Equity in the News Coronavirus

Actors’ Equity praised the introduction of a new bill that would offer 100% COBRA health insurance subsidies to workers who have lost coverage during the pandemic.

The shutdown has touched New York in its heart — and its wallet.

Three area theater groups have joined hundreds of others from around the country in an appeal to Congress for $9 billion in emergency arts funding.

More than 260 theaters representing producers in 37 states and the District of Columbia have signed the letter.

When Walt Disney World opened back up in July, it was missing a few things. It didn’t have fireworks, shows, or parades, but it was also missing one of the most magical parts: its performers.

After almost six months of nationwide shutdowns because of the COVID-19 pandemic, Actors’ Equity Association is allowing three theater companies to mount indoor shows using union members.

The venues, all small nonprofits in New England, will be permitted by Actors’ Equity to put on work with union actors.

Indoor productions at East Lynne Theatre Company, Music Theatre of Connecticut, and Northern Stage have been approved by the actor's union.

The COVID pandemic has hit many industries hard, but theater artists have had more trouble than most getting back on their feet, and many are facing dwindling options with no federal safety net to fall back on.

When Disney World reopened last month, it wasn’t entirely clear how a theme park could operate safely during a global pandemic, or if anything resembling a normal crowd would even be willing to take the risk. Earlier this week, the park announced plans to reduce its hours starting in September, after the company reported reduced turnout and “adversely impacted” earnings. Now, Disney has announced plans to open a coronavirus testing center on Walt Disney World property.