The performers we know and love have gotten the all-clear from the Actors’ Equity Association to return to Walt Disney World after a long run without shows during the initial reopening of the parks.
From the Actors’ Equity Association:
“Actors’ Equity Association, the national labor union representing more than 51,000 professional actors and stage managers in live theatre, released the following statement regarding reports that Walt Disney World has agreed to provide space for an on-site center for COVID testing at Walt Disney World.
“We have been consistent that testing is an important part of ensuring a safe workplace for Equity performers, and today, I’m pleased to see that Disney World has agreed,” said Kate Shindle, President of Actors’ Equity Association. “With the news that Disney will make testing available for Equity performers and others in the park, I’m happy to announce that Equity’s executive committee has signed a memorandum of understanding with Disney for Equity performers to return.”
On June 23, Disney announced plans to recall members for rehearsals the following week. On June 25 Equity made a public statement that actors need to be tested because actors cannot practice social distancing throughout their workday. The following day, on June 26, Walt Disney World rescinded all of its recall notices for Equity members.”
As stated in the press release, the Memorandum of Understanding was established on the grounds of a new COVID-19 testing location opening on-site at Walt Disney World Resort, inside Disney’s Maingate Complex. Many Walt Disney World performers have yearned to return to work since the theme park shutdown, even launching a #BringBacktheMagic campaign after the parks reopened. We expect to see the return of shows and live entertainment as health and safety guidelines allow in the coming weeks.