The SAG-AFTRA Foundation has announced the official opening of the Meryl Streep Center for Performing Artists.
The 15,000 square-foot facility is positioned on the tenth floor of the Union’s headquarters on Wilshire Boulevard and is called in honor of Streep, essentially the most philanthropic donor within the Foundation’s nearly 40-year history. The state-of-the-art facility is a hub designed to assist SAG-AFTRA artists fine-tune their skills and advance their careers.
Courtney B. Vance, president and chairman of the board of the SAG-AFTRA Foundation, shared his thoughts on the opening: “Meryl Streep’s quiet and consistent support for the Foundation and her fellow actors for many years has been nothing wanting extraordinary. In recent times when serious crises struck our community, Meryl stepped up immediately to assist lift up performers who needed it most.”
He added, “Naming our recent Center in her honor is our way of expressing gratitude for her unwavering commitment and generosity, in addition to embodying the excellence she exemplifies in our industry. The Meryl Streep Center for Performing Artists will encourage and nurture the abilities of countless performers, serving as a beacon of inspiration to us all. We’re immensely proud to unveil this vibrant recent home where SAG-AFTRA artists can connect, collaborate, and grow together. We eagerly anticipate the remarkable work, creativity and careers that can come from it.”
Among the many recent facilities are the Nicole Kidman Green Room, a classy and comfy environment for panelists and guests of the Foundation to loosen up and prepare before their “Conversations” and “The Business” programs. The space was designed in collaboration with Kidman, a serious donor to the Foundation.
The Nicole Kidman green room.
The Leonardo DiCaprio On-Camera Lab will allow actors to record skilled self-tapes and develop their on-screen presence with high-quality camera, lighting and sound equipment. Staff record the sessions and can be found to help as readers, in addition to offer creative and constructive feedback.
As well as, the middle features the newly relocated and upgraded Don LaFontaine Voiceover Lab, which offers the newest audio technology and equipment, in addition to solo and group recording booths. This lab provides voice actors with the chance to record voiceovers and enhance their techniques.
Casting Access classes can even be held, led by industry professionals.
Cyd Wilson, executive director of the SAG-AFTRA Foundation, added, “The opening of the Meryl Streep Center for Performing Artists marks a serious milestone for the Foundation. This Center will provide unmatched resources and opportunities all for gratis to SAG-AFTRA artists.” Wilson continued, “As well as, the Foundation operates and maintains its programs in Los Angeles, Latest York and online through charitable gifts, grants and sponsorships.”
Because the SAG-AFTRA foundation sets to resume all of its in-person programming, screenings might be held in the brand new Tom Hanks & Rita Wilson Screening Room, a state-of-the-art facility named in honor of two additional major supporters of the Foundation.
The Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson Screening Room.
The “Powered by LG” screening room will host the Foundation’s “Conversations” programs and “The Business” panels. Members will enjoy film and tv screenings on a surprising 200-inch “Miraclass” 4K direct-view LED cinema screen from LG Electronics and immersive surround sound. All seats within the screening room are dedicated to SAG-AFTRA performers who made significant contributions to the Foundation’s Emergency Financial Assistance Program to support their community.
The Meryl Streep Center is offered for third-party rentals for industry screenings and premieres, FYC events, table reads, corporate events and more.
Since its formation in 1985, the SAG-AFTRA Foundation has distributed greater than $18.6 million in emergency financial and health assistance to actors in addition to disaster relief. It has also given out greater than $9.2 million in scholarship funds.
