Good on ya Tommy. I’m in FAME with Tommy and am Equity Deputy. Equity is a branch of the Media, Entertainment & Arts Alliance, it’s basically the union for Performers & Journalists.
Recently, with Equity’s help, we held a meeting to discuss issues for dancers across the board. Personally, I’m an actor and although I struggle and fight a bit like you guys to get work, once you get the right jobs, you get paid properly and it’s easier to say NO to work. Fortunately for me, that is because older actors fought years ago for my rights and THEY won, for themselves and future artists. Unfortunately for dancers, you haven’t had the collective ability to bargain….yet.
Equity is trying to form a Dancer’s Committee full of dancers who are willing to make things happen and to talk to their students and colleagues about the issues you face, not just financial but also if you’re in a long running show, what upkeep you need to stay fit - physio, osteo, etc. There are SO many issues that can be discussed. What we need is YOU. I can’t speak for you, the Equity organisers will but they need to KNOW (they aren’t performers). This also means we need people to take themselves seriously and become members of the Union. A union is onyl as powerful as the strength of its combined members. The more dancers that join and voice there opinions, the harder it is for producers/employers to treat you like dirt. “Solidarity Forever!”
I’m forwarding this to Equity who will be much more articulate but if you guys are serious, contact me - Tdashwood@gmail.com and I’ll forward you to the people who are trying to make things happen.
Recently, the Performers Collective Agreement (basically the basis for all contracts you’ll be on - if your contracted but I won’t get into that - Equity can help with ALL situations) has been discussed and there was even a special MT meeting held in Sydney. Now’s the time to voice concerns, problems, etc.
If you’re serious, get back to me!
OATS
Tim

Such a big issue for us!
I’m with Ilona, Its so insulting to be offered nothing for our time as if it’s merely a little hobby that where privileged to show. Shouldn’t people be privileged to watch our hard work and talent, as with any other skill? Take a TVC for instance, If your clearly seen in a TVC you take a certain bonus fee, If you talk theres a further fee, If you dance, No such luck? How is dancing any less than saying a line? It’s a special skill isn’t it?

I’m touring with fame at the moment and we recently had a meeting about creating a Dancers Union with in “Equity” Which currently sets the standards for Ballet Company’s, Musical theatre shows, Movies, Tv Shows and what ever else. They have started a whole new thing devoted to Dancers! I will email this blog along to someone!

I am in the states at the moment, It’s not so much more amazing than home, Theres just so many more people, giving chance for every style to thrive. We definitely have such a talented industry and yet where treated so unfairly?

Let’s fsu!