Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the EMC program going away?
Equity’s Open Access membership policy is being extended indefinitely. Going forward, Equity membership will be offered to all theatre workers who can demonstrate they have worked professionally as an actor or stage manager within Equity’s geographical jurisdiction. This means that anyone who would qualify to become an Equity Membership Candidate now qualifies to become a full Equity member.
Does the phase-out of the EMC Program mean I lose all the EMC points that I worked for?
You could think of it that way, or you could think of this as granting you all the remaining points you need to complete the program. Either way, you no longer need to keep track of your points – you can join the union at any time.
I am an EMC. Does this mean I can work more than 50 weeks as a non-pro?
Yes. You can join the union when you’re ready. Any fees you have paid to the union will be credited towards the initiation fee, regardless of when you choose to join.
What does this mean as far as audition access for EMCs?
Current EMCs will maintain audition access for a three-year period. As of May 8, 2026, EMCs will no longer be recognized for prioritized audition access and will be seen on the same basis as other non-Equity actors.
How do I become an Equity Membership Candidate?
There are three steps to becoming an Equity Membership Candidate:
- Obtain an eligible position at an Equity theater that participates in the EMC program.
- Complete the EMC registration form provided by the producer. (Please note: the union does not provide these forms to individuals.)
- Return the completed form, with the non-refundable $200 registration fee payable to Actors’ Equity Association, to the producer for filing with the union. (Be sure to keep a copy of the completed form and proof of the registration fee for your files.)
Please note: the EMC Program is being phased out, and Equity will stop admitting new applicants to the EMC program effective May 8, 2023.
What are the benefits of being an Equity Membership Candidate?
As an Equity Membership Candidate, you are able to gain professional experience while working toward your union membership. The EMC program is a great opportunity to build relationships with theatre professionals in all aspects of the business while learning about the union and the field, which will help you make future career decisions.
What if, as a Membership Candidate, my name is the same as a current Equity member?
To protect individuality, Equity policy does not permit the duplication of names among its members. Be aware that the name you use as a non-professional may not be available when you become eligible to join Equity and that you cannot secure a name until you officially join.
Is there a list of EMC theaters?
A list of EMC theaters is posted on Equity’s website. The list is updated periodically. To confirm if a theatre is utilizing the EMC program, check with the Membership Department in your regional Equity office.
Should I add EMC to my résumé?
You are certainly permitted to add EMC to your résumé if you are a registered candidate and current with all required payments. Adding EMC is a personal choice, but is also a distinction that shows you are pursuing Equity membership.
How do I check my weeks?
You can call the local Equity office and ask for the Membership Department. Someone in the department can review your weeks with you. Always fill out the EMC registration form each time you accrue weeks at a participating theater, and keep a copy for your records in case of any discrepency.
For how long after completing the EMC program am I eligible to join Equity?
After completing the program, you are eligible to join Equity for five years. During that time, if you work at an Equity theater, you must be signed to an Equity contract. You may work at non-Equity theaters prior to joining.
What if I registered for the EMC Program prior to the change on January 1, 2018?
If you are registered in the 50-week program prior to January 1, 2018 you can still work up to 50 weeks as an EMC, or join any time after 25 weeks, as long as all EMC and non-Equity work is complete. You will use the new form to continue to report points any time you work at an EMC-eligible theater but you do not need to enroll in Phase II to work more than 25 weeks.
If I am an EMC, may I instead become a member through Open Access?
EMCs are welcome to continue along their path to Equity membership. However, you can also become a member immediately through Open Access, and any fees you have paid to the union will go towards the initiation fee.