Will Joining Equity (AEA) Solve Your Audition Struggles? The Truth Every Performer Needs to Hear.
If you’ve been thinking that joining Equity (AEA) will magically unlock every Broadway and regional theatre audition, it’s time for a reality check.
The truth is, joining the union does not guarantee more auditions, more callbacks, or more bookings. In fact, with the changes happening in the industry right now—including Open Access and fewer EPA/ECC audition slots—it’s more complicated than ever.
As a proud Equity member and a musical theatre career coach, I see so much confusion around this topic inside my program, The Empowered Actor. Let’s walk through the biggest myths and truths about joining AEA—so you can make a fully informed decision about if and when it’s the right time for you.
Myth #1: Joining Equity Means Guaranteed Auditions
This is probably the most dangerous misconception out there. Joining Equity doesn’t guarantee you’ll get into every audition you want.
- There are fewer EPAs (Equity Principal Auditions) and ECCs (Equity Chorus Calls) happening.
- Many theatres now hold only one day of auditions instead of multiple days like they used to.
- Online sign-ups have become a digital lottery—you could end up #800 in line for a slot.
Myth #2: You Have to Be Equity to Book Equity Shows
Another huge misconception. Most regional theaters offer a mix of Equity and non-union contracts—meaning they actively cast non-union actors for Equity productions.
Unless it’s a Broadway production or a first national tour, you do not have to be Equity to be considered. In fact, staying non-union often allows you to work more consistently, building your resume before you join.
Myth #3: Equity Membership Makes You Instantly More Legit
There’s a belief that once you have that AEA card, you’ll automatically be taken more seriously by casting. That’s not always true.
What matters more is:
- Your audition materials
- Your reputation in the room (or on tape)
- Your ability to show up prepared and deliver the goods
What’s Changed with Open Access?
Thanks to Open Access, you no longer need Equity points to join the union. Now, with a few professional credits, you can apply online and join immediately.
This has created a flood of new Equity members—meaning more competition for fewer audition slots.
Should You Join Equity in 2025?
Here’s my honest take:
- ✅ If you’re consistently booking at Equity theaters and you’re ready for the next step, joining could make sense.
- ✅ If you’re ready to focus only on professional Equity work and you’re okay with fewer opportunities, joining could be right.
- ❌ If you’re still building your resume and learning the ropes, it might not be time.
Reminder: Equity is a tool—not a golden ticket. The card doesn’t book the job—you do.
Need Help Getting Your Audition Book Ready?
🎶 Download my FREE Audition Book Song List Blueprint!
This 20+ page guide breaks down all the must-have categories, plus examples of shows and songs to consider for your book right now.
👉 [Download it here]
Watch the Full Video for All My Insights (and Personal Experiences)
👉 [Watch Now: Will Joining Equity Solve Your Audition Struggles?]
This career is constantly evolving, and if you’re struggling to figure out your next right step, I’d love to help.
Inside my program, The Empowered Actor, I guide performers through these exact decisions—helping you build a career strategy that fits your goals, your casting, and your life.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, know this: you’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure it out alone either.
Want More Pro Tips?
✅ [Watch: How to Build Your Actor Website in Under an Hour]
✅ [Watch: Actors Access Setup Tutorial for Musical Theatre Performers]
✅ [Watch: Do You Need a Mic for Self Tapes? Hear the Difference!]
Ashlee Espinosa is an accomplished theatre professional with a Master of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre. As a seasoned actress, passionate educator, and dedicated career advisor, she empowers artists to build fulfilling, purpose-driven careers defined by their unique vision of success.
