Actors' Equity Launching L.A. Theatre Initiatives

Actors' Equity Association (Equity) has announced a focused campaign to bring live theater to the forefront in Los Angeles. At its September meeting, Equity's National Council passed a resolution to support a member mobilization and communications effort. Equity is embarking on a series of initiatives to learn more about its membership's ideas and concern about theater in L.A.

A survey conducted by Hart Research Associates on behalf of Equity will be sent to the membership in the Los Angeles area in October. The survey will focus on being a working theater professional in Los Angeles and what it is like to be an Equity member. Questions will cover topics such as mid-size theater and larger, Hollywood Area theater, the 99 Seat Plan and other opportunities for employment in the theater industry in L.A.

In November, a series of focus groups will be conducted to gather more information and insight from members in the area. After the results of the survey and the focus groups are analyzed, a report will be made to the National Council so that the next steps in the strategic plan can be developed and announced after the first of the year.

"We have internal processes that we follow to ensure that every voice is heard. It's important to hear what our membership has to say so Equity can be responsive and strategic as we develop a vision for Equity's future in LA." said Mary McColl, Equity's Executive Director. "Theater is alive in Los Angeles."

Equity recently purchased and renovated a building, which now includes an audition center, in the NOHO Arts District, further establishing its commitment to the Los Angeles community. Equity now owns buildings or land in Los Angeles, New York and Chicago.

Actors' Equity Association, founded in 1913, represents more than 50,000 stage actors and stage managers in the United States. Equity seeks to advance, promote and foster the art of live theatre as an essential component of our society. Equity negotiates wages and working conditions, providing a wide range of benefits, including health and pension plans. Equity is a member of the AFL-CIO and is affiliated with FIA, an international organization of performing arts unions.

To post a comment, you must register and login.