What Is Equity in Musical Theatre?

Musical Theatre|Theater

Equity in musical theatre is an important concept that defines the rights and responsibilities of performers in a show. Equity is the collective bargaining agreement that covers performers, directors, and stage management in Broadway productions. It is a complex system that governs the wages, working conditions, and entire production process for theatrical productions.

Equity’s primary goal is to ensure fair wages and working conditions for performers and other production personnel. This includes setting minimum requirements for wages, hours, benefits, and safety standards.

Equity also ensures that performers are not taken advantage of by producers or other employers. Equity negotiates collective bargaining agreements with employers that dictate how much performers should be paid based on the size of the show.

In addition to protecting the rights of performers, Equity also provides resources to help them succeed in their career. This includes providing information about auditions, workshops, and other opportunities to help them hone their craft. Equity also offers a variety of membership benefits such as discounts on tickets to Broadway shows and access to exclusive events.

Equity has been instrumental in establishing high standards for musical theatre performances since its founding in 1913. Its mission is to “provide the highest quality professional theatrical experience for audiences” while protecting performers from exploitation. Equity has been successful in achieving this goal by setting high standards for wages, working conditions, safety standards, and more.

Conclusion

In summary, Equity in musical theatre is an important concept that protects performers from exploitation while ensuring fair wages and working conditions. It sets minimum requirements for wages, hours, benefits and safety standards while providing resources to help performers succeed in their careers. By setting high standards for musical theatre performances since its founding in 1913, Equity has been instrumental in establishing high-quality professional theatrical experiences for audiences.