Can Non-Equity Actors Attend Equity Auditions?

For aspiring actors, the world of professional theater can seem like a maze of rules, contracts, and exclusive opportunities. One of the most commonly asked questions by those not yet part of the Actors’ Equity Association (AEA) is: Can non-Equity actors attend Equity auditions? The short answer is yes, but with limitations. While it is possible, the process is often challenging and requires persistence, preparation, and sometimes a bit of luck.

This article explores the nuances of Equity auditions, how non-Equity actors can participate, and provides examples of successful actors who navigated these hurdles early in their careers.

Understanding Equity Auditions

What Is the Actors’ Equity Association (AEA)?

Actors’ Equity Association is the labor union representing professional stage actors and stage managers in the United States. It provides protections, ensures fair wages, and offers benefits like health insurance and pensions to its members.

To become an Equity member, actors must either:

1. Be offered an Equity contract by a theater company.

2. Join through the Equity Membership Candidate (EMC) program by accumulating 25 weeks of work at an Equity theater.

3. Purchase their membership outright, if eligible.

Equity members receive first access to Equity auditions, often referred to as Equity Principal Auditions (EPAs) and Equity Chorus Calls (ECCs). These auditions are primarily for union members, but non-Equity actors can sometimes attend under specific conditions.

Can Non-Equity Actors Audition for Equity Shows?

Yes, non-Equity actors can audition for Equity productions, but they do not have the same privileges as union members. The process depends on several factors:

1. Equity Principal Auditions (EPAs)

EPAs are held for leading and supporting roles in plays and musicals. These auditions are open to all Equity members first, meaning:

• Equity actors can schedule appointments in advance.

• If there are open slots on the day of the audition, Equity actors can sign up for same-day time slots.

• If any audition slots remain after all Equity members have been seen, non-Equity actors may be allowed to audition.

How Can a Non-Equity Actor Attend an EPA?

• Arrive early: Many non-Equity actors line up outside audition venues hours before they open.

• Sign up on an unofficial list: Sometimes, non-Equity actors start a list to establish the order of arrival, though it is not officially recognized by Equity.

• Wait patiently: If time permits, casting directors may see non-Equity actors at the end of the audition day.

• Be prepared for disappointment: There is no guarantee that non-Equity actors will be seen, especially for highly competitive productions.

Example: A Non-Equity Actor at an EPA

Sarah, an aspiring actress, arrives at an EPA for a Broadway revival at 6:00 AM, even though the audition starts at 9:00 AM. She signs the unofficial list, but Equity members are given priority. By 2:00 PM, after most Equity actors have been seen, the casting team decides to see a few non-Equity actors. Sarah is among the lucky few called in. Although she doesn’t get a callback, the experience helps her make industry connections.

2. Equity Chorus Calls (ECCs)

ECCs are auditions specifically for ensemble members in musicals or plays. Similar to EPAs, Equity members have first priority, and non-Equity actors can only audition if time allows.

How Can Non-Equity Actors Get Seen at an ECC?

• Follow the same process as EPAs: Arrive early, sign up on the unofficial list, and wait for an opening.

• Be ready for dance calls: ECCs often require a dance audition first, followed by a singing call for those who pass the initial round.

• Show up in proper attire: For dance calls, wearing the right footwear and attire can make a difference.

Example: A Dancer at an ECC

Carlos, a non-Equity dancer, wants to audition for the ensemble of a national tour. He arrives at the audition studio at 5:30 AM, hoping for an open slot. Around midday, after the Equity dancers finish their rounds, the casting team allows a small number of non-Equity dancers to participate. Carlos impresses the panel and lands a spot in the show, receiving his first Equity contract.

3. Open Calls and Non-Union Auditions

Some professional theaters, including Broadway and national tours, hold open calls, which are separate from Equity auditions. Open calls do not require Equity membership and are specifically for casting new talent.

How Can Non-Equity Actors Find Open Calls?

• Check casting websites: Backstage, Playbill, and Actors Access regularly post non-Equity audition notices.

• Follow theater social media pages: Some theaters announce open calls directly on their platforms.

• Network with industry professionals: Sometimes, word-of-mouth leads to opportunities.

Example: A Non-Equity Actor at an Open Call

James, an aspiring performer, sees an open call for a regional production of Les Misérables. Since the audition is specifically for non-Equity performers, he doesn’t have to worry about competing for Equity time slots. He auditions, lands the role of Marius, and eventually gains enough experience to join Equity.

How Some Famous Actors Navigated Equity Auditions as Non-Union Performers

Many well-known actors started as non-Equity performers, facing the same challenges before making it big.

1. Sutton Foster

Before becoming a Tony Award-winning Broadway star, Sutton Foster attended many open calls and EPAs as a non-Equity actress. Her persistence paid off when she landed the role of Millie in Thoroughly Modern Millie, which launched her career.

2. Lin-Manuel Miranda

Before creating Hamilton, Lin-Manuel Miranda worked as a non-Equity actor and writer. His journey from college productions to Broadway involved navigating open calls and networking with professionals who helped him break into the industry.

3. Kristen Bell

Kristen Bell, known for Frozen and The Good Place, started as a theater actress in New York. Before joining Equity, she attended numerous auditions as a non-union performer, eventually landing Broadway roles that boosted her career.

Tips for Non-Equity Actors Attending Equity Auditions

If you’re a non-Equity actor hoping to be seen at an Equity audition, follow these tips:

1. Arrive Early

Getting there before the audition begins increases your chances of being seen.

2. Be Patient and Polite

The audition process can be frustrating, but staying professional and respectful can help you stand out.

3. Network with Other Actors

Talking to fellow actors can provide valuable insights, connections, and even opportunities.

4. Prepare for the Long Game

Landing an Equity role as a non-Equity performer is rare but not impossible. Persistence is key.

5. Consider the EMC Program

Joining the Equity Membership Candidate program allows you to accumulate points toward Equity membership while working at professional theaters.

Conclusion

While non-Equity actors face obstacles when trying to attend Equity auditions, opportunities do exist for those who are determined, prepared, and patient. Whether through EPAs, ECCs, or open calls, many successful actors have taken this challenging path and eventually earned their place in the professional theater industry.

If you’re a non-Equity actor, don’t get discouraged. Show up, give your best performance, and remember—every audition is a step toward your dream.

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