SAG-AFTRA Foundation opens Meryl Streep Center for performing artists

The SAG-AFTRA Foundation has announced the official opening of the Meryl Streep Center for Performing Artists.

The 15,000-square-foot facility is located on the 10th floor of the Union’s headquarters on Wilshire Boulevard and is named in honor of Streep, the most philanthropic donor in the Foundation’s nearly 40-year history. The state-of-the-art facility is a hub designed to help SAG-AFTRA artists refine 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 of the Foundation and her fellow actors for decades has been nothing short of extraordinary . When serious crises hit our community in recent years, Meryl immediately stepped up to help artists who needed it most.”

He added: “Naming our new Center in her honor is our way of expressing gratitude for her continued commitment and generosity, and embodying the excellence she represents in our sector. The Meryl Streep Center for Performing Artists will encourage and nurture the talents of countless artists and serve as a beacon of inspiration for us all. We are extremely proud to unveil this vibrant new home where SAG-AFTRA artists can connect, collaborate and grow together. We eagerly look forward to the remarkable work, creativity and careers that will result.”

The new facilities include the Nicole Kidman Green Room, a stylish and comfortable environment for Foundation panellists and guests to relax and prepare for their ‘Conversations’ and ‘The Business’ programmes. The space was designed in collaboration with Kidman, a major donor to the Foundation.

The Leonardo DiCaprio On-Camera Lab allows actors to record professional self-shots and develop their on-screen presence with high-quality camera, lighting and sound equipment. Staff record the sessions and are available to assist as readers and provide creative and constructive feedback.

In addition, the center features the recently relocated and upgraded Don LaFontaine Voiceover Lab, which offers the latest audio technology and equipment, as well as solo and group recording booths. This lab offers voice actors the opportunity to record voice-overs and improve their techniques.

There will also be Casting Access classes 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 an important milestone for the Foundation. This center will provide unparalleled resources and opportunities at no cost to SAG-AFTRA artists.” Wilson continued, “In addition, the Foundation operates and maintains its programs in Los Angeles, New York and online through charitable donations, grants and sponsorships.”

As the SAG-AFTRA foundation resumes all in-person programming, the screenings will be held in the 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 “Powered by LG” screening room will host the Foundation’s “Conversations” programs and “The Business” panels. Members can enjoy film and television screenings on a stunning 200-inch “Miraclass” 4K direct-view LED cinema screen from LG Electronics and immersive surround sound. All seats in the screening room are reserved for SAG-AFTRA artists who have made significant contributions to the Foundation’s Emergency Financial Assistance Program to support their communities.

The Meryl Streep Center is available for third-party rentals for industry screenings and premieres, FYC events, table reads, corporate events and more.

Since its inception in 1985, the SAG-AFTRA Foundation has provided more than $18.6 million in emergency financial and healthcare assistance to actors, as well as disaster relief. It has also issued more than $9.2 million in student scholarships.