Aktorensektion

Aktorensektion, literally “Actor Section”, is a term used in some theatre organizations to denote a subunit that concentrates on actors and acting-related affairs within a larger association, guild, or company.

Its name comes from aktor (actor) and sektion (section) and is common in German-speaking and Nordic contexts, though spelling variants exist.

Its primary role is to represent professional actors within the organization, coordinate auditions and casting, oversee certain contract matters for acting personnel, and support professional development and ethical standards.

Membership is usually limited to practicing actors who meet defined criteria and is governed by elected officers, such as a chair, secretary, and treasurer, with subcommittees for casting, training, and ethics.

Core activities include organizing auditions and casting pools, running workshops and mentorship programs, maintaining professional standards, and serving as a liaison among actors, producers, unions, and the parent organization.

It commonly collaborates with other sections—such as production, education, and technical divisions—and may have representation on the governing board or act as the actors’ delegate within the association.

Historically, the concept arose with the professionalization of theatre societies in the 19th and 20th centuries and remains in use where unions or large theatres keep actors’ affairs separate from other functions.

Usage and implementation vary by country and organization; in some places the Aktorensektion is a formal guild-like body, while in others it is a practical committee within a larger association.