Performers and stage managers at two Norfolk theatres will see improvements to their pay and conditions as Sheringham Little Theatre and the Pavilion Theatre in Gorleston renew their Equity House Agreements. The House Agreements set minimum pay, terms and conditions for performers and some stage management engaged by the two theatres in Norfolk.
The House Agreement with Sheringham Little Theatre, where actor Suranne Jones has recently become President, was first created several years ago and fully revised for 2024. The renewed House Agreement with Gorleston Pavilion Theatre, which the theatre first signed in 2023, now covers their summer shows as well as their successful pantomime production.
Theatre director Debbie Thompson at Sheringham Little Theatre says:
"We are extremely grateful to Equity for their support in ensuring that every actor we employ is looked after. Although we are a small community theatre, our professional Summer Season is in its 64th year and is still very popular. We have always strived to be a fair employer and Equity’s validation is very important to us. We pride ourselves on being a family both for audiences and actors. We are delighted that Suranne has joined and is championing our work."
Alex Youngs of Gorleston Pavilion Theatre says:
"We are thrilled to have refreshed our Equity House Agreement for 2024, building on the positive work that we started last year to strengthen our commitment to fair pay and working conditions as the Gorleston Pavilion Theatre’s new custodians.
"I’m extremely proud to be championing positive progress towards best industry practice at a small venue such as ours and I’m delighted to have worked alongside Equity to have achieved this for all of our in-house productions."
Iain Croker Equity Official for East and South East England says:
"It has been a pleasure to work with Debbie at Sheringham Little Theatre and Alex at Gorleston Pavilion Theatre to ensure their Equity House Agreements evolve to provide good paid work for members but also reflect the unique needs of their respective venues. Norfolk’ s thriving arts scene extends beyond Norwich and both these seaside theatres are not just cornerstones of their communities but attract thousands of tourists each year all contributing to the local economy."
