No Masks required for performers on set!
Here is a summary that we have compiled for WeAudition members on how SAG AFTRA believes producers can provide a safer set and safer casting before we have a COVID-19 vaccine.
The aim is to mitigate the risk of actors getting sick when they are not following distancing guidelines for long periods of time.
Read the full guidelines here.
What does it mean for actors?
- Regular, consistent testing
- A new ‘ZONE’ system A B and C (Actors in Zone A)
- No one can be allowed access to Zone A (or Zone B) for the first time unless they have been tested and cleared within the last 24 hours.
- Zone A personnel should be tested three
times a week at a minimum - Daily nasopharyngeal testing if intimate contact, or extreme exertion
- Crew in PPE (Masks etc)
- CLOSED SET
- 10 hour working day
- Staggered meals
Definition of SAG AFTRA Covid-19 Zone A:
Zone A is any perimeter within which activity occurs without physical distancing or the use of PPE. In most cases, this will mean performers working on set with no protection alongside crew.
Zone A is a bubble encasing closely vetted vulnerable people. It can be as small or as large as necessary, can function only for a few hours if need be, and can include controlled points of access between different Zone As.
What does it Recommend for Casting?
- Remote casting sessions and callbacks with live broadcast capabilities like WeAudition recommended where possible
- “live” auditions must be at spaced intervals to
accommodate physical distancing. There will be a waiting
place for actors to congregate where physical distancing
can apply, or you will wait in your car and be called. - Digitally distribute scripts/rundowns/schedules with
provisions made for confidentiality, i.e., digitally signed
confidentiality agreements. - You might be asked to check in via your phone from outside the casting area and only attend when you have a text.
- In-person auditions are discouraged
- If an in-person group audition is required, actors should have a partition placed in between them, or at a minimum wear clear
face shields, all of which to be provided by the producer.
This is a joint report from the DGA, SAG-AFTRA, IATSE and Teamsters’ Committees.
June 2020 Note: SAG AFTRA have said that they do not approve of any waiver which producers are asking performers to sign as a condition of employment. For the latest update see the SAG AFTRA website Covid page.
Stay safe everyone.
Richard
