Membership

Equity’s national membership includes nearly 6,000 performers, directors, choreographers, fight directors, intimacy directors, and stage managers working in theatre, opera, and dance across the country.

Equity is a member-led association.

What’s the value of membership?

Equity members benefit from:

Recognition throughout the industry as a professional artist
Access to professional work opportunities and notifications through Equity’s eDrive
Support while on contract from Equity staff
Medical and life insurance plans
Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP)
Voting rights
Reciprocal agreements with other unions
Discounts through the Member Advantage Program
Participation in a community of professional artists
A voice in shaping the objectives of our member-driven Association

Being an Equity member means standing with a community that has championed Canadian artists for over 50 years—and actively working to create better opportunities for yourself and the artists who follow.

What are the responsibilities of membership?

Membership in Equity comes with responsibilities outlined in Equity’s Constitution & Bylaws, the rules governing the Association – written by members, for members.

Key responsibilities include:

Maintaining a professional standard of conduct
Paying dues
Keeping contact information current
Accepting work only on Equity contracts

What does member solidarity mean?

Equity’s strength comes from working together. Whether in bargaining, lobbying, or advocating for the arts, we achieve more when we stand united.

Member rights and benefits were won by those who came before us. Our role as current members is to strengthen the Association and leave behind a stronger, fairer industry for the artists who follow.

 

Agreeing to work only for the terms and conditions set in Equity’s agreements and engagement policies ensures:

Health and safety standards are upheld
Fair and guaranteed payment
Respectful treatment
Confidence in working with professionals
The satisfaction of raising the floor for everyone in the industry

In this section

Dues

Dues Remission

Rights & Responsibilities

Working as a Member

Working as a Permittee

Reciprocal Agreements

Have questions or need more information?

Contact Us

National Office

44 Victoria St, 12th Floor

Toronto, ON M5C 3C4

Phone

416-867-9165 (local)

1-800-387-1856