What is the card actors need to be able to audition for Broadway shows?

Question:And also what is Actor's Equity?

Thanks,
xoxo Jen

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: And also what is Actor's Equity?

Thanks,
xoxo Jen

hi Jen,

the "card" they are referring to is actor's equity (AEA) the union of professional stage actors in the US. (I'm guessing you may have seen notices that say "bring your card" or heard people saying "I got my card" or something to that effect.)

It can take a long time and a lot of hard work to join actor's equity and it's not the first step in your acting career (if that is why you're asking.) Most broadway shows are required to have open (ie; anyone can show up) calls but these calls are restricted to only members of Actor's Equity - hence, the card you need to audition. In some cases you CAN get to audition for broadway shows without a card. You can attend the Equity calls, sign in as Non-Union, and wait (usually hours) and they may let you in if they have extra time (they don't have to, though.) you can also send your picture and resume to casting directors and try to get in that way, or get an agent who can get you an appointment. Most people starting out do not join equity immediately and don't qualify immediately either.

The Actor's Equity Association offers a standard salary, pension and health benefits, and also monitors working conditions and other aspects of the acting business.

Equity card

Jen:

To work on Broadway you need an equity card. That is, you need to be a member of Actors Equity, a union for actors.

You can find information about the union here:
http://wwww.actorsequity.org