Actors’ Equity Association says they have reached an agreement with Walt Disney World that will allow performers to return to work now that the company is providing space for an on-site COVID-19 testing center.
Disney and Equity have been in discussions over the testing of Cast Members since late June.
Kate Shindle, President of Actors’ Equity Association said of the announcement:
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. 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.
Disney has not confirmed any agreement and says that the new testing site is not connected to their discussions with Equity.
We have offered the location to help with community testing. The Florida Division of Emergency Management will operate the location which is available to Cast Members and their immediate families as well as Florida residents. Any suggestion that this has been done as a result of any one union is unfounded. Our actions support all cast and our community at large.
There has been no word on how quickly live stage shows could return to the theme parks.
Source: Actors’ Equity Association / @ScottGustin
Tom is the former host/producer of the Disneyland Edition podcast and is currently the co-host of the Connecting With Walt podcast, plus is also providing Disneyland content from the parks. He enjoys traveling with friends and spending time with family, including his son and grandson. In his spare time he volunteers with Scouts BSA and Cub Scouts, and helped found his son's former Cub Scout Pack. His favorite Disneyland attraction is Space Mountain.
