Using clips for self-promotion

Posted on August 4, 2008

Can I use clips of my prior performances (TV, movies, commercials, etc.) on-line or on my own personal website for career and casting purposes?

By doing this you could be exposing yourself to potential claims of infringement of copyright under the terms of the Copyright Designs and Patents Act 1988. In order to cover yourself you would need to get permission from all those who may contain copyright in the recorded works, which may include authors of the music, scriptwriters, set designers and other rights holders. All the performers in the clip have performers’ rights, which means they have rights with respect to the use of a recording of the performance. A performer has the right to control the broadcasting of his or her live performance to the public and you would therefore need to get permission from all performers. It is unlikely that rights holders would expect payment for the use of the clip on a show reel, but it is in your interests to clear the rights of all the performers involved.

Consolidating pensions

Posted on August 4, 2008

I am a member of the Equity Pension Scheme (EPS) and also have another separate pension.Would I be financially better off by consolidating these all into one arrangement?

It depends. The EPS is very competitively priced and you may find it offers better value for money that your existing arrangements. First Act, our appointed Insurance Advisers and administrators of the EPS are best placed to help you answer this question. Contact Andrew Barker of First Act on 020 8686 5050 or via email:eps@firstact.co.uk.

They will provide you with full assistance on a no fee and no obligation basis. Other useful information can be found on their website at www.firstact.co.uk .

TV is Changing • Equity