EMC Frequently Asked Questions

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There are three steps to becoming an Equity Membership Candidate:

1. Obtain an eligible position at an Equity theater that participates in the EMC program.
2. Complete the EMC registration form provided by the producer. (Please note: the union does not provide these forms to individuals.)
3. Return the completed form, with the non-refundable $200 registration fee payable to Actors’ Equity Association, to the producer for filing with the union. (Be sure to keep a copy of the completed form and proof of the registration fee for your files.)

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As an Equity Membership Candidate, you are able to gain professional experience while working toward your union membership. The EMC program is a great opportunity to build relationships with theatre professionals in all aspects of the business while learning about the union and the field, which will help you make future career decisions.

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To protect individuality, Equity policy does not permit the duplication of names among its members. Be aware that the name you use as a non-professional may not be available when you become eligible to join Equity and that you cannot secure a name until you officially join.

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A list of EMC theaters is posted on Equity’s website. The list is updated periodically. To confirm if a theatre is utilizing the EMC program, check with the Membership Department in your regional Equity office.

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You are certainly permitted to add EMC to your résumé if you are a registered candidate and current with all required payments. Adding EMC is a personal choice, but is also a distinction that shows you are pursuing Equity membership.

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You can call the local Equity office and ask for the Membership Department. Someone in the department can review your weeks with you. Always fill out the EMC registration form each time you accrue weeks at a participating theater, and keep a copy for your records in case of any discrepency.