Can Non-Union Actors Show Up to Actors' Equity Auditions?

The age old question… if I’m a non union actor, can I show up to Actors’ Equity auditions and hope to be seen?

Non-union actors are generally not allowed to attend Equity auditions, which are specifically for members of the Actors' Equity Association. This is because Equity auditions are governed by the union's rules and regulations, and non-union actors are not subject to those same rules.

However!!!!!

There are some situations where non-union actors may be able to attend Equity auditions.

If the casting office or creative team has the time and is willing to do so, they will elect to see non-union actors. This is not always the case, but it does happen. And to increase your chances of being seen if you ARE non-union, you’ll want to arrive early.

Some theaters may hold "open calls" or "non-Equity auditions" where non-union actors are invited to audition for specific roles. These auditions are typically separate from Equity auditions and may be advertised separately. Check Playbill or Broadway World for casting calls.

It's important for non-union actors to research the specific audition and casting policies of each theater company they are interested in working with, as the policies may vary from company to company.

It's also important for non-union actors to understand the potential benefits and drawbacks of joining a union like Actors' Equity, as union membership can provide certain protections and benefits.