What does Equity do for actors?

Equity’s principal function is to negotiate minimum pay and conditions for its member actors, and make sure that everybody gets paid or receives the material that was promised to them.

What is an Equity contract for actors?

These agreements provide minimum salaries, benefits, job security and numerous other provisions to ensure safe working conditions and a work environment where actors and stage managers are protected. Equity contracts for individual members usually cover jobs in three categories: Principal, Chorus and Stage Manager.

Do I need Equity as an actor?

The first major benefit to having an Equity card, as an actor, is that many professional auditions are Equity-only calls. Non-members are allowed to attend, but with no guarantee of being seen. Equity members are allowed to attend these Equity-only calls without these restrictions.

How do you become an Equity actor?

The Equity Membership Candidate Program (EMC) permits actors and stage managers in training to credit theatrical work in certain Equity theatres towards eventual membership in Equity. Candidates must complete at least 25 creditable weeks of work at any of the participating theatres.

How do actors hire equity?

If the producers want to hire an Equity actor, they can negotiate an agreement, usually a Guest Artist contract, with the union. Visit the AEA Document Library at http://www.actorsequity.org/library/library_home.asp for more information regarding contract applications and other AEA rules and guidelines.

Can Equity actors work for free?

Benefits of Non-Equity Non-equity actors are able to audition for equity and non-equity productions, increasing their opportunities for work. You are also free to work for less money, if you desire. In some instances, non-equity actors work for no pay.

Can non Equity audition for equity?

Members of Actor’s Equity— the union for stage actors — can sign up for these auditions starting one week before they occur. Non-Equity actors are, in fact, more than welcome to attend Equity auditions. Time permitting, there is always a chance they may be seen.

How much does a non equity Actor make per week?

Equity Vs Non Equity Salary Non-union companies do not establish a mandatory minimum salary, but many strive to negotiate weekly stipends that are similar to the lowest tier for union actors. Thus, typical stipends range from ​$200 to $300​ a week.