Spring 2018
Meet your Los Angelesbased Residuals Claims staff.
Residuals Claims Connects with You
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he SAG-AFTRA Residuals Claims Department is one of the union’s most knowledgeable teams. Comprised of 14 diligent individuals, the department’s responsibility is to provide assistance to members, producers, distributors, payroll houses, agents, managers and attorneys who have questions regarding how residuals are paid for all theatrical, television and new media programs. When necessary, members of the staff file claims on behalf of performers when residuals appear to be owed. Unlike other contract departments, the Residuals Claims team must be experts in essentially every theatrical contract since the 1960s and every television agreement since the 1950s. Oftentimes, residuals linked to the continued exhibition of union projects are the “long tail” of income for performers and their heirs. Examples include theatrical projects shown outside of theaters, television shows rerunning or new media programs that are exhibited on multiple new media platforms or that are picked up by traditional outlets. The Residuals Claims team ensures residuals are properly paid — a crucial function, given that more and more projects are being distributed beyond what was covered by initial compensation. Additionally, Residuals Claims participates in negotiations and works closely with several contract, legal and financial departments, including the Residuals Processing, Trust & Estates Department. Having two residuals departments can sometimes be confusing, so the easiest way to remember who handles what is to think of Residuals Processing, Trust & Estates as handling residuals that have already been paid. The department manages the members’ mailing information and facilitates getting payments received by the union into the hands of performers or their heirs. Residuals Claims, on the other hand, answers questions about when and how residuals are calculated, due and paid, and is responsible for pursuing money owed to performers for exhibition on television and newer platforms.
RESIDUALS CLAIMS DEPARTMENT CONTACT INFORMATION: (323) 549-6507 / residualsmail@sagaftra.org
A Letter from L.A. Local President Jane Austin
••• Dear Los Angeles Local Member, With approximately 80,000 members, the SAG-AFTRA Los Angeles Local would not function without member volunteers. From elected officers and the board to the rank and file, the union relies on member participation to support workshops, classes, panels, the annual health fair, the Winter Celebration, the SAG Awards viewing party, labor actions, solidarity marches, NextGen Performers activities, MOVE L.A. and service on all 32 local committees. We are very fortunate to have high member engagement and are appreciative of the small team of L.A. Local staff who do a gargantuan job, working daily on our behalf. However, we still need even more participation to be our strongest. If you are not partaking in SAG-AFTRA, I encourage you to get involved. Local committees run a two-year term and are populated following the election of a new local board. As Los Angeles Local president, I urge every local committee chair to widen the diversity of committees and enlist new members. Total inclusion not only cultivates the greatest number of AUSTIN continues on page 2
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perspectives, but grooms future union leaders. Regretfully, not all members are able to sit on committees due to the number of seats, but there are many ways to get involved on every level. The ultimate form of volunteerism is running as a convention delegate, Local and/or National Board member, or as an officer. If interested, I urge you to observe a Los Angeles Local Board meeting, where you will get a firsthand view of how decisions are made and how your union actually operates. My utmost pride comes from serving as a SAG-AFTRA officer, giving back to my union and assisting fellow union brothers and sisters. It’s my privilege to co-chair the Los Angeles Conservatory Committee, comprised of deeply engaged member volunteers who produce a robust program. With a variety of everexpanding classes, the L.A. Conservatory is an incredible craftbased learning opportunity, with a value far exceeding the $45 fee. Registration for the Conservatory’s weekend-long Summer Intensive, held in July on the American Film Institute campus, will open soon. See the article on page 4 for more details and note that this is another great volunteering opportunity. If interested, please contact the Conservatory office. As vice chair of the National Stunt and Safety Committee, I am proud to be among the leaders who developed the recently released stunt coordinators guidelines (see article at right). It has been a great honor to sit on the President’s Blue Ribbon Commission on Safety, which recently issued a code of conduct in its efforts to shield members from harmful situations. We can all commend SAG-AFTRA for taking a leading role in increasing member protections on and off the set. One sure way to participate is to attend the Los Angeles Local membership meeting on Sunday, May 6, at Pickwick Center in Burbank. Arrive at 11 a.m., visit committee tables and mingle with fellow members. Contracts staff will be available to answer your questions. Should you wish to speak or ask a question, please register at the speakers’ table. The meeting will begin at noon and ends around 3 p.m. I look forward to seeing you there. Please say hello. As your L.A. president (as well as national secretary-treasurer and co-chair of various local committees), it is my honor and pleasure to serve the SAG-AFTRA membership. I hope you will reflect on ways to give back. Remember the union is you, and you are the future of our union. Please feel free to contact me directly with ideas or concerns that you may have regarding our L.A. Local at la@sagaftra.org. Stay safe, be involved and book the gig. In solidarity,
Jane Austin
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SAG-AFTRA’s Stunt Standards and Practices
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he SAG-AFTRA National Board of Directors has adopted a set of standards for SAG-AFTRA stunt coordinators as proposed by the National Stunt Committee. These guidelines are designed to exemplify the best practices of the stunt coordinator craft as well as to encourage diversity and gender equality on sets. The new guidelines, published on the SAG-AFTRA website March 16, were issued following the heartbreaking loss of life suffered by the stunt community last year and a growing demand from stunt performers to review safety standards. In addition, there are continuing concerns about the troubling practices of “wigging” stuntmen to double for female actors and “painting down” white stunt performers to double for performers of color. The standards direct stunt coordinators to report to the union all violations of SAG-AFTRA agreements committed by the production. The
new code also explains that union staff will investigate any stunt coordinator who fails to adhere to the standards. If the violation is found to be valid, the staff, in consultation with committee leadership, will reach out to that stunt coordinator to educate him or her, and will assist with any issues. SAG-AFTRA SecretaryTreasurer and L.A. Local President Jane Austin, a stunt professional who serves as vice-chair of the National Stunt and Safety Committee, commented that, “These standards and practices will not only empower the stunt coordinators and our members to enforce the terms of our contracts but will also ensure safer sets.” Remember to report safety violations to the union’s 24/7 hotline, (844) SAFER SET. You are the eyes and ears of the union. You can review the standards and practices for SAG-AFTRA stunt coordinators on the SAG-AFTRA website at sagaftra.org.
Contracts Negotiation Update Animation: Negotiations are ongoing. Network Code: Negotiations begin in late May.
Sound Recordings: Negotiations currently underway.
State Senators Confront Sexual Harassment
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AG-AFTRA hosted an intimate and informative discussion examining legislative solutions to sexual harassment on March 1 at SAG-AFTRA Plaza. California state senators Hannah-Beth Jackson and Connie Leyva, two of the leaders in the effort to strengthen state laws regarding sexual harassment, were joined in the conversation by SAG-AFTRA President Gabrielle Carteris, National Board member Frances Fisher, SAG-AFTRA members Mira Sorvino and Rosanna Arquette, and Noreen Farrell, the executive director of Equal Rights Advocates, an organization that lobbies for equal opportunities for women. Seeking a long-overdo cultural shift in our society concerning sexual harassment, SAG-AFTRA is partnering with legislative and industry leaders. What began with revelations about abuses in our industry has blossomed into a discussion of sexual harassment that affects every sector of our economy, every employer and every hiring relationship where power can be abused. Jackson recently introduced a bill, SB 224, that clarifies that abusers in the financial sector, elected officials and lobbyists, as well as people in our industry are clearly liable when they abuse positions of power to engage in sexual harassment or sexual assault. Leyva’s bill, SB 820, will ban confidentiality provisions in settlement agreements in cases of sexual assault, sexual harassment and sex discrimination, in order to end the silencing of women who come forward to file lawsuits against their harassers.
From left, SAG-AFTRA member Rosanna Arquette, National Board member Frances Fisher, state Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson, Equal Rights Advocates Executive Director Noreen Farrell, state Sen. Connie Leyva and SAG-AFTRA member Mira Sorvino gathered at SAG-AFTRA Plaza to participate in a panel discussion about legislative solutions to sexual harassment on March 1.
We thank all who participated in the briefing and applaud the efforts of state senators Jackson and Leyva, and the dozens of other legislators who are working on ways to prevent sexual harassment in California.
SAG-AFTRA Serves SBS Petition
SAG-AFTRA Working for Local Broadcasters
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SAG-AFTRA National Board members Jon Huertas and Esai Morales, center, join on-air talent from Spanish Broadcasting System and SAG-AFTRA staff on April 5 to deliver a petition, signed by an overwhelming majority of the bargaining unit, that asked for fair and livable wages and no pay cuts. After a year and a half of bargaining, SBS’ current wage proposal calls for a 12.5-percent wage cut across the board. Show your support by signing up at sagaftra.org/sbsla for updates.
he Los Angeles-based News & Broadcast staff is off to a great year serving SoCal broadcasters. Already, in 2018, it negotiated and achieved ratification of two three-year broadcast contracts, one for KPCC 89.3 and the other for KTLA5. KPCC’s deal included significant increases to minimum scales of no less than 8 percent, along with guaranteed increases, higher employer contribution to health plan premiums on behalf of employees with families, and other important gains in terms and conditions. For KTLA, it was important for this group to see changes in severance to part-timers, language focused on journalistic integrity, and increases to all minimums and scales. Los Angeles News & Broadcast Executive Director Anna Calderón served as chief negotiator. In addition, a one-year extension to the current contract was reached, with increases for those working at KNX and KTWV, and a three-year deal with L.A. Theatre Works was accomplished.
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A Whole New L.A. Conservatory
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hen asked about the SAG-AFTRA Los Angeles Conservatory, many members have the same response: “The what?” With over 3,000 enrolled members, the Conservatory offers smallgroup craft-based classes, resources, social events and exclusive access to auditions for student film projects — all for the low membership fee of $45 per year and just $25 for young performers (ages 6–17). Under the enthusiastic leadership of L.A. Local President Jane Austin and co-chair Kevin McCorkle, the L.A. Conservatory Committee has recently revamped the program and is rapidly expanding, not only in number of teachers, but also in the variety of new class options and resources. The program now hosts dozens of classes and events each year at both SAG-AFTRA Plaza and the American Film Institute (AFI) campus. Class sizes range from 6–20 members and seminars and special events can include up to 125 members. Additionally, the scope of member resources is broad. It includes audition self-taping services, on-camera classes, table readings with top-of-the-industry writers, and scene workshops with acclaimed guest directors and writers (all subject to availability). Topics include young performers, voiceover, improvisation, commercials, theatrical, business and special events. Looking to
improve your social media game? Classes led by social media experts and influencers empower and teach you how to navigate the ins and outs of this ever-evolving world. “The Conservatory provides a nurturing community atmosphere for members to get intimate class training, meet industry professionals and foster relationships with the next generation of industry producers, writers and directors coming out of AFI,” states committee member and instructor Kym Jackson. One of the Conservatory’s most valuable benefits is access to the Summer Intensive, a weekend-long symposium of more than 50 classes, panels and workshops held at the AFI campus. Chaired by L.A. Conservatory Committee member Lee Garlington, this year’s Summer Intensive will run from July 27–29 with the theme “Be the Room Where It Happens: Creating Your Own Career.” The three-day program features casting directors, social media experts, influencers, SAG-AFTRA staff and more. To become a member of the SAG-AFTRA Los Angeles Conservatory or to learn more, go to sagaftra.org/laconservatory or call the Conservatory Office at (323) 856-7736.
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1 1. L.A. Conservatory Committee members and 2017 Summer Intensive volunteers celebrate another successful year on July 30; 2. SAG-AFTRA member Jean Smart, Board member Dawnn Lewis, L.A. Conservatory Committee member Lee Garlington, writer/producer Katherine Fugate, SAG-AFTRA National Executive Director David White, SAG-AFTRA Secretary-Treasurer and L.A. Local President Jane Austin, L.A. Local Board member Vivicca Whitsett and former Board member Clark Gregg made up the 2017 Summer Intensive opening night panel at SAG-AFTRA Plaza on July 28; 3. Conservatory Committee member Bill Applebaum instructs a class of Conservatory members at the 2017 Summer Intensive on the AFI campus, July 29.
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Save Your Seat!
DO YOU HAVE UNCLAIMED MONEY?
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he SAG-AFTRA Film Society returns for an exciting new season of first-run feature films starting in October. Films will screen at the Directors Guild of America, which continues to offer members a first-class movie-going experience in the DGA’s newly renovated theater. Film Society members will once again have a chance to see a diverse assortment of feature films, critically acclaimed foreignlanguage movies and documentaries as well as inspiring and stimulating Q&A events. Please check the website at sagaftra.org/hollywoodfilmsociety in June, or monitor your member app for the latest updates and announcements about the SAG-AFTRA Film Society’s 2018/19 season.
Did You Know … ?
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ll salary guaranteed to you in exchange for rendering acting services on a project should be included in your performer contract. Including any portion of the guaranteed performer salary in a secondary agreement, often called a consultant agreement or publicity agreement, may result in underpayments, reduced residuals, and decreased pension, health and retirement contributions. Make sure you are paid what you deserve. For more information, call the Theatrical Contracts Department at (323) 549-6828.
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f you worked as a child performer, you may have unclaimed money and not know it. The California Child Actor’s Bill, commonly referred to as the Coogan Act, was passed in response to the 1939 case of actor Jackie Coogan. The Addams Family TV series’ original Uncle Fester also goes down as the silver screen’s first major child star, having made millions starring alongside Charlie Chaplin. When Coogan reached the age of 21 following his father’s death, his mother and family lawyer-turned-stepfather refused to hand over any of his earnings and, through connections, blackballed Coogan from the studios. The bill established legally mandated trusts known as Coogan Accounts that collect 15 percent of earnings made by child performers and are accessible to them upon turning 18. However, if the child or the parents cannot be found, the law requires that the money be transferred to The Actor’s Fund where it waits, sometimes decades, to be claimed. Currently, The Actor’s Fund holds more than $3 million dollars in over 20,000 unclaimed accounts and, while it tries to locate as many account-holders as possible, thousands are being added to the rolls every year, so it’s a difficult process. In January 2018, there were more than 600 beneficiary names in the unclaimed Coogan database that held at least $1,000 in cumulative deposits. Of these, SAG-AFTRA had approximately 400 updated addresses in its database and mailed a letter to members from President Gabrielle Carteris and National Executive Director David White as a reminder. Yet, of those 400, only 152 beneficiaries successfully completed their paperwork to retrieve their earnings. The total amount received from those that claimed their disbursements was $396,720, with hope that many more will respond in the upcoming months. Were you a young performer? Think you may be a holder of one of the many unclaimed accounts? If so, please call The Actors Fund at (323) 933-9244, ext. 440, or check unclaimedcoogan.org. SPRING 2018 l l
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Scene Around Town It has been a big year for SAG-AFTRA Los Angeles, with numerous events, shows, fundraisers and awards. Here is what we have been up to in 2018. Y&R Hits the Big 4-5 SAG-AFTRA President Gabrielle Carteris and Secretary-Treasurer and L.A. Local President Jane Austin, center, join The Young and the Restless cast members, including Jason Thompson, Sharon Case, Daniel Goddard, Christel Khalil, L.A. Local Board member Kate Linder, Christian LeBlanc, Camryn Grimes and Bryton James in celebrating the show’s 45th anniversary at SAG-AFTRA Plaza on April 4. Also in attendance was the show’s head writer, Mal Young. Cast members recalled the greatest moments and behindthe-scenes tales from TV’s No. 1 daytime drama.
Radio Players Play It Again The SAG-AFTRA Radio Plays Committee began the year with back-to-back theatrical live readings of scenes from two classic radio shows, Candy Matson, a rare program revolving around a female P.I., and My Favorite Husband, a comedy that would later evolve into TV’s I Love Lucy. The performance took place at the Autry Museum of the American West on Feb. 15.
Candy Matson cast
Publicists in the Spotlight L.A. Local Executive Director Ilyanne Morden Kichaven, Women’s Committee Co-Chair L. Scott Caldwell, L.A. Local Board member Vivicca Whitsett, SAG-AFTRA Secretary-Treasurer and L.A. Local President Jane Austin, and L.A. Film Society Chair Timothy Blake attend the 55th Annual ICG Publicists Awards at the Beverly Hilton Hotel on March 2. The event honors publicists’ role in promoting the entertainment SAG-AFTRA members help to create. Also in attendance was National Board member Ellen Crawford.
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My Favorite Husband cast
Hollywood Productions Honored SAG-AFTRA Vice President, Los Angeles Clyde Kusatsu and L.A. Local Executive Director Ilyanne Morden Kichaven joined L.A. City Councilman Mitch O’Farrell, city officials and industry partners in honoring the Academy Awardnominated films Lady Bird, Coco and The Boss Baby, all recipients of the seventh annual Made in Hollywood Honors at L.A. City Hall. The event, which took place Feb. 13, is organized by the L.A. City Council and industry partners to honor TV and film produced in California.
EEO Talks Human Trafficking Humanitarian experts and luminaries joined SAG-AFTRA’s National Women’s Committee Co-Chair L. Scott Caldwell, L.A. Women’s Committee member Joyce Guy, and the cast and crew of Lalo’s House for a panel inspired by Women’s History Month at SAG-AFTRA Plaza on March 2. Organized by the SAG-AFTRA Los Angeles Women’s Committee, the discussion focused on worldwide human trafficking issues and was preceded by a screening of the short film, which sheds light on Haiti’s ongoing trafficking and slavery issues.
Officers Join L.A. Fed Board SAG-AFTRA delegates to the Los Angeles County Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO, were among the 1,000 union members present at the first Workers’ Congress held in four years. Adding further significance to the March 13 event at L.A.’s Westin Bonaventure Hotel was the swearing-in of the AFL-CIO’s most diverse executive board in its 133-year history, which included SAG-AFTRA Secretary-Treasurer and L.A. Local President Jane Austin and L.A. Local First Vice President Patricia Richardson. SPRING 2018 l l
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Conservatory Actors Panels Deliver
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n Actor’s Evening, a panel series aimed at performers, is one of many benefits afforded to SAG-AFTRA Los Angeles Conservatory members. It takes place the first Tuesday of every month at 7 p.m. at SAG-AFTRA Plaza. The well-received panels feature leading industry professionals, and attendees are provided free parking and complimentary beverages. Moderated and produced by Los Angeles Conservatory Committee member Lee Garlington, An Actor’s Evening panels focus on a diverse lineup of industryrelated subjects, from voiceover to casting director tips, and provide attendees with in-depth Q&A opportunities. This year’s panels have included How Do I Get My Union To Help Me? on Feb. 6, featuring five union reps from each contract department, and On-Air Radio Talent Tells All! on March 6, with a panel of popular L.A. radio personalities. The latest panel, on April 6, Background Artists Break It Down for You, brought out working background actors and stand-ins, who shared tips and explained how to get work. The next An Actor’s Evening panel will feature working dancers and choreographers. If you are a conservatory member, do not miss it, and if you are not, go to sagaftra.org/laconservatory or call the Conservatory Office at (323) 856-7736 to learn more about enrollment.
Membership Means Perks!
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id you know that your SAG-AFTRA membership affords you great opportunities? Not only does the union offer free workshops, seminars and classes, but your card is the key to unlocking lots of deals and discounts; just show your card and save. By downloading the SAG-AFTRA app or logging onto the members-only section of sagaftra.org, you will have access to special rates for car rentals, auto services, AT&T wireless, restaurants, plays and more.
For the latest Deals & Discounts, download the SAG-AFTRA app.
SAGAFTRA.ORG/APP All Deals & Discounts are administered by entities independent of SAG-AFTRA. Questions about each offer must be handled by the providers. SAG-AFTRA does not endorse any of these services.
From left, L.A. Communications Committee member Mike Sakellarides (94.7 The WAVE), Lara Scott (KRTH 101.1), Brian Ping (KNX 1070), L.A. Conservatory Committee member Lee Garlington, Denise Fondo (KNX 1070) and Stew Herrara (95.5 The Sound) participated in a March 6 panel that offered advice on breaking into the broadcast industry.
From left, working background actors and SAG-AFTRA members Inetra Brazil (NCIS) and Virginia Linden (Modern Family), SAG-AFTRA L.A. Local Board Member Cupid Hayes, L.A. Conservatory Committee member Lee Garlington and L.A. Background Committee member Rick Markman (Mad Men) at the April 6 An Actor’s Evening. Not shown are L.A. Background Committee members Samantha Hartson (Insecure), Peggy Lane (Seinfeld) and Donna Russo (7th Heaven).
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2018 Background Actors Digests Are Now Available
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re you a background actor curious about theatrical and television contracts? Have no fear, the new 2018 SAG-AFTRA Background Digest is here! The 2018 edition is available online and on the SAG-AFTRA mobile app for easy access. This is a robust and comprehensive booklet featuring terms and conditions for almost every contract, and is essential for all background performers. You can pick up your own free copy of the 2018 SAG-AFTRA Background Actor’s Digest at the SAG-AFTRA L.A. Local membership meeting on Sunday, May 6, at Pickwick Center. Come by the Background Committee table for your copy.
MOVE L.A. Hits the Ground Running
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n Feb. 7, Pilot Season 2: Another Year, Another Opportunity for More Greatness covered the basics of pilot season and what to expect as an actor. Organized by event Chair Tohoru Masamune and committee Chair Ellen Crawford, it featured National Board member Jon Huertas (This Is Us) and actor Janina Gavankar (True Blood), ABC’s Vice President of Drama Development Juan Alfonso, casting director Liz Dean and SAG-AFTRA Television and New Media National Director Beth Millman. Members left understanding the life of a pilot from inception to casting to airing. A few weeks later, on Feb. 22, the committee produced another panel, Finding Your Voice in TV/Film Animation, which featured nine industry professionals working in varying facets of animation and voiceover. Moderated by voiceover actor Sara Cravens
(Injustice 2), the panel included singers/vocal contractors Laura Dickinson (Michael Bublé’s Nobody But Me), Sally Stevens (The Simpsons) and National Board member Jasper Randall (La La Land), talent agents Alyssa L. Gentile of VOX Inc. and James Murray of Abrams Artists Agency, voiceover actor/director Mary Elizabeth McGlynn (Cowboy Bebop), and voiceover actors Bob Joles (Jungle Book 2) and Kari Wahlgren (Rick and Morty). The dynamic bunch covered in-person singing, voiceover auditions and the process of self-recording, editing and emailing auditions. Finally, on March 22, MOVE L.A. held a panel titled Creating a Business to Survive and Engage the Industry. It explored how performers can parlay their unique talents and interests into rewarding moneymaking ventures to help stay secure and give back to the industry while pursuing roles. The
panel featured a group of working actors and singers, including event Chair Jen Faith Brown (Sing), UpCast app founder Drew Doyon, acting coach James Eckhouse (High and Mighty, The Avengers), diversity activist Diana Elizabeth Jordan (7th Heaven), demo producer A.J. Teshin (Transformers 5, Jurrasic World) and vocal coach Gerald White (Frozen). Nina Brissey (Amazing Grace, Emmet in Peopleland) moderated. All agreed that individual passions are crucial to being a successful performer and help develop a person’s individuality, boost confidence and separate oneself from the crowd. For more MOVE L.A. panels and to learn how to get involved, follow the SAG-AFTRA MOVE L.A. Committee on Facebook and Twitter or on the SAG-AFTRA website at sagaftra.org.
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1. Successful voiceover performers and industry professionals made up one of MOVE L.A.’s largest panels, Finding Your Voice in TV/Film Animation, at SAG-AFTRA Plaza on Feb. 22; 2. Attendees of the March 22 Creating a Business to Survive and Engage the Industry panel were inspired by fellow member entrepreneurs, including Diana Elizabeth Jordan, who explained how she parlayed her performance talent to create a side business. Members Gerald White, left, and Drew Doyon also served on the panel; 3. SAG-AFTRA National Board member Jon Huertas makes a quip during a discussion of television pilots, eliciting a laugh from casting director Liz Dean, member Janina Gavankar and ABC Vice President of Drama Development Juan Alfonso at MOVE L.A.’s Pilot Season 2: Another Year, Another Opportunity for More Greatness panel on Feb. 7.
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Need a Break from Performing? Need to Take Care of a Relative?
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veryone needs a break for one reason or another. SAG-AFTRA understands life happens and we have solutions for personal circumstances that prevent you from auditioning and working as a SAG-AFTRA member. Perhaps you are raising a family, caring for parents or just stepping away from performing for a year. Don’t let your dues lapse and run the risk of termination in the process.
As a SAG-AFTRA member, you have the option to change your active membership status to “honorable withdrawal” or “suspended payment” to avoid reinstatement fees or back payment. Certain criteria apply, and please be advised that this prevents you from seeking work as a performer or broadcaster while on this status and may limit access to certain member benefits. Take a break, worry-free, by following a
Calendar of Events M AY Sunday, May 6 Los Angeles Local Membership Meeting 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Please join SAG-AFTRA Los Angeles Local President Jane Austin, the Local Board and your staff for the 2018 L.A. Local membership meeting. Pickwick Gardens, 1001 West Riverside Drive, Burbank.
Monday, May 7 Los Angeles Local Open Board Meeting 6 – 9 p.m. The SAG-AFTRA Los Angeles Local Board opens its meetings to members-at-large for observation. As part of the policy passed to allow all future board meetings to be open, this will provide members the opportunity to see their local board at work. Space is limited. RSVP to (323) 549-6029 or ObserveLABoard@sagaftra.org.
Wednesday, May 9 SAG-AFTRA Health Fair Attend the free SAG-AFTRA Health Fair. Available services will include eye screenings, BMI testing, massage therapy, HIV/AIDS testing, foot exams by a podiatrist, hearing tests, free health product samples and much more. The health fair will take place at SAG-AFTRA Plaza, Lobby Floor, 5757 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, 90036. Arrive early to take advantage of these services. No RSVP required. Questions? Contact LAhealthfair@sagaftra.org. Please note: Provider list is subject to change. Attendance does not guarantee service from all providers.
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Thursday, May 10 SAGindie Low Budget Workshop 6 – 8 p.m. Learn how to hire professional actors for your independent film. Join SAGindie staff and SAG-AFTRA theatrical business representatives as they walk you through the process of signing SAG-AFTRA Low Budget Agreements from start to finish.
Friday, May 11 MAC Makeup Workshop Noon (class 1), 3 p.m. (class 2) The SAG-AFTRA L.A. Local is pleased to invite you to attend a special seminar hosted by MAC Cosmetics. Designed for actors wanting the skills to do their own basic makeup, this class covers how to create flawless skin, choosing color and proper contouring techniques for print and auditions, as well as a demonstration on ideal makeup looks for headshots and auditions.
few easy steps: Simply log into your personal membership record at sagaftra.org, then on the “My Information” page scroll to the bottom and click on “Information on Honorable Withdrawal or Suspended Payment Status.” A SAG-AFTRA membership representative will contact you to discuss the process. At any time, you may contact the membership department at (323) 549-6778 for additional information.
CALENDAR LISTINGS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE. Check sagaftra.org for the most up-to-date information. If you’d like more information on an event and there is no contact information listed below, please contact the Los Angeles Local executive office at (323) 549-6459 or email la@sagaftra.org.
you. Orientation examines what it means to be a member of SAG-AFTRA, how to log your hours on set, your relationship with your agent, residuals and more. For questions, call Member Education at (323) 634-8277.
For RSVP info on these and other events, visit sagaftra.org/la.
Wednesday, May 16 Looking Ahead Orientation 6 – 8 p.m. Join The Actors Fund at the orientation of the free Looking Ahead program, where you’ll learn about the many services The Actors Fund offers to young performers and the eligibility requirements. Find out how the program can benefit your young performer and family. If you are not currently a member, please visit the website to create an account and RSVP to attend. LookingAheadProgram.org.
Thursday, May 17
New Media Workshop 6 – 8 p.m. SAG-AFTRA is hosting a new media information session for members interested in learning more about recently updated agreement terms, current requirements and policies, and future plans for adapting to the constantly evolving and unpredictable world of digital entertainment content.
NARS Makeup Events 4:30 p.m. (class 1), 7 p.m. (class 2) The SAG-AFTRA L.A. Local is pleased to invite you to attend a special seminar hosted by NARS Cosmetics. This special presentation is intended to provide information about current makeup trends and techniques. The demonstration will include application methods on how to create your best face and will be facilitated by NARS artists. Samples and a special discount card will be given to attendees.
Wednesday, May 16
Wednesday, May 23
Member Orientation 1 – 4 p.m. If you have not been to an orientation before or would like to learn about the services provided by SAG-AFTRA, this meeting is for
SAG-AFTRA Radio Play: An Actor’s Tool-a-Rama Workshop 7 – 9 p.m. Everyone who loves your current career progress, raise your hand. That’s what we thought! This
Tuesday, May 15
RSVP Online
workshop is designed to help you turn the negatives into positives, with ideas, techniques and tools from seasoned pros. Informed actors are empowered actors. Step up to bat and firmly take your rightful power. Inquiring minds — and voices — welcome.
Thursday, May 24 “Inside Game” Workshop 7 – 9 p.m. Owners of the Inside Game system will be presenting a fascinating evening of self-development. Discover the keys to excelling and not getting in the way of your success. Develop a deeper understanding of how you give your power away and the ramifications it has on your career. For questions, call Member Education at (323) 634-8277.
Monday, May 28 Memorial Day SAG-AFTRA Offices Closed
Tuesday, May 29 The Art of Specificity with Michael D. Cohen Workshop 6 – 8 p.m. How do you set yourself apart in an audition? How do you
serve the text while still making bold choices? We all want the casting director and producers to see the unique contribution we can make to a role. But sometimes our efforts take us away from the story being told or we stay general because we’re just not sure how to make it our own or, worse, we think we’re being specific when we’re not. This seminar will help you assess your own process and give you new tools to meet a role’s need for specificity. You will learn to find hidden clues in the script, use your uniqueness to create specific characters and discover ways to be even more present in the audition. Participants can bring in a comedic or dramatic scene or monologue of their choice to possibly work at the front of the room. For questions, call Member Education at (323) 634-8277.
Thursday, May 31 Improv with Second City 2 – 4 p.m. Join us for another great workshop presented by the Second City Training Center. Second City has been doing improv for 55 years and is commonly referred to as the Harvard of comedy. Improv is practically an industry standard on set and in auditions; you’re going to be asked to do it at some point if you haven’t been already. In this free two-hour workshop, you’ll learn the fundamentals of improv, including basic concepts and how they apply to acting on stage, on camera and to your life in general. There will be games, laughter and lots of fun! You don’t need experience, just the willingness to explore your creativity. For questions, call Member Education at (323) 634-8277.
Wednesday, May 30 Finding Your Niche and Developing Your Type Noon - 2 p.m. The most powerful tool you have as an actor is you. In this workshop, you’ll learn how to be yourself in every aspect of the business while also thriving within the confines of a typecasting industry. Landing an agent, getting auditions and booking work starts by embracing your type and knowing how the industry sees you. But developing your unique niche is the secret to achieving your career dreams. In this workshop, type and image expert Mark Atteberry will walk you through a series of exercises that will help you to identify your type, define your image and create your own unique niche. You’ll learn how to market yourself far more effectively, in a way that captures the attention of the industry and ensures that your career will be a long and successful one.
Wednesday, May 30 Theatrical Contracts Workshop 2 - 4 p.m. Empower yourself with knowledge when working on SAG-AFTRA theatrical films. In this Theatrical Contracts workshop, a representative from the voiceover department will discuss questions related to promos and trailers. Representatives from the Theatrical Contracts Department will be on hand to discuss any other questions that may come up along the way. We want our members to be savvy and educated on SAG-AFTRA contracts and what they can expect when working them. We are also eager to hear your topic suggestions for the rest of the 2018 Theatrical Contract Workshop Series, so join us and share your thoughts.
JUNE Wednesday, June 6 The Social Media Advantage 6 – 8 p.m. In this advanced and fast-paced class, learn why social media is necessary in our changing entertainment industry, how to grow your social media pages exponentially and use them for your career, and how to monetize your following through lucrative partnerships and sponsorships. With a background in casting for Narcos, Pixar’s Coco and Mistresses, instructor Ryan Walker will guide you through how to utilize your platforms for future and ongoing success in the industry. Walker founded TSMA Consulting, a nationally recognized and publicized social media educational company that works with some of the industry’s leading influencers and businesses, one of which will join us as a guest speaker at this event. For questions, call Member Education at (323) 634-8277.
Friday, June 8 SAG-AFTRA Radio Play Auditions The SAG-AFTRA Radio Players will hold auditions for the next Radio Plays production on June 28 at Autry Museum of the American West Wells Fargo Theater. Stay tuned to sagaftra.org/la and by email for more details. For questions, call Member Education at (323) 634-8277.
Monday, June 11 Los Angeles Local Open Board Meeting 6 – 9 p.m. The SAG-AFTRA Los Angeles Local Board opens its meetings to members-at-large for observation. As
part of the policy passed to allow all future board meetings to be open, this will provide members the opportunity to see their local board at work. Space is limited. RSVP to (323) 549-6029 or ObserveLABoard@sagaftra.org.
Wednesday, June 12 Managing and Overcoming Audition and Performance Anxiety 6 - 8 p.m. Nerves and anxiety sometimes wreak havoc on a performer’s preparation for a role, performance or job. Freezing at the most important time in a performer’s career can become a cycle that can be hard to break. In this seminar, Dr. Eda Gorbis will discuss how performers can work through their anxiety, nerves and fears to overcome these challenges and create more opportunities to audition and perform without fear. For questions, call Member Education at (323) 634-8277.
Wednesday, June 13 Removing the Subconscious Blocks Holding You Back 7 – 9:30 p.m. Procrastination, anxiety, lack of money or love, spending time with negative people, feeling unworthy, clutter, poor posture and fear of taking chances are all products of past experiences or influences that your subconscious has not yet dealt with. Kym Jackson, author of The Hollywood Survival Guide For Actors, will share a variety of proven tools to enable you to recognize, locate and clear blocks and cellular memories from your past and present that are standing in the way of your success. For questions, call Member Education at (323) 634-8277.
Tuesday, June 19 New Media Workshop 6 – 8 p.m. SAG-AFTRA is hosting a new media information session for members interested in learning more about recently updated agreement terms, current requirements and
policies, and future plans for adapting to the constantly evolving and unpredictable world of digital entertainment content.
Wednesday, June 20 Member Orientation 1 – 4 p.m. If you have not been to an orientation before or would like to learn about the services provided by SAG-AFTRA, this meeting is for you. Orientation examines what it means to be a member of SAG-AFTRA, how to log your hours on set, your relationship with your agent, residuals and more. For questions, call Member Education at (323) 634-8277.
Wednesday, June 20 Looking Ahead Orientation 6 – 8 p.m. Join The Actors Fund at the orientation of the free Looking Ahead program, where you’ll learn about the many services The Actors Fund offers to young performers and the eligibility requirements. Find out how the program can benefit your young performer and family. If you are not currently a member, please visit the website to create an account and RSVP to attend. LookingAheadProgram.org
Tuesday, June 26 TV Comedy – Booking the Job with Michael D. Cohen 6 – 8 p.m. Do you want to add more television comedy credits to your resume? Instructor Michael D. Cohen applies his unique holistic approach to comedy to help you bring your unique truth, liveliness and playfulness to your work. Learn specific techniques for analyzing a scene for comedy, nailing the jokes, tone and pacing, and make acting choices that respect the writers yet make you stand out in the casting session. This is a hands-on workshop in which a few members from the audience will be asked to work at the front of the room. For questions, call Member Education at (323) 634-8277.
Health Fair May 9
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ttend the free SAG-AFTRA Health Fair, which runs from 10 a.m.–3 p.m. on Wednesday, May 9 at SAG-AFTRA Plaza. Available services will include eye screenings, BMI testing, massage therapy, HIV/AIDS testing, foot exams by a podiatrist, hearing tests, free health product samples and much more. Arrive early to take advantage of these services. Please note: Provider list is subject to change. Attendance does not guarantee service from all providers.
No RSVP required. Questions? Contact LAhealthfair@sagaftra.org.
SPRING 2018 l l
11
Periodicals Postage
PAID
5757 Wilshire Blvd., 7th Floor Los Angeles, CA 90036-3600
SAG-AFTRA
©2018 SAG-AFTRA (Vol. 7, No. 1A) (ISSN 2168-667X) is published by SAG-AFTRA. Periodicals postage paid at Los Angeles, CA. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to SAG-AFTRA, 5757 Wilshire Blvd., 7th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90036-3600.
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Attend the Los Angeles Local Membership Meeting and talk to staff experts to find out!
11 a.m.-Noon, Mixer Noon-3 p.m., Membership Meeting The speakers list will open promptly at 11 a.m. and close at 2 p.m.
Pickwick, 1001 W. Riverside Drive, Burbank, CA 91506
Please join SAG-AFTRA Los Angeles Local President Jane Austin, the Local Board and your staff for a SAG-AFTRA L.A. Local Membership Meeting. Members can ask questions of elected representatives and staff. This meeting is only open to SAG-AFTRA Los Angeles Local members in good standing. Unfortunately, no guests allowed. Parents/guardians of younger performers under 18 years old are welcome. No RSVP necessary. SAG-AFTRA MEMBERS, PLEASE BRING YOUR MEMBERSHIP CARD (PAID THRU APRIL 30, 2018) FOR ADMITTANCE. All bags larger than 14 inches in any dimension will be prohibited from entry. No pets or animals, with the exception of animals in service.