IATSE Shows Support for Behind the Scenes at All Levels

At the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) general executive board meeting in July in Boston, president Matthew D. Loeb asked the board members to set an example by approving a $25,000 donation to Behind the Scenes. President Loeb told the board, "Behind the Scenes supports IATSE members in times of hardship and need. We must stand behind this charity so that it may continue its good work on behalf of people working in our industry."

The vote followed a brief video presentation showing a number of IATSE members speaking about how Behind the Scenes helped them at a particularly difficult time in their lives. The Board's unanimous vote set in motion a wave of support for the charity from IATSE Locals and members around the country.

Lori Rubinstein, who represented Behind the Scenes at the board meeting and the Quadrennial Convention the following week, commented, "The response was immediate and powerful. Throughout the course of the convention many people came by to collect information on Behind the Scenes so they could take it to their home Locals to vote on a donation. Many people also told me they had a brother or sister in their Local who was in need of assistance."

Some Locals and regions voted on donations during the convention while others acted immediately upon returning home as contributions began arriving shorty afterwards. Those Locals who have already stepped up to follow the International's lead include United Scenic Artists Local 829, Makeup Artists & Hair Stylists Guild Local 706, Motion Picture Costumers Local 705, and Florida Studio Mechanics Local 477. Individual members have also contributed generously, sometimes in honor of or in memory of a loved one.

Behind the Scenes is grateful to president Loeb for his support and for leading the way to ensure that Behind the Scenes will be able to help all those who approach the charity for assistance.

Behind the Scenes provides financial assistance to entertainment technology professionals who are seriously ill or injured. For more information about Behind the Scenes, to donate, or to apply for a grant, visit the URL below.

See Behind the Scenes at PLASA Focus: Austin, September 10-11, and PLASA Focus: Nashville, February 18-19, 2014.