60% of Equity members anticipate difficulty in meeting essential costs due to the cost-of-living crisis. Bumper profits for big companies and low wages for working people are helping drive this crisis. The most important thing we can do as a union is fight for better pay and conditions.

In this episode of the Equity Green Room, host Jackie Clune talks to Equity General Secretary Paul W Fleming about upcoming pay claims and negotiations in the theatre sector. Essential listening for anyone who wants to join the fight for a fairer deal for our members and all creatives.

“We prepare, we research we smash it and then silence, nothing.” In the latest episode of the Equity Green Room, host Jackie Clune investigates ways in which the casting process can damage performers’ self-esteem and what Equity are doing to make the process fairer.

Jackie is joined by the National Theatre’s Head of Casting Alastair Coomer, and Equity member and actor Abiola Ogunbiyi, for a lively chat on the importance of giving and receiving a yes/no after an audition. Tigger Blaize, Vice-Chair of Equity’s LGBTQ+ Committee, also joins Jackie to explore the issue of authentic casting and who should get to play which roles.

Late nights, precarious work, performance anxiety, constant knocks to your ego and bank balance – the pressures of working in the performing arts can take its toll on anyone’s mental health. Claire Cordeaux (British Association for Performing Arts Medicine) joins Jackie Clune for a timely conversation about the impact an arts career can have on your mental health – and how you can seek support. They’re joined by actor and researcher Alice Brockway. Equity members also share their own personal experiences and Policy Officer Liam Budd shares news of Equity’s upcoming mental health commission.

If you would like mental health support, as an Equity member you can have six free counselling services through the British Association for Performing Arts Medicine. Find out more.