Work in live production? You are invited to participate in academic research on equitable labor practices in our industry.
Earlier this month, producer and manager in the performing arts Brídín Clements Cotton and lighting designer Natalie Robin, launched a survey to collect information from people who have worked, or are currently working, in theatre production in the U.S.
The research is for a book which will explore equitable labor practices, examining both historical precedence and current circumstances, using case studies of current industry examples to document the progressive initiatives already underway in the field.
The authors will investigate data collection, models for analysis, and examples from other fields which can be applied to production in American theater, specifically around gender and race equity, support for caregivers, LBGTQIA+ representation, and safety. The work will also provide a series of tools and strategies for performing arts leaders to foster accessibility, representation, inclusion, belonging, and sustainability.
Survey FAQ
Who should complete the survey?
People who have worked in or currently work in design, stage or production management, and technical positions for professional theatre in the United States.
How much time does the survey take?
The survey typically takes 15-25 minutes to complete.
How will my responses be used?
Survey responses will be analyzed to generate qualitative and quantitative data which will be used in the book. Gathering data will allow the researchers to more effectively understand the challenges workers are facing, identify examples of practices that are working well, and develop strategies that are targeted at the most important problems or causal factors.
What is the book about?
This book will explore equitable labor practices in theatrical production. Examining both historical precedence and current circumstances, the book will use case studies of current industry examples to document the progressive initiatives already underway in the field. The authors will investigate data collection, models for analysis, and examples from other fields which can be applied to production in American theater, specifically around gender and race equity, support for caregivers, LGBTQIAA+ representation and safety. The book will provide a series of tools and strategies for performing arts leaders to foster accessibility, representation, inclusion, belonging and sustainability.
Will my name be used in the book?
No – based solely on your completion of the survey, your data would only be used anonymously. Survey respondents can choose to be anonymous or to include their contact information for potential follow-up. If a respondent chooses to include their contact information, the authors may follow up to further discuss your responses. The authors will contact any survey participant before using their name, even if you choose to share your contact information. Though we are not encrypting the data, we are not collecting personally identifiable information. We will not share any individual person's data in a way that is identifiable beyond shared anecdotes or examples shared by you in the survey.
When will the book be published?
The book is expected to be published in early 2024 by Routledge, an imprint of Taylor & Francis Group.
What if I have more questions?
You can read more about the project here: www.productionlaborbook.com or email the writers at [email protected].
Content Warning
Some of the information we are gathering may bring up harmful memories. Please care for yourself in completing the survey. Please reach out to the Entertainment Community Fund for continued support if you need more resources for care.