the report of the pilot project - International Labour Organization

Report of the Pilot Research Project on Children Working in Cultural and Artistic Activities
Theatre is a world different from the TV series and commercials sector.”
Stressing the importance of legally arranging working conditions, an experienced stage player said
the following about facilities provided to children in sets: “We have created a home-like environment
in the set. I coach him for his parts to play. As a stage artist it was not so diffi cult for me to do this.
We have been working together for 5 years now. In sets, I protect the rights of children and make sure
that they are treated well.”
The lead player we interviewed in the set explained his ideas as follows: “Working conditions as a
whole entail many problems. Insurance, security, leaves, rights etc are all problematic. Children
spend long time in unhealthy environments. There is no spaces or facilities for resting, sleeping etc
and neither is there health workers or ambulance in case of any accident. I’d never want my child to
act. Sets are not places conducive to child health and development. The problems of the sector must
be addressed in a holistic manner. Parents of child actors must be well educated to protect the rights
of their children.”
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4.1.4. Findings from Interviews with Former Child Actors
A former “child star” who is still acting says family decisions about children are quite important and
pointed out to what families must be aware of in particular. According to this player, uninformed
status of parents is abused by producers and directors; families should be keen in such matters as
working conditions and the rights of child actors to education and health. This former child actor
(FCA 1) gave the following important information regarding working conditions:
- “When acting is selected as a profession for the child, business wise concerns of families may
be understood from time to time; but in all circumstances, it is essential to provide for time and
conditions that the child can continue his or her education.”
- “Usually children stop acting for a while in their transition to adolescence. In this period, the
reasons for break should be well explained in order not to give way to any perception of failure.”
- “Series require continuous working. The child should not be allowed to enter into contracts
envisaging irregular and intensive working hours. Before deciding to let their children act,
families must be well informed about working conditions and possible negative effects on child
development.”
- “Children easily adapt to and learn quickly. All needs of the child should be met without
exaggerating the case. Acting couch and pedagogue must be selected from about those specialized
in this fi eld.”
- “Food coming to sets is not good and there is no special food for children. Children remain in sets
for long time and there is no care about their sleeping times and needs. There is no proper toilet.
A trailer with a bed, table, toilet and kitchen utensils must be available in the set.”
- “The child remains in the set waiting for others even when his part is fi nished.”