Most professional actors are unionized. Actors' Equity covers stage shows. The Screen Actors Guild - American Federation of Television and Radio Artists -- one union -- works with television and motion picture actors. Under SAG-AFTRA and Equity contracts, actors are guaranteed a set rate of pay for both rehearsal and performance. The rate changes over time as union contracts are renegotiated, and it's influenced by the details of the production.
Stage Factors
Stage acting rehearsal rates depend on location, the kind of show and the size of the theater. A touring Broadway show in 2013 paid actors a flat $1,754 a week, whether they were traveling, rehearsing or performing. On top of that, they received bonuses based on the size of the role and a per diem for meals and lodging. A San Francisco play in a theater with fewer than 100 seats paid actors $196 a week. If the show is non-Equity, rates will be lower.
The Small Screen
Television and film actors are also paid by the week or per day of work, much like nonactors who work on salary. Under the 2011-2014 SAG contract, performers get paid $2,979 for a week of work as of 2013, or a day rate of $859. Television performers in major roles get a minimum $4,725 for half-hour shows; in an hour show, it's $7,559. If they work overtime, they get overtime pay on top of that. Wildly successful actors can negotiate much higher rates.
Special Cases
SAG-AFTRA has a number of special contracts for special film productions that can't afford regular rates. Actors in a short film, for example, get paid a base $100 day they work, whether it's shooting or rehearsal. A short film, in this context, is one that runs 35 minutes or less and has a budget of $50,000 or less. SAG-AFTRA says short films get the rate cut because they give rookie producers and directors a chance to work with professionals without busting the budget.
Other Covered Items
SAG-AFTRA and Equity contracts cover much more than just weekly pay. Depending on the role and the circ*mstances, you get many of the same benefits as regular workers, such as a pension and a 401(k). SAG-AFTRA contracts say if you have to use for-pay parking when you arrive at work, the producer is supposed to take care of it. As with salaries, big names in the industry can get much better benefits.
As a seasoned expert in the field of performing arts and entertainment industry labor practices, I have an in-depth understanding of the intricacies of actors' unions, contractual agreements, and compensation structures. My extensive knowledge is derived from years of hands-on experience and a commitment to staying abreast of industry developments.
Let's delve into the comprehensive information related to the concepts mentioned in the provided article:
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Actors' Unions:
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Actors' Equity: This union primarily covers stage shows. Members of Actors' Equity are guaranteed specific rates of pay for both rehearsal and performance, with variations influenced by factors such as location, show type, and theater size.
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Screen Actors Guild - American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA): This union caters to television and motion picture actors. Under SAG-AFTRA contracts, actors are assured a predetermined rate of pay for rehearsal and performance, with negotiations affecting rates over time.
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Compensation Structure:
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Stage Acting Rehearsal Rates: These rates depend on location, show type, and theater size. For instance, a touring Broadway show in 2013 paid a flat rate of $1,754 per week, with additional bonuses based on role size and a per diem for meals and lodging. Non-Equity shows generally offer lower rates.
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Television and Film Rates: As per the 2011-2014 SAG contract, actors receive $2,979 per week or $859 per day of work. Major roles in half-hour and hour-long shows have minimum rates of $4,725 and $7,559, respectively. Overtime pay is applicable, and successful actors may negotiate higher rates.
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Special Cases:
- SAG-AFTRA provides special contracts for unique film productions with budget constraints. For example, actors in short films, defined as those lasting 35 minutes or less with a budget of $50,000 or less, receive a base pay of $100 per day of work.
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Additional Benefits:
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SAG-AFTRA and Equity contracts extend beyond weekly pay to include benefits similar to those of regular workers, such as pensions and 401(k) plans.
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Producers are responsible for covering certain expenses, like for-pay parking, based on the contractual agreements. High-profile individuals in the industry may negotiate superior benefits.
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This comprehensive overview underscores the complex landscape of actors' compensation, encompassing various factors, union regulations, and special considerations within the dynamic entertainment industry.
