s next for you? at the University of Southern Cal- ers, facilitators and dancers from Urteaga: I am so happy to re- ball when I got to high school. I ifornia Annenberg School of the varied communities to find Urteaga: I’m up for a couple ceive this award. I just played ended up going to an arts high Communication and Journalism. solutions to the concerns spot- of roles right now; I’m auditioning Grandma in a fabulous sit-down school as a vocal major and Anawalt has put together a sur- lighted in the survey. and I also just started a new haven’t stopped performing vey that has been taken by over • And finally, have all groups production of The Addams Fami- serving job so I can buy a car in since. 900 Los Angeles dancers. If you come together to share the solu- ly at the Mercury Theater in a few months. That way I can are or have been a dancer in Los tions with the broader dance Chicago, and to win this honor Tell us about the very work in theaters all over Angeles, be sure to take the sur- community.They will announce right after we closed was very first show with which you Chicagoland easily. It’s all about vey and make your voice their findings and will have cre- exciting indeed. were involved. the planning. I’m in this for the heard: DanceMapLA.com. The ated goals/targets and devised Parker: Quite unexpected to Urteaga: The very first role I long haul. survey shows an interesting action plans that will set the tell the truth. It was one of those performed was Wendy in the Parker: I’m starting my sec- overview of dancers’ needs and wheels in motion to create suc- things where you submit for musical Peter Pan in kinder- ond half of the co-production of accomplishments; it is intended cessful solutions for the future of something and, after a while, garten back in Rhode Island. Memphis with the Walnut Street to reveal the concerns of working the dance community. you think they forget about you Parker: In elementary school I Theatre. We just got back from and aspiring dancers, and it is More details will be forthcom- or you’ll forget you submitted. was in Guys and Dolls and Vero Beach, Florida for the first important to get all union dancers ing from CTFD at a later date. Then you get a call saying you played Lt. Brannigan. I had so half. to have a voice in its results. For more information regarding got it and it’s a pleasant surprise. much fun that the next year I au- The Roger Sturtevant Award The Summit’s purpose is to this event, call (323)-549-6660 or I do feel very blessed for this ditioned for Fiddler on the Roof consists of a certificate accom- bring together the many Los An- email [email protected]. opportunity. and landed the role of Tevye. panied by a $1,000 check. JUNE 2015 EQUITY news / 5

JENNIE FORD RON TODOROWSKI An American In Paris BARRETT MARTIN Finding Neverland Side Show

KATIE WEBBER Honeymoon in Vegas JEREMY DAVIS THE The Last Ship GYPSY ROBE 2014-2015 SEASON CAMERON ADAMS Gigi CONGRATULATIONS JOSEPH MEDEIROS TO THE RECIPIENTS Doctor Zhivago

TRACEE BEAZER Holler If Ya Hear Me BAHIYAH HIBAH On The 20th Century

JESS LEPROTTO OnTheTown

MATT WALL Something Rotten LAINIE SAKAKURA The King and I 6 / EQUITY news JUNE 2015 Photo: Pretty Instant Photography

Equity member Lea DeLaria accepts her award from President of the Boston Theater Critics Association Joyce Kulhawik. Boston, Massachusetts metropolitan areas. Stage managers had the Equity Members Honored at the opportunity to meet with 11 various Chicago area Annual Elliot Norton Awards Ceremony theaters. The Annual Elliot Norton Sustained Excellence and The annual event, this Awards Ceremony was held in over a dozen awards that go year held at the Steppenwolf Boston at the Citi Shubert to a variety of theater artists Garage Theatre, is an Theatre on May 11, 2015, working in the city. opportunity for Equity stage honoring area theater artists This year, Equity member managers to meet with from the 2014 season. Lea DeLaria was the Guest of Chicago-area producers and Sponsored by the Boston Honor. In a press release, production managers, Theater Critics Association, the Joyce Kulhawik, president of exchange résumés, and gain Norton awards have been a city the Boston Theater Critics a few minutes of face time staple for the past 33 years, Association, said “DeLaria’s with a potential employer as highlighting, among others, cutting-edge talent in so many a precursor to a possible Equity actors. formats, as a comedian, singer, interview. These awards were writer, director, actress…are a The event has a “speed founded in honor of Boston testament to her versatility and interview” format: Stage drama critic Elliot Norton outspokenness.” managers sign-up for a upon his retirement from his At the ceremony, countless “rotation hour” during which prolific 48-year career. Equity members were they meet for a few minutes Originated as the Norton recognized with best with each of the employers in Medal in 1982, the first award actor/actress nominations — attendance. Some of the was given out in 1983 to an and, of course, wins. Chicago theaters participating at this individual who had made a Kulhawik added, “We have year’s interviews included significant contribution to the such talent in the Boston area Chicago Hosts its Annual Stage Steppenwolf Theatre, theater industry in Boston and we’re taking our place on Goodman Theatre and during the prior season. Now, the national stage. We are proud Manager Speed Interview Event Paramount Theatre, among the ceremony includes a to honor the awardees, and others. Lifetime Achievement Award, applaud all who were On April 21, 2015, the 26 AEA stage managers Since the event, members the Norton Prize for nominated.” Chicago Area Stage Manager located in and around the have reported getting calls Speed Interview event hosted Chicago and Milwaukee and job offers.

cost-free therapy for underserved children who experience a variety of speech and language deficits/disorders. More information available at ritecareutah.org. “Strikes for Tikes” was held over two days to accommodate all the bowling teams participating in the Las Vegas Area Members Meet event. In the end, Equity member Darrin Doman came By Debbie Luce, Las Vegas enough to allow them the away with a total of 512 for Area Liaison Chair opportunity to sit together on stage. The agenda included the his three games. A silent There was a debate as to Las Vegas liaison report as well auction added to the whether the Las Vegas Area as selection of new committee festivities and proceeds of Liaison Committee should hold members. The meeting had the fundraiser. its annual membership meeting three special guests in Mr. Perfect, by William as planned because Las Vegas attendance: Gail Gabler, Missouri Downs, had a world was “the place to be” that night Western Regional Director; premiere at the Salt Lake for “the fight of the century.” Still, Alison Harma, Associate Senior Salt Lake City, Utah Acting Company. The cast the committee decided to host Business Representative for the consisted of Doman, its meeting, with a small turnout, Western Region; and Flora Salt Lake City Members Stephanie Howell and Ryon on May 2, 2015. Stamatiades, National Director, Support Fundraiser Sharette, all AEA members, As the committee typically Organizing & Special Projects. as well as Emilie Starr, an holds it meetings in a small For two hours, the group The cast of Mr. Perfect the RiteCare of Utah. Proceeds Equity Member Candidate, theater on the University of casually talked about a myriad recently attended “Strikes for from the annual event, now in its and was stage managed by , Las Vegas campus, the of topics, asked questions and Tikes,” a fundraiser to support 5th year, go toward providing member Janice Jenson. number of guests was small had lively discussions. JUNE 2015 EQUITY news / 7

Demetrius Martin selected for three-year terms; Michael Patrick Gaffney as a two-year alternate; and Bert van Aalsburg as a one-year alternate. The national staff discussed an upcoming fundraiser for the Women’s Subcommittee, as well as details of the new MBAT agreement, updates to the Member Project Code, contract development plans for Photo: Ray Renati San Francisco, festivals, cruise lines and arena shows, an exchange program Bay Area Members & EMCs Meet with UK Equity , and a reciprocity program with By Michael Shipley and with members Brian Herndon, Canada. Members were Colin Thomson Kelly Ground, Aaron Wilton, encouraged to promote Equity Safiya Fredericks and The San Francisco Bay Area on social media and in person. Spring Membership Meeting was held April 27, 2015, at the Photo: Stephanie Masucci , Chicago Phoenix Theatre in downtown San Francisco. In addition to the regional officers and members, Welcoming New Members in Western Regional Director Gail New York City & Chicago Gabler and National Director, Organizing & Special Projects “I knew I loved performing,” • Be inspired by other Flora Stamatiades were in said guest speaker Whitney performers but don’t emulate attendance. Lawrencia Colding, Bashor during the New York them. Being authentically you who follows the distinguished City and Chicago New is exciting. service of Bethany Umbach, Jonathan Whitton, Associate General Manager & Company Member Reception on April • Run your own race. Your was introduced as the new Bay Manager of Second Stage Theatre, speaks with Equity stage 27, 2015. She had left New career is a marathon, not a Area Business Representative. manager Kara Kaufman. York, moved home to Iowa and sprint. A food drive was once again taken a job working in a bank. • Create a community with part of the proceedings, this New York City “I felt called to suffer the supportive who will lift time supporting the Marin Food business down to my bones, you up. Bank. Equity Stage Managers Participate but no one was offering me a • Develop who you are as a The event began with the in Networking Event job and it felt crazy. After a day human being. The person with Equity Membership Candidates spent reviewing accounts for a full life will always be the meeting. Gabler encouraged the During the 9th Annual Off- job offers for Equity members. fraudulent activity and most interesting person in the candidates to engage with local Broadway Stage Manager “AEA’s Off-Broadway Stage answering phones I asked the room. theaters about the EMC Networking Event, Equity stage Manager Networking Event was universe for a sign – anything.” Bashor ended with, “I got program, about Equity in managers had the chance to a whirlwind,” said Equity Lying on her parent’s living my Equity card in 2007. I general and enlisted their help participate in a sort of “speed member Kara Kaufman. “I can’t room floor she asked the date” with numerous Off- imagine any other way to meet remember feeling so excited. I in publicizing the Ask If It’s universe what she should do Equity campaign. When Gabler Broadway League members so many people with the called my mom and told her with her life. asked candidates to discuss including producers, general potential to further my career in the great news. It was the first The very next day, the why they joined the program, managers, and company one fell swoop. I’ve been of many joyful phone calls in phone rang: a director (and they mentioned their desire for managers. jokingly referring to the event as my career. friend), offered her a job as an the professional status With 15 producing ‘stage manager speed dating,’ The career path we’ve immediate replacement at the membership implies, for the organizations and 45 stage and it did have some chosen does not guarantee Signature Theatre in community and support Equity managers at this year’s event, resemblance to that sort of riches or fame, but committing Washington, D.C. “I quit my job offers and for the recognition of Equity members took the time to event. I came away feeling as to the work and being a at the bank, packed up my two their commitment to theater. network and learn about though I’d just had 14 first dates: person people want to work suitcases and headed to D.C.,” During the membership upcoming seasons, schedules There had been some laughs, a with will make your life rich in she said. “I’m happy to say I’ve meeting, Safiya Fredericks read and hiring practices, and had few awkward moments and been working ever since.” In experience and relationships.” the list of deceased members the opportunity to submit their plenty of hope for future 2014, Bashor made her The reception, conducted from the past year. Selections résumés for future relationships built on the Broadway debut in Bridges of via video hook-up between for the San Francisco Bay Area consideration. Traditionally, this introductions AEA facilitated for Madison County. NYC and Chicago, provided a Liaison Committee were held, event has led to a fair number of all of us.” Offering advice to the welcoming Q&A forum for packed houses in NYC and Equity’s newest members Chicago, the actor told new regarding the union’s core members that if she had the function: to negotiate and chance to give her younger administer contracts. Philadelphia has a vibrant self advice, she would say… Additionally, there was a theater scene and community, • Your career will ebb and discussion about the which includes the historic flow. The sooner you accept responsibilities of Walnut Street Theatre, the the triumphs and membership, Equity Arden Theatre Co., The Wilma disappointments the quicker Franchised Agents and Equity- Theater, InterAct Theatre Co., you will find happiness in your League health insurance and 1812 Productions, Lantern career. retirement benefits. Theater Co., Theatre Exile and many others. Philadelphia Liaison Chair Tom Helmer and Committee Atlanta EMCs meet for Annual Mixer Members Corbin Abernathy, Chris Sapienza and Ross The Atlanta Area Liaison theater market. EMCs were Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Beschler shared information Committee hosted its annual curious as to which theaters about the local theater EMC “mixer” on April 13, 2015. would provide them the Philadelphia EMC Gathering community and answered With Equity swag in hand, opportunity to earn their weeks. questions concerning AEA EMCs had the opportunity to Additionally, the attendees On Monday, May 4, 2015, the Society Hill district. The casual contracts in use in Philly and chat with committee members wanted to learn more about the Philadelphia Area Liaison atmosphere set the tone for a how and when to make that leap about the theatrical community benefits of joining the union, Committee hosted an Equity warm and hospitable evening of to becoming an Equity member. in Atlanta. which committee members Membership Candidate talking Philadelphia theater. The Attendees affirmed that EMCs They focused much of the happily answered. gathering at The Twisted Tail, topic for the evening was the are seen and welcomed at local conversation on the Atlanta located in Philadelphia’s historic EMC program. theater auditions. 8 / EQUITY news JUNE 2015 52 Shows Propel Easter Bonnet Competition to New Heights

1 (2), which included a jazzy rendition of “April Jason Trubitt. Friedman. And Broadway favorite lamented The Lion Showers” performed by NaTasha The grand total and award Tituss Burgess made a special King’s perennial status Yvette Williams and her Chicago winners were announced by four appearance on behalf of as the winner of that castmates; the company of Hand of this season’s stars: Andy Karl, Broadway Cares affiliate award in a side- to God with a parody of Lin-Manuel Miranda, Helen Mirren organization ASTEP (Artists splitting parody of the themselves and Matthew Striving to End Poverty). 1 long-running Disney and a 4 Morrison (4). This year’s Easter Bonnet hit’s signature number skewering of This year’s top Competition original opening “Circle of Life.” veteran cast fundraiser number included a special he generosity of the The company of , member among appearance by Hand to God star theater community shined which won runner-up presentation Mark Broadway Steven Boyer and “Tyrone,” and Tbrightly as six weeks of honors, took top design honors for Kudisch; On musicals was featured Jason Kravits and Jen spring fundraising its shimmering the Town‘s The Book of Perry. It was directed and for Broadway 2 crystal-and LED- adorably Mormon, choreographed by Rommy Cares/Equity Fights covered bonnet, awkward which raised Sandhu with writing by Stacia AIDS came to a created by Ricky Lucy Schmeeler, expertly played $325,556, followed by Aladdin, Fernandez and James Hindman, close April 20 and Jay Yates. by Allison Guinn, experiencing her raising $150,869. The top and music direction and 21, 2015, with a Opting to skew own dream ballet; South African Broadway play was Fish in the arrangements by Ben Cohn. A record-breaking younger in casting, cast members of The Lion King Dark, raising $140,374; followed bright, upbeat celebration of the 17 grand total for the Les Misérables set sharing an inspiring traditional by It’s Only a Play, which raised national touring productions, which 29th Annual Easter out to find a new Zulu dance; Christine Pedi from $120,720. The top national touring raised $2.2 million this spring, was Bonnet Competition. NEWSical the Musical; show fundraising award was 5 The fundraising 3 and a final Easter presented to – efforts of 52 Bonnet performance Munchkinland ($348,552) and Broadway, Off- Jean Valjean by the cast and alumni the first runner-up was The Broadway and national touring and landed of Mamma Mia!. Book of Mormon – Latter Day productions raised a remarkable with a star-in- This year’s Easter Company with $347,943. The $4,711,386 (1), the third year in a the-making Bonnet Competition, top Off-Broadway fundraiser row that the event set a performance held again at the was Hamilton with $96,819, fundraising record. by 13-year- Minskoff Theater, followed by with More than 200 of New York’s old Joshua home to Disney’s The $29,084. most talented Equity actors, Colley, who Lion King, was , who’s currently choreographed by Charlie Williams singers and dancers performed in stunned the directed by Kristin starring in Broadway’s The Book and featured 16 of Broadway’s this year’s show and presented 18 audience in Newhouse and made of Mormon, closed the show with best dancers (5). ornate, handmade bonnets. his vocal duel with Javert possible by an army of volunteers, a new arrangement of “Help is on For a full story, videos Winning the best presentation understudy John Rapson (3). including an outstanding Equity the Way,” BC/EFA’s Easter Bonnet and more photos, visit award was the company of Other stellar performances stage management team led by anthem written by David broadwaycares.org.

Also selected were Jon Lutyens up for this purpose and is share some of the Seattle and Cristin J. Hubbard, with available for use. experience with guests and an Richard Arum and Sylvie Mae During a congenial meeting opportunity to get to know Baldwin selected as alternates. that extended beyond the two Gabler, who is experienced in Special guest Flora hours scheduled, the union operations, Stamatiades, National Director, membership and guests knowledgeable and proud of Organizing & Special Projects, engaged in thoughtful and open Equity’s legacy — and willing to spoke about the revised discussion. It was a great time to listen to regional members. Members Project Code. She also spoke about Ask If It’s Equity, saying Seattle was specifically chosen because of St. Louis Meets for Annual its large, tech-savvy population. Jimmie McDermott, Western Membership Meeting Regional Councillor, said he was selected to fill the liaison seat Seattle, Washington pleased to attend so that he By Kari Ely, left open after the passing of could listen to and get to know St. Louis Liaison Chair actor, scenic carpenter and Western Regional Staff Visits Seattle members. The St. Louis Membership dear friend to all Jerome A. The committee was pleased Meeting, held on April 27, Seattle for Annual Meeting Russo. As member James to meet Gail Gabler, Western 2015, came to order in the Anthony so beautifully stated, By Aaron Shanks and “old-timers” attested that this Regional Director. Her interest in Gaslight Theater – home to “No one can replace Jerry Roger Curtis worked well in the past. TPS is reaching out to and fostering the region’s newest SPT Russo.” proposing to handle the logistics. greater communication between theater, the St. Louis Actors’ On April 25, 2015, Seattle The supportive community As before, interested members L.A. and Western Region areas Studio. Producer and Artistic members met in the Center is welcome and appreciated. of artists mixed and mingled, would pool resources to cover Director, and new Equity actor, Theatre, under the shadow of She also expressed a focus on discussed the recent local GO transportation costs. The details William Roth accepted an the Space Needle, for their work-weeks – one challenge Awards and the Circle Awards need to be worked out, but there Equity plaque on behalf of the annual membership meeting. being to move theaters from given by local critics. John P. is interest from members. theater from Central Business After a reception, which included Also discussed was the TPS Special Agreements and Guest Contini and his son Jason Representative David Kolen. EMCs, the group gathered to survey of local AEA members Artist to stable contracts. She Contini were awarded Best Special guests were Senior discuss matters of importance to and EMCs. While it seemed that will find a willing ally in the Actor and Best Supporting Business Rep. Christian Seattle members as well as of the survey had some focus liaisons, who know the strengths Actor, respectively, for their Hainds, Central Regional national interest. problems, it was well intentioned and weaknesses of many of the performances in Death of a Director Sean F. Taylor – and Roger Curtis, Liaison and will form the basis for further theaters in question. Salesman at Insight Theatre there was a surprise visit from Committee Chair, opened the investigation. To enhance Among other topics: The Company. Central Regional Vice discussion by outlining recent communication and region is going to get a new initiatives by Theatre Puget understanding in the future, TPS Equity theatre in Tacoma, President Dev Kennedy. Sound (TPS, a service is interested in having a liaison Washington — the Tacoma The “Central Region Four” organization supporting the committee member on its board. Actors Repertory Theatre filled attendees in on the Office Closing Northwest theater community). Selection of committee (TART). The group discussed organizing of new theaters, All Equity offices will be The discussion centered on a members took place. Stepping the increased use of video additional contracts being closed Friday, July 3, 2015, TPS proposal to enhance local down were Laurie Bialik and auditions. Christopher Comte, added to local theaters, the in observance of opportunities by resurrecting Carol A. Roscoe; reselected for Equity member and local SAG- newest MPC/Fringe Contract Independence Day. All Equity member-supported another three-year term were AFTRA staff member, reminded being sculpted, the Ask If It’s Equity offices will reopen on auditions that bring in producers Andrew D. De Rycke, Therese J. the committee that the SAG- Equity campaign. Monday, July 6. from out of state. A couple of Diekhans and Aaron Shanks. AFTRA office has a studio set Actor Steve Isom was