ACTRA Toronto is the largest branch of ACTRA (the Alliance of Canadian Cinema, Television and Radio Artists), the union representing performers in the film, radio, television and digital media industries.

It is the largest organization of cultural workers in Canada. ACTRA Toronto’s jurisdiction extends across the province of Ontario, excluding the National Capital Region, and represents over 15,000 of ACTRA’s 28,000 members.

ACTRA's history dates back 80 years, growing, as it did, out of the Radio Artists of Toronto Society formed in 1941. Since then, ACTRA has played an important and vital role in the welfare of performers and in the development of our screen-based industry.

ACTRA negotiates contracts on behalf of its members with producers and engagers. Our contracts determine minimum standards of pay and working conditions under which performers can be engaged in a diverse industry that includes independent film production, commercials, radio and television drama, telephony, video games and digital media content.

When ACTRA members work, they are protected by the rights and protections outlined in ACTRA's agreements. Unlike traditional collective agreements, the agreements negotiated between ACTRA and producer associations or broadcasters establish minimum conditions and fees. ACTRA members, however, are allowed and encouraged to negotiate above these minimums. These agreements are administered and enforced by dedicated staff in ACTRA offices across the country.

In addition to the negotiation and administration of contracts, ACTRA also advocates for our industry and, more generally, for Canadian culture. ACTRA is nationally recognized as a leading proponent of Canadian culture.

As a founding member of FilmOntario, ACTRA Toronto plays an active role in representing the industry at home and internationally. We participate in international trade missions that aim to bring more work to our province. We are a key contributor to discussions within the industry and with government to facilitate a better business environment for production in Ontario.

We are proud of the work we do, but more so of the work done by our members. Ontario’s incredible wealth of talent is an important and precious resource. Our performers bring alive our stories with conviction and deeply felt emotion.