ACTRA Spotlight | ACTRA Toronto Reel Talk

Listen to the premiere episode of ACTRA Toronto Reel Talk, a new podcast and video series hosted by Kate Ziegler and Asante Tracey where real performers provide real perspectives on bargaining.

In this episode, "Money Talks", Asante sits down with ACTRA Toronto Treasurer Paul Constable to discuss Paul's career, some of the issues facing performers today, the changing nature of auditions, the importance of diversity and accessibility, the impacts of AI, and more.

You can also watch this episode on YouTube.

In our second episode of ACTRA Toronto Reel Talk, Kate Ziegler speaks with ACTRA Toronto VP and Councillor Amy Matysio. Amy shares her experiences preparing for union bargaining, discussing key issues such as the rise of AI in the industry, the challenges of self-taped auditions, and the economic pressures facing performers. She also emphasizes the need for updated protections, fair compensation, and greater respect and care for all performers.

In this episode of ACTRA Toronto Reel Talk, Kate Ziegler speaks with IPA bargaining team member and veteran stunt performer Steven “Shack” Shackleton about the unique challenges and contributions of the stunt community in the IPA Bargaining process. Shack highlights the critical priorities of "AIR"—Accessibility, Inclusion, Residuals, and Artificial Intelligence—focusing on AI-related concerns like deep fakes, data capture, and digital doubles, which could impact the livelihoods of performers. He also sheds light on the physical demands of stunt work and the importance of health and safety. The conversation underscores the growing representation of the stunt community within ACTRA Toronto, fostering unity and collaboration to ensure fair treatment and recognition for all members.

Join host David Gale in a funny and insightful episode of #ACTRAspotlight as he chats with Bruce McCulloch of The Kids In The Hall, and Vance Banzo and Tim Blair of TallBoyz.

This episode was originally recorded in February, 2020, just before the pandemic hit and the world shut down. As such, we did not feel it appropriate to release at the time. However, since our recording The Kids In The Hall have produced their new season, and the TallBoyz second season debuted. The conversation with David is a compelling listen after two years, as Bruce reflects on his past with The Kids In The Hall, and working on the launch of TallBoyz. Vance and Tim then share stories about their show, and working with Bruce.

In this episode, Asante Tracey speaks with ACTRA Toronto Executive Councillor and AI Subcommittee Co-Chair John Cleland about the critical implications of artificial intelligence (AI) in the entertainment industry. They discuss two key types of AI affecting performers: digital replicas and generative AI, and John highlights concerns such as the lack of consent protections, control over biometric data, and inadequate compensation for AI use. Further, John stresses the importance of ACTRA Members educating themselves, advocating for legislative protections, and actively participating in union efforts to address these challenges.