Which Way, L.A.?

Is Acting a Labor of Love or a Job for Pay?

Actors' Equity, the union for live stage performers, is divided over "the 99-seat plan." We hear a debate including national Executive Director Mary McColl and Oscar winner Tim Robbins, founder of the 99-seat theater, The Actors' Gang.

By Warren Olney • Mar 12, 2015 • 23m Listen

In Los Angeles, since the 1980's, the Actors Equity union has allowed "the 99-seat theater plan." Members can accept token stipends for live performances in small theaters, where they rehearse for free. The Drama Critics Circle says most of the plays it has honored would never have been produced if it weren't for the plan — which made them affordable. But the national union now says it's time for a change. Six thousand local members will start voting in two weeks on whether they should be paid California's minimum wage of $9 an hour.

Photo: Ian W. Hill