If an EPA code is going to be in effect for an Equity principal casting call, can non-equity attend?

Question

There's an audition for Annie, the National Tour, for replacement cast members, girls over 6, and an EPA code is going to be in effect because its an Equity principal call. If you're non-equity, can you still attend?

It's a long story, but I don't want to be ruled out for non-equity parts and national & international tours.

Answer 1

Yes, you can still attend provided it is a general admission audition or an open audition.

However Equity regulations state that all and any Equity members will be seen first at an Equity call. So you might be in for a very long wait.

If you are hired you will be signed under a non-equity agreement, but you could very well put the experience towards a credit for your Equity membership.

Hate to tell you, but if you want to do National and International tours, you will have to join Equity at some point. Nearly 90% of professional productions are entirely Equity and have collective agreements with the unions.

Hope this helps!

Edit: FYI, though you should take your time deciding if a union is right for you, even if you are Equity and want to work with non-Equity companies, you can easily do so by signing a Guest Artist agreement. Equity will always support the performer first and help you build your career and do the shows you want.

Answer 2

I don't think so. IF you were in Rent, why don't you join Equity?