This resource relies on article references from the CTA/ITA, based on the 2024 terms. Always confirm the requirements currently in effect on your specific agreement or engagement policy. The information provided here is not a substitute for a solid understanding of the CTA/ITA as it applies to Theatre for Young Audiences.
TYA at a Glance
Definitions
Working hours (55:07, 63:13, 63:14)
For cast — includes performances, workshops, travel, rehearsal
For SM — includes performance, workshops, travel, rehearsal, all ancillary activities, and other duties as ridered
Performance hours (55:14A)
Includes performance, workshops, and discussion periods
Engagement week (18:18)
Monday through Sunday, inclusive
Local touring (55:10)
The Artist returns to the designated pickup point at the point of origin within 10 hours
Stage management day may be 11 hours to include 1 hour of prep time
Overnight touring (55:02B)
The Artist is outside of the point of origin for more than 10 hours
Deadlines
Local vs overnight touring | Notification 2 weeks in advance whether tour will be local or overnight in any given week | 55:15 |
Per diems payment | 1 week in advance of the week to which it applies 55:02B Accommodations list | 55:02B |
Housing list | List of options provided at least 2 weeks prior to departure date. Artist must signify acceptance/preference within 1 week of receipt | 49:06A |
Driving
Number of drivers | 2 per vehicle | 49:23F |
Minimum overnight rest | 12 hours | 55:16O |
Max consecutive driving | 3 hours | 49:23F |
Fees
Early first call of the day | Line 3 of Schedule A | 55:09 |
Overnight rest infringement | Line 3 of Schedule A | 55:21 |
Meal Infringement – Cast | Line 9 of Schedule A | 55:22C |
Meal Infringement – SM | Line 7 of Schedule A | 55:22D |
Excess Daily Hours | Line 1 of Schedule A | 55:20 |
Excess Weekly Hours | Line 1 of Schedule A | 55:20 |
Meal for Run-Out | Meal provided, or $10 stipend when away from point of origin for up to ten consecutive hours | 55:17A |
Per Diem | Fee booklet – 55:02B | 55:02B |
Return to point of origin fee | Fee booklet – 55:18 | 55:18 |
Driver Fee | Fee Booklet 49:23F | 49:23F |
Scheduling
General
First call | First call of the day may not be before 7:00 am | 55:09 |
Overnight rest | 12 hours minimum | 55:12 |
Free day | 1 per engagement week | 55:13A |
SM Prep time | 1.5 hours per day maximum | 55:27A |
Rehearsal
Prior to performance | Standard rehearsal hours apply (24:03). | 55:11A |
During performance | Rehearsal only within allowable working hours 2 show day: only in the first week of shows, and only twice in the week | 55:11 |
Performances
Start time | 65% of shows each week must begin before 4:30pm (or 26:00 applies) | 55:14C |
Presentation hours | Per week: 20 performance hours maximum Per day: 4 performance hours maximum* Maximum running time: 2 hours* * (including intervals, but not breaks or half hour) | 55:14A |
Performances per day | 3 performances per day maximum | 55:14D |
Breaks | 20 min interval maximum 15 min between performances minimum At least one 30 min break when there are 3 performances in a day | 55:14F |
Performances: In Point of Origin at Regular Place of Performance
Span of day | 9 hours from first to last call of the day maximum | 55:22A |
Actor preparation | Full half hour call required | 55:22A |
Breaks | 1 hour between rehearsals and performances minimum | 55:22A |
Performances: On Tour
Span of day | Local — Cast: 10 hours from first to last call of the day | 55:10 |
Weekly max hours | Local: 45 hours | 55:08 |
Actor preparation | 15 min before first performance of the day minimum | 55:22C |
Meal Break | 1 hour after maximum 5 hours of work | 55:22B |
Partial day | 1 day per week with maximum 1 performance, emergency rehearsal and/or travel | 55:13B |
Performance locations | 2 per day maximum | 55:14E |
Load ins & outs | 1 hour per location maximum | 55:25 |
Travel call | Travel time begins when vehicle is scheduled to depart | 55:16O |