A couple years ago I played a priciple role in a world wide commercial, making me eligable to join the SAG Union. Members have great benefits and must pay $2300 for initial dues... Is this investment worth making?
2007-09-27 04:44:08 · 3 answers · asked by Paul H 1 in Arts & Humanities ➔ Theater & Acting
I can't say anymore than they've said. Basically it's absolutely worth it IF you're out there working or you have an agent working to get you union auditions. Do you have an agent? If yes, then absolutely join because there's not a lot they can do for you without that union card. If not and you're still building a resume, then wait until someone says, hey you need to be union for this. Then tell them that you're SAGe and you'll do it immediately.
good luck
2007-09-27 06:58:48 · answer #1 · answered by Marianne D 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It really depends on whether or not you will use the SAG card. Are you acting in film and television, or pursuing work there? If so maybe. Is taking your SAG card going to keep you from getting non-union work? Then perhaps not. I am a bit surprised that as a lead in a world wide commercial you didn't have to join SAG at the time. In addition, unless SAG is a great deal different than I think it is, they offer great benefits, if you are working. Membership alone gives you nothing. Membership plus a set amount of income from SAG contracts gives you great benefits. If you are not working in film and television, don't join.
I asked a similar question to a wise friend several years ago. It was about Actors Equity, but the question is still pertinent. He said, "No one can tell you when it is time to join the union. You will know when the time is right." I am currently a member of AGMA, and a Membership Candidate in AEA. AGMA, AEA, SAG and AFTRA have a reciprocal agreement. A member of one union can join one of the other unions for a reduced membership fee and without some of the other requirements. I have not joined AEA or SAG yet for two reasons: I have no reason to at this point, and if that changes, I know that I can join at any time.
2007-09-27 05:30:44 · answer #2 · answered by swigaro 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You get almost nothing if you're not a working actor. Not worth it. You should only join SAG if you HAVE to. That is if you ever book another SAG job you will have to be a paid up member before you can set foot on the set.
2007-09-27 06:49:07 · answer #3 · answered by Big R 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋