Valuable skill

Published Tuesday 26 August 2008 at 11:30

Danny Gilfeather’s assertion there is a “total lack of trade union comradeship”, when it comes to Equity representing the interests of our walk-on members (Stage Talk, August 21, page 8), I believe was well made. Quite rightly tribute was paid to Michael Earl for the way he has stood up for their interests, but the idea that Equity does not have the stomach or resolve to fight for professional walk-ons is wrong.

Many will recall that walk-on work used to be regarded as the variety and actors ‘dole’ money, when we did not have any work. As such, when the closed shop existed, walk-on work was undertaken by experienced professionals who understood the disciplines and skills required.

However, we now seem to be in a situation where every Tom, Dick, Harry and Mary is able to be a walk-on. The stories about taxi drivers, shop-workers, people from the labour exchange and nefarious types appearing on set in the guise of doing professional walk-on work are numerous.

Some stories may be true and others folk-lore, but such a situation undermines the once high regard many in our profession had for walk-ons.

In this respect, Danny’s comments touch a very tender spot. Equity must ensure that we are not seen as using walk-ons as just a fee-paying appendage.

I believe in order to achieve this and obtain the results to which Danny quite rightly aspires, Equity needs to review its criteria for membership within the walk-on field.

Professional walk-ons provide a valuable skill within our profession and the undermining of this is unacceptable. Hopefully Danny will renew his membership so he may ensure his voice is heard and, as comrades together, we achieve something positive for our walk-on members.

Dave Eager

Equity variety/LE councillor

59 Green Drive

Rossall Beach

Thornton-Cleveleys

Lancashire