The Actors' Equity Association (AEA), commonly called Actors' Equity or simply Equity, is an American labor union representing those who work in live theatrical performance. Performers appearing in live stage productions without a book or through-storyline (vaudeville, cabarets, circuses) may be represented by the American Guild of Variety Artists (AGVA). The AEA works to negotiate quality living conditions, livable wages, and benefits for performers and stage managers. A theater or production that is not produced and performed by AEA members may be called "non-Equity".
What is Equity theater?
A theater or production that is performed by Actors' Equity Association (AEA) members is often called "Equity Theater". Actors' Equity Association commonly called Actor's Equity or more simply Equity, is an American Labor union representing those who work in live theatrical performance.  A theater or production not produced by Actors' Equity members is often called "non-Equity".