SAG... tell me what you think of it?

Question

PS: I'm asking you this because I hate those mafia-like syndicates but maybe I'm wrong and you simply can't be an actor without being part of it?

Answer 1

I agree with Mele, especially about not crossing picket lines but what exactly do you want to know? To be honest I don't think you should join unless you are required to. Remain SAGe as long as possible. It gives you more options. You can work non-union or union. Union projects will look at you because all you have to do is join if required. The money is a big deal, $2335 (includes first dues payment) is no joke plus ongoing dues whether you work or not. There are definite benefits to being union, but when work is scarce you'll see the plus side of being SAGe. So many people are in a hurry to jion when they're just not ready. Unless you are a steadily working actor there's just no need. Check out their website. They do have a lot of info available to non-members as well including franchised agencies, how and when to join, dues info, etc. For members they have workshops, etc. that are very informative.

http://www.sag.org/sagWebApp/

Marianne

Answer 2

I am a member. Dormant unless I pursue work again. What is the question? DO we cross the WGA picket lines? Usually not. Does the Writer's Strike affect us. Usually so. 5 months last time sent me packing back home to Daddy in Hawaii... It affects the entire industry. And so soon after the fires?

Not up on what President Mr. Marg CSI Helgenberger is up to. He's probably very busy about now. Aloha!

btw it's expensive tuff to get in and can not work w/out it ...
alittle extreme yet that's show biz... the idea of more reality TV as the strike continues really makes me mad! They are what keeps actors out of work and the networks this season rebounded with descent shows... now this !

edit: Thanks Mari she is right. But as to the Mafia like stuff? It is the only game in town if you want serious work Right now with the WGA out on strike forget it anyway. I was there last time... 5 mos did me in. You have to find a network of friends in acting class or take commercial classes and keep up the craft. Thru others listen & learn. If you can not get past the "Mafia" idea you are in the wrong business... it is not nasty just all about unions. Once you get involved you then appreciate what they actually do for you. Trust me they do not strike on a whim!

Answer 3

Maybe you will have to take a web page out of your fellow Pisces Lulu and put on satan horns whilst you get at the mobile with this Sag lady. I guess it could be inspirational. Oh and anything as realistic as "Hey, Virgo Stud Boy is my man." could do the trick. It places the whole thing out within the open however is not confrontational. Good Luck!