Matters to be considered in drafting a contract for the employment of an actor for a stage production:
- 1. Names of parties.
- 2. Addresses of parties.
- 3. Statement of hiring.
- 4. Role Actor is to play.
- 5. Duties and obligations of Actor.
- 6. Restrictions on Actor's outside employment.
- 7. Place of performance as being subject to change.
- Â Â Â Â Â A. Duration of contract.
- Â Â Â Â Â B. Termination of contract.
- Â Â Â Â Â C. Grounds.
- Â Â Â Â Â D. Procedure.
- 8. Continuation or termination of contract in event of physical disability of Actor.
- 9. Amount of compensation.
- 10. Times at which compensation payable.
- 11. Reimbursement of expenses for, or furnishing of, transportation for Actor.
- 12. Effect of abandonment of production before opening (including compensation of Actor).
- 13. Inability to perform due to acts of God or other circumstances beyond control of parties.
- 14. Compensation for injuries incurred during rehearsals or performances.
- 15. Liquidated damages.
- 16. Arbitration or other method of setting disputes between parties.
- 17. Furnishing of costumes.
- 18. Rehearsals (including time, place, and compensation paid for attendance).
- 19. Guarantee of employment.
- 20. Publicity and credits to be given to Actor.
- 21. Incorporation of applicable rules and regulations of actors' Union or union into contract.
- 22. Manner of giving notice.
- 23. Designation of jurisdiction whose law governs contract.
- 24. Signatures of parties.
Rhode Island Employment Contract of Actor for the Run of a Play Incorporating Union Rules: A Comprehensive Guide Introduction: Rhode Island, known for its vibrant arts and entertainment scene, has specific rules and regulations in place to govern the employment contracts of actors participating in plays. This detailed description aims to provide insights into the various types of Rhode Island Employment Contracts of Actors for the Run of a Play Incorporating Union Rules. 1. Basic Overview of Rhode Island Employment Contracts for Actors: Rhode Island Employment Contracts for Actors establish the legal obligations, terms, and conditions between actors and theater production companies. These contracts incorporate union rules, ensuring fair treatment, compensation, and working conditions for actors. 2. Types of Rhode Island Employment Contracts of Actors for the Run of a Play: a. Equity Contracts: — Under the Actors' Equity Association (AEA), Rhode Island has specific guidelines for employing professional stage actors. — The equity contract outlines the required compensation, rehearsal and performance schedules, and provisions for benefits, such as health insurance. — Subcategories within equity contracts may include Principal Actor, Actor Understudy, or Actor Swing contracts, each with varying responsibilities and compensation levels. b. Non-Equity Contracts: — Non-union actors or actors not affiliated with the AEA are typically offered non-equity contracts. — These contracts may have different terms and conditions compared to equity contracts, but still adhere to certain labor laws and minimum wage requirements. 3. Key Components of Rhode Island Employment Contracts of Actors for the Run of a Play: a. Duration and Schedule: — Employment contracts specify the start and end dates of the play, including rehearsal periods, previews, and regular performances. — The schedule should outline daily working hours, breaks, and days off to ensure actors' well-being and compliance with labor laws. b. Compensation: — Contracts provide details about the actor's base salary, additional pay for overtime or extended runs, and payment frequency. — Equity contracts may include provisions for extra compensation, such as royalties or profit-sharing, based on the success of the play. c. Duties and Roles: — Contracts define the actor's designated role, character, or ensemble position within the play. — These duties encompass rehearsal attendance, learning lines and blocking, attending costume fittings, and collaborating with the creative team. d. Code of Conduct and Union Rules: — The contract outlines acceptable behavior, professional conduct, and adherence to union rules, such as punctuality, no-harassment policies, and substance abuse guidelines. — Non-compliance with union rules may result in penalties, fines, or termination. e. Termination and Dispute Resolution: — The contract specifies conditions for termination by either party, including notice periods and contingencies. — Dispute resolution processes, such as mediation or arbitration, may also be included to address conflicts that may arise during the contract tenure. Conclusion: Rhode Island's Employment Contracts of Actors for the Run of a Play Incorporating Union Rules aim to protect the rights, welfare, and fair treatment of actors participating in theatrical productions. Theater production companies, actors, and unions collaborate to create and enforce these contracts, ensuring a balanced working environment that benefits all parties involved.
