What is the difference between union and non-union in acting?

Question

I'm trying to get started as a young actress and I don't have much experience. If someone would please explain to me what a union and non-union actress is it would be of tremendous help.

Thank you!

Answer 1

OOOOOH.

I really don't know if I want to try to answer this. Particularly as I'm not sure which country you are in. Where to start is the problem.

The very basic basics are that a union ( of whatever trade ) is a collection of workers (members) who elect representatives to negotiate with employers on their behalf.

Possible agreements are put forward to the membership and there is a democratic vote or 'ballot' as to whether to accept the employer's offer or not. If a ballot is carried out on whether 'industrial action' such as a strike, or 'working to rule' - doing exactly what your contract says you must do, but nothing more (no overtime, no cover for people off sick   etc.), then ALL members of the union should abide by the decision, whether they agree with the majority on the issue balloted on or not

As a British Actors' Equity member I once had to decide whether to cross an MU (Musician's Union) picket line and didn't. It cost me a ( regular but casual ) job and - because of the money - a very pretty and athletic girlfriend. More than a decade later I don't regret the choice, but it wasn't an easy few weeks.

I'd never, ever blame anyone for taking non-union work when they are starting out. Just remember the more you get to know about the business, the more you realise why theatre unions exist.

P.S. In the interest of fairness I should point out that there has been a massive history of corruption in unions - and whatever did happen to Jimmy Hoffa?

Answer 2

I need help on that too... Quick! Thanks muchees!

Answer 3

A union actor or actress in the United States is a member of Actors' Equity (which represents stage actors), the Screen Actors Guild (which represents movie actors), or the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists.  (Some performers are members of more than one union.)

Each of those unions has a website where you can get complete information on membership benefits, how to join, etc.

Some theatre companies hire only Equity actors, and some auditions are open only to union members.  Some companies hire only non-union actors.  Some hire both union and non-union performers.

As a rule, union actors get paid considerably more than non-union actors, and enjoy other advantages in their working conditions.  When union and non-union performers are working together on a play, the non-union cast members often work longer hours, since they have other duties in addition to their acting -- building sets and costumes, for example.

While you're just getting started, it's best not to be a union member, since most theatres won't be willing to pay union wages to someone with relatively little experience.  Early in your career, you should build up your resume by playing as many roles as possible as a non-union actress.