[e-drive][EQUIFLASH: URGENT NOTICE, NATIONAL, LYSISTRATA PROJECT]

[Kevin Patrick Robbins]

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In response to many enquiries from our members across 
the country who wish to participate in readings around 
the Lysistrata Project, Canadian Actors' Equity Assoc. 
wishes to offer the following clarification regarding 
contracting arrangements that should be in place.

Readings produced by established theatres with which 
Equity has an existing agreement are to be contracted 
under the terms of those agreements as either a Benefit 
and Fundraiser or a Reading/Workshop.

Individual members who wish to participate in a reading 
organized by themselves or other members may do so by 
following the CAEA policy for member-driven benefits that
provides for the waiver of fees and the payment of the 
CAEA insurance premium. Members are urged to contact either 
Equity office to make the necessary arrangements, which 
are simple and hassle-free.

Many members have compared CAEA's position with those of 
UdA and Actors' Equity Assoc. of the United States, 
pointing out that these two associations are giving their 
members complete waivers to participate in the Lysistrata 
Project. The U.S. Actors' Equity Assoc. has issued the 
same requirement for contracts to be in place for theatres 
that have an existing agreement with the association. 
However, both of those associations have insurance programs 
that provide for levels of insurance coverage that CAEA 
does not have. CAEA's council approved the policy for 
member-driven benefits and fundraisers at its meeting in 
June 2001 after receiving the recommendations of a task 
force struck to advise on the issue. Council agreed that 
members could participate in these types of activities 
without payment, but had to be covered by insurance.

Should a member wish to participate in the Lysistrata 
Project, they are urged to contact either Equity office, 
where our business representatives are available to make 
the necessary arrangements.