"Love your website. It's much needed and hopefully will grow as more people
become aware of it.
Sure did hate your Morning AFTRA column, though. If you are going to run a website for all of the theatrefolk in the Twin Cities, I think you ought to broaden your circle of acquaintances. Anyone who has been living and working here for more than 5 years will tell you that this was a HUGE market for union commercials and industrials until a few years ago, when non-union producers began finding out they could keep more money for themselves by reducing or eliminating the already miniscule percentage of their budgets that provide wages and benefits for actors.
I've been at it for over 35 years, spending 18 years of that in L.A., and I can tell you
absolutely, positively that an actor's chance of being cast in a commercial in MSP is about 10 times greater than it is in L.A. And commercials is what this strike is about, not movies or TV. shows. Union commercials that supplement my income so I can do the work I love at Frank Theatre or Eye of the Storm. Union commercials that provide the health insurance that paid over $100,000 for my triple bypass a little over a year ago. Actors who work non-union for a $500 (or whatever) buyout may find it a struggle to have a long career without residuals, health insurance and a pension plan.
You are certainly entitled to your opinion, but when you use what seems to be a flip and disrespectful manner in writing about something very important to so many of us, do the research, talk to people who have been there. I, too, have great respect for union factory workers: my late father was one. But I also respect myself and others who act for a living,
and AEA, AFTRA and SAG are three organizations founded by actors to ensure
that we receive the respect that we deserve. Acting in commercials is not art, neither is working in a factory; but both are occupations that deserving of respect - something you denied MY - or should I say OUR profession in your editorial."
Tom Sherohman
(EDITOR'S NOTE from Pants - Mr. Sherohman is co-writer of the blockbuster "Mr. Magoo")
"Oh my gosh!!! You make me laugh out loud. Whoever you are, PLEASE keep being as wonderful as you are! I may not agree with everything you say (wait, I think I do...if not, I'm willing to change). I look forward to you every week! God Bless You!"
Karen Wiese-Thompson
Twin Cities Actress and Theatrehead Fan!
(EDITOR'S NOTE from Pants - Ms. Wiese-Thompson is the most talented and intelligent performer in the Twin Cities)