Exploring the SAG-AFTRA Foundation Website: Binge-Watching With a Purpose!

By Sandra Thomas
Twin Cities Local Board Member 

Most actors strive to keep their skills fresh. Taking classes and reading articles in magazines geared toward the professional actor are one way to keep current. But SAG-AFTRA members have an exclusive perk through access to the SAG-AFTRA Foundation website. Panel discussions and seminars devoted to keeping members informed about the intricacies of our rapidly evolving business are archived there, and can be accessed and viewed 24/7. All members have to do is visit the SAG-AFTRA Foundation website and register. Your member number and a password grants you access to exclusive content developed specifically for SAG-AFTRA members. Most seminars and panel discussions are initially live-streamed, and members are encouraged to email and tweet questions to the panels before the event. A recent offering dealt with actors who live and work outside of L.A. and New York; panelists included representatives from Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas and Boston.

Even if you don’t plan on switching markets anytime soon, it can be valuable to understand what the landscape is like for other locals. A recent favorite event of mine was a panel discussion with film editors who discussed ways to keep your performance in the film. To delve into the SAG-AFTRA Foundation website, you’ll want to use the toolbar at the top of the screen and click on Performers Programs. There are a variety of choices, including Casting Agents, Conversations, The Business and Voiceover Labs.

The Conversations are professionally moderated events featuring hard-working actors at the top of their game. Some Conversations include entire casts of award-winning television shows and feature films. Others feature a single artist. William H. Macy was recently interviewed about his writing and directing endeavors (he’s about to release the third feature film he’s written and directed), and he continues to act in the award-winning show Shameless.

This is binge-watching with the guilt removed, because the content is educational. Do yourself a favor and take a look at what’s offered gratis to SAG-AFTRA members. Explore the SAG-AFTRA Foundation website and take advantage of the exclusive content. The programs are informative, entertaining and relevant.

This item was originally featured in the March 2017 local newsletter.