Membership

Equity’s national membership includes nearly 6,000 performers, directors, choreographers, fight directors, intimacy directors, and stage managers working in theatre, opera, and dance across the country.

Members support the work of their Association in many ways, including running for Council, submitting proposals for negotiations, and participating in votes.

Members are encouraged to get involved at whatever level feels comfortable. Come to a meeting, take a workshop, or volunteer on a committee. You’ll get as much out of being an Equity member as you put in.

Equity is a member-led association.

What’s the value of membership?

Equity members benefit from:

Recognition throughout the industry as a professional artist
Access to professional work opportunities and notifications through Equity’s eDrive
Support while on contract from Equity staff
Medical and life insurance plans
Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP)
Voting rights
Reciprocal agreements with other unions
Discounts through the Member Advantage Program
Participation in a community of professional artists
A voice in shaping the objectives of our member-driven Association

Being an Equity member means standing with a community that has championed Canadian artists for over 50 years—and actively working to create better opportunities for yourself and the artists who follow.

What are the responsibilities of membership?

Membership in Equity comes with responsibilities outlined in Equity’s Constitution & Bylaws, the rules governing the Association – written by members, for members.

Key responsibilities include:

Maintaining a professional standard of conduct
Paying dues
Keeping contact information current
Accepting work only on Equity contracts

What does member solidarity mean?

Equity’s strength comes from working together. Whether in bargaining, lobbying, or advocating for the arts, we achieve more when we stand united.

Member rights and benefits were won by those who came before us. Our role as current members is to strengthen the Association and leave behind a stronger, fairer industry for the artists who follow.

 

Agreeing to work only for the terms and conditions set in Equity’s agreements and engagement policies ensures:

Health and safety standards are upheld
Fair and guaranteed payment
Respectful treatment
Confidence in working with professionals
The satisfaction of raising the floor for everyone in the industry

Solidarity also means respecting the rights of members in other unions and associations. When working within another union or association’s jurisdiction, members of Equity, ACTRA, and UDA are expected to work only under a contract issued by the applicable organization.

Have questions or need more information?

Contact Us

National Office

44 Victoria St, 12th Floor

Toronto, ON M5C 3C4

Phone

416-867-9165 (local)

1-800-387-1856