Equity Introduces Alex Levine as New Executive Director

Canadian Actors’ Equity Association is excited to announce Alex Levine’s appointment as its new Executive Director. A labour leader, entertainment lawyer, award-winning screenwriter and television producer, Levine officially assumes his duties May 20, 2025, succeeding Arden R. Ryshpan in the role she has held at Equity for over 17 years.

“On behalf of our National Council and the members across the country, I am thrilled to welcome Alex to Equity,” said Scott Bellis, Council President. “We’re confident that his experience, expertise, and deep commitment to supporting Canada’s arts will provide our Association with the leadership it needs, ensuring we continue to grow stronger and are prepared to face any challenges ahead.”

Levine’s previous experience includes over a decade at Writers Guild of Canada as a Delegate, Councillor, Treasurer, and finally, President and Chief Spokesperson. During his tenure as President, he steered the WGC through a leadership transition as well as challenging labour negotiations that necessitated the WGC’s historic first Strike Authorization Vote.

“I am honored to be joining Equity and serving its diverse and talented membership across the country,” said Levine. “In a world besieged by small-screen, short-form entertainment, the shared social experience of live performance has never been more important. My goal is not only to continue the vital work of defending and advancing the rights of Equity’s members, but to help ensure a sustainable future for the live performance sector.”

As Canadian Actors’ Equity Association prepares to celebrate its 50th anniversary next year, Levine’s appointment will bring a new and energetic approach to the work of negotiating and administering nearly twenty agreements and engagement policies, collaborating with industry partners on significant lobbying initiatives such as the Live Performance Arts Sector Tax Credit, and maintaining the Association’s standing as a leader in protecting artists’ rights.

Canadian Actors’ Equity Association is the voice of nearly 6,000 professional artists working in theatre, opera, and dance across Canada. Equity’s national membership includes performers, directors, choreographers, fight directors, intimacy directors, and stage managers.