autumn 2015 www.equity.org.uk
Professionally Made campaign secures 22% pay rise at Fringe venue Landmark legal case puts producer in the dock Conference report: equality is major issue
Stand up for comedy Sara Pascoe on a new drive to improve the comedy circuit
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Contents News
04 Comedians’ Network 06 Inclusive casting
Success stories 10 11
A range of insurances that complement the established Equity cover:
Legal win on musical Hamlet on tour
Cover story 14
Sara Pascoe
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20 22% pay rise won 21 Equity at Pride
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08 Meet the membership 22 Member offers 30 Letters 32 Branch update
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08
front of house
upfront
Run 10k for performers in need
Members of the Equtiy’s Comedians’ Network after the launch event in June. Comics are welcome to a follow-up meeting in Edinburgh on 14 August
Dame Judi Dench, Sir Stephen WaleyCohen, Equity President Malcolm Sinclair and Spotlight chief executive Ben Seale are all calling for support to raise money for Acting For Others, the annual fundraising event for theatrical charities. All four have signed a public letter urging Equity members and others to join the 10 kilometre fun-run around Regent’s Park in London. The Spotlight 10k Challenge will take place at 10am on Sunday, 13 September 2015. Signing up is quick and simple, just go to www.spotlightrunners.com
Standing up for comedians The launch of Equity’s Comedians’ Network in June brought together comics and promoters who want to change the comedy scene for the better. A five-point manifesto was announced and a follow-up event is scheduled for the Edinburgh Festival. The manifesto points are: Fair pay for all Safe working conditions Protection from harassment and discrimination Fair treatment in the workplace A standard contract for comedians
Comedian Sara Pascoe said: “This is not about coming down like a ton of bricks on the industry or closing down gigs. We want to promote the new manifesto through people discussing it on the circuit. Comedians tend to communicate by word of mouth and it’s by getting working comedians on board that we will influence the promoters to engage with the manifesto points.” The Edinburgh launch is Friday, 14 August at Fringe Central 1. For more details email: equitycomnet@gmail.com More from Sara Pascoe on page 14
It’s through getting working comedians on board that we will influence the promoters”
Pentecost update
Government’s BBC green paper a “stitch up” Equity has criticised the government’s green paper consultation on the future of the BBC calling it a “stitch up”. Equity General Secretary Christine Payne commented: “It comes from a government who wants the BBC out of the way so that the commercial TV operators can maximise their profits. It is a disgrace that John Whittingdale’s panel does not include a single representative of the thousands of workers who contribute so much to the success of the BBC and Equity does not have faith in this process.
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“The UK’s viewing and listening public are in danger of sleep-walking into a world where the BBC is no more. I think that when they wake up to the fact that there are some voices arguing for such fundamental changes at the BBC that the very survival of much-loved programmes such as East Enders, Strictly, Archers, Bake Off are in question the government will be overwhelmed by a storm of protest.” Equity’s President Malcolm Sinclair added: “Following another hastily agreed licence fee deal, which will lead to further cuts to
services and job losses, it looks very much like the future of the BBC is being toyed with in private in a very top-down fashion. The public and those who work for the BBC are being locked out and deserve better.” Equity is also very disappointed about the lack of transparency and public consultation surrounding the new licence fee deal and the union is concerned that there are likely to be cuts and more service closures contemplated. Equity has also spoken out against the 1,000 job losses already announced.
www.equity.org.uk
Shutterstock
Phil Adams
Union launches a comedians’ network to fight for better working conditions on the comedy circuit
Recent developments in the longrunning Pentecost legal case require Equity to advise further on performers legal status in some partnerships commonly referred to as profit shares. The first Pentecost employment tribunal found the performers to be workers, despite the fact they had signed a partnership-style agreement and therefore were entitled to the National Minimum Wage (NMW). The producer appealed and the second employment tribunal considered the agreement further and decided on the facts of this specific case they were self-employed professionals and not entitled to NMW. While the union is still waiting to examine the written judgment, it may be in cases like this that performers entering a purely profit share style partnership should only do so if s/he is clear they may be compromising the right to worker status and entitlement to NMW, whether the partnership is genuine or bogus. For further details contact Stephen Spence, sspence@equity.org.uk
Christine Payne General Secretary
This magazine reflects the successes the union is achieving across our industry, but the genuine threat to the future of the BBC is spoiling the good news It is with a really heavy heart that I write this column. This is despite my recent uplifting trip to Tolpuddle marching behind the Equity banner alongside members (including from the Dorset and Bristol West general branches) and the fact that this magazine is packed with success stories. It was a joy to attend the launch of the Comedians’ Network and it is clear, through its manifesto, that our members mean business and will use the union’s support to achieve their aims (find out more on page 14). Our members attended the London Pride march with typical enthusiasm and laughter. Plus, our Annual Representative Conference discussed issues and made policy that keeps the union relevant with the concerns members are facing in the workplace (see page 24). So why a heavy heart? Well, I have just read the President’s column on page 30. He has set out so eloquently the battle ahead of us to ensure that the BBC continues to be the major force in British broadcasting. The BBC is not just a major employer of our members, it is a beacon for broadcasting standards in the UK and around the world. ‘Stitch Up’ are the only words to describe the green paper and the panel that will lead the review of the BBC. The green paper comes from a government that wants the BBC sidelined so that commercial operators can maximise their profits. Media rivals frequently say that the BBC is too big, that its reach is too far, that the licence fee is a regressive tax, or that the BBC has an unfair advantage. Some commentators are even speculating that this is the beginning of the end for the BBC. So, we need to think very carefully about what life would be like without it. In fact, the corporation has already done that as presenter Graham Norton has revealed. In research that will be published soon, the BBC took a cross section of its audience, both for and
against the licence fee and deprived them of all BBC output for two weeks. “At the end of it, everyone was happy to pay for the licence fee,” Norton said. Does the government really believe that the public will sleepwalk their way to the destruction of one of the UK’s finest institutions? They will not, as was shown with the outcry over the proposed closure of
Does the government really believe that Equity members will sleepwalk their way to the destruction of the BBC?” 6 Music, and neither will our members. Together we have to lobby and protest to keep for the next generation the public service principles on which the BBC is founded. Is the BBC perfect? No, but is it worth fighting for? Yes. As your General Secretary my aim has always been to ensure that Equity remains a strong, independent and effective trade union with the authority and strength to represent the needs of our membership. I have always known that this strength can only come from members themselves engaging with their union. Over the coming months we will be launching our own campaign to try and prevent the dismantling of one of the UK’s greatest institutions. We will need your support and engagement more than ever before.
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HH
front of house
In brief... Annual Gen Sec Conference Election
union’sCouncil 2015 Annual The Equity is calling for Representative Conference nominations from memberswill for be the in London on 17Secretary. and 18 May. post of General TheThe closing deadline for motions is noon on is 12 date for completed nominations 12 March and for amendments noon on Monday, 31 August 2015 and noon on 17 April. Theplace 2016inARC the election will take will take place Bristol this on 21, 22To September andinOctober year. and 23a May. stand member must be in benefit with the union and be nominated by 40 other members in benefit. The Equity Council has nominated the The union has reached an Christine current General Secretary interim the BBC Payne toagreement stand in thiswith election. For more Minimum fees main are information seefor notice onartists page 28. up by 2.5% and supporting artists and walk-ons fees have also been increased by 1%. The agreement Members have voted to elect Equity’s also includes a pre-purchase of industrial, specialist, national and certain rights. The deal is effective equality committees. from 1 October 2014.Nearly 10% of members voted and the committees will serve for two years. Full results are included with this magazine or can be Equityat: strongly opposes found www.equity.org.uk/ censorship and is extremely elections2015 concerned that this show was forced to close. The union’s consistent position is that it Equity will call onfreedom the 2015 Trades supports artistic Union Congress conference, which will of expression. take place in Brighton in September, to back a campaign for child care support which will benefit all parents, Welsh soap opera Pobol y Cwm including freelance and self employed has received special Bafta workers and athose who work shifts and honouring the show’s 40thsecond unsociable hours. Equity’s anniversary. award motion to theThe 2015 TUCwas calls for presented an event at Roathto support foratEquity’s campaign Lock Studios in Cardiff Bay.through the unionise freelance dancers Hannah Raybould, director of Equity Freelance Dance Network Bafta Cymru, presented the accolade to actor Gareth Lewis, who accepted it on behalf of the Equity made contact with cast andhas crew. performers in Palestine with a view to supporting them in their aim of developing a trade union to represent Equity’s West network in the performers in Coast Gaza and the occupied US is having an event connect territories of the West to bank. Equity will withbe fellow members living also making contact withor the Israeli working in Los Angeles nearby. performers’ trade union.or This action It will take placesupport on 5 November, follows Equity’s of the TUC 7.30pm –Council’s 10.30pmstatement and the venue General on Gaza is Timmy bar on Riverside at the 2014Nolan’s TUC Congress. Drive, CA 91602.
BBC deal
Committee results
Exhibit B show
Equity at the TUC
Pobol y Cwm award
The annual theatre collections take place from stages across the UK during the last 2 weeks of October.
New policy statement will be backed by industry-wide campaign
After a lengthy period of policy development, lead by Equity’s Minority Ethnic Members’ Committee and which involved all four equality committees and the three industrial committees, the Equity Council has adopted an inclusive casting policy aimed at Cast encouraging employers to increase diversity has the diversity of casts across the remained a union entertainment industry. The new priority. We recently policy statement has three key set up a casting demands of the industry: event for East
How you can help
Please ask your theatre or company to participate in the collections and encourage a speech from the stage. The more personal and inventive the appeal, the more you will raise. Remember, it’s not about you, but one day it could be!
Asian actors
The new policy will be backed by a proactive campaign across the industry involving Equity
We want to encourage employers to increase the diversity of casts across the industry”
For more information, go to www.actingforothers.co.uk
members and staff working together to promote the objectives of inclusive casting. Meanwhile, The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has launched a new government-backed project aimed at unlocking economic and creative potential by increasing the diversity of people working in Britain’s television sector. Its legal guidance will help broadcasters expand the talent pool from which they find the best candidates and will cover areas including employment, commissioning, broadcasting, programme-making and procurement practices. Equity General Secretary Christine Payne said: “Equity welcomes the EHRC’s initiative to produce industry-specific guidance on equality law alongside practical advice on how to increase diversity onscreen. We look forward to the opportunity of working with the EHRC to bring to bear the experience and perspectives of our members.” Download the full policy from the website at: www.equity.org.uk/inclusive-casting
Palestinian performers
autumn 2015
The 10k Challenge
Acting for Others
in aid of
HWhen: Sunday 10am
13th September 2015
HWhere: Regents Park, London
HHow: Sign up at
US network
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H
Helps 15 theatrical charities make annual grants of more than £2 million a year to hundreds of people from the entertainment professions who are in desperate need.
Equity adopts inclusive casting approach
Greater incidental portrayal, where the artist’s personal characteristics are incidental to the role, providing real opportunities to increase diversity on stage and screen. Greater care and consideration by productions when casting roles where the artist’s personal characteristics are relevant to the role All productions to play their part in improving equality practice across the industry
H
www.spotlightrunners.com Member Charities
HH
Dancers’ Career Development l Denville Hall l Drury Lane Theatrical Fund l Equity Charitable Trust l Grand Order of Water Rats Charities Fund l International Performers’ Aid Trust l King George V Fund for Actors and Actresses l The Evelyn Norris Trust l Royal Opera House Benevolent Fund l The Actors’ Children’s Trust l The Ralph and Meriel Richardson Foundation l The Royal Ballet Benevolent Fund l The Royal Theatrical Fund l Theatre Chaplaincy UK l The Theatrical Guild
www.equity.org.uk
Charity No. 241279
meet the membership
Role model
I was tired of auditions for the same type of roles exploring a disability issue
Kim Tserkezie rose to fame as Penny in the hit children’s show Balamory. Following frustrations with the roles she was subsequently offered she has set up her own production company Photography Dan Prince
Q
looking for a disabled person to play the role of Penny. It was a character role and that’s what I’d been really looking to do. So I had great fun with that.
Q
You’re born and bred in Gateshead. Do you think it’s important people should have the opportunity to work in their local area? I do. For most of my career I’ve had to leave my area for work opportunities. I feel the North East is very under-represented on screen. So I’m even more determined to work here and promote the region. There are so many talented people here and fabulous locations that I don’t think are being utilised.
What do you like most about being a performer? It’s so thrilling to study your character and lose yourself in it. It’s also about the connection it gives you to the audience, knowing that you’re going to evoke a response or a discussion about what you’re doing. Did you always want to it to be your career? As a child I desperately wanted to play a part in the school Nativity, but I always ended up playing the xylophone. I hadn’t seen disabled people perform, I hadn’t seen disabled people on stage and certainly at my school the stages weren’t accessible. It was never presented as an option. It wasn’t until later on in life I thought I could really give performing a go.
Q
Your parents fought to get you into an inclusive school. How was that experience? I’ll always be thankful for them for that because it really fuelled my feelings that I should have the same rights and aspirations as my non-disabled peers. A lot of my confidence and ambition came from an inclusive education. But, at the same time, there was a downside as I didn’t really get to meet many other disabled people growing up. It wasn’t until I left school and I started talking to disabled people that I became much more aware of my identity as a disabled person and started looking upon it more positively than ever. I think it is part of growing up too, leaving school and trying to get a job and realising how society works and functions and your place in it.
Q
What is your career highlight so far? My role in Balamory. I’d previously been invited into castings when they were looking to explore disability issues, but this was different. It was quite a long interview process of three auditions and it was exciting for me that they were not specifically
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Q Q
Is that one of the reasons that you set up your own production company? It is. My initial motivation in creating Scattered Pictures was about the frustrations around the lack of disabled talent on screen. I was tired of being called into auditions for the same type of roles that were about exploring a disability issue rather than a character-led role that embraced disability. So I met up with writers and creatives who might be interested in developing these roles and it kind of snowballed from there. Through this process I began to realise how much local talent there was and Scattered Pictures became about creating comedy and drama that can be based in the North East.
Q
Equity believes that industry organisations should monitor the disabled talent they employ because then we can have a true measure of how they are represented. Do you agree? I do absolutely agree with that, it’s totally necessary. I also think it is important to monitor the quality of those opportunities as well. We need to examine the whole process, from inspiring young people at school to taking up a career in this industry that has longevity.
www.equity.org.uk
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success stories Will cities such as Newcastle benefit from the new approach by the Arts Council?
justice served on producer producer of golden voice musical found personally liable for more than £200,000 as his mismanagement causes closure of show leaving cast and crew frustrated and unpaid
y r o t c i v Legal
Equity has won a landmark case against the producer of a failed musical that has resulted in a personal liability of more than £185,000. The Golden Voice show was due to open at the London’s Arts Theatre in 2013 but it was postponed before being cancelled, leaving cast and stage management owed thousands of pounds. In July, the show’s producer Rob Hewitt was found personally liable for the claim, brought about by 19 Equity members involved in the show. This amounted to £185,316 and legal costs of £36,008 were also awarded. Equity organiser Paul Fleming said: “This is an important ruling for Equity on two counts. Firstly, because we secured a judgment against the individual, not a company, responsible for causing our members such distress and financial hardship. This means we will be pursuing him directly for the monies owed to our members and it highlights to other would-be producers that they could be liable if they refuse to take the responsibilities of
mounting a production seriously. “Secondly, it demonstrates yet again that members working together with the union get results and bring bad employers to book. We urge members to check the union’s Special Attention list if they have concerns about a potential employer, or get directly in touch with us.” Equity will now be pursuing producer Rob Hewitt for the monies owed to members. Cast member Sebastien Torkia said the judgment brought Hewitt to justice and proved that “you can’t get away with things like that”. He added: “I think it has proved that it was worth sticking with and pursuing because we have had the right result, regardless of whether we are going to see any money or not.” Find the Special Attention list on page 34 and at www.equity.org.uk/specialattention
Equity is part of the Federation of Entertainment Unions that offers training in a range of business skills that can help creative people in their careers
Kate Willoughby
career kick start Training in business skills is helping young people launch their careers. Getting started in the creative industries can be tough. Young people are particularly vulnerable to exploitation as unscrupulous employers will try to pay as little as they can get away with. For those fresh out of university or drama school there is a whole raft of skills needed to be able to launch yourself into your dream career. That is why a group of young creatives attended a recent event organised by the Federation of Entertainment Unions (FEU). FEU Training is a project supported by the Union Learning Fund, a governmentbacked scheme run by unions. It provides a range of free workshops and courses and a suite of online learning resources aimed at freelancers in the creative industries. To take part you need to be a
member of the National Union of Journalists, Equity, the Musicians’ Union or the Writers’ Guild. Frances Dredge, project leader, said: “You can be the best actor in the world, but you will not have a successful career unless you are able to market yourself and negotiate contracts that do not rip you off. You will need to deal with everything from filling in a tax form to having the motivation to get out of bed in the morning when things aren’t going well.” After a general introduction to FEU Training, the young union members were split into groups and worked together on a number of topics, such as: listening, marketing, sales, networking, presentation, negotiation, IT and time management. Find out more about FEU training including a suite of online resources at www.feutraining.org
www.equity.org.uk
Equity scoops three TUC awards At the TUC Communications Awards in July Equity picked up three awards for its magazine. It received Highly Commended for the Spring 2015 edition of the Equity magazine, which featured Anita Dobson on the cover, Highly Commended for the feature about the stage manager Rachael Presdee in the same edition, who Equity supported with legal action to win a £3.7 million compensation settlement, and Commended for the picture of Keisha Amponsa Banson on the cover of the Summer 2014 edition. The judges wrote of the magazine: “Equity brilliantly covers workplace issues and union campaigns. The longer interviews mix well with industry news stories and the layout adds a lively and compelling component to the read.” Of the feature on Rachael Presdee, the judges wrote: “An accident at work may be a familiar story for many unions, but this is dramatically told in the first person. The clarity of the telling makes it an engaging read and it clearly sells one of the key union services very well. A genuinely shocking story that was followed up in mainstream media.” Of the Keisha Amponsa Banson cover picture, the judges wrote: “This photo works well because the eye is immediately drawn to the sympathetic figure.” Equity won the TUC’s best magazine and best website in 2012 and further awards for the publication in 2014. You can access all the recent editons of the magazine via our website, visit: www.equity.org.uk/magazine
ACE to invest more funds outside London arts body Responds to members’ campaigns for local work Following concerted pressure by Equity members, Arts Council England has announced that lottery money for the arts will be more heavily invested outside London, with the ratio increasing to 75:25 by 2018. The new chief executive of the Arts Council, Darren Henley, made the commitment in his first speech in May. He said that the current 70% that is spent outside London will increase by at least another 5% within three years. Equity members have been campaigning to get access to work in the region where they live and this is a step forward in balancing the funding divide
across England. The 2013 report Rebalancing our Cultural Capital calculated that Department for Culture, Media & Sport and Arts Council funding to the arts is heavily skewed to people in London, with them benefiting to the tune of £69 per head compared with £4.58 in other English regions. Henley also stressed the importance of supporting a culturally vibrant capital. He said: “I’m committed to maintaining London’s status as a world capital of the arts. A flourishing London, with arts and cultural organisations that serve the whole nation, is essential.”
Hamlet goes to Edinburgh Hamlet, the lovable cartoon pig who contributes his observations on all things entertainment, has secured himself a touring gig at last and is off to Edinburgh. The artist behind Hamlet, Harry Venning, has created a large number of bespoke cartoons that will be exhibited at the Pleasance Courtyard in Edinburgh throughout August. Equity is supporting the exhibition and will be running events during the Fringe. For more, see: www.equity.org.uk/Edingurgh2015
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The Evelyn Norris Trust
success stories
Was established in 1968 to provide financial support for members of the theatrical and concert professions who are in need of rest, recovery or a recuperative holiday.
8% rise in PACT TV rates Equity has negotiated an 8% rise in minimum fees under the PACT agreement for independent TV productions. The agreement will commence from 1 July 2015 for a period of 12 months. The process of negotiation has been a difficult one and Equity has worked closely with the union’s Screen and New Media Committee and the Personal Managers Association, who have been invaluable to the Equity negotiators. Both Equity and PACT have identified additional revisions to the agreement and will commence the
next round of negotiations immediately, discussing the US and Rest of World pre-purchase arrangements, UK terrestrial (primary channel) repeats, US productions in the UK and video/DVD, casting and equal opportunities, in addition to tidying up many other provisions. There are a few outstanding issues still to be resolved with PACT and the full agreement will be available as soon as possible. The detailed changes to the current agreement can be found at: www.equity.org.uk/EquityPact2015
John Ainslie retires
If you’ve recently suffered an illness, or needed medical treatment and think a short convalescent break would aid recovery, or if you’ve been suffering from ill health and need to ‘recharge your batteries’ then you should apply for funding.
John Ainslie, Equity’s south east regional organiser, has retired after 29 years working for the union. His relationship with Equity started long before as he joined up in 1972 while working as a stage manager, becoming a staff member in 1986. He was elected to the Council in 1976 and is unique in the union’s history for having served at the same time as his mother Jean, from 1982-1986. He has supported countless members and helped create new branches, including the most recent: Oxford General Branch. His successor, Will Holmes, began work on 3 August.
For information on how to apply you can either contact info@equitycharitabletrust.org.uk. ring us on 0207 831 1926 or visit our website www.equitycharitabletrust.org.uk where you can follow the link to the Evelyn Norris Trust and download an application.
www.equitycharitabletrust.org.uk
wages rise in NEW WEST END deal A new West End Agreement will raise weekly wages by more than 3%. After a year of negotiations, the West End Working Party received the final offer from the SOLT managers in July. This offer went out to a ballot of all Equity performers and stage management working on a contract in the West End. This involved a visit by a union official to all the productions. Equity members who had worked in the West End in the past three years were also balloted online. There was overwhelming acceptance of the new deal, which delivers: 3.1% increase in minimum rates backdated to April 2015 2% increase in April 2016, 2% increase in April 2017, 2.25% increase in April 2018 Leading role cover of £25, supporting role cover of £16 Increase of nearly 15% in the swing rate to £60 Stage Management differentials to rise from £51 to £60 An extra week on half pay for sickness/injury for those on a year’s contract Improved terms to the code of conduct for auditions so that payments for attending auditions are enhanced (after two auditions travel expenses are paid to those living outside zone 4 and after six auditions all travel expenses are paid). Equity will campaign to ensure that such audition expenses are paid according to the agreement. Better terms for actor-musicians, which will also apply to the Commercial Theatre and Subsidised Repertory Agreements (in the
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West End the rehearsal salary will be paid at half the Equity rate and half the MU rate, enhanced payments for covering an actor-musician role, and a 5% enhancement for walking under-studies) Tribute is paid to the help of the Working Party members and the West End Equity members, who fought hard to secure a solid and fair outcome. For further information contact the West End Organiser, Virginia Wilde on 020 7670 0239 or vwilde@equity.org.uk
www.equity.org.uk
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interview
stand-up and be counted
Certain things about the industry are just logistically different if you’re female
Sara Pascoe wants comedians to join with her in making the comedy circuit fairer for all. One of the founders of the UK Comedy Guild, she is a now a member of Equity’s Comedians’ Network and has helped create a new manifesto for the industry Photography Phil Adams
When my career got to a point where it was working well, I began to reflect on how it could have been a lot easier on the way up. My first thoughts were from the perspective of being a female comedian, which simply means that certain things about the industry are just logistically different. For instance, travelling home late at night from a gig. Early on in my career I was told: “It’s not that women aren’t cut out for comedy it’s that when you’re poor and having to get coaches back into London at five in the morning it can be stressful and dangerous.” On the comedy circuit you become very aware of your vulnerability when you have no power because you’re not at a certain level of success. This is true for men and women.
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This led to my involvement in forming the UK Comedy Guild. We want better communication within the industry and endeavour to use positivity to change things about the circuit. We look at ourselves as a group providing mediation, giving support and advice to comedians, from comedians. Not all the people involved with the Guild are currently Equity members, but I would like them to be. The union provides the legal support, the insurance and many benefits the Guild cannot offer. We’ve now created a network within Equity to address some of the recurring issues in the industry. The five-point manifesto reflects points made by different comedians in the network. For example,
www.equity.org.uk
Sara contends that the new manifesto and Network are not about closing down gigs, but about joining together to create a comedy circuit that works for everyone
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interview
I joined Equity in 1989 and after 25 years this feels like a new, positive step toward the better representation and protection of comedians by our union. Andy Parsons
I’ve never had a physical work injury or had to deal with electrical faults at a venue, but other members had. From talking to a wide range of comics we realised there is a consistency in the problems that keep recurring. These are industry-wide problems, not just one-off incidents from a gig.
Rex features, Tony Briggs
The comedy circuit can be very tough and unfortunately some comedians, often ones that have become successful, seem happy for it to remain that way. There can be an attitude of “if you can’t hack it you shouldn’t be here”. For example, maybe a trans person has someone being abusive to them at a gig and then they think about quitting. Some people on the circuit would say that they should do, because they are not being tough enough. I don’t think it has to be this way. Just because some people rose to the top in a certain way does not mean things should not change and that they should not want a better working environment for other people.
The new Comedians’ Network is a great idea. I have been an Equity member for 26 years and wish more people would join the union. Having said that, good luck with getting the unruly herberts in our game to work to rule or down their considerable tools.
I was really pleased to see comedy operators joining the Network at the launch and wanting to improve the industry. We want to celebrate that and highlight them as good practice for the rest of the industry, as I imagine the big players will be very suspicious of us at first. The comedy circuit changes a lot and we need to be able to respond to it. For example, there’s a promotion at the moment that is about getting comedians to bring people to gigs. The idea is you get booked for five minutes and you have to bring three or four audience members and then the audience is 50 and everyone does five minutes. This can stop people gigging. I would never have been able to bring people to a gig when I started out. Promoters say it’s to the comedian’s benefit because they have a good crowd to play to,
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Alan Davies www.equity.org.uk
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interview
With so many people seeking comedy careers and so many proprietors and promoters seeing comics as a low-maintenance attraction to fill an empty room, it’s little wonder that comedians’ labour rights are more in need of protection than they were three decades ago.
but I don’t think it is best practice. It’s ideas like this that need to be discussed with comedians before they become too normalised on the circuit. We want to promote the new manifesto through people discussing it on the circuit. Comedians tend to communicate by word of mouth and it’s by getting working comedians on board that we will influence the promoters to engage with the manifesto points. This is not about coming down like a ton of bricks on the industry or closing down gigs. We understand that people are trying to make money in a very competitive industry. The UK Guild is investigating fundraising so we can run free workshops. We’re also going to produce some YouTube tutorials about setting up a gig. This will discuss the do’s and don’ts and frequent problems. We also want to get the message out that joining the union is a very good investment. Once comedians understand the great things that come out of being a member of Equity I think more will join and then it will be easier to make the changes that benefit us all.
Jeremy Hardy
The comedy circuit manifesto
As a comedian I can accept being heckled off but not being ripped off. The best way to prevent this is for comics to form a collective. We are alone on stage but together in the dressing rooms.
Members of the Comedians’ Network have created a manifesto with five clear points, these are: Fair pay for all Safe working conditions Protection from harassment and discrimination Fair treatment in the workplace A standard contract for comedians
Arthur Smith
The Equity Comedians’ Network have my full support. I have been an Equity member for seven years and there is strength and protection in working together.
If you are interested in getting involved with Equity’s Comedians’ Network contact them via: equitycomnet@gmail.com
Aisling Bea
18
www.equity.org.uk
autumn
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campaigns
Union secures 22% pay increase at Fringe venue
Equity members celebrate at Pride
Latest news reflects success of Professionally Made Professionally Paid campaign
Rex features, Gary James
Equity and the King’s Head Theatre have agreed a 22% increase in pay for actors and stage management, under their existing Fringe House Agreement. This is the most recent example of the successful use of Equity agreements on the Fringe as a result of the launch of the Professionally Made Professionally Paid campaign. The new rates at the King’s Head Theatre will apply to all main stage productions from 6 July 2015. On a standard six-week engagement this will result in an increase in pay of 22%, from £216 to £264 per week, which could increase further if additional rehearsals or performances are required. The agreement also ensures that Equity members working at the King’s Head are protected by the terms of the Equity Fringe Agreement. Emmanuel de Lange, Equity’s Low Pay No Pay industrial organiser, said: “This pay increase is great news for Equity members working at the King’s Head. It’s also great news for the Professionally Made Professionally Paid campaign, as it demonstrates that by working with Fringe employers, Equity can help them on their journey to using full Equity contracts. This agreement is clear evidence that pub venues with no public funding can make the finances work to pay their performers. The King’s Head raises tens of thousands of pounds a year to make that happen. They’re part of the solution to low and no pay in Fringe theatre. There are
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plenty of other venues which should be doing the same thing, rather than contributing to the problem.” Adam Spreadbury-Maher, artistic director of the King’s Head Theatre, added: “At the King’s Head, we believe that if you value art, you should pay professionals - professionally. If there is a will, there’s a way and we’re leading the way in improving the conditions for actors working on the Fringe, despite being unfunded and not running our own bar. This is a time when all theatre venues should be taking a long, hard look at the way they operate, especially when it comes to fair and legal wages, and we’re proud to be carrying the torch for Equity and the campaign.” Current signatories to an agreement with Equity in the Fringe sector include:
Cog Arts Space Hope Theatre Other Room Theatre BARE Truth Theatre Company Black Coffee Theatre Crow and Elk Productions
Deux Ex Machina Productions End of Moving Walkway Florence Keith Roach Productions Iris Theatre Tangled Thread Theatre 42nd Theatre Company
www.equity.org.uk
Equity was out in force on Saturday, 27 June for London Pride. More than 40 members marched together as part of one of the largest events in London’s calendar. Banners belonging to Brighton and Sussex and North East London branches stood aloft alongside both the union’s and those belonging to the range of trade unions taking part. This year Lesbians and Gays Support the Miners (LGSM) led the trade unions in the parade to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the 1985 Pride march where LGSM and members of South Wales mining communities marched together following LGSM’s solidarity with the miners’ strike in 1984-5. The Pride march followed the 2015 TUC LGBT Workers Conference at which Equity moved a motion on mental health issues affecting workers in the creative industries. The motion condemned cuts that have reduced mental health services and highlighted the compound effect on freelance and self-employed workers who are less likely to be able to access help.
@LiveEntWorks awards selfie prize The Live Entertainment Works! selfie prize was awarded at Equity’s annual conference in May 2015. The overall winner was Kat Martin, whose acrobatic pose impressed the judges. She won £100 and a tasteful mug. The campaign continues to gather supporters, find out more at: www.equity.org.uk/live-entertainment-works
Actor Adrian Lester called the lack of diversity in theatre “embarrassing”
Act for Change reveal diversity data event at National theatre highlights snapshot of the level of diversity in uk theatre Campaign group Act for Change held an event at the National Theatre (NT) in June discussing diversity on stage. It included an onstage interview with NT director Rufus Norris, as well as a live debate chaired by Shami Chakrabarti and featuring Lloyd, Kwame Kwei-Armah, Jenny Sealey, Mark Lawson and Chris Bryant. The organisation also revealed new diversity data. It took a snapshot of British theatre over the Easter weekend. Out of 326 actors, there was only one actor with a visible disability on London stages (at the NT), either in the West End (represented by five theatres) or subsidised sector (represented by four theatres). Among lead creatives in the West End that weekend there were none from black and Asian backgrounds. In subsidised London venues, actors from these backgrounds represented 5% of lead performers. In the regions black and Asian lead creatives stood at 7%. Find out more information about the campaigning activity of Act for Change at www.act-for-change.com
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Member offers
you’re in need IfIfyou’re needofyou assistance, in can get helpget from touch with people who people who understand. understand. The RBBF Call us on
Equity membership entitles you to a wide variety of discounts, from photos to the Phoenix club; see below for a selection. Go online for a full list: www.equity.org.uk/discounts alexander technique Individual lessons at Gilbert Street, Nr Bond St, London. 30% discount to members. Twenty six years of teaching performers; supporting improved poise and confidence, preventing backache and vocal strain For info phone Kate Kelly 0845 3479389 www.alexandertec.net
assist taxation services Assistance with the preparation and submission of self-assessment tax returns for Equity members who are required by HM Revenue & Customs to submit a return. Equity members receive an exclusive 20% discount off the normal fixed fee of £250. A further 10% discount is available to members for referrals. We also offer self-employed accounts preparation and tax advisory and planning services. For further details please contact Nasir Majeed on 07775 691009, email nasir@assisttaxationservices.co.uk
michael barnes hairdressing Equity members can get 40% off all cutting and colouring on your first visit to the salon and then you will receive 20% off all services whenever you visit after that. Michael Barnes is located ar 224 Shaftesbury Avenue, London WC2. Tel: 020 7836 7152.
parking Equity and Q-Park have teamed up to provide Equity members with discounted parking in London and other major cities. More cities will come on-stream as Q-Park rolls out its development programme, so if the city you want is not yet listed, do please check regularly. The rates represent a 15% discount across the day with a special flat rate of £6.00 for London parking from 6pm to 2am. To take advantage of the Equity discount you need to pre-book your parking, just follow this link to do this: www.equity.org.uk/parking
cinema tickets Discounted tickets when showing Equity card: Queens FilmTheatre Belfast, Pictureville Bradford, Watershed Bristol, Cinema 3 Canterbury, Chichester Cinema at New Park, Robert Burns Centre Film Theatre Dumfries, Edinburgh Filmhouse, Hull Screen, Adam Smith Theatre Kirkcaldy, Phoenix Arts Leicester, Showroom Sheffield, NFT.
Special offer
£60 off Pineapple Studios Annual Membership. Equity members get £60 off annual membership to Pineapple Dance Studios in Covent Garden, London (usually costs £160). Additional benefits of membership include 25% off all full-price clothing at the Pineapple store opposite the studio in Covent Garden. Members can visit the studios at any time for classes or to meet friends and colleagues. Two passport size photographs are required. Claim in person with your Equity card at Pineapple Dance Studios, 7 Langley Street, London WC2H 9JA. Tel 020 7836 4004. www.pineapple.uk.com
hair removal Pulsar-permanent hair removal and skin treatments. Pigmentation, spots, photorejuvenation and more. IPL-intense pulsed light therapy. More advanced than laser: never shave again. For men and women – all skin and hair types. 10-20% discount for Equity members. Minimum fee applies to house visits. Contact Dr Succar on 020 8848 8288 or www.natura.org.uk
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autumn 2015
phoenix artist club Save 50% on annual membership. A private members’ club and licenced bar for professionals in the entertainment industry and their guests, open Mon-Sat 11am-2.30am (last entry 1am) with hot food served until 11pm. Entertaining entertainers since the nineties, this hidden gem, once visited, is never forgotten. Annual membership is £120 reduced to £60 on presentation of your paid-up Equity card. Please visit the club during opening hours to apply. Located beneath the Phoenix Theatre, 1 Phoenix Street, Charing Cross Road, London WC2H 8BU. Tel 020 7836 1077, website: www.phoenixartistclub.com
rac breakdown cover
dance studios
We’ve teamed up with the RAC to bring you a great deal: a potential 50% off RAC Rescue cover. With your discount, Roadside cover starts at just £29 a year. And, depending on which level of cover you choose, you could save as much as £99.25. Join today at rac.co.uk/join/benefits or call 0800 096 6836 quoting EBS001 Voiceover training company Gravy for the Brain are offering a limited period 50% discount on their online courses to Equity members. Visit www.gravyforthebrain.com and use the following discount codes at checkout: Voiceover for Beginners: VFBEQ97ERAG4891 Voiceover for Gaming: VFGEQIUNI884373 Create Amazing Showreels: CASEQOJA32455 Advanced Voiceover to Professional Standard (Level 1): AVPSEQ565198184
Contact: blueprintphotographic@hotmail.
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photography HCK Photography is offering Equity members headshots/publicity shots for £95, a saving of £155. The session will include up to two hours in the studio, unlimited changes, free consultation before shoot, multiple back-drops, over 300 shots taken, five retouched high resolution images, 8 by 10 spotlight standard and more. For more information contact Kit at: 020 7112 8499. www.hckphotography.co.uk/equityoffer Scotland-based photographer Aly Wright is offering a 10% discount off headshots and location shots to members, see www.alywight.com
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rex restaurants Chris Corbin and Jeremy King are supporters of the theatre and they have arranged for all members to receive 10% off any bill at their London restaurants: The Wolseley, The Delaunay, The Counter at The Delaunay, Brasserie Zédel and Colbert. See the Rex Restaurant website: www.rexra.com. The offer is for an Equity member and up to five guests (i.e. six people in total). You need to show a valid Equity card as proof.
If you’ve had an accident that wasn’t your fault, as an Equity member it pays to use your union’s preferred solicitors, Morrish Solicitors LLP, for your Personal Injury claim. Not only will you enjoy efficient and friendly service, but unlike other solicitors who may keep up to 40% of your compensation, with us you will get every penny for yourself. For your FREE Personal Injury Service call 033 33449600 Complete a claim form at equityinjuryclaims.org.uk Or for more Equity member benefits visit morrishsolicitors.com
please note: Equity does not endorse the third-party services provided in these membership offers. They are made available on the request of the vendors.
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autumn 2015
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conference report
Shami Chakrabarti from human rights organisation Liberty was the guest speaker
Above: Geoffrey Breton and Equity General Secretary Christine Payne. Right: Alexa Brown and Hywel Morgan. Below: Union President
Freedom fighters Equity’s conference tackled a wide range of pressing industry problems and reaffirmed that art cannot flourish without freedom of speech Photography Phil Adams
E
quity’s annual conference is where the direction of the union is decided and this year important measures were debated concerning equality within our industry and the world outside it. Actor and union President Malcolm Sinclair opened the two-day event with a reflection on the past year. He highlighted the great progress made by the Professionally Made, Professionally Paid campaign on low and no pay in the Fringe sector and Equity’s support for Act for Change, the diversity campaign
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organisation. He also referred to the union’s record win of £3.7m for Rachael Presdee, the stage manager who was crippled following a preventable accident backstage. “I worked with her in Sydney,” Malcolm said. “And I want to thank you. Because without you being a member of this union, without you paying your dues, we would not be in a position to help Rachael and those throughout the industry that rely on our insurance and legal help.” Christine Payne, Equity General Secretary, then took to the podium to introduce a short film showcasing the
success of the union’s social media and how it can help in campaigning. She spoke about the positive shape the union is in and how it is continuing to grow in membership. She also referred to recent staff retirements and the importance of members and staff working together to carry the baton on. “Equity is in safe and strong hands,” she said. “No venue, no employer and no government should underestimate the strength of this union.” The first motions of the day concerned opposition to the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership and the preservation of the
www.equity.org.uk
Malcolm Sinclair and Nabil Al-Raee, the artistic director of the Freedom Theatre in Palestine
essential role of the performing arts within the national curriculum. Adam Pettigrew spoke on behalf of the Young Members Committee, he said: “We believe the arts should be a core subject, it should not be simply about STEM subjects [Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics] but STEAM subjects with the arts a central part of it.” Both of these motions were passed. Unanimous votes then followed on the issues of protecting venues for being unjustly attacked for noise levels and the need for a national survey on the importance of the arts. A fascinating speech was then made in aid of the International Committee for Artistic Freedom. Nabil Al-Raee, the artistic director of the Freedom Theatre in Palestine, spoke about his arrest and thanked Equity members for signing a petition for his release – “I felt that I was not alone,” he said. He explained that the theatre is based in the refugee camp in Jenin in the northern part of the West Bank. It aims to develop a creative artistic community that empowers children and young adults to “express
themselves freely and equally through art”. He said: “We can teach actors, but our most important task is to create a human artist. The Jenin refugee camp is 1km in size and contains 17,000 people. I have been asked ‘Why are you creating theatre, not building a factory?’ I reply that if we do not have freedom of speech, freedom of mind, we will never get to build that factory.” Nabil’s call for the protection of freedom of speech was reflected on the conference floor by motions from the Welsh Annual General Meeting, the Essex General Branch and the event’s guest speaker Shami Chakrabarti. Terry Victor spoke about how Equity needs to re-state its unequivocal opposition to censorship. Nana St BartholomewBrown added: “Many artists have lost their lives across the world because of censorship, if we support censorship we kill ourselves within.” Meanwhile the Essex General Branch’s motion sought assurances from the police that they will deploy enough officers to protect members performing in controversial shows. This was in reference to the closure of the
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conference report
Members vote to improve the industry Equity’s 2015 Conference carried 41 motions and here is the complete list Brighton and Sussex General Branch called on the union to oppose Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP). North East of England General Branch asked Equity to campaign to preserve the essential role of performing arts within the national curriculum. Young Members Committee requested the union to support existing campaigns to keep the performing arts on the national curriculum. Central England General Branch called on Equity to support the planning principle that, if an entertainment venue is in place before new development happens, the developer is responsible for soundproofing against noise nuisance. Welsh National Committee requested a national survey of attitudes to the arts. Humberside Variety Branch called on Equity Council to campaign for the removal of VAT on Digital Downloads. Welsh Annual General Meeting called on the union to assert clearly Equity’s support for freedom of artistic expression.
Essex General Branch wanted the union to consult with police so that sufficient police resource is deployed to enable members to work safely, freely and expressively in their artistry. Northern Ireland General Branch requested that the union campaign against the culture of demeaning terms such as ‘subsidy’. South East Area Annual General Meeting urged Equity to draft a document for venues explaining the need for them to re-draft their child protection policies. Midlands Area Annual General Meeting called on Equity Council to be more visible in its support for the TUC Action for Rail campaign. North West London General Branch requested the union lobby the government regarding the recently introduced benefit sanctions as they are discriminatory towards our profession. West and South West London General Branch urged Equity to set up a working party
Exhibit B show at the Barbican due to crowd unrest. Fiona Whitelaw said: “A member of our branch was in Exhibit B and was traumatised by the experience. We may disagee, but let’s disagree respectfully.” This theme was continued by Shami Chakrabarti, the director of human rights organisation Liberty, who said she had come to ask for the help of Equity members. “I am here to plea for the saving of the Human Rights Act,” she announced. “Why should human rights abuses around the world be an excuse for war over there but not for the rule of law over here? In 1965 Equity called on its members not to support apartheid in South Africa. That was not the fashionable moment to join that
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to examine the relationships with casting directors and issues surrounding casting. Devon and Cornwall General Branch asked Equity to contact casting directors and companies to suggest that they accept contacts via Spotlight, the Equity website directory and the local Equity branches and that it researches ways of improving casting opportunities for regional members. Northern Area Annual General Meeting called on the union to redouble its efforts to press for more production to be made in the nations and the regions, accompanied by casting taking place locally to the location of such production. The Council requested that from 1 January 2016, subscription rates will increase by 1.63%. The minimum rate of £123 will rise to £125. There will continue to be a £5 discount for those paying by Direct Debit. The Entrance Fee rises from £29 to £30. It also requested a rule change to ensure that Equity is compliant with new duties set out in the Transparency of Lobbying Act 2014. Plus, that the 2016 ARC will take place in Bristol, the 2017 and 2018 in London and the 2019 event in Belfast.
Audio Committee urged Equity to put a Rule change to a referendum of members to re-introduce an Audio box on to the Equity Council.
North and East London General Branch urged Equity to raise the union’s campaigning profile around the major concern of cuts to theatre and their effects.
Supporting Artistes Directory be relaunched. Women’s Committee requested that the union address the discriminatory practice of asking actors their age in castings.
South Wales Variety Branch urged the union to exclude students from the office of branch secretary.
Creative Team Committee requested the union consult with relevant bodies in order to put guidelines in place so that creative team workers have a fair chance of building their career regardless of their background.
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Committee requested Equity enact a number of measures to combat collaborative projects between UK organisations and countries with poor LGBT rights.
North East Variety Branch called upon the union to investigate the issue of inadequate fee protection.
South West Area Annual General Meeting asked the union to publicise that Equity allows members to claim expenses for child care, caring responsibilities or a medical condition when attending union meetings.
Stage Committee asked Equity to highlight the specific guidance for employers booking rehearsal spaces regarding dancers. Scottish National Committee asked Equity to raise awareness in future talks with theatre managements etc about panto companies offering basic pay and hazardous living and driving conditions. Stage Committee urged Equity to pressure venue owners to provide free WiFi to members. London Annual General Meeting urged Equity Council to open discussions with ACE to see how they can become more open in their decision-making. Liverpool and District General Branch requested Equity Council put pressure on state-funded theatres to rehearse in the cities in which they are located. Northern Ireland Annual General Meeting requested the union to give special attention when drafting the new claim to be negotiated with the ITC for April 2016 to the needs of stage management.
movement. Your union and members were key players in the early unfashionable days of anti-apartheid. Human rights are not that fashionable at the moment, but we need to fight for those rights today because it really does affect us all. When I talk about human rights I talk about three words: ‘dignity, fairness and equality’ and the greatest of these is equality.” The conference also passed motions on casting, support for the TUC Action for Rail campaign and opposition to benefit sanctions; see a full list above. Lighter moments were struck by the award of the Live Entertainment Works! selfie prize (well done, Kat Martin!) and fringe events such as the student workshop on mind-body relaxation skills. The next ARC is in Bristol, May 2016
Merseyside Variety Branch requested the union look into the situation of the unsuitability of dressing rooms. Manchester and District Variety Branch asked the union to remind the Arts Councils that variety entertainment is one of our indigenous art forms.
Northern Ireland National Committee requested Equity ensure that film productions in the Republic use the Equity/ PACT film agreement.
Stage Management Committee urged Equity to facilitate digital attendance at training events provided by Equity.
Screen and New Media Committee urged the union to translate Equity’s policy of defending the Licence Fee and public ownership of the BBC into a high-profile campaign.
East of Scotland General Branch urged the union to work with insurance brokers to develop a policy to protect members from financial loss when a planned holiday has to be cancelled due to work.
Variety, Circus and Entertainers Committee requested Equity persuade TV companies to show credits in full.
Coventry and Leicester Variety Branch requested that the Equity’s Walk-on and
Variety, Circus and Entertainers Committee urged the union to highlight the benefits of joining BECS.
Left and above, Honorary Life Membership was awarded to Jean Rogers, Annie Bright and Al Logan. Right, Nana St Bartholomew-Brown. Far left, Mik Scarlet
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Election of Equity General Secretary The Equity Council is calling for nominations from members for the post of General Secretary. The closing date for completed nominations is 12 noon on Monday, 31 August 2015 and the election will take place in September and October this year. To stand a member must be in benefit with the union and be nominated by 40 other members in benefit. The General Secretary acts as chief executive and spokesperson for the union, is secretary to the Equity Council and advises the Council on all issues which come before it. The duties of the General Secretary are set out in Rule 23 of the Equity Rule book. The gross salary is circa £87,900. The Equity Council has nominated the current General Secretary Christine Payne to stand in this election. For a nomination form visit www.equity.org.uk/members-area/
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autumn 2015
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autumn 2015 Equity is the UK trade union for professional performers and creative practitioners / 29
Letters...
the president writes
For those of you old enough to remember the speeches of Harold Wilson, you may remember that one of his favourite openings went something like, “As I said to Conference in Blackpool, we can/ cannot...etc.” I find myself repeating this useful trope, except for me, what I said at our recent ARC, alas, no longer pertains.
indeed shabby. In return for an apparent guarantee that the licence fee will continue to operate, the BBC has been made to agree to finance free licences for the over 75s. This is scandalously inappropriate. Whether the over 75s need this free coverage is neither here nor there, but if the nation feels, through its government, that they do deserve it, then the nation should finance it. Will the gas and electricity industries be financing the Winter Fuel Allowance? Of course not. The BBC agreed because they thought it the least worst option, and believed it secured the licence. How foolish, as since this back door deal was done, the government is publicly backtracking, saying the licence fee will only be secure if the BBC follows whatever remit the government decides through its green paper and the panel set up to advise on the BBC’s future. This panel is composed of a majority of grandees, who have publicly expressed antipathy to the BBC, and indeed have a commercial interest in seeing the BBC shrink. For the BBC, Tony Hall and Rona
Are we going to allow commercial rivals to destroy the BBC?” Part of my fascinating address concerned our new culture secretary, John Whittingdale; I welcomed his appointment as we seemed finally to have a minister in place who had some knowledge, even expertise, in the field which was his responsibility. He had been a good friend to the union, helping pilot some important legislation through parliament, concerning new licensing provisions. As chairman of the relevant select committee he had presided over much useful work into the problems that face our industries. Indeed, I remember especially applauding his stand over the most recent conversations that government were having with the BBC, where he spoke strongly against the secrecy and lack of public debate in the way these conversations had taken place. How foolish and naive I have been. The discussions and, scandalously, the decisions that have been taken between government and the BBC over the last week, as I write this, were conducted in an entirely secretive manner, with no public debate, and unsurprisingly the results of these conversations are deeply unsatisfactory,
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autumn 2015
Fairhead bear responsibility for the mess that is developing. Their predecessors surely would not have gone along with what has been decided and how the decision was made. With leadership like this, the BBC is stumbling. What is so utterly frustrating about this developing debacle is that the BBC has an army of supporters and champions waiting to campaign, argue, and persuade. This army’s troops are those of us who have worked, are working, or hope to work for such an institution; proud to work for an institution based on the idea of the common public good. This is not to say, of course, that Equity over the years has been uncritical of much of how the BBC has behaved, particularly towards its actors, directors and so on. And we have worried about the burgeoning management structures. But the BBC stands for public service, 97% of the population use it; the world looks at it with envy and admiration. Are we now going to allow a secretive government, a craven management and commercial rivals to destroy it? I don’t think so.
Malcolm Sinclair
Get in touch Have you got something to say about your experience of Equity or the contents of the magazine? We want to hear from you. Please email or write to the editor via the contact information below: The Editor Guild House Upper St Martin’s Lane London WC2H 9EG Tel: 020 7379 6000 Fax: 020 7379 7001 Email: editorial@equity.org.uk Web: www.equity.org.uk
Sheila Collings
It was lovely reading the Sheila Collings tribute from Corinna Marlowe in the Summer edition of Equity. Sheila was a life-long friend of mine from the time we met on the first ‘Oliver’ National Tour, ending with the splendid triumph it had at the Imperial Theatre, Tokyo. All the cast were hand picked by Nabuko, representative of the Toho Company that was presenting Oliver. I believe she first saw it when we were in Manchester. When the National Tour ended, we then had a year in London at The Piccadilly Theatre. It was while we were here that Nabuko made many visits to see this production and when we eventually learnt that the cast were being ‘hand picked’ to be offered the opportunity to go to Tokyo. We all had to wait to get a call from our agent, while at the Piccadilly, whether we would like to accept such a contract, if offered. This went on for some weeks towards the end of the run. I think all the ‘old stagers’ of some 46 years ago can imagine the banter that took place in the dresssing rooms as to whom and who didn’t want to go. To Japan! A country that we had been at war with only 23 years ago and memories of how such a war had treated “Our boys” in captivity. Most of the older men felt this, but nevertheless when getting the offer agreed to go. So many of us in the company did so want to get the offer and our thoughts were how lucky we would be if picked, what a splendid experience, which indeed it was, and how lucky we were to have Sheila as our Equity deputy.
Kathie O’Donoghue
BBC cuts research
I am a film and television history professor conducting research on the effects of Delivering Quality First and newer BBC cost-cutting measures on all manner of television industry professionals (writers, producers, actors, stunt workers, costume designers, etc.). I would like to speak to any member of Equity that has recently worked on/is currently working on a BBC Television production. I would like to interview, observe on set, or take a testimonial from any member that could spare the time and would be willing to participate in the study and such access would be of great value to scholarship on entertainment industry labour and to the wider field of television history. I thank you in advance for any assistance that you can provide. I would ask the following questions of any Equity member willing to participate in this academic study: Are you or have you recently (last 5-6 years) worked on a BBC Television production. If so, which one(s)? In what capacity did/do you work on the production(s) (what was/is your title or job description)? Have the austerity measures put in place by the BBC (“Delivering Quality First”) had any noticeable effects on your day-to-day work-life (hours worked, tasks required, changes in title/status, number of episodes in series order, or anything else that you feel is relevant)? Would you prefer to remain anonymous? May I contact you briefly if I have further questions about your response? Dr. Lauren Steimer University of South Carolina lsteimer@mailbox.sc.edu
Thames Variety offer
Following a number of enquiries, my colleague, Tricia Court, and I are organising another performance workshop for members in the Thames Variety Branch area. This will be a two-day event taking place on 8 & 9 October at the CAA, Bedford Street, Covent Garden and the workshop will include song interpretation, presentation, planning, repertoire and more. Plus, members will have the chance to perform with a live band! The fee for this two-day event is £40.00, payable to Equity Thames Variety Branch. Applications for the workshop will be on first-come-first-served basis as places are limited, so it`s advisable to contact us as soon as possible to reserve your place: anniebright@btconnect.com or tel. 020 7733 0564. Closing date for applications is Friday, 18 September. Further details can be found on Thames Variety Branch website. Annie Bright
Thanks to Rebecca I’d really like to pass on my thanks to you and Rebecca for the article in Summer 2015. I have been struggling to have the courage to ‘be myself’ for years and years – and this article came at just the moment I needed to see/hear someone else’s experience, regarding gender identity, having recently plucked up the courage to go (along with my incredibly loving, supportive and courageous wife) to ask my GP for a referral to a Gender Identity Clinic. I’ve spoken to my children, and I’m on the GIC waiting list. So, thanks again for the article and will look forward to the BBC2 ‘Boy Meets Girl’ sitcom. Name supplied
Thank you very much for the engrossing interview with Rebecca Root. What tremendous courage, clarity of thought and resolve. Inspirational. I would be proud to work alongside Rebecca any day. Thanks again. Godfrey Salter
Charity support I would like to say how grateful I am to the Equity Charitable Trust for their help. I had to have open heart surgery and was unable to work for quite a long time. They helped me with recuperation money. Pamela Shaw
www.equity.org.uk
In memoriam Helen Arkison, Michael Atkinson, Jim Bailey, Barloni, Toni Bird, Jessica Bonar, Valerie Boothman, Maurice Bowen, Edward Burnham, Ronnie Carroll, Pauline Cecil, Daniel Chadwick, Cynthia Cherry, Margaret Dalton, Jake D’Arcy, Val Doonican, Lyn Douglas, Rex Doyle, Barbara Ellams, Jackie Fielding, Nelson Fletcher, Eveline Garratt, Claire Gordon, Joseph Greig, Margaret Hanley, Beth Harris, Keith Harris, Katherine Hendy, Sylvia Hibbert, Liddy Holloway, Peter N B Howell, Peter Hudson, Neville Hughes, Junix Inocian, Richard Johnson Jonno, Arthur Jorgensen, Alex Keenan, Rick Kennedy, Gaye Knox, Helen Landis, Sir Christopher Lee, Freddie Lees, John Lennox, Robin Lloyd, Joan MacAlpine, Angus MacKay, Elizabeth Maclennan, Patrick Macnee, Marcello Mastroianni, David McAlister, Alison McGuire, Donald McKillop, Toby McLauchlan, Michael Meacham, Douglas Milvain, Ron Moody, Bill Moores, Richard Morgan, Doreen Murray, Mysteeny, Martin Neville, Johnny O’Boyle, Steve O’Connor, Dickie Owen, Christine Page, Joslin Parlane, Clifford Parrish, Gwynneth Price, Peter Quigley, Keith Rawlings, Elizabeth Reber, Michael Reese, Bill Reimbold, Peter Retey, Robert (Bobby) Rietty, Rex Robinson, Gene Saks, Frieda Shand, Denny Shaw, Stuart Sherwin, Karen Slade-Pluck, Percy Sledge, Alistair Smith (i), Don Smoothey, Vince Starr, Jack Stephens, Terry Sue Patt, Lolly Susi, Nigel Terry, Ron Welling, Annest Wiliam, Helen Wilkinson, Keith Wilson, Robin Winbow, Kate Woodville, Jules Wright, Peter Wyatt, Margaret Yelding (i) not Alistair Smith of Perth
Branch update brighton & sussex general
north
Date of next meeting: TBC Contact: Chris Webb 07973 466154
bristol & west general
north west london general Date of next meeting: Saturday 5 Sept (always the first Saturday of the month), 10.30am, Central School of Speech and Drama 62-64 Eton Avenue, London NW3 3HY Contact: Elise Harris, eliseharris@gmail.com
cardiff & s wales general Date of next meeting: First Thursday of every month, 7.30pm. BBC Club Cardiff, CF5 2YQ Contact: Louisa stbbrown_morgan@hotmail.co.uk
south & se london general Next meeting: 15 Aug, summer social venue TBC Contact: Paul Valentine equitysselondon@ gmail.com
central england general
devon & cornwall general Next meeting: Third Sunday of the month at different venues around the two counties. Contact: Nigel Howells, howellsnj@gmail.com
Blooming marvellous west & South west london is in a healthy state as one of Equity’s fastest growing branches
Next meeting: 17 of September, 7pm.Wessex FM studios. Poundbury Road, Dorchester Contact: chris-gallarus@hotmail.co.uk
Next meeting: TBC Contact: Helen Raw, eastofscotlandequity@gmail.com
essex general Date of next meeting: Monday, 12 October 7:30 The Link, Trinity Methodist Church, Rainsford Road, Chelmsford. Contact: mhrson@gmx.com or dee@deemardi.com
gtr manchester
& region
Next meeting: Check its Facebook group for latest news Contact: David Corden, equity.nwegb@virgin.net
herts general Date of next meeting: TBC, usually Queen Mother Theatre, Hitchin Contact: Lynn Robins on lynnrobins_a1sa@btinternet.com
Mark Thomas and Sylvaine Poitau
home counties west general Date of next meeting: Tuesday 22 September, 7:30pm, South Hill Park Arts Centre, Bracknell Contact: Natalie Jenno on branch_sec_hcw@ btinternet.com
Isle of Man General Branch
Next meeting: 7pm, Summer Social on the 19th August 2015 The Archibald Knox Inn, Onchan,Contact: colyn@colyn.co.uk
32 /
autumn 2015
n&w yorkshire variety Date of next meeting: Every third Monday at 7.30pm at George IV pub, Birkenshaw BD11 2AH Contact: Valerie Jean Mann, val@mrstipsy.co.uk, 0113 285 3848
scottish variety Date of next meeting: TBC at Equity office, Glasgow G13QQ. Contact: Linda Rifkind, 0141 639 6969, l.rifkind@btinternet.com
south wales variety Date of next meeting: first Tuesday of every monthTyn y Twr Public House, Baglan, SA12 8AU, 7.30 Contact: Shelli Dawn, 01685 812779
south yorkshire variety Next meeting: TBC. Bridge Inn Greasbrough road Rotherham Contact: chuffinells@ hotmail.com
thames variety branch Date of next meeting: TBC Contact: Deborah Charnley on debzcharnley@hotmail.com
west of england variety Date of meeting: 7.45pm, 7 Sept. Inn on the Green Filton Road Bristol Contact Mary Lane cllrmlane@equity.org.uk 07900 848003
yorkshire ridings general
dorset general
east of scotland general
& east london general
Next meeting: 10.30am 12th September at The Park Theatre, Park 90, Finsbury Park Contact: Nicola Hawkins nel.equity@gmail.com
Date of next meeting: Third Tuesday of month (exc August), 7.30pm. YHA, Bristol BS1 4QA Contact: equity.bristolwestgen@googlemail.com
Date of next meeting: Monday 28 Sept, 7.30pm at Theatre Absolute, Shop Front Theatre, 38 City Arcade, Coventry CV1 3HW Contact: David Edgar: davidedgar@gmx.co.uk
Equity branches are your local meeting place to discuss the industry, share insights and influence the direction of the union. Find your local branch at www.equity.org.uk/branches
T
he West and South West London branch has grown very rapidly in the past five years. From its base in the Seven Dials club in Covent Garden it offers an exciting range of guest speakers including leading lights in the casting and directing fields. The recent visit by theatre critic Lyn Gardner from The Guardian proved particularly popular. The branch’s motion on casting sent to the unions annual conference was passed. It requested a working party to examine the relationships with casting directors and
kent general Date of next meeting: Sunday13 Sep at 4pm, The Pound Westgate Towers Canterbury Ct1 2BZ Contact: Marie Kelly 07703 207878, kellygreenproductions@hotmail.co.uk
liverpool general branch Next meeting: 2 Sep, 6.30pm Everyman Theatre Contact: Cath Rice, equityliverpool@gmail.com
milton keynes general Date of next meeting: TBC Contact: Rachel Dobell on mkanddistrict. equitybranch@gmail.com
Next meeting: TBC Contact: Anthony Blakesley equity.yrgb@gmail.com
birmingham variety Date of next meeting: 23 Sept. Venue TBC Contact: john@jhprice.co.uk
blackpool variety Date of next meeting: 1st Tuesday of each month, 1pm, Blackpool Cricket Club, Stanley Park, FY3 9EQ Contact: Chris Cotton, 07941 550315
coventry & leicester variety broader issues surrounding casting and its practices in stage, screen and new media with a view to bringing the various strands together to create good practice guidelines. Pictured above are branch members at a comedy and music night in support of the Live Entertainment Works campaign.
west & sw london general Date of next meeting: Monday 7 Sept 7.00 to 9.30, Seven Dials Club, Earlham Street, Covent Garden Contact: secretary.equity.wswlon@gmail.com
northern ireland branch Date of next meeting: TBC Contact: Vicky Blades vickyblades@gmail.com
north lancashire & cumbria general Next meeting: Summer party, Wed 19 August 6-9, Dallas Rd Gardens, Lancaster Contact: Peter Rylands on peter.rylands@btinternet.com
ne of england general branch Date of next meeting: 1st Tuesday of each month (excl. Aug & Dec) 6:30pm Northern Stage, Barras Bridge, Newcastle NE1 7RH Contact: Sue Reid, reidsuereid@aol.com
www.equity.org.uk
Date of next meeting: 21 Sept, 8pm, Stoke Coventry Club 7 Stoke Green CV31FP Contact: Sheila Payne: sheila.rodgers@btinternet.com
east midlands variety Date of next meeting: 1 Sep, 8pm, Headstocks, Cinderhill/Bagnall Road junction, NG6 8SF Contact: Alan Jefferies 0115 9397536, ajeffe8001@aol.com
humberside variety branch Date of next meeting: 7 September 7.30pm Henry Vernone Court, Hull 7.30pm Contact: Christie Clifford, equityvbn4@msn.com
manchester & district variety Date of next meeting: 17 August 7.30pm Monroes Hotel, 38 London Road, Manchester M1 2PS . Contact: Yvonne Joseph, vonniegerry@btinternet.com
merseyside variety Next meeting: Second Monday of month, 7pm, Adelphi Hotel Contact: Les O’Neill, lesoneill@hotmail.com
ne of england variety Date of meeting: 7.30pm, last Tuesday of the month, The Alberta Social Club, Jarrow. Contact Steve McGuire. 01207238258, sirstephen2001us@yahoo.co.uk
Tried and tested The East anglia variety branch has been a great supporter of local variety members since 1983
T
he East Anglian Variety branch was created in November 1983 and its first meeting was at the old Railway Club in Thorpe Road, Norwich, a fantastic venue for live acts at that time. At that first gathering the assembled members nominated Peachy Mead for the branch secretary as he was a well-known entertainer in the area and he remains the secretary to this day. The branch has contributed a number of motions to the union’s annual conference and has supported local
members with the many issues that affect working variety performers. The branch welcomes old and new members to its usual meeting place at the Canary Social Club on Thorpe Road in Norwich.
east anglia variety Date of next meeting: 8pm, 16 November 2015 at The Canary Social Club, 104 Thorpe Road Norwich NR1 1RT Contact: Peachy Mead, peachymead@f2s.com
autumn 2015
/ 33
SPECIAL ATTENTION special attention Members are instructed in their own interests to consult the Equity office before accepting engagements with or through any of the names on this list. most cases, names are included because thebefore individual, company or agency has or Members are instructed in In their own interests to consult the Equity office accepting engagements withowed or through still money. In In other cases, entrants refused to use ourthe contracts andcompany place the or necessary deposits anyowes of themembers names on this list. most cases, nameshave are included because individual, agency has owed or orstill putowes money in escrow. In some cases, money will have been secured for members through courts or through deposits the members money. In other cases, entrants have refused to use our contracts and the place the necessary disputes procedures under our various contracts. These remainfor somembers membersthrough can check theor Equity office or put money in escrow. In some cases, money will have entrants been secured thewith courts through the that the correct procedures been undertaken respect of engagements offered. can check with the Equity office disputes procedures underhave our various contracts.inThese entrants remain so members that the correct procedures have been undertaken in respect of engagements offered. AGENTS Productions), Roy Gurvitz (Lost H Bryan Hands Productions Ltd, Vagueness Limited). Hierographics Productions Co Ltd, A Actors Inc (Real Creatives, Marco Michael Durber AKA Mick Appleyard g Gary Telfer (Blue Genie) recently Mike Hobman. H(Appleyard Hanover Concert Promotions Rasala) (1), ADPadded Entertainments (David h Bryan Hands Productions Ltd, Entertainment) . D4M Mark Turner: Turnstone (Patrick Mulvaney), Barry Hawkins, Hunter), Agency L’Image Casting (Jonathan I Tommy Iwering (Piccadilly Productions), Hierographics Productions Co Ltd, Limited (Julia Charles). Dean Pomoroy DenisAllied Stevenson: Boy Productions Fran Hurley, Gerald Leslie Hemming Sands), ArtistsBugle Management BrianIzzard (KnaveacreProductions). Mike Hobman. e Eddie Bloom – Bloom Festival, (Hemmings Leisure). (Andy Grover), A M Artists (Ann Molloy), Michael Jago:19th Hole Hospitality Ltd J AndrewJenkins and Paddy Wilson(One i Tommy Iwering (Piccadilly Group, EUB2B And Action Management (Alan Elliott), J Elchris Kerry Jacks (The WhiteLimited Lion, for the Road). JGA Theatrical International. JohnArtists Paul James: Lolfa Lounge Anglo Management/Anglo Productions), Brian Izzard (Knaveacre g Mark Greenhouse (Wendy House Swandlicote), HelenJohntrading asKidz K Robert Kennedy, FA Ketcher (Quick Matthew Hampson: Americor Ltd (Michael Van Rindt),Robin Want Fun, Don Jones Organisation(9). Productions). Productions), Roy Gurvitz (Lost Tour Ltd), Khoros Productions Ltd (Sally M&M Associate Productions Answych (Briarcom Ltd), Arena Limited JuliaCharles (D4M Limited) j Andrew and Paddy Wilson Vagueness Limited). Davis & SylviaJenkins Swann) (14), Knaveacre PromotionsLtd (2). Christopher Beamont K Kidz Want Fun (Helen Jon), Phil Vanessa Beamont: (One for the(Brian Road). JGA Theatrical h Barry Hawkins, Fran Hurley, Gerald Productions Izzard). B Maggie James Balfour (3), BITT BruceFilm Benson Montieth: Co Ltd Knight Leisure Ltd) International. Leslie(Street Hemming (Hemmings Leisure) L Stephen Leatherland & Karie Musson Associates Ltd, Berry London L jTommy Labyrinth Productions k Robert Kennedy,Theatremaster FA Ketcher (Quick Kerry Laughton, Jacks (The White Lion, (Standing OvationsLtd, Associates Ltd (Ceri Berry), Briarcom (KevinBearneaka CefnDeBearne), AGENTS Tour Ltd),1st Khoros Swandlicote), Don Organisation Ltd, Ltd (Robin Answych), Paul Bridgewood Theatre Ltd). Productions Ltd (Sally RochelleLeader (TopJones Hat International), A ADP Entertainments (David Hunter), (Xtabi Entertainments), Buchanans (17). & Sylvia Swann)(Michael (10), Knaveacre (9).Vagueness Julia Charles (D4M Limited) MDavis Minera Productions TyeLost Limited– Roy Gurvitz. Artists Management (Andy CAllied CADS Management (Terry Smith), Productions (Brian Izzard). Walker), Graham Mulvein (Graham Phil Knight (Street Leisure Ltd) MkMartin Marshall (Crazy Horses Grover),Caroldi, A M Artists (Ann Molloy), And Maurizio Celebrity Marketing Mulvein Holdings Ltd). & Karie Musson  L Stephen Leatherland Entertainment Consultants), Mr and l Tommy Laughton, Labyrinth (Roland Mowlam), Alan(Alan Chamberlain, Action Management Elliott), Mrs Melville (The FishBearne Out Of aka Water N(Standing Nowell Wallace & CaroleLeFoll Ovations Ltd, Theatremaster Productions (Kevin Cefn Dee Christopholous (Millennium). Anglo Artists Management,Robin Restaurant), Mulvaney (Sudden Productions and Rough Edges Ltd, Theatre 1st Ltd). De Bearne),Patrick Rochelle Leader(Hanover (Top Hat DAnswych Patrick Duncan (Dealers Agency). Concert Promotions), Gabriel Bauza (Briarcom Ltd), Arena Productions) m Minera Productions (Michael TyeInternational), Lost Vagueness Limited Munar (Ponsa Espectaculos). EPromotionsLtd Alan Elliott (And Action Management). (1). OWalker), One for the RoadMulvein (Paddy (Graham Wilson and Graham – Roy Gurvitz. N New Time Entertainment Ltd — GBGeoff Gibbons James Balfour(Nightfall (2), Bruce Benson Andrew Jenkins). Mulvein Holdings Ltd). m Martin Marshall (Crazy Horses Cyprus (Panos Gerou) Entertainments), Associates Associates Ltd,JoGilbert Berry London NN Northwick Theatre (Graham Nowell Wallace & CaroleBodman). Le Foll Mr&and (JGATheatrical International), Gold OEntertainment Oliver BartonConsultants), Entertainments Associates LtdLyndsey-Wilson/Lyndsey (Ceri Berry), Briarcom P(Sudden PiccadillyProductions Productions(Tommy Iwering). and Rough Agency(Robert Mrs Melville(Michael (The FishSlater, Out Of Water Productions Stan Ltd (Robin Answych), Paul Bridgewood Smith (10). REdges Stephen Rayne(Shakespeare Wilson), Peter GrahamAssociates(4), Productions) Restaurant), Gabriel Bauza Munar (Xtabi Entertainments), Buchanans UK), Reckless ReidGraham(HeaviesCasting), Andy (3). o JohnRedgrave. One for the Road (Paddy Wilson and P(Ponsa PizzazzEspectaculos) Productions-SteveCox,Ponsa Grover (AlliedArtists Management). Entertainment. Richard Temple C CADS Management (Terry Smith), Espectaculos Bauza Munar). Andrew Jenkins). N New Time(Gabriel Entertainment Ltd — (Richard Temple Ltd) HAlan Sally HarrisonManagement (5), Chamberlain, Dee Christopholous Panos Gerou (New Time Entertainment r Stephen Rayne (Shakespeare Cyprus (Panos Gerou) Heals Entertainment (PhilipaSage), Rob Ltd — Cyprus) SUK), Shakespeare UK (Stephen Rayne), (Millennium). John Redgrave. Oliver Barton Entertainments & Holloway, MarkHudsonAssociates(6), Sylvia Swann (Khoros Productions Ltd Ro Paul Randall (Rainbow D Patrick Duncan (Dealers Agency). RecklessEntertainment. Richard Productions (Michael Slater, Stan David Hunter (ADPEntertainments), Fran Sally Davis) (14). Street of Dreams Ltd E Alan Elliott (And Action Management). Entertainments) (11), Warren Rix Temple (Richard Temple Ltd) Hurley. Smith (8).Circus(TonyAdams), Michael S Secret T Terry Finnegan Productions, Geoff Gibbons (Nightfall s Shakespeare UK (Stephen Rayne), J GJukes Entertainment Agency, p Panos Gerou (New Time Slater—Oliver Barton Entertainments & Theatrical Productions Ltd (Peter Entertainments), Jo Gilbert Associates JGA Theatrical International Sylvia Swann (Khoros Productions Ltd Productions, StanSmith (10), SohoSet Entertainment Ltd Cyprus). Peter Baldwin) (12), Michael Tye-Walker (JGA Theatrical International), Peter (Jo Gilbert Associates). Dance Revue (TonySharman), Street Sally Davis) (10). Street of Dreams Ltd (Minera Productions). Snee, Yorkshire’s Magical Winterland (4), Andy Grover LGraham RobertAssociates Lang Associates; Robert LeisureLtd TerryMidlands FinneganChildren’s Productions, WtWest Theatre 2014 Ltd (Phil Knight). Lyndsey-Wilson (Gold Agency). (Allied Artists Management). T rTangible Theatrical Productions Ltd (Peter Company (Michael Coffman), Sarah WarrenMedia Rix Ltd– Richard MH Millennium (Dee Christopholous, Curson, Top Hat International – Heals Entertainment (Philipa Jane Worrell(9), and Ian Worrell (BAF Baldwin) Michael Tye-Walker s Secret Circus (Tony Adams), JacquelineWhelan)(7), Rochelle Leader. Thomas Hopkins Sage), Rob Holloway, Ann MarkMolloy(AM Hudson Productions). Paddy Wilson and (Minera Productions). Michael Slater—Oliver Barton– Marc Artists), MonstersAgency(Mervyn Webb), U Untouched Entertainments Andrew Jenkins (OneChildren’s for the Road Ltd). Associates (5), David Hunter (ADP w West Midlands Theatre Roland Mowlam (Celebrity Marketing). Entertainments & Productions, Stan Williams and Janine Wright. Entertainments), Fran Hurley. Company (Michael Coffman), Sarah N NightfallEntertainments(GeoffGibbons) Smith (8), Watts Soho Set Dance Revue (Tony FILM AND TELEVISION W Alistair Entertainment, J Jukes Entertainment Agency, Worrell andFilms Ian Worrell (BAF Wendy House Productions O Ordinary People Ltd (Sarah Robbie). Sharman), Street Leisure Ltd(Mark (Phil Knight). CJane Chancery Lane Ltd (Joseph JGA Theatrical International Productions). Paddy Wilson andLtd Greenhouse), WhiteLtd– Lion,Richard Swandlicote Brooks), Communication Interlink R MalcolmRaeAssociates,MarcoRasala t Tangible Media (Jo Gilbert Associates). (Kerry Jacks), Organisation Andrew Jenkins (One for the Road Ltd). (Actors Inc. Real Creatives), Patrick (Simon McCarthy). Curson, TopWilliams Hat International – L Robert Lang Associates; Robert (William Adkins and Karen Lesley Rimmel(RPManagement),MichaelVan D Philip D Deighton (Spectacular Rochelle Leader. Thomas Hopkins Clarke), Marc Williams and Janine Lyndsey-Wilson (Gold Agency). FILM Ltd). ANDDeene TELEVISION Rindt (akaAngloArtistsManagement/ Sounds Naz (Summertime u Untouched Entertainments – Marc Wright – Untouched Entertainments. Anglo Americor Ltd), Sarah Robbie M Millennium (Dee Christopholous, Pictures) c Chancery Lane Films Ltd (Joseph Williams and Janine Wright. (Ordinary People Ltd). Jacqueline Whelan)(6), Ann Molloy (A E Brooks), Elchris Group THEATRE Communication Interlink Ltd W Alistair Watts Entertainment, SMPhilipa (Heals Entertainment), Artists),Sage Roland Mowlam (Celebrity H(Simon Barrie Hawkins. AWendy AdrianHouse Monahan (Stage Works McCarthy). Productions (Mark Jonathan Sands (Agency L’Image), Marketing). Theatre Company) Liberations (WarrenBader). Philip DProductions Deighton (Spectacular Terry Smith (CADS Management), Greenhouse), White Lion, Swandlicote L d O Ordinary People LtdManagement), (Sarah Robbie). B BAF Productions (Sarah Jane MSounds Simon Ltd). McCarthy Deene(Communication Naz (Summertime Stephen Stroud (Tobias (Kerry Jacks), Williams Organisation Worrell and Ian Worell); Peter Baldwin Malcolm Rae Associates, Marco Interlink Ltd), Alan Macdonald, Pictures) TRPeter Talbot Agency (8), Tobias (William Adkins and Karen (Theatrical Productions Ltd) Lesley (12), Rasala (Actors Inc. Real Creatives), Mapleton Films Ltd, Mercury Films Management (Stephen Stroud). E Elchris Group Clarke), Marc Williams and Janine Big Little Productions Ltd, Graham And Video, John Mortimer Video Patrick Rimmel (RP Management), W Mervyn Webb (Monsters h Barrie Hawkins. Bodman — Northwick Theatre. Jayson Wright – Untouched Entertainments. Promotions (15). Michael Van Rindt (aka Anglo Artists Agency),Jacqueline Whelan l Liberations Productions (Warren Alexander Bartlett PBader). Palm Tree Production (Robbie Moffat) (Millennium), Robert Lyndsey Wilson Management/Anglo Americor Ltd), CTHEATRE Michael Coffman (West Midlands (Lyndsey Wilson) Gold Agency. Rm Robbie Moffat (PalmTree ProductionLtd). Sarah Robbie (Ordinary People Ltd). Children’s Theatre Company). Simon McCarthy (Communication A Adrian Monahan (Stage Works XSXtabi Entertainments SInterlink Spectacular Sounds Ltd (Philip Philipa Sage (Heals Entertainment), D Danny DaviesProductions Ltd (13), Ltd), Alan Macdonald, (Paul Bridgewood). Theatre Company) D Deighton), Stuart and Graham SallyDavies (Khoros Productions Ltd) (14). Jonathan Sands (Agency L’Image), Mapleton Films Ltd, Mercury Films BAF Productions Jane Productions. Sisterhood TV Ltd Fb Terry Finnegan (Terry(Sarah Finnegan Terry Smith (CADS Management), VARIETY And Video, John Mortimer Video Worrell and Ian Worell); Peter Baldwin T Talisman Productions Ltd (16), TVE Productions). Henry Filloux-Bennett, Stroud(Juliet (Tobias Management), AStephen Shona Adams Adams Agency), Promotions (11). (Theatrical Productions Ltd) (9), Jayson Productions Ltd – Richard Bednall. Stephen James Makin(LeNez Productions) TonyAdams trading asSecret Circus, T Peter Talbot Agency (7), Tobias p Palm Tree Production (Robbie Moffat) Alexander Bartlett , Blue Genie (Gary William Adkins(Williams Management (StephenOrganisation). Stroud). rDon Robbie Moffat (Palm Tree Jones of Bridie Reid and PLEASE NOTE Telfer ) Anne Young W Jacqueline Whelan (Millennium). Don JonesLtd). Agency or Don Jones Production (1) c no connection with(West www.Midlands Michael Coffman BXKevin aka Cefn De Bearne XtabiBearne Entertainments sManagement Spectacular Sounds Ltd (Philip Actors-Inc.co.uk (Labyrinth Productions), Antony Bishop Children’s Theatre Company). (10)D not Stan Smith of Saatchi & (Paul Bridgewood). Deighton), Stuart and Graham (2)d not Arena Touring Theatre Ltd or (Entertainment In Business). Sally Davies (Khoros Productions Saatchi advertising agency ArenaPersonal Management Ltd Productions. Sisterhood TV Ltd C Capital VIP Group, Scotty Clark Ltd) (10). VARIETY (11) tnot Rainbow Management of Old (3) not James Balfour, an Equity trading as Clark Sutherland Arts & TVE Productions Ltd – Richard f Henry Filloux-Bennett, Stephen Colywn, North Wales member in good standing a Shona Adams (Juliet Adams Entertainments, Karen Lesley Clarke Bednall. (12) not Peter Baldwin, an Equity Makin (Le Nez Productions) not Graham Associates of West –Agency), WilliamsTony Organisation, Steveas Cox— Adams trading Secret (4)James member in good standing Pizzazz Crazy Horses Yorkshire Circus,Productions, William Adkins (Williams Personal Management PLEASE NOTE (13) not Danny Davies of Pirate Entertainment (Martin Marhall), Richard (5) not Sally Harrison, an Equity Organisation). Anne Young (7) not Peter Talbot of the (1) n ot Arena Touring Theatre Ltd or Management Curson (Tangible Media Limited). member in good standing b Kevin Bearne aka Cefn De Bearne Rude Mechanical Theatre Arena Personal Management Ltd (14) not Sally Davies, an Equity D Ray Dalton (Excel Entertainments). (6) not Mark Hudson, an Equity Company (Labyrinth Productions) (2) not James Balfour, an Equity Michael Durber AKA MickAppleyard member in good standing member in good standing member in good standing c Capital VIP Group, Scotty (8) not StanMortimer, Smith of Saatchi & (AppleyardEntertainment) . D4MClark Limited (15) not John an Equity (7) not Millennium Actors Agency Saatchiinadvertising agency (Julia Charles) trading as Clark Sutherland Arts & (3) not Bronia Buchanan of member good standing Personal Management Buchanan Associates, (9) not Peter Baldwin, an Equity EEntertainments, EntertainmentInBusiness(Antony Karen Lesley Clarke (16) not Talisman Films Limited (8) not Peter Talbot of the London Bishop), ExcelOrganisation, Entertainment (Ray Dalton). member in good and not Jason Karlstanding of Talisman (4) Rude not Graham Associates – Williams Steve Cox— Mechanical Theatreof West Eddie Bloom – Bloom Festival, Elchris Group Productions Ltd Company (10) Television not Sally Davies, an Equity Pizzazz Productions, Crazy Horses Yorkshire FEntertainment Fish Out Of Water Restaurant ,Mr & (17) BroniainBuchanan of (9) not Donald Jones, ananEquity (Martin Marhall), Richard not member good standing (5) not Mark Hudson, Equity Mrs Melville. Buchanan Associates, London member memberiningood goodstanding, standingor (Tangible Media Limited). (11) not John Mortimer, an Equity GCurson Mark Greenhouse (Wendy House (6) not Millennium Actors Agency member in good standing d Ray Dalton (Excel Entertainments).
34 / 34 /
SUMMER 2013 autumn 2015
LIVE PERFORMANCE HELP DESK BULLYING HELPLINE Help desk Live performance ADVICE ANDreporting RIGHTS HELPLINE Bullying line SUBSCRIPTION ENQUIRIES Advice and rights helpline BRITISH EQUITY SOCIETY Subscription COLLECTING enquiries
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British Equity Collecting society 020 7670 0350 HEAD OFFICE Guild house, Upper St Martin’s Lane, London WC2H 9EG HEAD OFFICE Tel: 020house, 7379 6000 020WC2H 7379 7001 Guild Upper St Martin’s Lane, Fax: London 9EG Email: info@equity.org.uk Web: Tel: 020 7379 6000 Fax:www.equity.org.uk 020 7379 7001
Email: info@equity.org.uk Web: www.equity.org.uk EQUITY OFFICERS (Officers direct line: 020 7670 0263) Malcolm Sinclair President EQUITY OFFICERS (Officers direct line: 020 7670 0263) Jean Rogers Vice President Malcolm Sinclair President Natasha Gerson Vice Ian Barritt VicePresident President Bryn Evans Treasurer Charlotte Cornwell Honorary Vice President
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(133) Secretary, Industrial and Stephen Spence Organising Assistant General Organising (133) LIVE PERFORMANCE (fax 020 7670 0265) Hilary Department head, Opera & Dance Organiser (136) LIVEHadley PERFORMANCE (fax 020 7670 0265) Mike DayHadley Variety Organiser Hilary Department head,(135) Opera & Dance Organiser (136) Virginia Wilde West End Organiser (139) Mike Day Variety Organiser (135) Paul Fleming London AreaOrganiser Theatre Organiser (138) Virginia Wilde West End (139) Beth Organising Assistant PaulDoran Fleming London Area Theatre(134) Organiser (138)
Emmanuel de Lange Low Pay No Pay Organiser (137) RECORDED 020 7836 5313) (134) Beth Doran MEDIA (fax Organising Assistant John Barclay Department head and PACT TV Organiser (146) RECORDED MEDIA (fax 020 7836 5313) Ian Bayes BBC TV Organiser John Barclay Department head &(152) PACT TV Organiser (146) Laura Messenger Films & Contract Enforcement Ian Bayes BBC TV Organiser (152) Organiser (149) Cathy Sweet ITV & Radio Organiser (153) Organiser (149) Laura Messenger Films & Contract Enforcement Tim Gale TV Commercials Organiser (145) Cathy Sweet ITV & Radio Organiser (153) Emily Paulin Recruitment and Retention Organiser Tim Gale TV Commercials Organiser (145) (144) COMMUNICATIONS && MEMBERS SUPPORT (fax COMMUNICATIONS MEMBERS SUPPORT (fax020 0207240 72406341) 6341) Martin Assistant MartinBrown Brown AssistantGeneral GeneralSecretary Secretary(159) (159) Matt Department MattHood Hood Departmenthead, head,C&MS C&MS(166) (166) Phil PhilPemberton Pemberton Campaigns Campaignsand andPublications PublicationsOfficer Officer(111) (111) Louise LouiseGrainger Grainger Marketing Marketingand andTraining TrainingOfficer Officer(114) (114) Max Beckmann Tax & Benefits Officer & Equalities Officer (151) Emma Cotton Tax & Welfare Rights Officer (151) Alan Tax AlanLean Lean Taxand andWelfare WelfareRights RightsOrganiser Organiser(157) (157) Martin Legal MartinKenny Kenny LegalClaims ClaimsReferral ReferralOfficer Officer(125) (125) Steve Rice Recruitment Organiser (172) Steve Rice Recruitment Organiser (172) Andrew AndrewWhiteside Whiteside Recruitment RecruitmentOrganiser Organiser0161 0161244 2445995 5995 SOUTH southEAST EastOFFICE office John South WillAinslie Holmes SouthEast EastOrganiser Organiser Equity, Upper Equity, UpperStStMartin’s Martin’sLane, Lane,WC2H WC2H9EG 9EG tel: 020 7670 0229 email: southeastengland@equity.org.uk tel: 020 7670 0229 email: southeastengland@equity.org.uk SCOTLAND scotlandAND ANDNORTHERN NorthernIRELAND IrelandOFFICE office Lorne Scotland LorneBoswell Boswell Scotlandand andNorthern NorthernIreland Ireland Drew McFarlane Organisers Drew McFarlane Organisers Equity, 114 Union Street, Glasgow G1 3QQ Equity, 114 Union Street, Glasgow G1 3QQ tel: tel:0141 0141248 2482472 2472 email: email:scotland@equity.org.uk scotland@equity.org.uk northernireland@equity.org.uk northernireland@equity.org.uk NORTH NorthWEST WestOFFICE office Jamie North JamieBriers Briers NorthWest WestOrganiser Organiser Express ExpressNetworks, Networks,1 1George GeorgeLeigh LeighStreet, Street,Manchester ManchesterM4 M45DL 5DL tel: 0161 244 5995 email: northwestengland@equity.org.uk tel: 0161 244 5995 email: northwestengland@equity.org.uk NORTH NorthEAST EastOFFICE office Nigel MaxJones Beckmann North NorthEast EastOrganiser Organiser Equity, TheNetworks, Workstation, 15 Paternoster Row,Manchester Sheffield S1 2BX Express 1 George Leigh Street, M4 5DL tel: 0114 275 9746 email: northeastengland@equity.org.uk tel: 0161 244 5995 email: mbeckmann@equity.org.uk WALES WalesAND andSOUTH SouthWEST WestOFFICE office Simon Wales SimonCurtis Curtis Wales&&South SouthWest WestOrganiser Organiser Equity, Equity,Transport TransportHouse, House,1 1Cathedral CathedralRoad, Road,Cardiff CardiffCF11 CF119SD 9SD tel: 029 2039 7971 email: wales@equity.org.uk tel: 029 2039 7971 email: wales@equity.org.uk southwestengland@equity.org.uk southwestengland@equity.org.uk MIDLANDS MidlandsOFFICE office Tim Johnson Midlands Tim Johnson MidlandsOrganiser Organiser Equity, Equity,Office Office1,1,Steeple SteepleHouse, House,Percy PercyStreet, Street,Coventry CoventryCV1 CV13BY 3BY tel: 02476 553612 email: midlands@equity.org.uk tel: 02476 553612 email: midlands@equity.org.uk EQUITY EQUITYMAGAZINE MAGAZINEEDITORIAL EDITORIAL(fax (fax020 0207836 78365976) 5976) Phil Pemberton Phil Pemberton tel: 020 7670 0211 email: ppemberton@equity.org.uk tel: 020 7670 0211 email: ppemberton@equity.org.uk EQUITY EQUITYMAGAZINE MAGAZINEPRINTING PRINTING Jeremy JeremyLittlestone, Littlestone,TUInk, TUInk, tel: tel:020 0207729 33279425 8970 email: email:jeremy@tuink.co.uk jeremy@tuink.co.uk EQUITY EQUITYMAGAZINE MAGAZINEADVERTISING ADVERTISING Nicky SalesManager, Manager,Ottway Mainline Media Lisa Peacock, Ottway, Sales Media Solutions tel: 01536 747333 tel: 07958 046 147 email: email:nicky.peacock@mainlinemedia.co.uk lisa@ottwaymediasolutions.com Publication Publicationofofananadvertisement advertisementdoes doesnot notimply implyany anyform formofof recommendation. recommendation.Organisations Organisationsoffering offeringfinancial financialservices servicesororinsurance insurance are areregulated regulatedbybythe theFinancial FinancialServices ServicesAuthority Authorityand andGeneral GeneralInsurance Insurance Standards StandardsCouncil Counciland andproblems problemswith withsuch suchservices servicesshould shouldbebetaken takenupup with the appropriate body. 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The best produced audio reels we receive
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Professional and unique showreels, 2 very important aspects for a top quality demo
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Learn KRZ WR JHW VWDUWHG RQ RXU day voiceover workshop .
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2 years working with London’s top agents and the best voices in the business.
Everyday we get calls and emails from people who want to know how to get started and they come from all walks of life not just from the acting side. In fact we’ve taught news readers, after dinner speakers, sales reps, teachers, actors, DJs, dentists, presenters, vets, lawyers, painters, bio-chemists and even Brian a Concord pilot (seriously) and have come to understand that just because people WHOO you, you’ve got a good sounding voice doesn’t mean you should drop everything and make a demo.
We know it’s not possible to teach you everything there is to know about voiceovers in a single workshop, but we guarantee that having attended this session you will, with our help, be able to make an educated decision about whether voiceovers are for you.
Our Logo goes on every demo we produce. A badge we’ve earned by not “just turning out� voice demos that have no chance of getting our clients work. That’s why the top London agents choose us to produce their client’s voice demos.
starting a career in this lucrative industry.
A comprehensive, fun and interactive workshop.
Packed with insider information and loads of “tricks and techniques� on how to succeed in today’s industry, this workshop gives you the opportunity to learn the skills and techniques used by working professionals. Small class sizes allow you plenty of time behind the mic and the chance to experience what it’s really like to be in a commercial recording situation while being directed by one of London’s most experienced Voice Producers, JP Orr.
If it is, then we will help you move forward. If it’s not, then we will be honest and tell you that you would be wasting your time pursuing this line of work.
We also know that you can’t get practical KDQGV RQ information in any one book, on the internet or at the end of a telephone. We’ve seen and pretty much heard it all and are willing to share our knowledge with you to help you get started. After all, you only get one chance to get it right.
But don’t just take our word for it. Call them and ask them. Most will send you to us to FXW your reel. Why? Because they know we offer a proven process for all our clients. A voiceover plan that works! * Learn the skills to get started * Put those skills into practice. * Record your Showreel. * Learn how to market your voice.
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It’s a serious decision you are about to make. We suggest you at least learn Please also feel free to call one of our 9oicH 7eam if you have any the basics before you spend your hard-earned money on a Voice other questions Showreel you may end up not using.
Soho Recording Studios, 22-24 Torrington Place, 3VUKVU WC1E 7HZ
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