What is the difference between Equity and Non-Equity Actors?

Question

I want to audition for a play but, they said they prefer Equity actors....What does this mean?

Actually, they said they would also accept non-equity auditions as well. I live in Colorado....this isn't Broadway or anything. I actually do have quite a bit of experience.

Answer 1

It means they prefer actors who are members of the union Actors Equity http://www.broadway.com/gen/show.aspx?SI=544261

Members are professional actors who have earned the right to be members by performing in a certain amount of union shows or have been a member of a sister union for at least one year such as SAG or AFTRA, etc.

If it says prefers, then it doesn't say only meaning you can audition. However, be careful of wasting everyone's time. The actors at that audition will have a resume full of good roles and training, do you have that kind of experience? Are you so talented that you will go in there and truly knock their socks off regardless of that? I don't know where you're auditioning or what show and role this is for, but you need to weigh all the info before making the choice to show up.

If you have lots of experience and training and have had a good resume before asking this question, then keep going.

If the role is a part that you know everything about frontwards and backwards, including the show, your character's place in it and how she moves the story forward. then keep going.

If you know for certain that you posess every attribute that you need to have in order to play this character properly including being the right look, age, vocal ability, dance ability, height requirements, etc. then proceed.

In all honesty, the fact that you had to ask what Equity was doesn't bode well. Are you in classes for acting, dance and are you taking private voice lessons? If you are, ask each of your teachers what they think about you attending the audition. Take them the notice and ask for an honest opinion since none of us here really know wht your talent or experience is.

If you do go, go early. Real early. Take healthy snacks and plan to wait for hours.

good luck

Answer 2

This Site Might Help You.

RE:
What is the difference between Equity and Non-Equity Actors?
I want to audition for a play but, they said they prefer Equity actors....What does this mean?

Answer 3

An open call means anyone can attend and line up hoping to actually get auditioned. Usually only a few will get past the door. They check resumes there, and anyone without years of training and experience get asked to leave. If anything says 'Equity' in the title, that would indicate that it's for Equity members only.

Answer 4

Equity is the stage actors' union. They prefer Equity actors because there is less paperwork. On the other hand, if you are ideal for the part, they will go through the necessary paperwork and you are into the first step towards belonging to Equity.

Answer 5

In the UK, you don't necessarily have to be a member of Equity. I have worked with plenty of actors who have not been members. Decent contracts in the theatre are Equity Contracts. If you are not a member of Equity and have a problem, they wll probably be reluctant to help out. Generally, if you have an equity card, it shows that you have a certain amount of experience.

Answer 6

Dear Theatre Doc, then how does it work?
And how does it work for internationals who would like to audition for roles in and off broadway?

Answer 7

They are telling you that they do not want amateurs who have little or no experience and trainging and no agent. You have the wrong idea that you can just go get an professional job. Doesn't work that way.