Actors' Equity Association's national council has ratified a new three-year Theatre for Young Audiences agreement.
Weekly salary minimums were increased 5% in the first year of the contract, 4% in the second year and 2% in the third. Per-performance salaries went up 5% in the first year, with cost-of-living increases in the second and third years.
The pact included significant improvements in the five-hour rule governing meal breaks and rest periods. Per diem was increased to $44 per day. Bereavement leave was added to the contract. The resident-theatre rule was expanded, benefiting actors and stage managers working for companies which produce several productions during a season and, in most cases, produce in their own theatres.
The new contract became effective on Dec. 27, 1999.
Recognizing the national scope of the contract, the Equity Council appointed negotiating team members from all regions. Equity Eastern Region Councilor Jean Fornadel chaired the Eastern Region TYA Committee and the negotiating team. Scott McGowan was team vice-chair.
Staff was also represented nationally. Eastern Senior Business Representative Zalina Hoosein was Equity's chief negotiator.
Theatreworks/USA producer Charles Hull was the chief negotiator for the Producer's League of Theatre for Young Audiences team.
The TYA contract covers productions of plays or adult-adapted material expressly written, created or adapted to be performed for children through high-school level. There are two forms of contract: the weekly contract and the per-performance contract. Performances generally take place during normal school hours and are limited to 90 minutes in length.
In addition to performances, the contract allows "Associated Artist activity," such as classes with the students. Local and overnight touring are permitted; but expenses are required when actors are required to sleep away from their places of residence. Health insurance is provided only for weekly contracts.