Good Standing Tickets

The concept of "Good Standing" is an important and frequent topic in theater circles. It refers to a person or entity's status with a theater organization, often a union or professional association such as Actors' Equity Association (AEA) or the Society of Stage Directors and Choreographers (SSDC). In order to work professionally as a performer, director, or choreographer in many theaters, one must maintain good standing with these organizations.

At its most basic level, good standing means that a person or organization is in compliance with the rules and regulations set out by their governing body. For actors, this may mean paying dues and fees on time, attending mandatory meetings or workshops, and following codes of conduct such as not accepting non-union work or working for wages below the industry standard. Directors and choreographers may have similar requirements, along with additional rules specific to their craft such as adhering to rehearsal schedules and guidelines for staging productions.

But good standing goes beyond mere rule-following: it speaks to a level of professionalism and dedication to the craft. Maintaining good standing often requires a high level of commitment, including ongoing training, networking, and keeping up-to-date with industry news and trends. Those who are able to do so demonstrate not only their technical prowess, but also their passion for theater and a willingness to be part of a larger community of artists.

What happens when someone loses good standing? Depending on the organization, the consequences can range from being unable to participate in certain events or projects, to being stripped of membership altogether. For example, AEA has strict rules regarding non-union work, and members who violate these rules risk fines and suspension or revocation of their union card. SSDC similarly expects its members to adhere to professional standards and the organization’s code of ethics, and serious violations can result in disciplinary action up to and including expulsion.

Ultimately, good standing serves to uphold the integrity and quality of the theatre industry. By setting high standards and enforcing them, organizations ensure that professionals in the field are held to a certain level of excellence. And for those who maintain good standing, it provides not only a sense of pride and accomplishment, but also access to valuable resources and opportunities for growth. In theater, being in good standing is more than just following the rules – it’s a reflection of one's commitment to the craft and to the broader community of artists who make it all possible.