Actors' Equity, ANTC Reach Tentative Agreement

Actors' Equity Association and the Association of Non-Profit Theatre Companies (ANTC) have reached a tentative agreement for a new three-year contract. Negotiations began on May 12 and concluded after five negotiating sessions on June 4, 2004. The terms must be approved by Equity’s Eastern Regional Board (ERB) at its upcoming meeting in July.

Once approved, the new contract will govern employment for Equity Actors and Stage Managers in eight prominent New York City theatres for the 2004-2005 season. The ANTC theatres include the Atlantic Theater Company, Classic Stage Company, MCC Theater, The New Group, Primary Stages, Signature Theatre Company, Vineyard Theatre and Women's Project and Productions.

Equity's Chief Negotiator was Senior Business Representative Rick Berg, assisted by staff member Patrick Lee. Equity's negotiating team was chaired by Irma Rogers. Jodi Schoenbrun was Chief Negotiator for the ANTC theatres.

(L-R front/seated) Equity's Chief Negotiator Rick Berg, Councillor Irma Rogers, ANTC Chief Negotiator Jodi Schoenbrum, Amanda Brandes
(L-R rear/standing) Lynn Cohen (team), Equity Business Rep Patrick Lee, Kate Broderick (team), Lisa McNulty (Women's Project), Jeffrey Lockhorn (Signature), Melinda Berk (Atlantic Theatre), Nicole Cavaliere (Primary Stages), Barb Auld (MCC), Lisa Barnes (CSC), Reed Ridgley (Vineyard Theatre), Tyler Marchant (Primary Stages), Kate Lowche (Signature)