industry

Is Japan on Its Way to Becoming the New Hollywood?

The entertainment industry in Japan contributed $145.9 billion in “total economic impact” to the country’s economy, according to an MPAA-commissioned report by the Mitsubishi Research Institute.

Funding Theater Across the Nation

Theatre Communications Group announced the recipients of grants totaling $225,000 from the MetLife/TCG A-ha! Program, including the Atlantic Theater Company and Oregon Shakespeare Festival.

SAG-AFTRA Asks Members to Participate in Diversity Survey

“Diversity in Entertainment Employment: Your Experiences and Perspectives” is an anonymous and confidential survey regarding issues of sexual orientation and gender identity in the industry.

SAG-AFTRA Needs Your Voice

SAG-AFTRA has launched its grass-roots effort to defeat Proposition 32 in California, which it calls a “dangerous ballot initiative.”

Caliber Media Co. Adds Laura Gibson and Jennifer Au

Former ICM agent Laura Gibson and talent manager Jennifer Au have joined Caliber Media Co., a dual management-production company.

SAG-AFTRA & SAG Foundation Mark Firsts at SXSW

The post-merger union is making its debut joint appearance at the multimedia conference and festival, which also marks the foundation's inaugural trip.

N.Y. Tax Credits Result in More Post-Production Work in the State

A record number of productions have applied for tax credits in New York this year after Gov. Andrew Cuomo tripled the state’s post-production tax incentive program.

Xbox Ramps Up Content Plans, May Soon Need Actors

Michele DiLorenzo, the former COO of video game publisher Virgin Interactive, and Jada Miranda, a former NBC development executive, have both joined as senior vice presidents in recent weeks, a company spokesman confirmed to Backstage.

Jenny O’Haver and James Levine Partner for a New Casting Company

CDs O’Haver and Levine form bi-coastal casting shop Action! Casting.

One Week After Sandy, NYC Again Allows Permits for Outdoor Film and TV Production

The Mayor’s Office of Film, Theatre and Broadcasting will allow permits on a “case-by-case basis” for productions shooting at exterior locations in New York City.