On Aug. 12, the United States Congress recognized Actors’ Equity Association’s (AEA) yearlong celebration of Broadway ensemblists. “A Chorus Year,” which was announced by AEA in January, was entered by representative Chellie Pingree in the Congressional Record, the official record of the goings-on in Congress.
“As co-chair of the bipartisan Congressional Arts Caucus, I’m proud to celebrate the unsung heroes of American theater: the chorus,” Pingree said. “From ‘Oklahoma!’ to ‘Hamilton,’ chorus performers have brought stories to life with extraordinary skill and passion. 2025 marks ‘A Chorus Year’ and the 70th anniversary of the merger that created Actors’ Equity Association as we know it — thanks in large part to the chorus members who led the charge for labor rights in 1919. These artists are more than background players. Their talent, work ethic and solidarity helped shape American theater and labor history. They exemplify the best of America: many people working as individuals to build something amazing together.”
“On behalf of our hard-working chorus members nationwide, I want to thank Rep. Pingree and the United States Congress for recognizing the unique contributions of the chorus both onstage, as dedicated performers, and off-stage, as tireless advocates for stronger industry protections,” said AEA second vice president and chair of the Advisory Committee on Chorus Affairs Al Bundonis in a statement. “‘A Chorus Year’ celebrates the incredible impact of ensemble members, honors the indispensable role they play in live theater and stands as a shining example of what we can accomplish when we work together towards a common goal.”
Aug. 12 marked the 70th anniversary of Chorus Equity merging with AEA, the latter which was founded in 1913. Chorus Equity was established by the chorines of Florenz Ziegfeld’s “Follies” series during the 1919 AEA strike; the two unions merged in 1955.
‘A Chorus Year’ will celebrate another milestone in November with the 75th anniversary of the Legacy Robe. The Legacy Robe is a ritual where a robe is passed from show to show on opening night, presented to the ensemble member with most Broadway chorus credits.
Pingree has served as representative for Maine's first congressional district since 2009.
