Frinton Summer Theatre signs house deal with Equity in 'win' for members

Frinton Summer Theatre – the UK’s oldest summer repertory theatre – has signed a house agreement with Equity that will ensure its performers receive "a decent level of pay".

Posting on Twitter/X, Equity described the move as a "new win for members".

As well as performers’ wages, the agreement is set to protect terms and conditions for both actors and stage managers. 

Regional Equity official Iain Croker said: "It has been a pleasure to work with Clive Brill, artistic director and producer, on this agreement. It ensures his performers are treated as workers and afforded their statutory rights at a decent level of pay, all while supporting local theatre during the important summer months.”

Frinton has, in recent years, celebrated its 80th anniversary. Aside from during the Second World War and the Covid-19 pandemic, Frinton has staged weekly shows every summer since it opened in 1934. 

The theatre has been credited with kick-starting the careers of renowned actors such as Vanessa Redgrave, Jane Asher and Lynda Bellingham. 

Brill said: “I am proud to say I have been a member of Equity since the start of my career over thirty years ago. It was always my dream to have an Equity card and in those days Frinton Summer Theatre was one of the theatres where you could properly launch your career. Vanessa Redgrave started with us. As did Neil Dudgeon. These days we try to give first time jobs to as many graduates as possible. I am delighted to once again be in the Equity fold."