The Canadian Actors’ Equity Association represents more than 6,000 artists working in theatre, opera and dance across the nation. Members include Canadian performers, directors, choreographers, fight directors, intimacy directors, and stage managers. As the voice of professional artists engaging in live performance in English Canada, Equity supports the creative endeavours of its members by providing benefits and advocacy. We spoke with Alex Levine, Executive Director of The Canadian Actors’ Equity Association, to learn more.
Describe your charity/non-profit/volunteer work in a few sentences.
Canadian Actors’ Equity Association is a labour organization that is the voice of nearly 6,000 artists working in the live performance sector in theatre, dance, and opera. Our member-driven association works to empower performers, directors, choreographers, fight directors, intimacy directors, and stage managers working across Canada.
What problem does it aim to solve?
Live performance art is integral to the fabric of Canadian culture, yet its artists are among the most vulnerable. Equity exists to ensure equitable wages, safe working conditions, and to advocate on behalf of live performance artists across all sectors of the government.
When did you start/join it?
I joined Equity as Executive Director in June of 2025, replacing Arden R. Ryshpan, who led the organization with strength and wisdom for 17 years.
What made you want to get involved?
For nearly 20 years, I worked as a writer and producer in the television industry. After years volunteering for the Writers Guild of Canada as a Delegate and a Councillor, I became the President and Chief Spokesperson of that organization and steered the WGC through some extremely turbulent times. My years working with the WGC were stressful and challenging, but also the most rewarding years of my life, and it was then and there that I realized that union work is a calling for me.
What was the situation like when you started?
The situation in the live performance sector remains challenging. Though the industry has seen some bounce-back in the past few years, we have still not returned to the volume of work opportunities that existed pre-pandemic. The sector is facing generational challenges in uncertain times: an evolving audience with less disposable income and more competition for its entertainment dollar, rising production costs, and a decline in cultural funding, to name a few.
How has it changed since?
It’s only been a few months, so unfortunately, not much yet! But I’m working hard to secure a sustainable future for our live performance artists.
What more needs to be done?
There’s always more to be done. Equity negotiates twelve collective agreements and administers an additional six engagement policies that our members work under. At every negotiation, we push to improve working conditions and remuneration. We are also very active in a Live Performance Lobbying Coalition that is currently advocating for the implementation of a labour-based tax credit that would increase work opportunities and stimulate economic growth in the Canadian live performing arts industry.
How can our readers help?
Get out there and see a play. Go to the ballet. Take in an opera. Enjoy the work of the amazingly talented artists we have in this country. And tell your MP that arts and culture matter to you!
Do you have any events coming up?
Canadian Actors’ Equity Association is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2026 – it’s been 50 years since we gained independence from Actors’ Equity in the U.S. back in 1976. We’ll be hosting 50th anniversary parties across the country, with each region honouring a local artist with Life Membership in the Association.
Where can we follow you?
Website | Facebook | Instagram
PAY IT FORWARD: What is an awesome local charity that you love?
It isn’t exactly local, but the AFC has been providing compassionate support for Canadian entertainment professionals for 70 years – helping artists to maintain their health, dignity and ability to work.
