From: Stephen Kaplin <skactw-AT-tiac.net>
Subject: Re: PUPT: puppeteers union
Date: Mon, 09 Feb 2004 00:25:48 -0500


>Hi all,
>
>Just something I was wondering about: why is there no puppeteer's union to
>protect our rights and interests as artists? I'd like health insurance and
>a lawyer to protect my work. I think as professionals we deserve those
>priveledges? Has anyone ever started one? Do only SAG and AFTRA puppeteers
>deserve protection? I would like to believe everyone does and I wanted to
>know if it has been considered before or if I need to take on yet another
>project.
>
>Thanks,
>
>Yvette Edery
>
>
>
If you're in New York, you can join Actors Equity (in fact, you'd better,
if you want to be cast in a Broadway production.)
You can also join USA (United Scenic Artists) as a craftsperson if you are
a puppet builder, which lumps you in with the milliners, costumers and
electricians. It costs alot of cash and you need recommendations from other
union members and (for USA at least) you need to pass a test.
I don't know  what it's worth from a puppetry standpoint. You need to work
a sopecific number of weeks a year to quailfy for health coverage. That's
hard enough for any actor to do. However I've paid my AI dues over the
years, hoping one day to flash that card in front of some astonished
casting director's face. Hasn't happened yet.
Also, if you are self-employed, like so many puppeteers are, would a union
really represent you while you hold negotiations with yourself?
Hm-m-m-m.

Stephen




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