Actors' Equity is committed to the protection and welfare of young performers working in the theatre. Under most Equity agreements, there are special provisions for juvenile performers (under the age of 18) which provide for proper security, supervision and education while the young performer is rehearsing, performing or on tour in an Equity production.
Equity will:
- Ensure a safe and sanitary workplace environment for your child
- Enforce the terms and provisions of your child's contract
- Respond to questions you have about your child's contract
For more information, please refer to our guide for parents of young performers, Young Performers – An Overview.
The New York State Department of Labor has a web page with additional information and resources for child performers.
More information about Child Labor Laws from the US Department of Labor can be found at youthrules.gov.
For further information, contact 212-869-8530 or your local Equity office.
May a juvenile member be in a school play?
Equity permits a member who is under the age of 18 to claim Juvenile Withdrawal status to temporarily withdraw from the Association in order to work without benefit of Equity Contract. This actor on Juvenile Withdrawal may later be reinstated by the Association without limitation. Once a member turns 18, they may only appear in school or community theatre with Equity's express written consent.
