How Do I Get EMC?

By Webmaster

  • How Do I Get EMC?

    Becoming an Equity Membership Candidate (EMC) is a significant step for actors looking to join the Actors’ Equity Association (AEA), the professional union for stage actors and stage managers in the United States. The EMC program provides a pathway toward full Equity membership, allowing aspiring actors to accumulate points while working in eligible theater productions.

    If you are an actor interested in gaining EMC status, you might be wondering: How do I start? Where do I find eligible work? How long does it take? This article will guide you through the process, from eligibility and requirements to examples of actors who successfully became EMC candidates.


    1. What is the EMC Program?

    Before diving into how to obtain EMC status, it’s important to understand what the program is and why it matters.

    The Equity Membership Candidate (EMC) program is a structured way for actors to gain eligibility for joining Actors’ Equity Association. Through this program, actors can work in Equity-affiliated theaters while accumulating points toward full membership.

    • Benefits of EMC Status:

      • Provides an opportunity to work in Equity-approved professional theater productions.

      • Allows actors to earn points toward eventual full Equity membership.

      • Gives actors access to some union protections and networking opportunities.

      • Allows priority audition slots for Equity Principal Auditions (EPAs) after 25 points.

    • How the Point System Works:

      • Actors earn 1 point per week of work in an Equity-approved production.

      • A total of 50 points is required to qualify for full Equity membership.


    2. Steps to Get EMC Status

    The road to becoming an EMC involves several key steps. Below is a detailed breakdown of how to start the process.

    Step 1: Find an Equity-Approved Theater

    To begin earning EMC points, you need to work in a theater that participates in the EMC program. Not every theater is affiliated with Actors’ Equity, so it’s essential to research and target Equity-affiliated regional theaters, repertory companies, and professional playhouses.

    How to Find an Equity-Approved Theater

    • Check the Equity Website – Actors’ Equity Association maintains a list of affiliated theaters.

    • Look at Job Listings – Websites like Playbill, Backstage, and BroadwayWorld post union-affiliated audition notices.

    • Network with Industry Professionals – Directors, producers, and fellow actors can help connect you with EMC-approved theaters.

    • Attend EPAs (Equity Principal Auditions) – While EMC candidates don’t get full priority, you may still be seen by casting teams.

    Example: Finding an EMC-Approved Theater

    Case Study – Julia’s Journey: Julia, a young actor in Chicago, searched for EMC-approved theaters. She found a listing for an Equity-affiliated summer stock theater that was hiring non-Equity actors but offered EMC points. She auditioned, got cast, and started accumulating EMC points.


    Step 2: Get Cast in an EMC-Eligible Production

    Once you identify a theater that participates in the EMC program, the next step is to audition and get cast in a production that offers EMC points.

    • Equity vs. Non-Equity Roles: Some productions allow both Equity and non-Equity actors to perform. EMC candidates are often cast in ensemble or supporting roles, but they still earn points.

    • Types of Productions That Offer EMC Points:

      • Regional Theaters (e.g., The Guthrie Theater, The Oregon Shakespeare Festival)

      • Summer Stock Theaters (e.g., Williamstown Theatre Festival, The Muny)

      • Shakespeare Festivals (e.g., The Public Theater’s Shakespeare in the Park)

      • Touring Theater Companies (certain national tours allow EMC candidates)

    Example: Getting Cast in an EMC-Eligible Show

    Case Study – Mark’s First EMC Role: Mark, an aspiring actor in New York, auditioned for a regional production of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” at an Equity-affiliated theater. Although he was cast as a non-Equity ensemble member, he was enrolled in the EMC program and started accumulating points.


    Step 3: Enroll in the EMC Program

    Once you are cast in an EMC-eligible production, you must officially enroll in the Equity Membership Candidate program.

    • Paperwork & Registration: The theater’s Equity representative or stage manager will provide you with the necessary EMC application form to complete.

    • Fee: As of recent years, the EMC enrollment fee is $200 (which later applies toward your Equity membership fee).

    • Confirmation: After submitting your paperwork, Equity will officially recognize you as an EMC candidate.

    Example: Registering as an EMC Candidate

    Case Study – Alicia’s EMC Enrollment: Alicia booked her first EMC-eligible show at a repertory theater in Minneapolis. On her first rehearsal day, the theater’s Equity deputy gave her the EMC paperwork. She filled it out, paid the fee, and was officially enrolled in the program.


    Step 4: Accumulate EMC Points

    After enrolling, you start earning 1 point per week of work in EMC-approved productions. The more Equity-approved jobs you land, the faster you reach full membership.

    Timeline to Accumulate EMC Points

    • 1–2 years: If working consistently in Equity-affiliated productions.

    • 2–4 years: If working part-time or sporadically.

    • 4+ years: If struggling to find Equity-approved work.

    Example: Accumulating EMC Points

    Case Study – Ryan’s EMC Progress: Ryan worked in three different EMC-approved theaters over two years:

    • 10 weeks at a summer stock festival = 10 EMC points

    • 15 weeks at a regional theater = 15 EMC points

    • 25 weeks on an Equity national tour = 25 EMC points

    • Total: 50 points → Eligible for full Equity membership


    Step 5: Become Eligible for Full Equity Membership

    Once you accumulate 50 EMC points, you can apply for full Equity membership. At this stage:

    • You pay the remaining membership initiation fee (minus your EMC fee).

    • You gain access to Equity contract jobs, better pay, and health and pension benefits.

    • You no longer need to compete for non-Equity work.

    Fast-Track Option: If you book an Equity contract before reaching 50 points, you may be able to skip the rest of the EMC process and join immediately.


    3. Common Challenges & Solutions in Getting EMC Status

    Challenge 1: Lack of Equity Theater Opportunities

    Solution: Broaden your search to regional theaters, summer stock, and Shakespeare festivals.

    Challenge 2: Not Getting Cast in Equity Productions

    Solution: Take on understudy or ensemble roles to get your foot in the door.

    Challenge 3: Unclear Information About EMC Eligibility

    Solution: Speak with Equity representatives or stage managers to confirm whether a show qualifies for EMC points.


    4. Final Thoughts: Is EMC Right for You?

    If you are serious about a career in professional theater, the EMC program is a valuable stepping stone toward joining Actors’ Equity Association. While it requires dedication, finding Equity-approved work and accumulating points is achievable with the right strategy.

    By following these steps—finding Equity-affiliated theaters, securing roles in EMC-eligible productions, registering, and accumulating points—you can work your way toward becoming a full Equity member and gain access to a world of professional theater opportunities.

    For actors passionate about making a career on stage, getting EMC is one of the best ways to gain experience, build credibility, and open doors to bigger opportunities in the industry. So start auditioning, networking, and securing those EMC points—your Equity journey awaits!

    Recommended Posts

  • Ad

  • What is a Leading Character?

    What is a Leading Character? Exploring the role, importance, and characteristics of leading characters in film, television, and literature (By Tonya Tannenbaum) Defining a Leading Character In any narrative—whether on screen, stage, or…

    What is a Male Actor Called?

    What is a Male Actor Called? Exploring the terminology, history, and modern usage of the word “actor” for men (By Tonya Tannenbaum) Defining the Term: What is a Male Actor Called? The most…

    Who is the greatest female actor of all time?

    Who is the greatest female actor of all time? Exploring the legendary careers that have shaped the world of cinema (By Tonya Tannenbaum) The Question of Greatness: What Defines a Great Female Actor?…

    What is the difference between leading actor and lead actor?

    What is the difference between leading actor and lead actor? Unpacking the subtle distinction between two frequently used industry terms (By Tonya Tannenbaum) Understanding the Basics: What Do the Terms Mean? In the…

    Can You Make a Living Doing Improv?

    Can You Make a Living Doing Improv? Exploring the Viability of Improv as a Full-Time Career Path in the Entertainment Industry (By Ray Reese) Improvisational comedy, or improv, has become increasingly visible thanks…

  • Ad

  • What is Bad Improv?

    What is Bad Improv? An Exploration of Common Pitfalls and Mistakes in Improvisational Comedy (By Ray Reese) Improvisational comedy, or improv, is an art form that thrives on spontaneity, creativity, and collaboration. Whether…

    What is the Writers Guild of America (WGA)?

    What is the Writers Guild of America (WGA)? Understanding the Role, Power, and Purpose of the Writers Guild in Hollywood and Beyond (By Tonya Tannenbaum) Introduction: Defining the WGA The Writers Guild of…

    Can You Practice Improv Alone?

    Can You Practice Improv Alone? Unlocking Solo Creativity: How Improvisation Can Thrive Without a Partner (By Ray Reese) Introduction: The Solo Performer’s Dilemma When most people think of improv, they picture a high-energy…

  • Ad

  • DO ACTORS MEMORIZE THE ENTIRE SCRIPT?

    DO ACTORS MEMORIZE THE ENTIRE SCRIPT? An Insight into the Memorization Process for Actors (By Ray Reese) The Complex World of Acting and Script Memorization Acting is an art that requires much more…

    What Was the Least Successful Movie of All Time?

    What Was the Least Successful Movie of All Time? Exploring the film industry’s most infamous flops and what went wrong (By Carmichael Phillip) The Criteria for a Box-Office Failure Movie success is often…

    What Is the Most Recognizable Movie Quote of All Time?

    What Is the Most Recognizable Movie Quote of All Time? Exploring the most iconic lines that have defined cinema history (By Carmichael Phillip) The Timeless Power of a Single Line Some movie quotes…

    What Famous Movie Line Was Improvised?

    What Famous Movie Line Was Improvised? Exploring iconic unscripted movie moments that became unforgettable quotes (By Carmichael Phillip) The Power of Improvisation in Film Improvisation in film is like catching lightning in a…

    What Does CSA Stand for After a Name?

    What Does CSA Stand for After a Name? Understanding the meaning of CSA in film and television credits and the role of casting professionals (By Jim Webb) What Is CSA? When you see…

  • Ad

  • Why Don’t Movies Have Opening Credits Anymore?

    Why Don’t Movies Have Opening Credits Anymore? Exploring the evolution of the cinematic opening and why the tradition of long opening credits has nearly vanished (By Jim Webb) The Golden Age of Opening…

    What is the Number 1 Best Movie of All Time?

    What is the Number 1 Best Movie of All Time? A deep dive into the debates, rankings, and arguments behind the most acclaimed movie in cinematic history (By Carmichael Phillip) Introduction: The Impossible…

    How Much Do Principal Broadway Actors Make?

    How Much Do Principal Broadway Actors Make? A behind-the-scenes look at Broadway paychecks, perks, and how stars earn a living on the Great White Way (By Carmichael Phillip) Understanding the Role of a…

  • Ad

  • How Long Are the Commercials Before a Movie?

    How Long Are the Commercials Before a Movie? Everything you need to know about pre-show ads, trailers, and what to expect before the main feature starts (By Jim Webb) The Basics: What Comes…

    What is a Top Billed Actor?

    What is a Top Billed Actor? A deep dive into one of Hollywood’s most coveted credit positions (By Jim Webb) Understanding the Term: What Does “Top Billed” Mean? The phrase “top billed actor”…

    What does “in association with” mean in film credits?

    What does “in association with” mean in film credits? Understanding the role of secondary production companies in the filmmaking process (By Jim Webb) Introduction: Cracking the Code of Film Credits When you watch…

    What Nationality Is Flo from Progressive?

    What Nationality Is Flo from Progressive? The cultural background of a beloved commercial icon and its impact on her persona (By Tonya Tannenbaum) The Rise of Flo: An Iconic Commercial Character Flo, the…

    What Insurance Company Keeps You from Becoming Your Parents?

    What Insurance Company Keeps You from Becoming Your Parents? Exploring how choosing the right insurance can help break the cycle and create your own financial path (By Tonya Tannenbaum) The Generational Insurance Trap…

  • Ad