Calling all Hawaiʻi actors! SAG-AFTRA workshops begin this week

HONOLULU (KHON2) — August is a special time for the entertainment industry in Honolulu, as Mayor Rick Blangiardi has officially declared it “Actors Month” to recognize the vital contributions of actors to the culture and economy of the islands.

This declaration shines a spotlight on the local talent that has brought global attention to Hawaiʻi, not only through blockbuster films and TV shows but also through local theater and independent films.

“Actors have played an integral role in shaping the cultural and economic landscape of Honolulu,” Mayor Blangiardi stated. “Their performances have brought global attention to our beautiful islands. I am proud to declare August as Actors Month in Honolulu to honor their significant contributions.”

The celebration of Actors Month is being led by the Hawaiʻi Local chapter of SAG-AFTRA, the union representing actors and other entertainment professionals.

KHON2.com was able to catch up with Andrea “Andy” Sikkink, board president of SAG-AFTRA Hawaiʻi Local. She explained that the month is packed with events designed to support and connect local actors, many of whom are navigating a rapidly changing industry.

“We decided August in our local was going to be Actors Month,” Sikkink said. “It’s an opportunity for actors to get back together, refresh their skills, and stay connected as the industry evolves.”

Workshops and panels for local alent

Throughout the month, SAG-AFTRA Hawaiʻi Local is hosting a variety of workshops, mixers, and panels. These events are designed to help actors stay sharp and ready for the next opportunity, even as the industry experiences shifts in production and distribution.

“Many shows have completed their seasons; and unfortunately, some have been canceled,” Sikkink acknowledged. “But this is a chance for actors to get together, meet casting directors, and practice their skills.”

One of the key events is a panel discussion featuring top casting directors, including those who have worked on major projects like Disney’s Moana and other network productions. These panels provide local actors with insights into the industry and tips on how to navigate it successfully.

Sikkink emphasized that the workshops are open not only to union members but also to those who aren’t yet part of SAG-AFTRA.

“We’re inviting people who maybe aren’t part of our union to also take advantage of these opportunities,” she explained. “They pay a fee, but they can meet some of the casting directors and really learn from each other.”

Adapting to industry changes

The entertainment industry is undergoing significant changes, particularly with the rise of streaming platforms and the shift in how shows are produced and consumed.

Where once a TV show might have run for 25 episodes a season, many now produce just eight, often released all at once for binge-watching.

This change has affected job opportunities for actors, making events like those offered during Actors Month even more crucial.

“It’s not just Hawaiʻi that’s adapting; it’s the whole industry,” Sikkink said. “But if we can stay connected, practice, and be ready when an opportunity arises, that’s huge.”

SAG-AFTRA Hawaiʻi Local is also focusing on supporting local filmmakers, who play a critical role in creating job opportunities for actors. At the end of the month, the union will host a panel with local filmmakers to discuss how to produce films independently.

This event aims to empower local talent to tell their own stories and generate more work within the community.

“We want to tell our own stories. Our voices and our stories are every bit as real as those from anywhere else,” Sikkink explained. “And we can make it super real because we’ve lived it.”

Supporting local productions

One of the key messages during Actors Month is the importance of supporting local filmmakers and productions. Sikkink highlighted that local productions not only help preserve Hawaiʻi’s unique culture but also provide essential opportunities for actors and crew members.

“Local filmmakers can create and generate jobs, especially if they’re able to find funding for those projects,” Sikkink said. “It’s very important, and we’re capping the end of the month off with a panel focused on how to make your own films and grow your own projects.”

Sikkink also addressed concerns that some actors have about joining SAG-AFTRA, particularly the fear that union membership might limit their opportunities to work on smaller, independent projects.

She reassured them that the union offers a variety of contracts designed to support different types of productions, including ultra-low and micro-budget films.

“Our executive director can walk filmmakers through the process so they can make a film successfully under a contract, ensuring everyone is protected,” Sikkink said. “These smaller films can be just as great as big-budget productions because everyone knows what needs to be done.”

Sikkink emphasized that SAG-AFTRA’s role is to protect actors and ensure they have safe working conditions, fair wages and access to necessary resources.

“We’ve worked hard to get protections in place, and we’re not going to work off the contract. There’s no way that serves anybody’s best interest,” she added.

Looking forward

As August continues, SAG-AFTRA Hawaiʻi Local will keep providing opportunities for actors to connect, learn and grow.

Whether through workshops, panels, or informal mixers, Actors Month is all about celebrating the talent and dedication of Hawaiʻi’s acting community.

“We’re here to support each other and to be ready for whatever comes next,” Sikkink said. “Honolulu needs its actors, and Actors Month is our way of making sure they have the tools and opportunities they need to succeed.”

For more information on the events happening during Actors Month, visit the SAG-AFTRA Hawaiʻi Local website or follow them on social media. You can click here.

Whether you’re an experienced actor, a budding filmmaker or someone with a passion for storytelling, there’s something for everyone during this special month dedicated to the arts in Hawaiʻi.