Can I join Actors Equity (AEA) through AFTRA?

Question

AEA, Equity, Actors Equity, AFTRA, Union, Joining a Union, SAG, Actor, Actress, Theater

Answer 1

Yes, if you have been a member of AFTRA (or any sister union) for one year and are a current member in good standing then you can become a member of AEA.

A bit of a warning though... unless you are in NY I don't see why this would benefit you or anyone else. The roles for Equity actors outside of NY (unless you've been offered an Equity tour or a role in an Equity show where you absolutely need to be union) are so few and far between that the likelihood of the role you want receiving an Equity contract are almost nil. The contracts typically go to roles hardest to fill therefore making it more attractive. You can always apply for a waiver, but it can be a hassle, it can take too long, and by the time all is said and done they could have just gotten a non-union actor to fill the spot. I've just seen too many friends all eager to get their various union cards and in the end they lose out on work, especially ingenues.

Answer 2

Heya : ) The annoying area on the subject of the commerce is that anyone human beings is consistently succeeding without seeming to have accomplished a lot to get there - they have have been given the connections, they're products and so on.. that's like that. Is it honest? No. Will it substitute. No. And might you income on it if youin case you have been a sort or had kin interior the organization - particular...! Lol once you dont have those concerns ....or whether you're fortunate passable which you merely do.., in case you want to be taken heavily....the appropriate factor is to get your self began with enhancing your appearing and self assurance to take part in and audition, and making contacts that way. Have a glance on the internet at your close by theatre - maximum have toddlers theatre companies. You dont want any journey and additionally you would be inspired all of the technique to the optimum if that's what you want. The persons there comprehend the thank you to steer you to the subsequent pass. And this is all approximately teen steps up the ladder... this is nerve racking. Get used to it. it is going to be your life and examining to preserve nerves is why education is so maximum serious. once you're taking you first appearing form - you will already be merely before any man or woman who maintains to be wishing they have been everyone noted yet now no longer appearing some factor approximately it!!! while you're in the united kingdom learn the national early existence theatre internet site for extra belongings you're able to do in the trip trips and so on. study the substitute newspapers - interior the united kingdom that's 'the degree', interior the U. S. this is 'in the back of the curtain'. they have classified ads on the back for classes, auditions, workshops and so on. Dont be scared, choose for it! you may desire to do it! Daisy: )

Answer 3

Yes, they are different unions, but AFTRA is considered a "sister union" to AEA and therefore, by virtue of your membership in one, you can buy into membership of the other, under certain conditions.

This page explains it for you (scroll to the bottom):

http://www.actingresume.com/unions.htm

Answer 4

They are separate Unions:
Equity is for Theater, AFTRA is for Television and Radio.