Do You Still Need an Equity Card to Be an Actor?

By Webmaster

  • Do You Still Need an Equity Card to Be an Actor?

    For decades, obtaining an Equity card has been considered a milestone for aspiring actors in theater and live performance. But with the industry rapidly evolving—especially with the rise of independent productions, streaming platforms, and digital media—many actors are left wondering: Do you still need an Equity card to succeed in today’s entertainment world?

    Let’s explore what an Equity card is, its benefits, challenges, and whether it’s still essential for actors.


    What Is an Equity Card?

    An Equity card is proof of membership in a professional actors’ union. In the United States, this is the Actors’ Equity Association (AEA), while the UK has Equity, its counterpart. These unions represent performers working in theater, musical theater, and live performances.

    Membership typically requires meeting specific eligibility requirements, such as accruing work credits in union-affiliated productions or being offered a union contract.


    The Benefits of an Equity Card

    An Equity card comes with several advantages that can elevate an actor’s career and working conditions:

    1. Better Pay and Working Conditions
      Union contracts ensure actors are paid fair wages, provided with safe working conditions, and given benefits such as health insurance, pension plans, and overtime pay.
    2. Professional Recognition
      Holding an Equity card signifies that you are a professional actor with proven experience. Many directors and producers prefer casting Equity members for union productions.
    3. Access to Auditions
      Equity members often receive exclusive access to auditions for union-only productions, such as Broadway shows, regional theater, and national tours.
    4. Protection and Advocacy
      Equity provides legal support and protects actors from exploitation, ensuring that producers adhere to industry standards.
    5. Networking Opportunities
      Joining Equity connects actors to a professional network of peers and mentors, opening doors to more opportunities and resources.

    Challenges of Getting an Equity Card

    While there are undeniable benefits, joining Equity isn’t always the right choice for every actor, especially early in their career.

    1. Limited Opportunities in Non-Union Work
      Once you become an Equity member, you’re generally prohibited from working in non-union productions. This can limit opportunities, especially in areas where union-affiliated productions are scarce.
    2. Dues and Fees
      Equity members are required to pay initiation fees, annual dues, and a percentage of their earnings from union productions. This can be a financial strain, particularly for actors who are just starting out.
    3. Increased Competition
      While being in Equity grants access to high-profile auditions, it also places actors in competition with other union members who may have more experience or credentials.
    4. Timing Matters
      Joining Equity too early in your career could hinder your ability to gain experience in smaller, non-union productions, which are often crucial for building your résumé and skills.

    Do You Still Need an Equity Card to Be an Actor?

    The short answer is: Not necessarily.

    In today’s entertainment industry, there are multiple paths to success, and whether or not you need an Equity card largely depends on your career goals and circumstances.

    1. Theater Careers
      If your focus is on professional theater, joining Equity can be highly beneficial, especially for access to auditions for Broadway, regional theaters, and national tours. Many top-tier productions require actors to be Equity members.
    2. Film and Television Careers
      Equity membership isn’t required for film or television work. In the U.S., actors in these fields are typically represented by SAG-AFTRA (Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists). While there’s some overlap, joining Equity won’t automatically give you access to SAG-AFTRA productions.
    3. Independent Productions and Emerging Platforms
      The rise of non-union independent theater companies, web series, streaming platforms, and content creators has created a wealth of opportunities for actors outside of union restrictions. For some actors, staying non-union allows greater flexibility in choosing projects and gaining experience.
    4. Geographic Considerations
      In regions where union-affiliated productions are rare, staying non-union might make more sense. Conversely, in theater hubs like New York City, London, or Chicago, joining Equity can offer significant advantages.

    Who Should Get an Equity Card?

    You might benefit from getting an Equity card if:

    • You are ready to work in professional theater at a higher level.
    • You’ve built enough experience to compete with seasoned Equity actors.
    • You live in or frequently work in areas where union-affiliated productions dominate.
    • You want the legal protections and benefits that come with union membership.

    If you’re just starting out, or if you primarily work in film, television, or non-union projects, you may want to wait before joining Equity.


    While an Equity card remains a valuable credential for many actors, it’s no longer a one-size-fits-all necessity in the entertainment industry. The decision to join depends on your career trajectory, the type of work you pursue, and your geographic location.

    Take the time to weigh the benefits and challenges, and consider speaking with industry professionals or mentors to determine the best path for your unique goals.

     

    Recommended Posts

  • Ad

  • How Much Do Guest Stars Get Paid?

    How Much Do Guest Stars Get Paid? When watching our favorite TV shows, it’s easy to become captivated by the plot, characters, and drama unfolding on screen. But have you ever wondered how…

    Can an Acting Resume Be 2 Pages?

    Can an Acting Resume Be 2 Pages? When it comes to an actor’s resume, there is a common debate about how long it should be. While some say a one-page resume is essential,…

    What Font is Used for Acting Resumes?

    What Font is Used for Acting Resumes? Creating an acting resume is an essential part of an actor’s toolkit, helping them showcase their experience, training, and skills to potential employers, casting directors, and…

    What Are the 17 Comedies Shakespeare Wrote?

    What Are the 17 Comedies Shakespeare Wrote? William Shakespeare, widely regarded as one of the greatest writers in the English language, has made an indelible mark on the world of literature. While his…

    Actor Profile: Mila Kunis

    Actor Profile: Mila Kunis Introduction Mila Kunis is a celebrated actress known for her versatility, comedic timing, and captivating on-screen presence. From her breakout role as Jackie Burkhart on That ’70s Show to…

  • Ad

  • Actor Profile: Carey Mulligan

    Actor Profile: Carey Mulligan Carey Mulligan is one of the most versatile and accomplished actresses of her generation, known for her delicate yet powerful performances in both period dramas and contemporary films. With…

    Actor Profile: Rachel McAdams

    Actor Profile: Rachel McAdams Rachel McAdams is one of the most versatile and beloved actresses in Hollywood. From her breakout role as Regina George in Mean Girls to her critically acclaimed performances in…

    Actor Profile: Jennifer Connelly

    Actor Profile: Jennifer Connelly Jennifer Connelly is one of Hollywood’s most versatile and accomplished actresses, known for her striking beauty, intense performances, and diverse roles. Over the course of her decades-long career, she…

  • Ad

  • Actor Profile: Jennifer Aniston

    Actor Profile: Jennifer Aniston Jennifer Aniston is one of Hollywood’s most recognizable and beloved actresses, known for her charm, comedic timing, and down-to-earth personality. From her breakout role as Rachel Green on Friends…

    What is an Acting Resume?

    What is an Acting Resume? An acting resume is a specialized document that showcases an actor’s work experience, training, and skills. It is a crucial tool for any actor, whether they are just…

    Can I Use Any Music for My Showreel?

    Can I Use Any Music for My Showreel? Creating a showreel is one of the most essential steps in showcasing your talents to potential clients or employers, whether you’re a filmmaker, actor, photographer,…

    What Colors Not to Wear in an Audition?

    What Colors Not to Wear in an Audition? Auditions are nerve-wracking experiences, and how you present yourself plays a significant role in the impression you make. When it comes to preparing for an…

    What Do You Wear in a Showreel?

    What Do You Wear in a Showreel? Creating a showreel is an essential step for actors, models, or any professional in the entertainment industry to showcase their talents. But when it comes to…

  • Ad

  • What Not to Do in a Showreel?

    What Not to Do in a Showreel? A showreel is often the most crucial tool in securing new opportunities in the entertainment, media, and creative industries. It serves as a visual resume, showcasing…

    How Long Is a Showreel in Acting?

    How Long Is a Showreel in Acting? A showreel is one of the most important tools in an actor’s career. It serves as a dynamic portfolio, showcasing an actor’s skills, range, and experience…

    What is Drama?

    What is Drama? Drama, as a form of artistic expression, has captivated audiences for centuries. It is an essential component of the arts, encompassing theatre, film, television, and literature. At its core, drama…

  • Ad

  • How Can I Make a Showreel?

    How Can I Make a Showreel? A showreel is an essential tool for anyone working in a creative industry, especially those in film, television, theater, advertising, and the performing arts. It serves as…

    How Do I Find Acting Roles?

    How Do I Find Acting Roles? Breaking into the acting industry is an exciting yet challenging journey. Whether you are an aspiring actor or someone looking to transition into acting from another field,…

    What is an Acting Role?

    What is an Acting Role? An acting role refers to the character a performer portrays in a production, whether it be in theater, television, film, or even radio. An actor’s job is to…

    What Are Acting Exercises?

    What Are Acting Exercises? Acting exercises are vital tools for developing and refining an actor’s skills, helping them build emotional range, physicality, and mental flexibility. These exercises are designed to enhance the actor’s…

    What is Conflict in a Story?

    What is Conflict in a Story? Conflict is a fundamental element of storytelling, driving the plot, developing characters, and engaging readers. It is the challenge or struggle that the protagonist must face and…

  • Ad