Every Equity Contract and Code has specific media rules which either prohibit or allow recording and its various uses. Media may include taping, filming, audio and visual digital recording, streaming, or any other electronic or mechanic reproduction or transmission of an Actor's image for use on television, radio, or the internet, whether for promotional or commercial use.
Equity productions may only be recorded or broadcast under the terms of the Contract or Code under which the production is governed or if the Producer has secured written permission from Equity.
“Recording” can refer to any taping, filming, audio or visual recording including digital, electronic, mechanic, or any other form of capture of an Actor's performance. The subsequent uses may extend to television or radio broadcasts, internet streaming or downloads, mobile transmission, theatrical release, or any other new and evolving medium.
Requests to record an Equity production in a manner not provided for within the specific Contract or Code must be made in writing to Equity’s Media Department with as much notice as possible to allow for administering the approval process. If the request is approved, a Media Agreement is written specifying the terms and conditions under which the Recording may occur. These Agreements are written in coordination with the applicable SAG-AFTRA code when appropriate to maximize your protection and benefits.
Some Equity contracts have built-in media allowances for promotional purposes such as news reviews, entertainment featured stories, and websites; as well as commercial exploitation such as cast albums and documentaries.
The Equity Media Department accepts requests for media concessions that are not covered by the Contract or Code, and will administer a Media Agreement, if approved. There should always be something in writing from Equity if the Contract or Code does not allow it.
With the advent of the Internet and new digital media, Equity continues to monitor new technology to develop new strategies that protect Actors' images and artistry, while providing theatre producers the ability to effectively market and promote their shows to continue employment for Equity members.
For more information, please contact Dragica Dabo, Media Representative at (212) 869-8530 x 341 or ddabo@actorsequity.org.
