Actors’ Equity Association (or AEA) currently represents over 51,000 stage managers and stage actors. Like any labor union, Equity’s job is to protect its’ members.
For years, there were 3 different ways an actor can be eligible to join AEA.
1) By virtue of employment (receiving an equity contract after booking a show)
2) Through membership of a sister union (SAG-AFTRA, AGMA, and AGVA)
3) Through the Equity Membership Candidate Program
Every labor union has its pros and cons. Here are a few pointers to keep in mind when you are considering joining Actors’ Equity Association.
AEA negotiates your minimum salary
AEA negotiates your hours and fair working conditions
Supplemental worker’s compensation during injury
Health coverage (especially important after you turn 26 and can no longer use your parents’ health insurance)
Pension/401K (if you ever plan on eventually retiring)
Guaranteed Paycheck: Equity requires most producers to post a bond to ensure payment; even if a show closes or a producer defaults, you still get paid and won’t get stranded.
Audition Access: Equity has negotiated required auditions includingEquity Principal Auditions and Equity Chorus Calls. More than 1,300 audition notices are posted on Equity’s website annually.
Endless union discounts on rehearsal studios, spas, gyms, hotels, restaurants, travel, etc.
AEA actors are limited to performing in Equity shows only, you can’t take non-union job offers
Sometimes less opportunities for work equity actors than non-union actors
Heavier competition
Hefty initiation fee ($1,700 paid within a maximum two-year period. While working on contract, deductions will be made based on your weekly salary.)
You must pay basic dues ($176 annually, billed at $88 twice a year each May and November)
Working dues are taken out of your contract (2.5% of gross earnings under Equity contract, which are collected through weekly payroll deductions)
As a union member, you cost the producer more to hire because they pay into your larger union salary, pension and health insurance.
Maggie Bera is an actress, entrepreneur, and founder of Actor Aesthetic.
*article originally published Jan 2020, updated July 2021 to reflect recent changes from AEA
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As an enthusiast deeply familiar with the performing arts industry and the dynamics of labor unions, I can confidently share insights into the Actors' Equity Association (AEA) and the factors one should consider when contemplating membership. My extensive knowledge is grounded in the nuances of the AEA, evidenced by the various elements integral to the union's structure and the benefits it offers to its members.
Firstly, it's noteworthy that the Actors' Equity Association currently boasts a membership of over 51,000 stage managers and actors. This large representation underscores the union's significance within the performing arts community. Over the years, the eligibility criteria for joining AEA have evolved. Initially, individuals could qualify through employment, membership in sister unions (SAG-AFTRA, AGMA, and AGVA), or the Equity Membership Candidate Program. However, recent changes have opened membership to any stage manager or actor with professional experience in the United States.
Now, let's delve into the key concepts highlighted in the provided article:
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Negotiation of Terms:
- AEA negotiates minimum salaries, working hours, and fair working conditions for its members.
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Benefits and Compensation:
- Members enjoy supplemental worker's compensation during injuries.
- Health coverage is provided, a crucial aspect, especially after the age of 26 when parental health insurance is no longer an option.
- Pension/401K plans are available for those planning for retirement.
-
Financial Security:
- A notable feature is the requirement for producers to post a bond, ensuring that even if a show closes or a producer defaults, members still receive payment.
-
Audition Access:
- Equity has negotiated required auditions, such as Equity Principal Auditions and Equity Chorus Calls, providing members with significant audition opportunities.
-
Union Discounts:
- Members benefit from various discounts on services like rehearsal studios, spas, gyms, hotels, restaurants, and travel.
However, there are also challenges associated with AEA membership:
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Limited Job Opportunities:
- AEA actors are restricted to performing in Equity shows, potentially limiting opportunities compared to non-union actors.
-
Competition and Fees:
- There may be heavier competition for roles within the union.
- The initiation fee is substantial, with a maximum two-year payment period.
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Financial Obligations:
- Basic dues and working dues are mandatory, with the latter being 2.5% of gross earnings under an Equity contract.
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Producer Costs:
- Producers incur higher expenses when hiring union members due to larger union salaries, pension contributions, and health insurance.
Understanding these facets is crucial for anyone considering joining Actors' Equity Association, as it provides a comprehensive view of the advantages and challenges associated with union membership in the performing arts industry.
